AFCON 2015: Ghana Demands Action After Fan Violence Mars Semi-Final Win Over Equatorial Guinea
By BBC Sport Africa
Ghana’s 3-0 victory over host nation Equatorial Guinea on Thursday night secured their place in the final of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations—but the win was overshadowed by disturbing scenes of crowd violence that have prompted strong condemnation and calls for disciplinary action.
The semi-final clash in Malabo descended into chaos late in the second half when frustrated home supporters began throwing objects at Ghanaian fans and players. With just minutes left on the clock, play was halted as a group of Ghanaian supporters invaded the pitch—reportedly seeking refuge from attacks in the stands. Bottles, stones, and other missiles were hurled, creating a volatile and dangerous situation.
Ghanaian Players Struggled to Reach Safety
Tensions were already running high at half-time, with reports that Ghanaian players faced difficulties reaching the dressing room due to hostility from Equatorial Guinean fans. Security forces were later forced to use tear gas and even deploy a helicopter to disperse parts of the crowd and restore order.
GFA President Calls for Strong Sanctions
In the aftermath of the violence, Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kwesi Nyantakyi strongly condemned the behaviour of local supporters and urged the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to take firm disciplinary action.
“It is unfortunate that this dark cloud is overshadowing our success, and we really need to see the Confederation of African Football act firmly,” Nyantakyi told L’Équipe. “This kind of behaviour is simply unacceptable.”
According to officials, at least five Ghanaian supporters sustained minor injuries after being struck by projectiles. The scenes prompted widespread criticism across the footballing world, with many calling for CAF to enforce strict sanctions to prevent future incidents.
A Historic Match Tainted by Violence
What should have been a historic and joyful occasion for Ghana became one of concern and controversy. Goals from Jordan Ayew, Mubarak Wakaso, and André Ayew secured a dominant win for the Black Stars and set up a rematch of the 1992 final against Côte d’Ivoire. But the achievements on the pitch were heavily tainted by the events off it.
The Confederation of African Football is expected to open a full investigation into the incidents and may consider sanctions against Equatorial Guinea, who, despite their impressive run to the semi-finals, now face questions over their ability to safely host major tournaments.
Final in Sight
Ghana will now look to put the chaos behind them as they prepare for Sunday’s final in Bata. The Black Stars, seeking their first AFCON title since 1982, will face an Ivorian side equally hungry for silverware after decades of near misses.
AFCON 2015 Final: Ghana vs Côte d’Ivoire – Sunday, February 8, Bata Stadium.
