The head of the Egyptian military has warned the ongoing political conflict could lead to the collapse of the state. Seven people have reportedly been shot dead and hundreds injured in Port Said during the funerals of 33 protesters killed in the city
Families of those killed in the Port Said football disaster in February last year cheered in court as 21 men accused of taking part in the violence were sentenced to death.
The judge said in his statement read live on state TV that he would announce the verdict for the remaining 52 defendants on March 9.
Families of some of the 74 people who died in the disaster reacted by wailing and cheering "God is great."
Among those on trial were nine security officials.
As is customary in Egypt, the death sentences will be sent to a top religious authority, the Grand Mufti, for approval.
Wherever there is division in Egypt right now – death seems sure to follow. The greatest toll came amid gunfire and tear gas in Port Said.
Riots sparked by death sentences passed in connection with last year's deadly riot at the Port Said football stadium have killed 22 people.