On Sunday, passionate Asante Kotoko fan Pooley tragically lost his life during a match, sparking tributes and renewed concerns over football violence.
Asante Kotoko fan Francis Yaw ‘Nana Pooley’ Frimpong will be remembered not just as a staunch supporter of the club but as a passionate voice for Ghanaian football.
Pooley’s tragic death during Sunday’s match against Nsoatreman has left a deep scar on the football community reigniting concerns over violence at football venues.
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Pooley was more than just a fan; he was an icon of Asante Kotoko’s spirit.
“The senseless loss of life is devastating,” Asante Kotoko said in a statement.
A familiar face at Baba Yara Stadium and away games alike, Pooley’s energy and dedication made him a beloved figure among Asante Kotoko supporters.
His voice resonated across airwaves as he fiercely defended his team, never shying away from debates about Ghanaian football.
Many recall how he would spend hours dissecting tactics, praising standout players, and urging management to make crucial decisions.
On Sunday, the tragic incident unfolded in the central town of Nsoatre during a heated encounter between Asante Kotoko and their rivals Nsoatreman.
Fan violence marred the game, with objects hurled onto the pitch and some spectators storming the field to attack players and officials.
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The match resumed after a brief halt, ending in a 1-0 loss for Kotoko.
Asante Kotoko confirmed that their goalkeeper, Mohammed Camara, was also assaulted by “pitch invaders” in the chaos.
It was in this charged atmosphere that Pooley lost his life following an altercation with an unidentified individual.
In response, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) swiftly banned Nsoatreman from using their home ground, Nana Koramansah Park, until further notice.
The GFA also postponed the next round of league matches, vowing to take strong measures against violence in the sport.
“The game of football is not a war,” Nsoatreman FC stated.
Tributes for Pooley have flooded social media, with his name trending on X (formerly Twitter) as fans, footballers and journalists mourn his passing.
Many have shared fond memories of his undying love for Kotoko, recalling how his voice became synonymous with the club’s ups and downs over the years.
“I remember listening to Pooley on the radio every week. Whether we won or lost, his passion never faded,” one fan posted.
“Ghana football has lost a true legend of the stands.”
Despite years of efforts to curb violence at football matches, incidents like these continue to haunt the Ghana Premier League.
In 2001, Ghana suffered its worst football disaster when over 120 people lost their lives during a riot in Accra.
More recently, teams such as Accra Young Wise and Skyy FC have faced fines and home bans due to security breaches, yet violent clashes persist.
Authorities have launched an investigation into Pooley’s death, with many calling for stricter security measures at match venues.
Some argue that Ghana football’s dwindling appeal is partly due to safety concerns, discouraging fans from attending games in large numbers.
