Asante Kotoko is mourning the loss of their legend, Ernest Papa Arko, who passed away in Accra after a brief illness. Papa Arko, who played a pivotal role in Asante Kotoko’s success, particularly in the late 1970s and early 1980s, died in the early hours of Sunday.
The club expressed its sorrow and paid tribute to the late football star on X, stating, “Everyone at Asante Kotoko is devastated by the news that our 1983 Champions League winning Captain, Papa Arkoh has passed away in Accra. Our thoughts are with his family and his former mates.”
Papa Arko served as captain for Asante Kotoko in 1980, leading the team to victory in the CAF Champions League in 1983. He played a crucial role in securing titles for the club during his career. Before winning the prestigious CAF competition, he had also led the team to the finals, although they faced defeat against Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
In addition to his club achievements, Papa Arko represented Ghana in the 1980 African Cup of Nations. Despite Ghana’s failure to defend its title in that tournament, Papa Arko’s contributions to both club and country are remembered fondly.
His passing marks the third loss of a legendary figure from Asante Kotoko in the last quarter of the year, following Joe Debrah and Robert Eshun. The football community mourns the loss of Papa Arko and remembers his significant impact on the sport.
-The Post Ghana
