Ugly scenes ensued after the full-time whistle
Nigeria fans smashed up parts of their own stadium after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 16 years after losing to Ghana.
The two sides came into the second-leg having played out a goalless draw in Ghana in the first-leg of the play-off tie.
Ghana secure spot at 2022 World Cup
It was the away side who took the lead in the 10th minute through Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey – beating the despairing dive of Nigeria shot-stopper Francis Uzoho.
However, the Super Eagles levelled proceedings in the 22nd minute through Watford defender William Troost-Ekong, who calmly converted his penalty.
Both teams pushed for a winner on the night, but it was Ghana – who knew they boasted the comfort of having scored an away goal – who were more content to settle for a draw.
Given their away goal, it was indeed Ghana who progressed to the finals in Qatar later this year.
Following the full-time whistle, ugly scenes quickly ensued as several Nigeria fans proceeded to storm the pitch and smash up their own stadium.
It is getting messy here. Destroying everything they can touch. Tear gas fired! pic.twitter.com/g49v8oV9Rg
— Yaw (@theyawofosu) March 29, 2022
Watch video from National Stadium where the fans are on a rampage.
We lost now we vandalize our own stadium smh #NGRGHA pic.twitter.com/dsNPV0XL6s
— Lord Scummander rtd (@zhurg_) March 29, 2022
Video footage appears to show some Ghana supporters being moved onto the pitch after a number of them were reportedly attacked in the stands.
Ghana supporters being moved to the pitch now. A few of them were attacked in the stands. Unfortunate scenes. 🇬🇭🇳🇬 pic.twitter.com/Nt0ui7RcHF
— Yaw (@theyawofosu) March 29, 2022
Nigeria, who had previously qualified for the 2010, 2014 and 2018 World Cup, were eliminated in the group stages at both the 2010 and 2018 competitions.
However, they impressed in 2014 and reached the last 16 before being eliminated by France.
On the other hand, Ghana – who reached the quarter-finals 12 years ago – have not qualified for the World Cup since 2014.
Nigeria Fans invaded the stadium to chase the Black Stars out to their dressing room. Insane scenes
This is uncalled for… #BlackStars #NGRGHA pic.twitter.com/D85GmxmD2c
— EL-DAD (@ChristDeKing) March 29, 2022
The home fans also appeared to chase the Ghana players down the tunnel, with objects also thrown in their direction from the stands.
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- Andy Robertson blasts Fifa for ‘unacceptable’ fixture schedule
