Dark Day For Football As 120 Fans Die And 180 Injured In Indonesia

The football world witnessed a dark day on Saturday, October 1, 2022, after 120 people were killed and 180 injured in a riot that broke out in the Kanjuruhan Stadium, Indonesia.

Fans of Javanese clubs, Arema and Persebaya Surabaya, clashed after Arema suffered a 3-2 loss against Surabaya in Malang Regency, East Java. Angry Arema fans would flood the pitch after a run of two defeats at home and created chaotic scenes.

Head of the Malang Regency health office, Wiyanto Wijoyo, confirmed the number of deaths and injured persons to authorities.  

FIFA president, Gianni Infantino, released a statement expressing shock at the turn of events, and condoled with the families and friends of victims.

“The football world is in a state of shock following the tragic incidents that have taken place in Indonesia at the end of the match between Arema FC and Persebaya Surabaya at the Kanjuruhan Stadium…This is a dark day for all involved in football and a tragedy beyond comprehension. I extend my deepest condolences to the families and friends of the victims who lost their lives following this tragic incident .Together with FIFA and the global football community, all our thoughts and prayers are with the victims, those who have been injured, together with the people of the Republic of Indonesia, the Asian Football Confederation, the Indonesian Football Association, and the Indonesian Football League, at this difficult time.”

Gianni Infantino

Football bodies around the world such as CAF, Arsenal FC, Chelsea FC, La Liga, and more have also extended their condolences to the families and friends of victims.

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Featured Image Credit: AP