A devastating crush at a football match in Guinea has left up to 100 fans feared dead, sparking widespread concern and condemnation. The incident occurred in Nzerekore, during a match between local teams from Nzerekore and Labe.
Shocking footage from the scene shows individuals attempting to escape the chaos by climbing fences as the crowd surged uncontrollably. Guinean Prime Minister Mamadou Oury Bah issued a statement expressing his horror at the “stampede” that marred the match. He confirmed that they recorded the victims and emphasized that regional authorities were working to restore calm.
“The government deplores the incidents that marred the football match between the Labe and Nzerekore teams this afternoon in Nzerekore,” the statement read. “During the stampede, victims were recorded. The regional authorities are working to restore calm and serenity among the population.”
Oury also urged the public to remain calm, so that medical teams could provide urgent care to the injured. The government promised to release more information as investigations into the incident continue.
Reports suggest that the chaos began after fans stormed the pitch following a controversial refereeing decision. According to Agence France-Presse, which cited a doctor, the death toll could approach 100, though the exact number remains unclear.
Nzerekore and Labe, two of Guinea’s largest cities, are located in the southeastern part of the country. Match was reportedly part of a tournament honoring Guinea’s military leader Mamady Doumbouya, who took power in a 2021 coup. There is speculation that the event may have been used to further Doumbouya’s political agenda, prompting calls for an investigation by the National Alliance for Alternation and Democracy, a coalition of political parties.
This is not the first football-related tragedy in Guinea. In January, celebrations following the national football team’s victory over The Gambia in Africa Cup of Nations claimed several lives.
Amadou Makadji, media manager for the Guinean Football Federation (Feguifoot), urged fans to exercise caution during celebrations to prevent further loss of life. “What is important is that our fans and the public celebrate in a very measured fashion. They have to be very careful to not put themselves in danger, because the goal of football is to bring joy and not leave families bereaved,” he said in an interview with BBC Sport Africa.
The tragic incident in Nzerekore has left country in mourning as authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stampede.
