Cameroon did enjoy a 2-1 win against Comoros in the Round of 16 clash in the Africa Cup of Nations game but home team’s victory was ruined by a tragic accident that took place outside the stadium in Yaounde, capital of Cameroon on January 24 (Monday). It is reported that at least 8 people have been killed and 38 people have been severely injured in the stampede.
The Confederation of African Football (CAf) said that they are investigating the situation.
CAF statement
“CAF is currently investigating the situation and trying to get more details on what transpired. We are in constant communication with Cameroon government and the Local Organizing Committee,” the CAF said in a statement online.
FIFA on the other hand, issued an official statement on this matter.
“FIFA sends its deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following the tragic incident that took place at Olembe Stadium during the Africa Cup of Nations fixture between Cameroon and Comoros.
“The thoughts and prayers of the global football community are with the victims, the ones who have been injured in this incident, and all the staff of both CAF and the Cameroonian Football Association (FECAFOOT) at this difficult moment,” the official statement read.
Cameroon secure victory
In the game, the hosts managed to defeat 10-man Comoros side 2-1 to qualify for the quarter-final stage. 10-man Comoros side pulled one goal back in the 81st minute but that could not help them in securing a victory.
In the sixth minute of the match, Comoros centre-back Nadjim Abdou received a red card and for the remaining 84 minutes Comoros had to play with 10 men.
In the 29th minute of the game, Cameroon attacking midfielder Toko Ekambi scored the first goal of the night. In the 77th minute of the match striker Vincent Aboubakar scored his side’s goal second goal of the match to earn a 2-goal cushion.
Cameroon will now face Gambia in the quarter-final stage on January 29.
Out of the remaining six teams, Burkina Faso and Tunisia have qualified for the last eight. Burkina Faso and Tunisia will face each other on January 30.
