FIFA has paid tribute to two influential Ghanaian football figures, Wilberforce Mfum and Francis Frimpong Pooley during its 75th Congress held in Asunción, Paraguay, on 15 May 2025.
A minute of silence was observed in their honour, recognising their contributions to Ghanaian football both on and off the pitch.
Wilberforce Mfum, who passed away on 11 May at the age of 88, was a legendary striker and one of the key architects of Ghana’s 1963 Africa Cup of Nations victory. Born on 28 August 1936, Mfum scored vital goals in that historic campaign, including in the final.
He netted 20 goals in 26 appearances for the Black Stars and represented Ghana at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo. At club level, Mfum starred for Asante Kotoko and Swedru All Blacks, before moving to the United States where he featured for Baltimore Bays and New York Cosmos.
Nana Pooley, is a devoted supporter of Asante Kotoko and an active member of the club’s Supporters’ Communication Team, who tragically died on 2 February 2025 during a Ghana Premier League match against Nsoatreman FC at Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre.
FIFA’s gesture serves as a reminder of the legacy left behind by those who serve the game, whether as icons on the field or loyal supporters in the stands.
