Six Guinean supporters tragically lost their lives while celebrating the country’s first victory at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast. The Guinean Football Federation, Feguifoot, revealed this unfortunate incident to the BBC, stating that the fatalities occurred as fans took to the streets of Conakry, the Guinean capital, to revel in the triumph, traveling in cars and on motorcycles.
Guinea secured a 1-0 victory against The Gambia in their second group game on Friday night, sparking widespread celebrations throughout the West African nation. Amadou Makadji, the media manager of Feguifoot, emphasized the need for measured celebrations, urging fans to exercise caution to avoid putting themselves in harm’s way.
Makadji stated, “What is important is that our fans and the public celebrate in a very measured fashion. They have to be very careful not to put themselves in danger, because football aims to bring joy and not leave families bereaved. We do not want deaths to mourn, so we call on everyone to celebrate but to take care of themselves so that nothing happens to them.”
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Guinea, known for its passionate football culture, experienced the tragic incident following Aguibou Camara’s goal, which propelled the team to second place in Group C with four points. They are two points behind defending champions Senegal and three points ahead of third-placed Cameroon, who have won the tournament five times. Unfortunately, The Gambia is yet to secure any points.
According to a police source, three individuals lost their lives in a collision between two vehicles at high speed, and several dozen others sustained injuries in road accidents. Many fans were reported to have driven around on car bonnets as the celebration took over the capital’s roads.
Feguifoot, along with former star Pascal Feindouno, has appealed to the country’s fans to remain calm in the aftermath of the tragic events. Feindouno conveyed his message, saying, “I have a message to send to Guinean men and women,” emphasizing the need for restraint during the celebrations.