Violence mars Burma World Cup qualifier

PHOTO

Burma's fans wait before the start of the World Cup qualifier soccer match against Oman at Thuwunna Stadium. [Reuters]

Last Updated: Fri, 29 Jul 2011 20:50:00 +1000

A 2014 World Cup qualifier between Burma and Oman was abandoned after home fans in the Yangon stadium pelted the pitch with rocks, shoes and water bottles.

A member of the Oman coaching staff reportedly suffered a head injury as the Burma supporters went on the rampage after the away team took a 2-0 lead in the game at the Tuwana stadium on Thursday.

"The match was stopped after the first 39 minutes because security forces lost control of the Myanmar football fans," a Myanmar official told AFP.

The world footballing body FIFA confirmed the match was "brought to a sudden close" after "local supporters hurled objects repeatedly onto the field".

"The final status of the match will be confirmed by the relevant body in due course," FIFA said.

Oman won the previous round 2-0.

Soe Moe, a media director at the Myanmar (Burma) Football Federation, said the MFF had apologised and would have to explain events to FIFA.

He expressed concern that the country could be banned from hosting future fixtures.

"The country could be harmed if they decide not to hold any international games in Myanmar because of some violent audience members. The country's dignity is hurt because of them," he said, adding that he suspected people in the crowd were drunk.

He said FIFA rules meant the host country can face financial penalty if an object is found to have been thrown on to the pitch.