Three people died and dozens were injured when a stadium barrier collapsed during celebrations at Algiers’ 5 July Stadium, moments after MC Alger secured the league title.

A night of celebration in Algiers turned to tragedy as three people lost their lives and dozens were injured following the collapse of a security barrier at the 5 July Stadium, shortly after MC Alger secured the league title with a goalless draw against NC Magra.

The incident occurred moments after the final whistle, when jubilant supporters surged forward to celebrate the club’s long-awaited championship victory. The pressure caused a barrier on the upper tier of the stadium to give way, leading to several fans plunging onto the lower stands.

According to Algeria’s Ministry of Health, more than 70 individuals were treated at three nearby hospitals. While most of the injured have since been discharged, the loss of three lives has cast a sombre shadow over what should have been a historic night for Algerian football.

In a gesture of solidarity, MC Alger players and coaching staff visited local hospitals to donate blood and offer their support to the injured and their families. The planned league trophy presentation has been postponed out of respect for the victims.

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased and extended his best wishes for a swift recovery to those injured. The Algerian authorities have pledged to launch a full investigation into the incident, raising questions over stadium safety and crowd control measures at major sporting events.

What should have been a night of triumph for MC Alger has instead become a national tragedy, reminding all of the vital importance of safety and preparedness in large-scale public gatherings.