Scores Dead in Egypt's "Worst" Soccer Riot

At least 50 people were killed and hundreds of others injured today after a clash between fans of rival Egyptian football teams in Port Said. Fans reportedly chased players around the field and attacked supporters of the opposing team, throwing rocks and bottles at them. Al Jazeera indicated the two teams have a long history of conflict, with clashes frequently erupting between their fans.

Live television footage showed fans running onto the field and chasing Ahli soccer players. One player described the violence as war as Masry fans invaded the pitch after the referee blew the whistle, even though the team had beaten Ahli 3-1. State television quoted the deputy health minister as saying that most of the injuries were caused by concussion and deep cuts.

Another match in Cairo was halted by the referee after receiving news of the violence, prompting fans to set parts of the stadium on fire. Violent football matches across north Africa has increased significantly since political unrest sweeping across the region began more than a year ago.