15 hours ago
Three football fans dead and at least 70 injured in Algeria stadium disaster after falling from upper stands
THREE football fans have died and at least 70 are injured after a horrific stadium disaster.
Supporters were celebrating MC Alger winning their top-flight league title in Algeria for the second year running.
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MC Alger clinched top spot with a 0-0 draw against NC Magra.
However, during the euphoria, tragedy struck.
A large group surged forward to celebrate in the packed-out Stade du 5 Juillet [5 July Stadium].
But dozens fell from the upper stands of the 64,200-capacity ground.
Local reports also suggested a security barrier collapsed in the upper tier, meaning the jubilant supporters fell down to the stands below.
More than 70 people have been treated in hospitals - but three sadly passed away, the health ministry confirmed.
The Algerian Ministry of Health said: "The Beni Messous University Hospital received 38 injured people, while three deaths were recorded.
"Ben Aknoun Hospital also received 27 injured people, while Bab El Oued Hospital received 16."
News agency Reuters reported that several MC Alger players and staff went to the hospitals to donate blood for the injured.
The trophy presentation was postponed as a result of the desperately sad and worrying scenes.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune sent his condolences and best wishes to those affected.
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