Violence in Egypt and in Algeria after soccer matches

Unprecedented violence and riots, dubbed the 'football wars', followed last week's World Cup qualifier between Egypt and Algeria.

Wild celebrations across Algeria began after its victory over Egypt in Khartoum on Nov. 18. Soon afterwards Egyptians started to burn Algerian flags and to chant anti-Algerian slogans. The Algerian embassy in Cairo has been attacked, car and shop windows has been smashed and the stones were thrown at police. Soon Egypt brought home its ambassador to Algeria and Egypt's President Hosni Mubarak, quoted by the BBC, said:

Egypt does not tolerate those who hurt the dignity of its sons. We don't want to be drawn into impulsive reactions. I am agitated too, but I restrain myself.

Meanwhile, as the Associated Press reports, Algerians attacked the offices of Egyptian companies in Algeria. According to the Times Online, 35 people were injured and 20 protesters arrested. Fifa is investigating the incidents.