Cristian Romero mentioned Argentina’s Copa America showdown with Colombia “didn’t appear to be a closing” as a result of chaotic scenes exterior the bottom in Miami.
Followers with out tickets flooded the turnstiles on the Onerous Rock Stadium for Sunday’s conflict, with kick-off delayed for nearly 90 minutes.
The poor organisation ultimately resulted in these followers being allowed to enter, inflicting additional chaos.
Romero, who helped Argentina to a 1-0 victory, mentioned feelings have been operating excessive.
“It was onerous as a result of many had their households exterior, they didn’t know what was occurring,” he advised TyC Sports activities.
“It didn’t appear to be a closing, there was lots of commotion and lots of concern.”
The sentiment was echoed by Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni.
He advised reporters: “It’s tough to clarify and perceive. An hour [delay]. We needed to play like that, with the sensation of not realizing the place your loved ones was.
“We noticed the movies that have been circulating, we weren’t oblivious to what was taking place. I believe the boys from Colombia have been in an analogous scenario, very unusual.”
We want to inform you that people with out tickets is not going to be allowed entry into the stadium.Solely these with bought tickets will likely be permitted entry as soon as entry is reopened.
We additionally inform you that the match will likely be delayed by half-hour, beginning at 8:30 PM.
— CONMEBOL Copa América™️ ENG (@copaamerica_ENG) July 14, 2024
This version of the Copa America has been marred by crowd bother, with Uruguay gamers having been concerned in fights within the stands with Colombia followers after final week’s semi-final.
And with the subsequent World Cup being co-hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico, Scaloni feels governing physique CONCACAF has loads of work to do.
“I think about will probably be totally different, that’s the way it needs to be,” he mentioned.
“That’s what all of us hope for. The vital factor is that we overcame all these points.”