At least 17 people were killed in a stampede at a football stadium in the northern Angolan city of Uige, according to local officials.
Hundreds more were injured when supporters stormed the gates after failing to gain access to the stadium, which was hosting a first division league match between Santa Rita de Cassia and Recreativo do Libolo.
Witnesses described a chaotic scene, with the crowd attempting to gain access to the venue, which had a capacity of 8,000 spectators. Many of those who fell were trapped and suffocated, according to a medical practitioner.
Ernesto Luis, director general of the local hospital, reported that there were a total of 76 casualties, including 17 fatalities. Five of those injured are in critical condition, and some of the dead are believed to be children, according to Angolan and Portuguese media.
A statement on Recreativo de Libolo’s website described the incident as "a tragedy without precedent in the history of Angolan football". One supporter, Domingos Vika, 35, who suffered a fractured hand in the stampede, recounted the events leading up to the tragedy.
"When the opportunity was given for everyone to come in, we were all crowded at the gate," said Mr Vika.
Angola’s President Jose Eduardo dos Santos has ordered an investigation into the incident, according to local media reports. Despite the tragedy, the match went ahead, with the home side Santa Rita de Cassia losing 0-1 to Recreativo do Libolo.
