On Friday Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa passionately defended his team's decision to enter the stands following a 1-0 loss to Colombia in the Copa America semifinals, saying the action was necessary to defend families and supporters.
After a physical and emotional game that included seven yellow cards and one red card, players exchanged words and shoves at midfield of Bank of America Stadium on Wednesday night.
Uruguay players, including Darwin N��ez, noticed an altercation behind the team's bench and about a dozen or so players then climbed into the stands as the melee continued.
Some players were seen throwing punches before Charlotte Mecklenburg Police officers and stadium security restored order after about 10 minutes.
CONMEBOL, South American soccer's governing body, said Thursday its disciplinary committee opened an investigation.
Uruguay will look to shake off their loss to Colombia when they take on Canada in the Copa America third-place match on Saturday.