Chaos on the Pitch: Libyan Soccer Derby Descends into Turmoil
A Libyan soccer derby was suspended after a pitch invasion led to chaos. The match between Al-Ahly Tripoli and Al-Ittihad halted due to protests and tension following a goal celebration. Violence escalated, injuring Portuguese referee Fábio José Costa and leaving Al-Ittihad's bus torched.
- Country:
- Libya
A dramatic interruption occurred in Libya's soccer league when a derby match was halted due to fans invading the pitch. The Wednesday confrontation saw Al-Ahly Tripoli face Al-Ittihad, but tensions escalated over a goal celebration by Al-Ittihad players, sparking protest from Al-Ahli fans and substitutes.
Amid this environment, fans clashed with security, resulting in Al-Ittihad's bus being set ablaze. Videos circulating online documented the chaotic scenes, showing the altercations between supporters and security forces in and around the stadium premises.
Al-Ahly directed blame towards Al-Ittihad, attributing the unrest to what they deemed a 'provocative act' by a player. They further criticized security forces for their response, alleging the use of 'excessive force and live fire' against their fans. The incident saw the Portuguese referee, Fábio José Costa, among the injured.
(With inputs from agencies.)
Google News