Saturday’s Soweto Derby in Johannessburg, South Africa was marred by tragedy as two people were killed and 17 others injured as fans attempted to pour through gates at FNB Stadium.
The derby, one of Africa’s fiercest rivalries, pits Orlando Pirates against Kaizer Chiefs. Despite Saturday’s affair being just a pre-season cup match between the two clubs, fans reportedly attempted to rush into the stadium through the gates, causing the crush. According to officials, the situation was later brought under control after all gates were opened.
@blacklabelsa CUP STATEMENT: We are saddened by the fatalities this afternoon due to a number of people attempting to push through the gates
— Orlando Pirates (@orlandopirates) July 29, 2017
Despite the prematch events, the game continued, and the home side Kaiser Chiefs won 1-0. There reportedly were no other disturbances.
FNB Stadium, which seats 87,000 people, is South Africa’s largest stadium. It is the same venue where Nelson Mandela made his first speech after his release from prison in 1990. It was used as a main hub for play in the 2010 World Cup.
One of the 17 injured is in critical condition, according to a stadium manager.
