A Copa Libertadores football match between Colombia's Independiente Medellín and Brazil's Flamengo was suspended after just three minutes on Thursday and later called off when supporters of the Colombian side ignited flares and hurled objects onto the field.
Incident at Atanasio Girardot Stadium
The disruption occurred at the Atanasio Girardot stadium in Medellín, reportedly orchestrated as a demonstration against the local club's leadership following poor performances in the Colombian league, where Independiente Medellín was eliminated after finishing 11th.
Shortly after the flares and objects were launched, referee Jesús Valenzuela ordered both teams to retreat to their dressing rooms while security personnel intervened. The match was goalless at the time of the stoppage.
Official Cancellation
More than an hour later, CONMEBOL, South American football's governing body, officially cancelled the fixture, which was part of Group A's fourth round. According to the CONMEBOL Disciplinary Code, if a team is found responsible for a match's suspension, cancellation, or abandonment, the contest is awarded to the non-offending side, granting Flamengo a 3-0 victory.
During the delay, Flamengo player Jorginho posted on X: 'We're fine and waiting here,' accompanied by a photo in the locker room with teammates Everton Cebolinha, Ayrton Lucas, Luiz Araújo, Leo Ortiz, and Leo Pereira.
Group Standings
Flamengo, the reigning Copa Libertadores champion, leads Group A with seven points, one ahead of Estudiantes de La Plata. Medellín sits third with four points.
