FIFA Pays Tribute to Ghanaian Icons Wilberforce Mfum and Nana Pooley During 75th Congress
FIFA held a solemn minute of silence during its 75th Congress in Asunción, Paraguay, on Wednesday, May 15, 2025, to honour two revered figures in Ghanaian football—former Black Stars striker Wilberforce Mfum and dedicated football supporter Francis Yaw Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley.
The tribute, led by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, came during the early moments of the congress proceedings as a global gesture of respect for the departed Ghanaian icons whose legacies continue to inspire the football community in Ghana and beyond.
Wilberforce Mfum, who passed away on May 11 at the age of 88, was a celebrated legend of Ghana’s golden era. Born on August 28, 1936, Mfum played an instrumental role in Ghana’s historic victory at the 1963 Africa Cup of Nations. He scored crucial goals throughout the tournament, including a vital contribution in the final match. He earned 20 goals in 26 appearances for the Black Stars and represented Ghana at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
At the club level, Mfum starred for local giants Asante Kotoko and Swedru All Blacks before heading to the United States, where he played for Baltimore Bays and New York Cosmos.
Meanwhile, Nana Pooley, a vibrant and well-known supporter of Asante Kotoko, tragically lost his life on February 2, 2025, during a Ghana Premier League game between Kotoko and Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre. He was a prominent voice within Kotoko’s Supporters’ Communication Team and widely regarded for his unwavering passion for the game.
The tribute serves as a poignant reminder of the impact both legends had on the sport in Ghana and how their contributions continue to resonate even on the global stage.
