Sadio Mane’s African Cup of Nations qualifier with Senegal against Madagascar was tarnished by a frightening crush prior to kick-off.
Thousands turned out to watch the game at the Mahamasina Municipal Stadium in Madagascar’s capital city Antananarivo on Sunday.
A stampede to enter the ground resulted in at least one fan dying and a further 37 suffering injuries, according to RMC Sport.
Images on social media showed incredibly packed stands, with fans at the front practically being squashed against the fences.
https://twitter.com/MaroucheSam/status/1038763444420280322
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Supporters had supposedly arrived early in order to guarantee themselves a chance to see Mane and Co, with the substantial turnout evidently resulting in tragedy.
The game itself ended in a 2-2 draw, with the hosts twice coming from behind to deny Senegal a win in their second Group A match.
Moussa Konate opened the scoring for Senegal before Paulin Voavy found the net to draw the sides level heading into the interval.
Senegal restored their lead after the break courtesy of Keita Balde, only for Carolus Andriamahitsinoro to find another equaliser.
Mane was fairly quiet throughout, but emerged unscathed after playing the full 90 minutes.