Copa Libertadores soccer match halted after just 3 minutes when fans protest with flares

AI Summary

A Copa Libertadores match was suspended early due to fan protests that resulted in flares being lit and objects thrown onto the pitch. The incident highlights ongoing tensions between the fans and the management of Independiente Medellín, reflecting discontent with the team's recent performance.

BOGOTÁ, Colombia (AP) — A Copa Libertadores soccer match between Colombia's Independiente Medellín and Flamengo of Brazil was suspended after just three minutes Thursday and later called off when fans of the Colombian team began lighting flares and throwing objects on to the pitch. The incident at the Atanasio Girardot stadium in Medellín was apparently organized as a protest against the local club’s management following poor results in the Colombian league, where Independiente Medellín was eliminated after finishing in 11th place.