The overwhelming majority of the spectators in the crowd were supporting Colombia but there was no segregation between them and their Uruguayan counterparts.

Several Uruguay players climbed into the crowd, seemingly to protect fans, with Nunez prominent.

The fighting continued for several minutes until police finally intervened.

A group of around 80-100 Uruguayan fans remained in the stadium, on the pitch, long after the rest of the fans had left with Uruguay players returning to the field to meet them.

Ugly scenes also broke out on the field after the final whistle, with players and staff from both teams involved in a mass melee in the centre-circle following Colombia’s victory.

CONMEBOL, the South American football confederation which organises the Copa America, issued a statement condemning the incidents.

“CONMEBOL strongly condemns any acts of violence that affects football. Our work is based on the conviction that soccer connects and unites us through its positive values.

“There is no place for intolerance and violence on and off the pitch. We invite everyone in the remaining days to pour all their passion into cheering on their national teams and having an unforgettable party.”