Colombia defeated Uruguay and advanced to the final in the South American Championship.
The semifinal was chaotic with players brawling in the stands after the match.
Our families were in danger, says Uruguayan midfielder José María Giménez after the brawl.
A goal in the 39th minute by Jefferson Lerma paved the way for Colombia's victory, which will now face Lionel Messi's Argentina in the final.
But emotions ran high when the final whistle blew and Colombia stood as winners with 1-0.
Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez and about ten Uruguayan teammates climbed up into the stands among fighting supporters.
Video clips show Núñez, amidst the flying punches, swinging at supporters wearing Colombia's colors.
Uruguay's central defender José María Giménez says the players jumped into the brawl out of concern for family members and loved ones who were in the stands.
"Catastrophe"
This is a catastrophe. Our families were in danger. We had to go to the stands to take out our loved ones, with small newborn babies. Our families are affected because some people cannot handle a few drinks, says the Atletico Madrid player afterwards.
I didn't see a single police officer. I hope that those who arrange this are a little more careful and protect our families better so it never happens again.
A few police officers and security guards who tried to keep the supporters and players apart were seen on the stands. The brawl lasted for over ten minutes before the police finally gained control of the situation.
Even on the pitch, it was tumultuous, with players and leaders from both teams arguing in the center circle.
Uruguay's coach Marcelo Bielsa says he didn't understand what happened.
There was some brawl on the pitch. When I saw it, I went to the dressing room. I thought they were thanking the supporters for their support, but then I found out that unfortunately, problems arose there.
Expelled
The South American Football Confederation condemned the incident during the night, Swedish time.
"We work from the idea that football should unite us with its positive values. Violence has no place either on or off the pitch. We hope everyone focuses on cheering on their national team and having an unforgettable party these last few days", they write.
The chaos followed a tumultuous semifinal, with a total of seven yellow cards and one red card handed out during the semifinal. Colombia played with one man less for the entire second half, after Daniel Muñoz received his second yellow card in stoppage time in the first half.
It's the first time in 23 years that Colombia has reached the final in the Copa América.
The final between Colombia and Argentina will be played in Miami on Sunday night, Swedish time.
