Following the suspension of the Copa Sudamericana match between Independiente and Universidad de Chile due to violent clashes, both sets of fans have begun pointing fingers, each blaming the other for instigating the chaos. The game, held in Buenos Aires, was marred by scenes of fighting, vandalism, and injuries, leading to its abandonment and a subsequent wave of accusations.

Reports indicate that the violence erupted during halftime, with Universidad de Chile fans allegedly throwing objects, including stones, sticks, bottles, and even parts of the stadium infrastructure, at the Independiente supporters seated below. Independiente fans retaliated by storming the section housing the Chilean supporters, resulting in beatings and some fans being stripped of their clothing. Videos circulating on social media depict the graphic nature of the clashes, with bloodied fans fleeing the stadium.

Independiente's president, Nestor Grindetti, has publicly condemned the behavior of the Universidad de Chile fans, labeling their actions as "truly reprehensible". Supporters of the Argentine club claim that the visiting fans were throwing seats, concrete, rocks, and even a toilet. They also expressed anger over the policing of the game, particularly the decision to place the Universidad de Chile fans in a section close to the home supporters.

Universidad de Chile, on the other hand, has not officially commented on the specific allegations but has acknowledged the incidents and is awaiting the decision of CONMEBOL, South America's governing body for football. Some reports suggest that Universidad de Chile fans claim they were provoked and acted in self-defense after being targeted by Independiente's "barra brava," the organized supporter groups known for their violent behavior.

The repercussions of the violence have been widespread. CONMEBOL has announced the cancellation of the match and will determine the outcome through its judicial team. Over 100 people were detained, and numerous fans were hospitalized, some with serious injuries, including stab wounds. Chile's President Gabriel Boric has described the incident as a "lynching" and has taken steps to protect the rights of Chilean citizens affected by the violence.

The blame game highlights the deep-seated rivalry between the two clubs and the broader issue of fan violence in South American football. Both clubs have condemned the violence, but the exchange of accusations underscores the difficulty in assigning responsibility and preventing future incidents. Felipe Loyola, a Chilean international playing for Independiente, lamented the level of violence and questioned the absence of police presence during the clashes.

The events have sparked a debate about security measures at football matches and the role of fan culture in perpetuating violence. CONMEBOL's decision to not have police in the away section, intended to prevent "disturbances," has also come under scrutiny. The organization's disciplinary committee will soon make a decision regarding the incidents and determine sanctions against the clubs.