Guinean Football Federation and the national team are urging fans to exercise restraint in their celebrations after six individuals lost their lives in the aftermath of Guinea’s 1-0 victory over Gambia at the Africa Cup of Nations on Friday.
Enthusiastic Guinea supporters took to the streets across the country to celebrate the win, which has placed coach Kaba Diawara’s team on the verge of advancing to the knockout rounds in the tournament held in Ivory Coast.
In response to the incidents, the Federation has released a video featuring the team, appealing to fans to celebrate responsibly. This call comes ahead of Guinea’s upcoming match against Senegal in the final pool stage on Tuesday.
“What is important is that our fans and the public celebrate in a very measured fashion,” the Federation’s media manager Amadou Makadji told the BBC.
“They have to be very careful not to put themselves in danger, because the goal of football is to bring joy and not leave families bereaved.”
A draw against Senegal would send Guinea into the round of 16 and they could advance even if they lose depending on other results.
“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,” Makadji said.
“Guinea is a country where people are very, very passionate about football and they experience football like nowhere else in the world.”