Accra: Asante Kotoko have expressed disgust over violent incidents that occurred during their Ghana Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC. The thrilling match between Kotoko and Nsoatreman at Nana Kronmasah Park was interrupted for a few minutes when a fight broke out on the pitch of play. These troubling incidents stretched beyond the playing field, with Francis Yaw Frimpong, aka Nana Pooley, a staunch Kotoko supporter, losing his life. Asante Kotoko has issued a statement condemning the incidents that occurred during the match and asking stakeholders to take action.

According to Ghana News Agency, the statement from Kotoko highlighted that from the moment of their arrival at the stadium, the team was subjected to open hostility, including confrontations from sections of the home supporters. Despite these provocations, Kotoko remained committed to fair competition and proceeded with the game in the spirit of sportsmanship. The statement further added that the bench of Kotoko had missiles thrown at them, resulting in their media officer sustaining an ear injury, and some of their equipment being destroyed.

Beyond the events on the field, reports indicate that media personnel and supporters who traveled from Kumasi to cover and support the team were also attacked. Tragically, one of the supporters who was stabbed during the violence succumbed to his injuries at the hospital. Kotoko expressed that this senseless loss of life is devastating and extended their deepest condolences to the victim's family, friends, and the entire Kotoko fraternity.

In their statement, Kotoko also mentioned their willingness to cooperate with the Ghana Football Association to ensure that perpetrators are dealt with. They called on all stakeholders to take decisive steps to ensure the safety of all teams, officials, and supporters, as they remain resolute in the pursuit of professionalism and fair play.