A football match in Bolivia turned into a scene of utter chaos, resulting in a shocking 17 red cards being issued after a massive fight broke out between players and staff.
Match Ends in Draw, Chaos Begins
The Copa Bolivia quarter-final second leg between Blooming and Real Oruro ended in a 2-2 draw. This result meant that Blooming advanced to the semi-finals, having won the first leg 2-1. However, the sporting contest was completely forgotten moments after the final whistle.
Instead of celebrating, the pitch became a battleground. Videos that quickly went viral on social media show a large crowd of players and team officials from both sides coming together violently, with individuals clearly seen throwing punches.
Tear Gas and Widespread Violence
The situation escalated so rapidly and severely that the police officers present at the match had no choice but to intervene with tear gas to stop the disorder. It is reported that approximately 20 police officers were needed to restore order around the pitch.
The conflict reportedly started when Real Oruro's star player, Sebastian Zeballos, was held back by Blooming players. He broke free and began pushing, which prompted his teammate, Julio Vila, to start throwing punches. This single act triggered a chaotic free-for-all that engulfed nearly everyone on the sidelines.
In the midst of the melee, Oruro's coach, Marcelo Robledo, confronted a member of the opposing team's staff, was pushed, and fell backward. Blooming's coach, Mauricio Soria, took his players into the dressing room in an attempt to calm them down.
The Aftermath and Severe Consequences
The official post-match report from referee Renan Castillo confirmed the historic number of dismissals. The breakdown of the 17 red cards was as follows:
- Seven were shown to Blooming players.
- Four were given to Real Oruro players.
- The remaining six dismissals were handed to staff members, including both head coaches, Robledo and Soria, and their assistants.
It was also noted that Blooming forward Cesar Menacho had been sent off earlier in the game for using offensive language.
The root of the frustration for Real Oruro was their elimination from the tournament. They were only one goal away from forcing a penalty shootout. The physical toll of the brawl was significant. Reports confirm that Coach Robledo suffered a shoulder injury and a blow to his head, requiring hospitalization. A Blooming official allegedly suffered a fractured cheekbone.
Referee Renan Castillo is expected to submit his full report to the Sports Disciplinary Tribunal in Bolivia for further action regarding this mass misconduct incident.
