A BUS crash has killed eight people on their way to a game, reportedly including the cousin of Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita.
The tragic stars all played for Guinean second division side Etoile de Guinea, which is owned by former Monaco ace Pascal Feindouno.
At least eight footballers from a team in Guinea have died in a bus crashCredit: AFP – Getty
The accident happened just outside the city of Mamou, around 150 miles east of the capital Conakry, where the team are based.
They were on their way to play rivals Karifamoryah FC in the city of Kankan in what was meant to be their opening fixture of the season.
It is believed their minibus was speeding when it crashed into a tree.
Contrasting reports have emerged over one of those killed, Almamy Keita said to be either Liverpool star Naby’s cousin or brother.
After the crash, but before news of Almamy’s death was announced, the midfielder stated on social media: “My sincere condolences to the Etoile de Guinea team and to Guinean football, may their souls rest in peace, amen. How sad.”
A later statement via Instagram by Keita read:”I am shocked, sad and heartbroken at this terrible news.
An official Guinean FA statement named those killed in the accidentCredit: Ligue Guinéenne de Football Professionnel
Naby Keita has stated his sorrow at the crashCredit: Instagram @keitanabydeco
“I send my sincere condolences to all families of the victims, as well as the whole sporting family of Guinea.
“Rest in perfect peace guys.”
The minister of security in the regional capital of central Guinea said: “The death toll is eight dead and 19 injured, including 17 seriously.
“The bodies and the wounded are currently at the Mamou regional hospital.”
It is believed that 27 people were on board when the driver “unfortunately skidded while speeding to impact with a tree trunk”.
A statement from the Guinean FA confirmed: “The identification process of the bodies ended in Ignace Deen Hospital, the families of the victims can begin their mourning.”
The incident is the second fatal road accident involving a Guinean football team this year.
On January 30, three people died when the team bus of top-flight side Wakriya AC crashed into a stationary truck.
Alfred Kargbo, from Sierra Leone, died at the scene while midfielder Aboubacar Camara and driver N’Fa Laye died in hospital the next day.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
