Violence Erupts At DR Congo Derby As Supporters Invade Pitch, Players Run For Safety

Violence Erupts At DR Congo Derby As Supporters Invade Pitch, Players Run For Safety 

Sampson Adedeji

There was chaos during a derby clash between TP Mazembe and St Eloi Lupopo in the Linafoot on Sunday after fans invaded the pitch, forcing away players to flee the stadium, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The heated encounter, played in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, turned ugly shortly after the first half ended in a goalless draw.

According to reports, players of St Eloi Lupopo, who were playing away from home, were trapped inside the dressing room as tensions escalated in the stadium.

The situation deteriorated further when angry supporters invaded the pitch, creating security concerns for the visiting team.

In order to avoid possible attacks from sections of the home supporters of TP Mazembe, the Lupopo players were forced to flee the stadium on foot.

Some of the players reportedly ran out barefoot without waiting for their team bus as security officials struggled to restore order at the venue.

The incident has raised serious concerns about safety and crowd control in the DR Congo top-flight league, with many expecting the league authorities to launch an investigation into the disturbances.