03 February,2012 11:33 AM IST | | AFP
The head of Asian football on Friday offered the region's condolences over the deaths of 74 people following a clash between Egyptian fans.
Zhang Jilong, acting president of the Asian Football Confederation, said in a letter to the Egyptian Football Association that his heart went out to the families and friends of the victims.
"On behalf of the Asian football family, I would like to offer my profound sympathy and condolences," he said.
"We stand ready to assist you in this time of mourning for Egyptian football."
Violence between fans of Port Said home team Al-Masry and Cairo's Al-Ahly broke out on Wednesday, marking one of the deadliest incidents in football history and erupting at the end of a match that saw Al-Masry win 3-1.
Witnesses said Al-Masry fans invaded the pitch, throwing rocks, bottles and fireworks at away supporters, causing chaos and panic as players and fans fled.
