At least two people have died and numerous others injured in a stampede that occurred during a qualifying match for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Cotonou, Benin.
According to local media and French broadcaster RFI, the tragedy occurred on Saturday just before a match between the Cheetahs of Benin and the Teranga Lions of Senegal at the Stade du General Mathieu Kerekou.
Just before the game began, a rush of fans caused the public focus to change from the football players to the stadium’s stands.
A witness told sports reporters that as those at the entrance pushed their way inside, they collided with those who had just entered, starting a stampede.
“People were dropping like flies. Many were trampled, asphyxiated and some stuck to the railings,” another witness said.
“I saw people come in en masse. When the scene started, the stewards downstairs, instead of warning their colleagues outside to close the door, were there advising people to go next door while they were trapped.”
The event’s organizers and security personnel were all gathered on Sunday by Benin’s sports minister to discuss what led to the fatal incident.
Access is free for all national team games, but a pass is necessary to enter through the venue’s gates.
The Beninese government reportedly announced 48 hours prior to the event that people could pick up their tickets from nine distribution points, all of which ended up being overwhelmed.
Abdoul Rachid Mumuini of Benin scored in the 78th minute to equalize Abdoulaye Seck of Senegal’s first-half goal, which brought the game to a 1-1 draw.
Source-Aljazeera
