A night of football chaos turned tragic as Francis Yaw Frimpong, popularly known as Pooley, a passionate Asante Kotoko supporter, was fatally stabbed following the club’s heated match against Nsoatreman FC on February 2, 2025.
According to Kwaku Amponsah (K5), former Chairman of Kotoko Supporters’ union, tensions escalated when Nsoatreman FC’s owner, Hon. Ignatius Baffuor, allegedly instigated a confrontation. After an on-field altercation between players forced a pause in the match, Hon. Baffuor, allegedly, called on Kotoko’s Head of Sporting Affairs, Kwasi Appiah who was seated with other supporters in the VVIP section. However, Kotoko supporters urged Kwesi Appiah to ignore him. In response, Hon. Baffuor reportedly entered the inner perimeter and called on his supporters, who then joined him at the Kotoko stands, sparking an altercation between the rival fans.
As tensions grew, Hon. Baffuor demanded that Pooley be removed from the pitch which was not agreed upon by the Kotoko supporters and concerned for his safety, the supporters advised him to leave before the match ended to prevent further trouble. Before leaving, Pooley was also urged to apologize to the Nsoatreman owner, which he did. However, shortly after leaving the stadium, he was attacked.
“Witnesses claim it was even a woman who first attempted to strike him with a stone, and while defending himself, he was restrained by others, with one individual fatally stabbing him with a knife” K5 told the reporter.
As investigations continue, fans and loved ones mourn the loss of Pooley, who not only dedicated his passion to the club but also recently started a new chapter in his life as a married man. His tragic death leaves behind a grieving wife, who is reportedly expecting their child.