Drogba’s double sparks violence, Senegal-Ivory Coast match called-off


Unknown | 22:08 |


An all important soccer match between Senegal and Ivory Cost came to an end abruptly following violent clashes between spectators on Saturday.

Violence erupted just minutes after International star Didier Drogba scored two goals within in few minutes, minimizing the hopes of Senegal going to South Africa in 2013.
The match officials including the referees were driven off the pitch as security officials tried to protect Ivory Coast supporters – who came under severe attack in the stadium.
The stands became empty after police fired teargas to disperse the unruly fans, who hurled plastic bottles onto the pitch while also burning flags and newspapers that turned the entire atmosphere at the Sedar Senghor Stadium hostile.
For close to 25 minutes, the players and security were left speechless on the pitch unsure of the fate of the game as hundreds of other Ivory Coast supporters, who were fleeing from danger, joined them in the inner perimeter for safety.
The match had entered into the 76th minute and Ivory Coast was leading by two goals (6-2 on agg). Early on, a fan had made an incursion onto the pitch which was the catalyst for ugly scenes to break out which marred the qualifier.
Several Premier League players were involved in the match including Newcastle United strikers Demba Ba, Papiss Cisse and West Ham midfielder Mohamed Diame, who were all representing Senegal.
For Ivory Coast, Manchester City’s Kolo and Yaya Toure, Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote and Arsenal forward Gervinho were all included.
“City’s Yaya and Kolo Toure are both safe after crowd trouble halted play as Senegal hosted the Ivory Coast in Dakar,” a statement read on Manchester City’s official website.
“Disturbances broke out as Didier Drogba put the Elephants 2-0 up, after what was deemed a controversial penalty decision in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.
“Fires were started in the stands at Stade Leopold Senghor and missiles were launched on to the pitch before the players were escorted to safety.
“Yaya and Kolo were both involved in the second leg clash and early reports suggest the brothers are unharmed.”
Reported by Goal.com

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