Violent outburst after Venezuela's semi-final exit was Paraguayan delegation's fault, says coach Farias
Violent outburst after Venezuela's semi-final exit was Paraguayan delegation's fault, says coach Farias Venezuela coach Cesar Farias has criticisedu00a0 Paraguay for making fun of his team at the conclusion of last night's Copa America semi-final.
Left: Venezuelan and Paraguayan delegation members are engaged in a
brawl at the end of the 2011 Copa America semi-final in Mendoza on
Wednesday. Paraguay won 5-3 on penalties. PIC/AFP Paraguay beat Venezuela 5-3 on penalties before police and security staff had to intervene as players and officials of both teams brawled on the pitch. "We didn't go out to provoke an incident," Farias said.
"However, some of the players and officials from Paraguay came to the game ready to provoke us. And to see that kind of behaviour is frustrating. They were making fun of us. We will not accept any more to be disrespected the way we were yesterday."
The victory allowedu00a0 Paraguay, who also upset Brazil on penalties earlier in the competition, to reach the final for the first time in 32 years. El Universal newspaper also hailed the national team, adding: "Venezuela return with their heads held high."
The newspaper's editorial commented on the brawl, adding: "It all finished with punches because Paraguay yet again made fun of Venezuela. 'You are going home' (Paraguay midfielder Nestor) Ortigoza repeatedly said to the Venezuelan players.
"A long time ago Venezuela learned to lose, others don't know how win."
Paraguay, meanwhile, will look to prepare for Sunday's final against Uruguay in Buenos Aires.
Prez Chavez furiousVenezuelan President Hugo Chavez insisted his countrymen were "robbed" as they lost out to Paraguay in the semi-finals of the Copa America to end their dream of a shock final place.
"They robbed us of a winner ... Fidel (Castro) and I clearly saw the goal they chalked off," Chavez said from Cuba, where he is undergoing treatment for cancer. I think we should make our voices heard -- we have the authority to do so before CONMEBOL," said Chavez, referring to the South American Football Confederation. -- AFP
