Basra International Stadium was due to host the final between Iraq and Oman later on Thursday.

At least one person has been confirmed dead following a stampede at a stadium in southern city of Basra just hours ahead of the Arabian Gulf Cup final on Thursday.

Dozens more have been injured in the incident, authorities said in a statement to Al Jazeera.

The stampede took place outside the Basra International Stadium on Thursday around seven hours ahead of the final game between host nation Iraq and Oman. Videos filmed inside the venue showed an already packed out stadium.

Footage that emerged online showed bodies on the ground as others attempted to help. Other videos showed fans trying to climb over closed gates as security forces attempted to control the situation.

Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammad Shia al-Sudani arrived in the city to hold an urgent meeting with security officials in the aftermath of the stampede.

In a statement to local media, Basra governor Asaad Abdulameer Aleidani initially said the final match could be moved to a neighbouring nation in light of the developments, though no official statement has been made as of yet.

However, Iraqi authorities reportedly set up large screens at the Al-Minaa Olympic Stadium in Basra to allow fans to watch the Gulf Cup final shortly after Aleidani’s comments.

By 4pm local time, Omani authorities confirmed nationals at Basra International Airport will return home to ensure their safety.

Footage that emerged in the aftermath of the incident showed seats that were dedicated to fans of the Omani national team had been taken by Iraqis as thousands of fans swarmed the stadium.

More to follow.