UTC vs Juan Pablo II match suspended after referee assault

A match between UTC and Juan Pablo II in Cajamarca was suspended during the ninth round of the Torneo Clausura following a series of violent incidents. The disruption occurred in the final minutes after referee Jesús Cartagena issued two red cards to UTC players, including Manuel Ganoza.

The situation escalated into a physical confrontation involving players, ball boys, and club officials. Reports indicate that UTC sports manager Luis Chávarry and another official entered the pitch, with an object being thrown at the referee. The match was officially halted due to a lack of security guarantees.

UTC player Luis Garro expressed indignation over the officiating, describing the decisions as ‘indignante’ and calling for greater fairness in the league. Meanwhile, separate controversies regarding VAR decisions in recent matches, such as a disputed incident involving Luis Advíncula, have led commentators to raise concerns regarding the integrity of officiating in Peruvian football.