A celebration turned tragic in Algiers on Sunday evening when three fans died and dozens were injured after falling from the upper tier of the 5 July Stadium. The incident occurred moments after the final whistle as MC Alger secured the Algerian league title for the second consecutive year with a goalless draw against NC Magra.
According to the Algerian health ministry, the fatal fall was triggered by a surge of fans eager to celebrate their team’s triumph. Local media reports indicate that a security barrier gave way, causing supporters from the upper stands to plummet onto those seated below. Over 70 individuals were treated across three hospitals, with the majority later discharged.
The 5 July Stadium, one of Algeria’s largest and most iconic sporting venues, was at full capacity during the match. The mood had been jubilant throughout the game, with green smoke from flares billowing across the stands in support of MC Alger, one of the country’s most successful football clubs.
In a show of solidarity, MC Alger players and staff members reportedly visited local hospitals to donate blood and offer support to the injured. The league title trophy presentation, which was scheduled to take place after the match, was postponed out of respect for the victims and their families.
President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed his condolences to the bereaved families and wished the injured a speedy recovery. “The hearts of the Algerian people are with the families of the victims,” he stated in an official message shared on social media.
While the league title marks a historic achievement for MC Alger, the triumph has been overshadowed by the devastating loss of life. Authorities are expected to launch an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the barrier collapse and evaluate the stadium’s safety protocols.
The tragedy has prompted calls from fans and public officials for improved stadium infrastructure and more stringent crowd management measures to prevent such incidents in the future.
What was meant to be a night of celebration for Algerian football has now turned into a somber moment of reflection and mourning.
