Dozens of Colombian police and fans were injured in riots, along with the postponement of the Atlético Nacional vs América de Cali match in the domestic league.
Atlético Nacional supporters clashed with security forces at the Atanasio Gerardo Stadium, moments before kick-off against América de Cali, in the 14th round of the league championship in Colombia.
Colombian police confirmed that 12 of their officers were injured, 10 of whom were lightly injured, while the remaining two received medical aid.
¿Abuso de fuerza o control?
En vídeo quedó el momento en el que un policía golpea con un extintor a un barrista, el día de ayer en el partido del Atlético Nacional vs. America, en Medellín.#CaliWeb #Colombia pic.twitter.com/sHTlsDiIxk
— CaliWeb (@CaliWebCo) April 18, 2023
On the other side, 30 Atlético Nacional fans were injured, after 100 of them swept the pitch and then clashed with police.
Fans overcame advertising barriers before throwing coins and metal tools at police, who eventually forced them to retreat.
The Colombian federation announced the postponement of the match, which was scheduled for early in the morning on Monday 17 April, to a date to be determined.
The Colombian federation reiterated its dissatisfaction with the scenes that went viral in local media and social media, saying in a statement: "It will not accept violence in dealing with such situations."
Since the beginning of this year, Atlético Nacional fans, known as "Ultras", have continued to protest the policy of their club's management, related to the increase in ticket prices, and recent signings, as they see that their team does not have big names.
In response, the club announced the suspension of the "economic benefits" granted to the group.
América do Cali are fifth in the Colombia league table with 21 points, seven behind leaders I'agué Deterres, while Atlético Nacional are in 7th place, with 13 points.