Awkward moment football team is forced to apologise after holding a minute’s of silence for former star who is not dead
A Bulgarian football club has been forced into an embarrassing apology after holding a minute’s silence for a former player who was not actually dead.
Arda Kardzhali and Levski Sofia paid their respects to footballer Petko Ganchev ahead of their Bulgarian top-flight clash this weekend.
Both sets of players could be seen with their heads bowed to remember the former Arda star in the centre circle before the referee got proceedings underway. However, it took only until half-time for their error to be acknowledged by the club.
The home side sent an email to the broadcaster of the clash to explain that they had ‘receive incorrect information’ and confirm that Ganchev was in fact still alive.
A club statement then read: ‘Dear journalists and fans of the Arda team.
‘The management of PFC Arda would like to express its deepest apologies to the team’s former footballer, Petko Ganchev, and his loved ones, after the club received incorrect information regarding his death.
Arda Kardzhali and Levski Sofia paid their respects to footballer Petko Ganchev ahead of their Bulgarian top-flight clash
Arda Kardzhali were forced to issue a correction after mistakenly believing Ganchev was dead
The sides went on to play out a 1-1 draw which kept alive the hosts’ chances of qualifying for the Championship group
‘We wish Petko Ganchev many years of health and to enjoy Arda’s successes.’
The sides went on to play out a 1-1 draw which kept alive the hosts’ chances of qualifying for the Championship group and securing a European spot for next term.
Meanwhile, Levski remained in second place but their title hopes look all but over as they trail leaders Ludogorets by 12 points.
