Pooley lost his life on February 2, 2025
It has been one year since the tragic death of Francis Yaw Frimpong, affectionately known as Nana Pooley, who was stabbed during violent scenes at a Ghana Premier League clash between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman at Nsoatre on February 2, 2025.
The incident, which erupted following a heated argument with an unidentified spectator, cut short the life of a devoted supporter whose only “crime” was his love for football.
In a solemn tribute, Asante Kotoko described the tragedy as a senseless act of hooliganism that continues to leave a painful void.
“One year ago, Asante Kotoko Sporting Club was shattered by the tragic and untimely passing of Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as ‘Nana Pooley’ at Nsoatre. We stand together to remember a fallen supporter whose life was cut short by mindless hooliganism; a tragedy that should never happen again,” the club stated.
The match itself descended into chaos, with spectators throwing objects onto the pitch and pitch invaders assaulting Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Mohammed Camara.
Watch how the Ghana Football Awards paid tribute to Nana Pooley
Kotoko ultimately lost 1-0, but the scoreline was overshadowed by the violence.
Both clubs condemned the clashes, with Nsoatreman emphasising, “The game of football is not a war.”
In response, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) banned Nsoatreman from using their home venue, Nana Koramansah Park, until further notice and postponed the next round of league matches.
Authorities have since launched a formal investigation into Pooley’s death, while calls for stricter stadium security and improved fan management continue to grow.
Despite previous measures, including fines and stadium bans for clubs, fan violence remains a persistent issue in Ghanaian football.
One year later, the memory of Nana Pooley serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need to make football safe for all.
FKA/AE
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