OTTO ADDO SHARES HOW HE ESCAPED VIOLENCE AFTER GHANA-NIGERIA 2022 DRAW

Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has opened up about the dangerous scenes that unfolded during Ghana’s 1-1 draw with Nigeria in Lagos during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. Speaking ahead of the much-anticipated Ghana-Nigeria match in the Unity Cup scheduled for May 28, 2025, Addo recounted how he and the team escaped violence unharmed.

He explained that after the final whistle, angry Nigerian fans, frustrated by their team’s failure to beat Ghana at home, directed their anger at their own players rather than the Black Stars. “To be honest, the Nigerian fans weren’t angry with us, so they didn’t harm us. They were angry at their own players,” Addo said.

The players and coaching staff quickly moved to the safety of the dressing rooms amidst the chaos. Addo urged fans on both sides to keep their composure during the upcoming match. “For all of us, it’s crucial that spectators remain calm and safe, regardless of the outcome. Violence should have no place in football at all,” he added.

The 2022 clash was marred by violent outbursts when fans invaded the pitch, throwing objects at players and officials. Police had to use tear gas and batons to restore order. Vandalism outside the stadium was also reported, with cars damaged and personal belongings stolen.

Source:NKONKONSA.com