Photo of the packed 5 July Stadium in Algiers during the match between MC Alger and NC Magra
A joyous football celebration in Algeria took a devastating turn over the weekend when three fans died and dozens were injured following a stadium collapse moments after MC Alger secured the national league title.
The incident occurred at the 5 July Stadium in Algiers, where the upper-tier security barrier gave way shortly after the final whistle, sending fans tumbling onto the lower stands.
According to the Algerian health ministry, more than 70 individuals were injured in the chaos and rushed to nearby hospitals for treatment. Most have since been discharged.
Local media reported that the collapse followed a massive surge by fans eager to celebrate MC Alger’s title-winning draw against NC Magra. What began as a festive atmosphere, with green smoke from flares blanketing the packed stadium, quickly descended into tragedy.
In a statement, the health ministry confirmed: “Three people have died after falling from the upper stand of the stadium,” adding that emergency services responded swiftly to treat and transport the injured.
As news of the deaths spread, the league trophy presentation was abruptly cancelled out of respect for the victims. Players and club staff from MC Alger visited hospitals to donate blood for those injured, Reuters reported.
Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune issued a message of condolence to the bereaved families and extended wishes for a speedy recovery to those hurt in the accident, according to a BBC report.
MC Alger, one of the country’s most storied football clubs, clinched the title for the second consecutive year with the 0-0 result. But celebrations have now been overshadowed by grief and calls for increased stadium safety.
The tragedy has sparked national mourning and renewed scrutiny on crowd management and infrastructure at sports venues across Algeria.