NIGERIA fans shockingly smashed up their own stadium after failing to qualify for the World Cup for the first time in 16 years.
Following a drab goalless draw in the first leg, Nigeria were looking to close the tie out against Ghana in front of their home fans.
Nigeria fans smashed up their own stadium after failing to reach the World Cup Credit: AFP
Angry fans invaded the pitch after the loss to Ghana Credit: AP But it was Ghana who took the lead in the 10th minute through Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey.
He tried a long range effort and it squirmed under the despairing dive of Francis Uzoho.
Nigeria were level midway through the first half when Watford defender William Troost-Ekong dispatched a penalty.
But Ghana held on to claim the tie on away goals and advance to the finals in Qatar later this year.
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Nicolas Pepe could QUIT Arsenal, Milan ‘prepared to sell’ Martinez Ugly scenes ensued after the final whistle as the Nigeria supporters proceeded to storm the pitch and smash up their own ground.
The home fans clashed with police and tore down dugouts as their fury was channelled into violent acts in the stadium.
Ghana fans were subsequently moved onto the pitch after a number of them were reportedly attacked in the stands.
And the visiting players were forced to run for cover after being pelted with bottles.
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Nigeria had previously qualified for the 2010, 2014 and 2018 tournaments.
They were eliminated in the group stages at both the 2010 and 2018 competitions.
And in Brazil in 2014 they reached the last 16 before being eliminated by France.
Ghana players ran for safety after their win Credit: AP
Fans tried to break into the tunnel after the game Credit: AP
The ugly scenes marred the World Cup qualifier in Nigeria Credit: AP Bizarrely, in each of those three tournaments they faced Argentina in the group stages – losing all of them.
Meanwhile, Ghana qualified for the 2006, 2010 and 2014 finals.
And they produced the best showing from an African team ever at a World Cup by reaching the quarter-finals 12 years ago.
But they failed to reach the last tournament in Russia four years ago.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
