GPL: Asante Kotoko Condemns Violence During Match Against Nsoatreman FC, Mourns Death of Supporter
Asante Kotoko SC has issued a strong condemnation of the violent incidents that marred their Ghana Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Kronmansah II Park. In an official statement, the club detailed the hostile environment they faced from certain sections of the home supporters upon their arrival at the stadium.
Despite the confrontations, Kotoko remained committed to fair play and proceeded with the match. However, tensions escalated dramatically during the game as missiles were hurled at the Kotoko bench, creating an unsafe atmosphere for players and officials alike.
The situation took a serious turn when Kotoko’s Head of Media suffered a significant ear injury after being struck by an object thrown from the stands. In a shocking incident, some supporters invaded the pitch and physically attacked Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Mohammed Camara, while continuing to launch projectiles at him.
Reports indicate that media personnel and traveling supporters from Kumasi were also subjected to attacks outside the pitch. Tragically, one Kotoko supporter, known as “Polley,” was stabbed during the violence and later succumbed to his injuries in the hospital. The club expressed deep sorrow over this loss, extending heartfelt condolences to Polley’s family and the entire Kotoko community.
The violence not only affected individuals but also resulted in substantial damage to Kotoko’s property, including laptops, communication devices, and other essential equipment used by their technical and media staff. The club described this level of destruction as unacceptable, calling for stronger security measures at league venues to prevent such incidents in the future.
Despite these challenges, Kotoko completed the match in the spirit of fairness and sportsmanship. However, they voiced concerns about the ongoing issue of hooliganism in Ghanaian football, emphasizing that such behavior endangers players, officials, and supporters.
Asante Kotoko has pledged full cooperation with the Ghana Football Association in any investigations into the violence and has called for swift and decisive action against those responsible. The club stressed that football must be played in a secure and fair environment and that acts of violence should not be tolerated under any circumstances.
Kotoko urged all stakeholders in Ghanaian football to take decisive steps to ensure the safety of teams, officials, and fans, reaffirming their commitment to professionalism and fair play in the sport.
