The match between Colo Colo and Fortaleza, part of Group E in the Copa Libertadores, ended abruptly in the 72nd minute when the referee was forced to suspend the game due to disturbances both inside and outside the Estadio Monumental David Arellano. A pitch invasion and growing tension in the stands created an unsafe environment, prompting the Brazilian team’s players to leave the field.

Chaos in the Stands

Warnings signs were present even before the match began. According to authorities, a human stampede occurred outside the stadium when hundreds of fans attempted to enter without tickets, leading to police intervention. Amidst the chaos, two fans lost their lives after being crushed by a metal fence in an incident still under investigation.

The tragedy reportedly happened when a police vehicle used a water cannon to disperse the crowd, causing the structure to collapse on the victims. Chilean prosecutors have launched an investigation to determine the circumstances of the incident and identify potential liabilities, whether from fans or law enforcement.

Despite these events, the match kicked off as scheduled, with a packed stadium and a tense atmosphere. However, news of the fatalities quickly spread among the crowd, increasing the anxiety in the stands.

The Horror Experienced by Fortaleza Players During Their Visit to Colo Colo

The Brazilian team found itself at the center of one of the most chaotic nights in this year's Copa Libertadores. From the moment they arrived at the stadium, Fortaleza players witnessed disorder at the entrances and clashes between fans and police.

During the match, the tension remained high. When the pitch invasion occurred in the 72nd minute, the visiting players decided to leave the field for their safety. According to Brazilian media reports, some players even feared for their well-being, as the violence in the stands continued, and security personnel were slow to react.