Liverpool star Darwin Nunez was involved in a brawl with fans after Uruguay’s 1-0 defeat to Colombia in the semi-final of the Copa America.

Uruguay striker Nunez threw blows at Colombian fans after storming into the spectator seats at Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium following an ill-tempered loss to Colombia.

Uruguay centre defender Jose Maria Gimenez stated that players had jumped into the melee out of fear for the safety of family members and loved ones watching the match.

“This is a disaster. Our family was in danger. We had to go to the stands to take out our loved ones, with tiny newborn babies,” the Atletico Madrid player said.

“There was not a single police officer… I hope those who are organising this are a little more careful with the families.

“Every game it’s been happening because there are people who don’t know how to handle a couple of drinks.”

The vast majority of the audience supported Colombia, although there was little distinction between them and their Uruguayan counterparts.

Several Uruguayan players, including Nunez, climbed into the throng, ostensibly to defend spectators.

The altercation lasted several minutes until cops intervened.

A group of about 80-100 Uruguayan fans lingered in the stadium, on the pitch, long after the majority of the crowd had left, with Uruguay players returning to greet them.

Following Colombia’s victory, players and personnel from both teams got into a major scuffle in the centre circle.

CONMEBOL, the South American football body that oversees the Copa America, released 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.”