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What was meant to be a night of celebration for MC Alger and their supporters ended in tragedy on Saturday after a stadium barrier collapse led to the deaths of three fans and injuries to more than 70 others, the Algerian Ministry of Health confirmed.
The incident occurred at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers shortly after MC Alger clinched their second consecutive Algerian league title with a goalless draw against NC Magra. As fans surged forward from the upper stand to celebrate their team’s triumph, part of the security barrier gave way, sending dozens plummeting to the lower levels of the stadium.
According to local media, the collapse triggered panic and chaos in the stands, with emergency services quickly called to the scene. The massive crowd had packed into the 64,200-seat venue, which had been filled with smoke and colour throughout the match thanks to jubilant fans lighting green flares.
The Algerian Ministry of Health issued a statement confirming the extent of the incident:
"The Beni Messous University Hospital received 38 injured people, while three deaths were recorded," the ministry said via Facebook. "Ben Aknoun Hospital also received 27 injured people, while Bab El Oued Hospital received 16."
Reports indicated that most of the injured had been treated and released, but the total number receiving medical attention surpassed 70.
The league trophy presentation, which had been scheduled to take place after the match, was postponed in light of the tragic turn of events.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed his sympathy in a statement released following the incident:
"Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune offered his condolences and wished a speedy recovery for the injured."
The horrific incident has cast a long shadow over what was supposed to be a joyous moment for the club and its supporters. As investigations begin into how the security barrier could have failed, tributes and condolences continue to pour in for those affected.
Featured Image Credit: Unsplash / Maxence Pira, Pixabay / jorono
