Asante Kotoko have announced the tragic passing of one of their supporters following their 1-0 defeat to Nsoatreman FC on Sunday, February 2, at the Nana Koramansah Park in the Ghana Premier League. The match was marred by violence, leading to devastating consequences.
The defeat saw Asante Kotoko drop to second place in the league standings, trailing Bibiani Gold Stars on goal difference. However, the football result was overshadowed by the shocking reports of clashes involving players and supporters from both teams.
According to reports, a well-known Kotoko fan lost his life after being stabbed during a confrontation in Nsoatre. The violent altercation escalated in the aftermath of the heated match, resulting in severe injuries and chaos.
In response to the incident, Asante Kotoko released an official statement condemning the violence and calling for urgent action to address hooliganism in Ghanaian football. The club expressed their deep sorrow over the loss and extended condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.
“Football must be played in a secure and fair environment, and these acts of violence must not be tolerated,” the club emphasized in their statement.
The statement also revealed that Kotoko’s team and media personnel faced hostility from sections of the home supporters, with their Head of Media sustaining a serious ear injury after being struck by an object. Additionally, Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Mohammed Camara, was reportedly attacked by some spectators during the game.
Beyond the physical assaults, extensive damage was done to the club’s valuable equipment, including laptops and other technical devices. The club has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and relevant authorities to ensure swift action is taken to prevent such incidents from recurring in the league.
As investigations continue, the football fraternity in Ghana mourns the tragic loss of life and renews calls for improved security measures at match venues to safeguard players, officials, and supporters.
This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to eradicate violence from the sport, reinforcing the call to #BringBackTheLove for Ghanaian football in a safe and fair manner.
