At least six people 'killed in Africa Cup of Nations stampede'

At least six people have reportedly been killed during a stampede at the Africa Cup of Nations contest between Cameroon and Comoros.

The Olembe Stadium in Yaounde hosted the last-16 battle, which was originally supposed to hold 80% of its 60,000 capacity due to ongoing COVID-19 restrictions.

However, as many as 50,000 spectators are reported to have tried to gain access to the stadium, with images on social media showing fans forcing their way through the gates with tragic consequences.

According to the Associated Press, at least six people are confirmed to have died in the crush with 40 or more injured, and governor Naseri Paul Biya fears that there will be more casualties.

Olinga Prudence, a nurse at the Messassi hospital treating injured fans, told the publication: "Some of the injured are in desperate condition. We will have to evacuate them to a specialized hospital."

The knockout tie went ahead unaffected on Monday night as host nation Cameroon reached the last eight thanks to a 2-1 win, with Karl Toko Ekambi and Vincent Aboubakar netting before Youssouf M'Changama's stunning consolation of a free kick.