Boca’s infamous stadium La Bombonera, has been suspended from the Copa Libertadores after a linesman was hit on the forehead by ice hurled from the stands. The assault against linesman Paul Fandino took place during extra time, while he was standing in front of the VIP boxes.

Officials called the game against Brazil’s Cruzeiro 1 minute early causing additional projectiles to rain down on the pitch as Fandino sought out medical attention.

Following the game, the South American Football Confederation (CFS) suspended La Bombonera from hosting international play and fined the club $30,000. Boca is appealing the ruling, but the CFS decision will stand until the stadium is certified as safe.

"The club will have to undertake other work to guarantee referees and visiting teams alike that they will not suffering from any aggression." - Nestor Benitez, a league spokesman.

Boca management has identified the box from where the ice was thrown and shockingly it is among their most expensive seats. Players, referees and fans alike have come to expect violent behavior from those in the popular section of the stadium, but the VIP area is usually a comparatively placid.

This is the second time in three years that the Bombanera has been removed from international play - the last time occurred in ‘05 when a riot forced a game against to be suspended with 1 minute remaining.

Boca is unbeaten in Libertadores play at La Bombonera for the last 5 years and with current competition scheduling, has until the second round before they would lose home advantage.