Glendale (United States) (AFP) – Copa America Centenario organizers were left red-faced after an embarrassing blunder which saw Chile’s national anthem played instead of Uruguay’s ahead of their Group C clash with Mexico in Arizona.
The incident happened as the teams lined up for kick-off at the University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Arizona.
After Mexico’s anthem was played without a hitch, Uruguay prepared to line up for their own national song.
However as the first few bars rang out it soon became clear there was a problem as the wrong, Chilean anthem rang out.
Uruguayan players looked at each other in confusion, while coaching staff gesticulated their annoyance.
The small pockets of Uruguayan fans who had made the long journey to the home of the Arizona Cardinals NFL team whistled and jeered at the error.
A statement from Copa America organizers blamed the mistake on human error.
“This evening during the pre-match ceremony, due to human error, we inadvertently played the incorrect National Anthem,” a statement said.
“We sincerely apologize to the Uruguayan Federation, the Uruguay National Team, the people of Uruguay and to the fans for this mistake.
“We will work with all parties involved to ensure such an error does not occur again.”
