Six killed during stampede at African Cup soccer match 

6 people have been killed in a stampede outside The Olembe Stadium in an African Cup of Nations football game in Cameroon, officials have said.

The stampede occurred as spectators struggled to enter the Stadium in the capital, Yaounde, to watch the host nation play Comoros in a last 16 knockout match.

A regional governor, Naseri Paul Biya, said that more casualties are possible, as a hospital in the area reported at least 40 had been injured in the stampede.

“Some of the injured are in desperate condition,” said Olinga Prudence, a nurse. “We will have to evacuate them to a specialised hospital.”

Officials said about 50,000 people had tried to attend the match.  The stadium has a capacity of 60,000, however its capacity for this match should not have been more than 80% full due to COVID restrictions.

In a statement, the Confederation of African Football said that it is “aware of the incident” at the Olembe Stadium and are “trying to get more details on what transpired”.”We are in constant communication with Cameroon government and the local organising committee,” CAF said.

“Tonight, the CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe sent the general secretary, Veron Mosengo-Omba, to visit the supporters in hospital in Yaoundé.”

Premier League club Everton paid tribute to those who lost their lives outside the stadium.

In a tweet, the club wrote: “The thoughts and prayers of everyone at Everton are with the families of those fans who have lost their lives and anyone affected by the tragic events at today’s #AFCON2021 match between Cameroon and Comoros in Yaounde. RIP.”