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Scores of soccer fans die in a friendly match between Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates

Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates logos
This Day in History: January 13, 1991
Additional Date: January 13, 1991

Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates met in a pre-season friendly at the 23,000 seater Oppenheimer Stadium, near Orkney, Western Transvaal (now North West Province). However, reports say at least 30,000 were let into the venue, meaning it was significantly over its capacity.

Supporters were not separated and when Chiefs were awarded a dubious goal, Pirates fans reportedly turned violent, attacking rival supporters as they fled, fighting between rival team supporters inside the Oppenheimer Stadium. This caused a stampede that left approximately 100 injured and 42 people dead.