At least 73 people are thought to have died following violent clashes at a football match in Egypt.

Fans, many of whom were reportedly carrying knives, invaded the pitch and changing rooms after Al-Masry's 3-1 win over Al-Ahly in the city of Port Said on Wednesday night.

Parts of the stadium were also set on fire, leading to fears that the death toll could rise even further in what is the country's worst footballing disaster.

Around 70 people have been arrested by police.

Over 40 people were initially reported to have been killed as a result of the violence.

"This is unfortunate and deeply saddening," Egyptian deputy health minister Hesham Sheiha told state television.

FIFA president Sepp Blatter described the incident as "a black day for football".

Police and security forces were apparently scarce due to the recent political unrest in the country.

All Egyptian Premier League matches have been postponed.