In a dev@stating !ncident in Nzérékoré, Guinea’s second-largest city, a crush at a football match has resulted in at least 56 confirmed fatalities, though many locals believe the actual number may be closer to 100.
The chaos reportedly followed a controversial decision by the referee, who sent off two players from the visiting Labé team and awarded a disputed penalty kick.
Prime Minister Oury Bah has announced that an inquiry will be launched to determine accountability for this tragedy, expressing his condolences to the bereaved families.
A doctor, who wished to remain anonymous, described the grim scene at the hospital, stating, “Bodies lined up as far as the eye can see. Others are lying on the floor in the hallways, and the morgue is full.”
Witnesses reported that the situation escalated when Labé supporters, angered by the referee’s decisions, began throwing stones onto the pitch, prompting police to deploy tear gas. “It all started with a contested decision by the referee. Then fans invaded the pitch,” one witness recounted.
Videos and images circulating on social media, verified by the BBC, depict chaotic scenes outside the stadium, with large crowds attempting to scale walls as many lay unresponsive on the ground, including what appeared to be children.
Local journalist Paul Sakouvogi noted that the stadium was “packed to the rafters” with thousands in attendance and only one small exit. In the ensuing panic, spectators rushed toward the exit, leading to a tragic pile-up. He also mentioned that internet access in the area had been restricted, and police were securing the hospital entrance, allowing only medical personnel entry.
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Prime Minister Bah has expressed his sorrow for the victims and assured full medical and psychological support for the injured. Guinea’s football governing body, Feguifoot, described the situation as one of “intense pain,” emphasizing that football should serve to “unite hearts” rather than cause suffering.
The Confederation of African Football (Caf) extended their condolences, stating, “May the souls of the departed rest in eternal peace.” Currently, Guinea, along with several other countries, is banned from hosting international matches due to venues not meeting required standards. Consequently, all of Guinea’s recent Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers had to be played in neighboring Ivory Coast.
Sunday’s match was part of a tournament honoring President Mamady Doumbouya, who came to power in a coup in September 2021. The opposition alleges that these matches are part of a strategy to bolster support for the junta leader ahead of a potential presidential run.
On Monday, the opposition group National Alliance for Change and Democracy accused the authorities of significant responsibility for the tragedy, but the government has yet to respond.
The recent incident has brought heightened scrutiny to influential figures in Guinean football. Aboubacar Sampil, president of Feguifoot, is currently under investigation for allegations of corruption and facilitating violence within the sport. He has denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that he acted appropriately in his role.
As the nation mourns, calls for accountability and improved safety measures in sporting events are expected to intensify in the wake of this heartbreaking occurrence.
