A fan of Ghana Premier League club Hearts of Oak, William Nii Laryea, died during the 2024 Homowo Cup match against Heart of Lions on Sunday, August 11, 2024, at the Accra Sports Stadium. The club announced the tragic news in a statement released on Monday.
Hearts of Oak emerged victorious in the match, winning 8-7 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
However, the victory was overshadowed by the loss of Laryea, described as a passionate supporter who attended all of the club’s home and away matches.
The club’s management expressed their condolences, stating, “The management of Accra Hearts of Oak with a heavy heart wishes to express our sincere condolences to the family of William Nii Laryea, who met his untimely death yesterday at the Accra Sports Stadium.”
While the exact cause of Laryea’s death was not disclosed, Hearts of Oak has pledged to work closely with his family to contribute towards the final funeral arrangements.
The statement emphasized the impact of Laryea’s passing, noting that his death would affect not only his immediate family but also the club, which will “lose his unflinching support and the passion with which he followed the club.”
Hearts of Oak concluded their statement by expressing hope that “the Almighty God will continue to guide and protect [the family] in these difficult times” and praying for Laryea to be granted “a lasting resting place.”
The incident has cast a somber mood over what was intended to be a celebratory charity match for the Homowo festival.
