The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Sunday lifted its suspension of the Olembe Stadium in Yaounde where eight people died in a crush on January 24 and has given the go ahead to hold Africa Cup of Nations Finals at the stadium
The disaster happened prior to last Monday’s last-16 tie between hosts Cameroon and the Comoros, when supporters were caught in a crush at the south entrance gate of the stadium leaving eight dead, a child inclusive while 38 people were also injured.
CAF’s announcement means that the second semi-final scheduled for February 3 will go ahead at the ground along with the February 6 final.
The African football’s governing body in a statement said: “Having noted the recommendations and undertakings from government in regard to additional security provisions…the CAF Organising Committee unanimously agreed to lift the suspension imposed on the Olembe Stadium.
“The Local Organising Committee and the government of Cameroon having significantly increased security and resources at the Olembe Stadium, (CAF) are confident that the safety and security of spectators and visitors will be assured.”
The semifinal to be played between Mohamed Salah’s Egypt and Cameroon will now go ahead at the Olembe Stadium on Thursday and the stadium, which cost Cameroon more than $300 million to build for the African Cup, will be able to hold the final.