At least three fans were killed and 74 others were injured in a stadium in Algiers,when a metal barrier and a section of the southern stand gave way,sending dozens of supporters plunging several meters into the lower levels of the stadium.
What was meant to be a historic night of celebration for Mouloudia Club d’Alger (MCA),which secured its ninth title,turned into a national tragedy on Saturday,June 22.
The official trophy ceremony was canceled,and an investigation has been launched.
Eyewitnesses reported that no crowd surge or violence preceded the collapse. It was the failure of aging infrastructure,including cracked seats and fragile barriers,that triggered the disaster
Fans online expressed anger at the deterioration of the over-five-decade stadium which has yet to be renovated.
On social media,fans denounced the authorities’ negligence and called for accountability. Supporters’ groups have rejected what they call “imaginary versions” of events circulated by some media outlets and are demanding full transparency.
The tragedy has reopened debate about Algeria’s suitability to host international football competitions. With the country having recently lost its bid to host the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations,this disaster reinforces concerns that Algeria lacks the infrastructure,safety standards,and crisis preparedness required for major sporting events
United News - unews.co.za