New Delhi: It was complete chaos at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami ahead of the highly-anticipated Copa America 2024 final between Argentina and Colombia as hundreds of ticketless fans stormed into the stadium after a security breach. Thousands of fans from Argentina and Colombia turned up for the big final but many with valid tickets failed to make it inside after the breach.
The breach resulted in the police clashing with fans as the organisers had to delay the start of the game. The final was initially delayed for 30 minutes but eventually got postponed by 1 hour and 45 minutes as thousands of fans were kept waiting for entry inside the Hard Rock Stadium. The game was scheduled to begin at 8 pm ET (5:30 am IST) but got underway at 9:15 pm ET (6:45 AM IST).
The security appeared in shambles as videos surfaced on social media showcasing fans thronging inside the stadium without tickets. Some ticketless fans also attempted to sneak through via the air vents installed inside the stadium. A video went viral on social media where fans can be seen attempting to gain entry into the stands through the air vents, potentially risking their lives.
Watch fans attempt to sneak through air vents in Copa America final:
😳 Copa America final. Shocking.pic.twitter.com/I34BiACfGR
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 15, 2024
Fans lashed out at the organisers for the massive security breach which not only led to a chaos and stampede-like situation outside the stadium but also ensured that supporters with genuine tickets were denied entry for the final.
This is not the first time such a situation has occurred in the Copa America this year as earlier Uruguay striker Darwin Nunez and his teammates were involved in a brawl with Colombian fans during the semi-final to protect their family members in the stands.
This is a serious security breach at Hard Rock stadium. Just look at those kids and fans. All they wanted is to watch a Copa America final and have fun. Then other fans want to enter without tickets. They deserve better systems. pic.twitter.com/UBmO9mje4D
— Kyama (@ElijahKyama_) July 15, 2024
1st half ends goalless in Copa America 2024 final
The first half between Argentina and Colombia in the Copa America 2024 final ended goalless as both teams failed to find the back of the net despite showing promise. Colombia dominated possession and created a few good chances but failed to convert them. Defending champions Argentina looked far from their best with Messi hurting himself after going down to the ground. Both teams will have all to play for the second half with the trophy on the line.
In shocking scenes at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami ahead of the Copa America 2024 final between Argentina and Colombia, hundreds of ticketless fans entered the stadium after a security breach. Some fans were also sneaked in through the air vents installed at the stadium after the breach resulted in complete chaos. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
