AFCON 2015: Ghana Reach Final Amid Crowd Chaos in Malabo
By BBC Sport Africa
Ghana booked their place in the final of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations with a 3-0 victory over host nation Equatorial Guinea on Thursday—but the result was overshadowed by violent scenes in the stands that led to a suspension of play for over 30 minutes.
The semi-final in Malabo descended into chaos in the final ten minutes when frustrated home fans began pelting players and officials with bottles, cans, and other projectiles. With just eight minutes of regular time remaining, referee Eric Otogo-Castane was forced to halt the match as security forces moved in to restore order.
Security Crisis on the Pitch
The disruption came after Ghana had taken full control of the game, with goals from Jordan Ayew, Mubarak Wakaso, and André Ayew. As tensions escalated, the safety of players, officials, and spectators came under serious threat. Riot police responded with tear gas, and a helicopter was deployed above the stadium to disperse the crowd. Dozens of fans were evacuated to allow the match to resume behind a partially cleared stadium perimeter.
Coach and Players Express Regret
Equatorial Guinea head coach Esteban Becker expressed deep regret over the incidents, which marred what had been a historic run for the host nation. “Regarding what happened with the fans, I am really sad,” the Argentine told AFP after the match.
Striker Emilio Nsue, the team’s captain, echoed his manager’s disappointment. “I’m sorry on behalf of the whole team,” he said. “I had never played in this kind of atmosphere.”
The match had already grown heated before the interruption, with Becker’s players vocally challenging the referee throughout the second half. However, the violence in the stands took the tension to another level, leaving a dark stain on the tournament’s reputation.
CAF Expected to Take Action
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) is now facing pressure to sanction Equatorial Guinea for the failure to control supporters during such a crucial fixture. With millions watching around the continent, the scenes in Malabo were widely condemned and raise questions about stadium security and fan management.
Final Awaits in Bata
Despite the turmoil, Ghana’s players held their composure on the pitch and completed the match to seal their place in Sunday’s final against Côte d’Ivoire. It will be a repeat of the legendary 1992 final, which the Ivorians won on penalties after a goalless draw.
Ghana will be aiming to win their fifth AFCON title—and their first since 1982—while Côte d’Ivoire will be seeking redemption after decades of near-misses.
AFCON 2015 Final: Ghana vs Côte d’Ivoire – Sunday, February 8, Bata Stadium.
