Clashes erupted between hardcore football fans, the Ultras Ahlawy, and security forces near the Arab Contractors Stadium, only a few hours before the final of the 2013 CAF Champions League between Ahly and South African team, the Orlando Pirates.
Fans objected to tight security measures carried out by security, inspecting everyone entering the stadium and carefully checking tickets.
Unrest, as well as the presence of thousands of Ahly fans around the stadium, hindered the Orlando team's bus from entering the stadium.
A leading member of the group, who refused to be named, said security forces deliberately halted fans from going inside, in response to some of them entering early in the morning, before the alloted entry time for spectators.
Group members, according to another Ultra, came early to prepare for celebrations using colorful signs, something which takes a long time to be set out.
Security authorities only allowed a limited number of audiences to enter the stadium, in accordance with what an Interior Ministry directive, something which angered enthusiastic fans wishing to support their team.
The leading member says that security dealt violently with the fans, firing tear gas to disperse them, and hitting many fans with sticks, which resulted in many casualties. A police van was vandalized as a result.
The CAF Champions League final, which Ahly have won seven times before, kicks off at 6 pm Cairo time.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
