Violent clashes erupted between supporters and security forces at the Stade de Marrakech on April 19, 2026, during the second leg of the CAF Confederation Cup quarter-final between Moroccan club Olympique Club de Safi (OC Safi) and Algeria's Union Sportive de la MΓ©dina d'Alger (USM Alger). The match, which ended in a 1-1 draw, was heavily delayed and marred by significant crowd trouble.
According to verified reports, incidents began before kick-off when USM Alger fans attempted to force entry into the stadium. Security forces responded with tear gas to disperse the crowds, leading to chaotic scenes both inside and outside the venue. The unrest caused the match to be delayed by approximately one hour and fifteen minutes.
Footage from the scene showed fans throwing projectiles and engaging in running battles with police. There were reports of multiple injuries among supporters, though official numbers have not been confirmed by Moroccan authorities. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is expected to launch a disciplinary investigation into the events, which could result in sanctions for the clubs involved.
The match itself saw USM Alger advance to the semi-finals on away goals after a 2-2 aggregate score, following their 1-0 victory in the first leg in Algeria. The sporting outcome, however, was overshadowed by the severe security breach and violence.
