Chaos in Uyo as Algerian fans foment trouble

Some supporters of the Fennec Foxes of Algeria caused trouble inside the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. A few minutes before kick-off of the game, the North African delegates forced their way  into the vip area which was reserved for Nigerian dignitaries. As if it was planned, another Algerian supporter beat security operatives and dashed unto the pitch to flaunt their flag, before security operatives tamed him. This did not go well with top officials of the Nigerian Football Federation as as the director for media communication of the body Ademola Olajire ordered the visitors to find their way to their reserved seats. “All Algerian supporters should leave the VIP stands,” he yelled. “Please go to where you are supposed to seat; three weeks ago we were in Zambia and we knew what we went through.”

Meanwhile, the president of the Nigerian senate Abubakar Saraki was personally on the stands to see the game. Othe top dignitaries include the minister for Sports Solomon Dalung, former governor of Akwa Ibom stats Godswill Akpabio and other officials from the Nigerian senate as well as the NFF. Nigeria Super Eagles produced a scintillating performance as they defeated Algeria 3-1 in a 2018 Russia World Cup qualifying game, played in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom state.