Soccer fans attempt to enter the Basra International Stadium to watch the final match of the 25th Arabian Gulf Cup between Iraq and Oman. Reuters

Gulf Today Report

At least 2 people died, while dozens were injured, because of a stampede between fans who flocked since early morning in front of the Palm Trunk Stadium in Basra, Iraq, to watch the final match of the Arabian Gulf Cup-25, between Iraq and Oman at 7 pm (16:00 GMT).

The Iraqi authorities confirmed that at least 60 people were injured as a result of the stampede between the masses, according to Alsumaria TV.

The Iraqi Prime Minister, Mohammed Shia Al Sudani, arrived in Basra and held a meeting with the governorate's leaders after the stampede.

Al Sudani called on the masses to show diligence and patriotic spirit for the success of the closing day of the "Khaleeji 25" championship, amidst large crowds of fans that gathered in front of Basra Stadium.

For his part, the governor of Basra said, “If the stampede continues, the final match of the Arabian Gulf Cup-25 may be transferred outside Iraq.”

The Iraqi security forces imposed strict measures in the city of Basra, and prevented the masses from entering the stadium, or being close to it, after an unprecedented flocking towards it.

The Iraqi National Team is looking forward to winning a fourth title in its history and the first in nearly 35 years, specifically since 1988 in Saudi Arabia.

On the other hand, the Omani National Team aspires to a third title since 2018.

The Basra International Stadium in Iraq will host the final match of the Arabian Gulf Cup-25 between the Iraqi national team and its Omani guest, in the title challenge.