Former Juventus and Brazil midfielder Felipe Melo punched an opposition player in the face following a Copa Libertadores game on Thursday. The incident occurred following the Group 5 match between Penarol and Brazil champions Palmeiras.
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At half-time, the hosts were leading the encounter 2-0, but a superb second half comeback from the visitors saw them win 3-2.

Following the turnaround, violence erupted both on the pitch and in the stands.

The 33-year-old, once an Arsenal target, was spotted throwing two punches at an opposing player - with the first connecting cleanly.

Melo was then chased by several members of the opposition. Riot police were forced to intervene.

Leading up to the clash, the Palmeiras midfielder had accused Penarol players of racist abuse and warned he would not back down when they met.

In the stands, fans from both sides clashed - with as many as 30 arrested. 18 police officers were injured throughout the course of the night.