A few weeks before the final between Alianza Lima and Universitario, which the “U” won in the end, the administrator of the intimate club said: Jose Sabogal, broke his silence and admitted that he was the one who decided to turn off the lights at the Alejandro Villanueva Stadium as the Meringues prepared to celebrate their title at the home of their biggest rival. This action was questioned by the local and international press and due to the tragic consequences that could occur, the State Department opened an investigation into the case.
What did José Sabogal say about the power outage in Matute?
The Alliance director explained that his intention to order the lockdown was based on the well-being of the people present: “I am aware that the decision I made has affected different audiences in different ways. I take responsibility for these actions. The main goal was.” “We keep people safe so there are no injuries and fewer deaths. This has been achieved,” he said in an interview for L1 Radio.
“I categorically rule out any intentional act that violates fair play and sporting disgrace. The aim was to ensure the safety of the people inside and outside the stadium: the fans present, the teams of the two teams, the authorities, the police and everyone who was outside,” added the administrator of the intimate painting.
When the lights went out, fans entered the field. Photo: The Republic
José Sabogal denies that all the lights went out in Matute
“Most people who saw this event noticed that the lights in the stadium went completely out. I rule that out, the lights that went out pointed to the field, the remaining lights stayed on. This made it possible to evacuate “in record time and in a safe manner,” Sabogal explained.
Alianza Lima turned off the matute lights as the “U” became champions. Photo: Capture League 1 Max
José Sabogal on the public prosecutor’s investigation into the power outage in Matute
“All these acts are being investigated and I have a lot of respect for the authorities, I can’t say anything more. I thank the police and law enforcement agencies who did a very good job that day and worked together so that there were no injuries or deaths.” “I am responsible for my actions,” he said.