A football hooligan has been spotted shooting at cops with a fireworks cannon during a major final that had to be halted in the 84th minute.
Atlético Nacional and América de Cali were facing off in the Copa Colombia final on Sunday (15 Dec) when hundreds of fans tried to invade the pitch.
As they clashed violently with police officers, one América fan started firing at cops with a fireworks cannon.
READ MORE: Mechanic’s workshop SHAKES in 7.3-magnitude earthquake as tremors flatten buildings
He held the equipment like a machine gun and shot continuous rockets at the officers, who were forced to protect themselves from the onslaught with riot shields.
The Colombian top-tier teams were playing the second leg of the final of the cup competition, officially known as the Copa BetPlay Dimayor.
Atlético won the first leg 3-1 before meeting América at their home ground, the Pascual Guerrero Olympic Stadium in Cali City, Colombia.
The game was tied 0-0 when violence in the stands prompted officials to halt the game in the 84th minute.
The cup was awarded to Atlético, their seventh Copa Colombia in the club’s history.
But the players were prevented from celebrating on the field and collecting the trophy.
After referee José Ortiz halted the game before regulation time, the 37,000-capacity stadium was promptly evacuated.
But multiple disturbances were reported outside the stadium that left several fans with injuries, as reported by Need To Know.
Police spokesperson Carlos Oviedo said: “Some members of the América de Cali fanbase tried to violently invade the stadium’s pitch.
“Officers from the Dialogue and Order Maintenance Unit jumped into action and prevented them from reaching the field.
“As a result, a confrontation occurred.
“Three police officers were injured and are being treated at a nearby medical centre.
“The Colombian Football Federation received a commitment from the leaders of these groups that this sporting event would take place in peace and harmony, but unfortunately this was not fulfilled.”
An investigation to identify the ringleaders of the violence is underway.
READ MORE: Santa Claus and the Grinch ARRESTED after fighting over tips in front of stunned children
