Six people have tragically died in Guinea during wild celebrations after they beat The Gambia in the Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON).
Fans flooded the streets of the Guinean capital, Conakry, with cars and motorcycles to celebrate, leading to a series of tragic incidents. Three people lost their lives when two vehicles crashed at high speed, while dozens more were injured in various road accidents.
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According to reports, many supporters were even driving around on car bonnets in their excitement. It came after Guinea’s crucial AFCON win was secured by Aguibou Camara in the second half, pushing Guinea into second place in Group C and bringing them on the brink of reaching the last 16.
The Guinean Football Federation (Feguifoot) has now called for calm ahead of their final group game. They are hoping for a peaceful celebration if Guinea progresses.
“What is important is that our fans and the public celebrate in a very measured fashion,” Feguifoot’s media manager Amadou Makadji told BBC Sport Africa. “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.”
Guinea, a country passionate about football, is neighbouring the tournament hosts, Ivory Coast. If they top their group, they will stay in Yamoussoukro for the second round.
Feindouno continued: “We learned there were deaths after the victory against The Gambia – we want this to stop because we are here to defend the colours of the country. Everything is going well for us at the moment so support the country but don’t do anything to kill each other or oneself. Stay calm – thank you.”
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