A heated Colombia Cup final in Medellín ended in chaos on Wednesday night after rival fans clashed following Atlético Nacional’s 1–0 win over city rivals Deportivo Independiente Medellín.

The violence broke out at Estadio Atanasio Girardot, which both clubs share, as fans stormed the pitch after the final whistle. Some supporters were reportedly armed with flares and fireworks, forcing riot police to intervene. Authorities confirmed that 59 people were injured, including seven police officers.

Local reports described significant damage to the stadium, with seats and turnstiles torn out and parts of the pitch burned. The match itself had already been delayed by 14 minutes due to heavy smoke from pyrotechnics in the stands, which reduced visibility.

Medellín Mayor Federico Gutiérrez strongly condemned the unrest, vowing legal consequences for those responsible. “We will not allow a few to damage what belongs to everyone,” he said, stressing that the city has long worked to promote peaceful football culture.

Police said they confiscated more than 120 kilograms of pyrotechnic material, along with weapons, during the operation. While away fans are typically barred from major matches in Colombia to avoid violence, authorities had allowed supporters from both clubs to attend this derby in an effort to promote coexistence — a decision now under scrutiny following the clashes.

Officials emphasized that security measures were in place, but blamed the violence on the actions of individuals who chose confrontation over celebration.