MORE than 70 people died as football supporters wielding makeshift weapons invaded the pitch and caused a stampede following a match in Port Said, Egypt, last night.
Hundreds more suffered injury when fans of Masry rioted, chasing players and fans from bitter rivals Al-Ahly, after their unexpected win over the country’s top team.
It is feared the death toll will rise for what the Egyptian government called its worst football-related disaster. Television footage showed supporters throwing stones and brandishing sticks, while parts of the stadium were set on fire.
Riot police who tried to protect the players were also attacked and overwhelmed. Some of the dead were thought to be security officers.
Egypt’s state prosecutor has ordered an investigation, while the country’s recently-elected parliament will hold an emergency session today.
