Algeria-Egypt turns violent
The Algerian team bus was attacked by stone-throwers last night as it made its way from Cairo airport to the hotel where the players are staying for Saturday's World Cup qualifier with the Egyptian Pharaohs. Five players were injured in the attack.
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Defender Rafik Halliche sustained a head injury in the attack. Posted on YouTube here.
The Algerian team bus was attacked by stone-throwers last night as it made its way from Cairo airport to the hotel where the players are staying for Saturday's World Cup qualifier with the Egyptian Pharaohs. Five players were injured in the attack.
Despite a heavy police presence, around 200 home fans emerged from the bushes by the motorway and hurled stones towards the bus, shattering the windscreen and several windows. The Algerian Minister for Foreign Affairs expressed dismay over the attack in a press release.
For some weeks now hostility between fans from the two countries has been worsening both online and in the media.
Tensions are running very high for the Egyptians, winners of the 2008 African Cup of Nations (CAN). To qualify on Saturday, the team needs to win by a margin of at least three goals, while Algeria, top of group C, can still be on their way to the World Cup even if they give away one goal.
The attack
Posted on Dailymotion. The Algerian team on their way from Cairo International Airport to their hotel.
Posted on YouTube by"Algeriansunited". Arriving at the Iberotel in Cairo.
Posted on YouTube by "ZinouTipazo". At the hotel a few minutes after the attack.