Football Violence in Ghana: One Dead, Journalists Attacked During Nsoatreman vs. Kotoko Match

A tragic incident marred the Ghana Premier League fixture between Nsoatreman and Kumasi Asante Kotoko on February 2, 2025, as violent clashes led to the death of a football fan and multiple attacks on journalists.

The match, held at Nana Kronamansah Park in Nsoatre, Bono Region, turned chaotic when a brawl broke out between some players. Home fans responded by throwing missiles onto the pitch and attacking visiting supporters in the stands.

During the violence, a Kotoko supporter, Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as Nana Pooley, was stabbed and later succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

At least four journalists were assaulted, including Kotoko’s Head of Media, Steven Owusu, who sustained a serious ear injury after being struck by an object. The Kotoko media team’s camera, laptop, and recorders were also seized and destroyed.

“Missiles were thrown at our bench on multiple occasions, creating an unsafe environment for our players and officials,” Kotoko’s management said in a statement, condemning the violence.

The incident has raised concerns about security at football matches in Ghana, with calls for authorities to take swift action to ensure the safety of fans, players, and media personnel.