Following Colombia's 1-0 win over Uruguay to knock the South Americans out of the competition, a series of incidents broke out in the stands, before escalating to involve Uruguayan players and spectators.

During the brawl, Liverpool striker Darwin Núñez was among the players who entered the stands at the Bank of America Stadium and exchanged punches with fans in what CONMEBOL described as "unacceptable scenes".

Uruguay centre-back José María Giménez was also involved in the brawl. He explained his actions by saying that he had rushed into the fray out of concern for the safety of his family and loved ones watching the game from the stands.

"Our family was in danger. We had to go into the stands to get our loved ones out, with newborn babies. There wasn't a single policeman... I hope the organisers will be more careful with families," said the Atletico Madrid player.

"In view of the violence that broke out at the end of the match between the Uruguay and Colombia national teams, CONMEBOL's disciplinary department has decided to open an investigation to clarify the sequence of events and the responsibilities of those involved," the South American confederation said.

While the investigation is underway, Uruguay will face Canada in the third-place play-off at the same stadium on Saturday. It remains to be seen whether any sanctions will be imposed on the Uruguayan players involved in the shameful incidents.

CONMEBOL said it would not tolerate a repeat of the incidents, which saw two sets of supporters fight, during Sunday's final between Argentina and Colombia at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami.

"On the eve of our Copa America final, we want to reiterate and warn that no action will be tolerated that tarnishes a global celebration of football that involves both the protagonists and the fans present in the stadium for a final that will be watched by hundreds of millions of people around the world."

"It is unacceptable that such an incident should turn passion into violence.Therefore, any behaviour that goes against the spirit of sport and the world's greatest spectacle, which belongs to the whole family, will not be tolerated," added the governing body of South American football.

In addition to the incidents in the stands, there were also clashes on the pitch at the final whistle involving players from both teams, which could lead to sanctions not only for the Uruguayans but also for any Colombian players who may have been involved. 

If they are banned, they will not be able to play in the next game, which could be a significant loss for both Uruguay, who will be hoping to finish on the podium, and Colombia, who will be looking to win a second Copa America in their history against Argentina.