A tense Copa American semifinal resulted in some ugly post-game scenes, and Uruguay star Darwin Nunez took to the stands. But the question remains: does he deserve punishment for his Artest-like actions?
Darwin’s frustration was palpable. Behind-the-scenes footage shows family members of the Uruguay team under attack from thrown objects by Colombian fans. Others will contest that Uruguay fans instigated the melee.
Even before the incident, Colombia forward Miguel Borja had already celebrated his team’s Copa America success in front of the Uruguay bench. Not the most gentlemen of winners.
The 25-year-old Liverpool forward took to the stands and inevitably brawled with some of the Colombian supporters. One Colombian fan even landed a punch on Nunez’s head.
Darwin is now under the microscope for his actions. CONMEBOL could suspend Nunez with a broader suspension at the club level should FIFA decide to get involved. His club, Liverpool, is already in talks with the Uruguayan Federation (UFF) to get a clearer picture of the aftermath.
Whomever you choose to point the blame, Darwin’s actions appear no different than any sane human protecting their family would do. The player felt the need to protect his wife and kid, among other player families, sitting at the scene’s epicenter.
So, should Nunez face some suspension here? Let us know your thoughts.
