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The severity of the stampede became evident in distressing videos, showing fans fighting to free each other from the crowd's grip and emergency services rushing to aid the injured.
Chaos erupted at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium in Dar es Salaam prior to the CAF Confederations Cup final between Yanga and USM Alger.
Tragically, two lives were lost and several others were injured as eager fans tried to force their way into the stadium without tickets.
The incident overshadowed the highly anticipated clash between these African football giants.
Despite the heartbreaking situation, the match proceeded as scheduled, with USM Alger ultimately securing a 2-1 first leg victory over Yanga.
The severity of the stampede became evident in distressing videos, showing fans fighting to free each other from the crowd's grip and emergency services rushing to aid the injured.
Reports suggested that the stampede was partly caused by attempts to sell or present fake tickets at the stadium gate.
Yanga, who had been enjoying an impressive run in the competition, suffered a setback in their quest for continental glory.
Fiston Mayele's brilliant goal provided a glimmer of hope for Yanga, seemingly leveling the scores late in the game.
However, USM Alger swiftly responded, thwarting their celebrations and securing a crucial away win.
The Tanzanian giants faced considerable challenges on their home turf, grappling with a slippery pitch following a heavy downpour.
Despite Djigui Diarra's early saves and moments of promise from Mayele and Aziz Ki, Yanga struggled to find their rhythm against a determined USM Alger side.
The loss marked Yanga's first defeat at home in continental matches since October 2019, making the return leg in Algiers a demanding task, as they now need to secure a victory by at least two goals.
Amid the grief and disappointment, Yanga's historic achievement of becoming the first Tanzanian side to reach a continental final should not be overshadowed.
Despite the tragic circumstances surrounding the first leg, they have the opportunity to make a comeback and join the ranks of East African countries that have claimed continental titles.
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