Guinea FA tells fans to ‘celebrate carefully’ in wake of supporter deaths

Guinea head into their final Africa Cup of Nations group game urging supporters to “celebrate carefully” after several fans were killed in the aftermath of Friday’s 1-0 win over Gambia.

Kaba Diawara’s side face Senegal in a clash between the top two in Group C against a backdrop of tragedy and concern.

A number of supporters were killed amid scenes of celebration on Friday and, with only a draw required against already-qualified Senegal to reach the knockout stages amid the sorrow back home, the “deeply saddened” Guinea Football Federation on Sunday issued a statement on social media urging fans to “celebrate carefully and take care of yourself”.

Aguibou Camara, the match-winner against Gambia, praised Diawara for his inspirational words in the dressing room.

“Kaba is a coach who pushes us to work. In the changing room he speaks to us and motivates us a lot during matches,” the winger told reporters.

Holders Senegal, meanwhile, go into the game in Yamoussoukro on the back of two wins from two, but with manager Aliou Cisse having spent time in hospital over the weekend with stomach pain.

Speaking after their win over Cameroon which ensured safe passage into the last 16, Cisse said: “We must remain focused.

“We have played two matches in the competition so far and there are five remaining in order to reach the stated goal.”