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Spectators gather on the Stade de France pitch after last night's friendly international between France and Germany. AP/Press Association Images
Paris

'We’re all shaken and shocked. The game and sport loses importance'

There were explosions outside the Stade de France during Germany’s 2-0 defeat to France.

GERMANY FOOTBALL COACH Joachim Löw says he was “shaken and shocked” following the shootings in Paris during his side’s friendly with France last night.

Five people were reportedly killed in explosions outside the Stade de France while the game was being played, with at least 120 deaths across the city from the terror attacks.

A series of shootings and bomb blasts left football fans afraid to leave the stadium following the game, which was attended by French president Francois Hollande.

“We’re all shaken and shocked. For me personally the game and the sport loses importance. We’re at a loss,” Löw told ARD.

Germany’s team manager Oliver Bierhoff told ARD: “There was a big uncertainty, a big fear and a strange mood in the locker room. It was noticeable how shocked the players were. They picked up their phones right away to inform themselves or call home.”

French Football Federation (FFF) president Noel Le Graet expressed his sadness and pain after the attacks: “The French FA shares all of the emotions that have shaken the nation following the tragic events that occurred on Friday around Paris and around Stade de France as France-Germany was taking place. The FFF feels the pain of the bereaved families and those close to them.”

The FFF have cancelled several events which were planned for today at the team’s Clairefontaine training base. A meeting with supporters, news conference and public access have been called off, with the players instead set to train in a closed session.

France are scheduled to face England at Wembley on Tuesday, but there remains uncertainty over whether that friendly will go ahead.

“The FA obviously sends its deep condolences to the victims of this tragic event and we will liaise with the French Federation this weekend at the appropriate time,” said an FA spokesman.

All sporting fixtures in the Paris area this weekend — including Racing 92′s Champions Cup match against Glasgow Warriors — have been called off. The message was passed to the heads of sports federations following last night’s attacks.

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