Copa Libertadores: Colo-Colo to Play Remaining Group Matches Behind Closed Doors
CONMEBOL has issued a stern punishment to Chilean giants Colo-Colo following the tragic events that unfolded during their Copa Libertadores clash with Fortaleza.
Before kickoff in Santiago, a group of roughly 100 fans attempted to storm the stadium without tickets, causing a stampede that tragically resulted in the deaths of an 18-year-old girl and a 13-year-old boy. The situation escalated when news of the incident reached the stands during the second half, prompting a pitch invasion by home supporters that forced the match to be abandoned.
In response, CONMEBOL has ruled that Colo-Colo must play the remainder of their group stage matches behind closed doors. Attendance will be restricted to a maximum of 70 club officials, 20 representatives from the Chilean Football Federation, and 12 ball boys. No general spectators will be allowed inside the stadium for the rest of the group phase.
Colo-Colo’s next home fixture is scheduled for April 23, when they are set to host Racing Club of Argentina in a high-stakes Group E encounter.
