Nigerian fans smash stadium after failing to qualify for World Cup. The dugouts were torn down and clashed with police. The dramatic events took place at the Abuja National Stadium in Nigeria. Fans flock to the stadium after the final whistle blows against Ghana.
Police fired tear gas to disperse the fans. The video shows fans running out of the gallery and pushing dugouts and billboards. The capacity of the stadium is 60,000. The attackers also reportedly targeted Ghanaian fans and players at the stadium. About 20,000 tickets were given away for free as it was a crucial competition.
This is the first time since 2006 that Nigeria has failed to qualify for the FIFA World Cup. The incident is a disgrace to African football itself. Ghana qualified for the World Cup by beating Nigeria 1-1 in the play-offs. Ghana won the toss and elected to field.
Arsenal’s Thomas Party scored for Ghana in the 10th minute. William Ikong then converted a penalty in the 22nd minute to give Nigeria the lead, but the away goal saved Ghana. The match also marked the strong return of African powerhouse Ghana, who failed to qualify for the 2018 World Cup.