CONMEBOL postpones Colombian club matches after deadly earthquake

BOGOTA: South American soccer governing body CONMEBOL has postponed two continental club matches after a powerful earthquake struck western Colombia on Monday, killing at least 164 people.

Deportes Tolima’s Copa Libertadores match against Ecuador’s Independiente del Valle, scheduled for Tuesday, and Wednesday’s Copa Sudamericana fixture between Independiente Santa Fe and Argentina’s River Plate have both been postponed.

CONMEBOL said new dates and venues for the matches would be announced later.

“In these difficult times, CONMEBOL extends its affection and support to all of Colombia and, especially, to the great Colombian football family,” the governing body said in a statement.

“In light of this exceptional situation, and to ensure everyone’s safety and respect for the victims, the matches are temporarily suspended.”

The 7.4-magnitude earthquake struck Colombia’s coffee-growing region, causing widespread damage and casualties and prompting authorities to focus on rescue and relief efforts.

The Colombian Football Major Division (DIMAYOR) also suspended all domestic matches scheduled for the week in response to the disaster.

The postponements come as Colombian football authorities and clubs join wider national efforts to support communities affected by the earthquake.

CONMEBOL said its decision was taken with the safety of players, officials, supporters and the wider football community in mind as Colombia responds to the devastating impact of the earthquake.