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ESPN staff 8y

Germany team return home after spending night at Stade de France

The German Football Association (DFB) has announced that the team has returned to Frankfurt after spending the night inside the Stade de France following the terrorist attacks in Paris on Friday.

At least three people died outside the Stade de France during France's 2-0 win against Germany as the country dealt with a series of unprecedented terrorist attacks on the city.

Two loud explosions were heard inside the stadium around 15 minutes into the match, and French president Francois Hollande was evacuated from the stadium.

According to French authorities at least 120 were killed in multiple acts of violence, including shootings at restaurants and a hostage-taking at a music theater that left what one official described as "carnage" inside the building as attackers had tossed explosives at the hostages.

"Die Mannschaft spent the night inside the stadium but are now safely back in Frankfurt," the DFB tweeted. "Our thoughts are with the victims of the attacks and their families.

"Die Mannschaft will not be heading to Hannover this morning. All engagements have been cancelled. More info in due course."

Earlier in the day, the German team had to evacuate their hotel because of a bomb threat, but police found no explosive devices.

Germany coach Joachim Low told ARD: "We are all shattered and shocked. For me personally the sport takes a backseat. We will now advise what to do. We are baffled at the moment. When I heard the bang I could imagine what that would be."

Germany team manager Oliver Bierhoff added: "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."

A decision over whether Tuesday's friendly against Netherlands will go ahead will be taken in due course.

Georg Behlau, logistics manager for the German national team, said: "Everybody's going home now, will get a night's sleep and then we will take a decision about Tuesday's match."

UEFA released a statement which read: "UEFA is deeply shocked and saddened by the tragic events which occurred in Paris last night and wishes to express its support and solidarity to France and to those affected by these horrible acts."

All UEFA-sanctioned matches, including the Euro 2016 playoffs, over the following days will be preceded by a minute's silence.

Information from the Associated Press was used in this report.

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