Guinea Soccer Match Stampede Kills Dozens, Including Children

In the southern Guinean city of Nzerekore, a stampede following clashes at a local soccer match resulted in numerous fatalities, including children, according to reports from local media and a political coalition late Sunday.

The incident occurred Sunday afternoon during a tournament game between Labe and Nzerekore teams, held in honor of Guinea’s military leader, Mamadi Doumbouya, according to Prime Minister Amadou Oury Bah.

Bah confirmed casualties from the stampede without providing specific numbers, adding that regional authorities are working to restore order. The National Alliance for Alternation and Democracy, a political coalition, reported numerous deaths and injuries and called for an investigation.

Local media attributed the chaos to a disputed penalty decision which sparked clashes among fans who subsequently surged onto the field of the crowded stadium.

Reports from Media Guinea and videos from the scene indicate children were among the victims. Media Guinea also stated that some injured individuals receiving treatment at a local hospital are in critical condition.