An Accra Hearts of Oak fan, identified as William Nii Laryea, tragically lost his life during the Homowo Peace Cup match played on Sunday, August 12, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Hearts of Oak took on Ghana Premier League side Kpando Heart of Lions in the match, which was aimed at celebrating the Homowo festival.
The late William Nii Laryea met his unfortunate death after he collapsed while the match was ongoing in the first half.
According to eyewitnesses, the late Nii Laryea complained about chest pains before collapsing.
The medical team on standby was later called urgently to respond to him, but after careful examination, he was placed in an ambulance and taken to the nearest hospital.
Reports indicate that Nii Laryea was confirmed dead on arrival at the hospital.
Kwadwo Obeng Jr. scored the first goal in the match for Heart of Lions three minutes after kick-off. With two minutes to end the match, Mohammed Hussein equalized for the Phobians.
Hearts of Oak went ahead to clinch the 2024 Homowo Charity Cup after beating Heart of Lions 8-7 in the penalty shootout.
The death of William Nii Laryea has thrown the club into a state of mourning.
The Hearts Of Oak Fan That Died Yesterday During The Homowo Cup😢😭.
— elizabeth Alhassan (@elizabethGHANA) August 12, 2024
The Face Of The Man😭😭.. See the face now @HeartsOfOakGH @phobia_fans pic.twitter.com/Aj3Bu1RiLO
A die-hard fan of Accra Hearts of Oak SC collapsed during the Homowo Cup match yesterday between Hearts of Oak and Heart of Lions, immediately after an early goal by Heart of Lions.
— EDHUB🌍ℹ (@eddie_wrt) August 12, 2024
Unfortunately, he was pronounced dead after being rushed to Ridge Hospital. pic.twitter.com/Q0C2lQnn0o