Tragic Loss: Pakwach Mourns Young Stars FC Fan Who Died of Heart Attack During Football Match

By Mike Rwothomio

West Nile, Uganda | The Luo Natives: Hope Mungubitimu, a devoted fan of Pakwach Young Stars FC, tragically collapsed and passed away on the evening of February 25, 2025, after witnessing her team’s defeat against UPDF FC in a Uganda Cup Round of 32 match.

The match ended in a 0-0 draw after regular time, but UPDF triumphed 8-7 in the penalty shootout, eliminating Pakwach Young Stars from the tournament at their home ground, Bar Omach playground in Pakwach town council.

Witnesses reported that Mungubitimu, a senior two student at Pakwach Secondary School, collapsed during the penalty shootout and was quickly taken to Pakwach Mission Health Center III, where she was sadly declared dead shortly after arrival.

Pakwach Young Stars football club confirmed the heartbreaking news on their official Facebook page, stating that the dedicated fan suffered a heart attack.

"With deep sorrow, we announce the untimely passing of Mungubitimu Hope, a loyal supporter who died this evening due to a heart attack following our intense match against UPDF," the club's statement read in part.

The club expressed their condolences to the grieving family, saying, "We share in the family's sorrow and hope her soul finds peace until we meet again."

Okumu Godfrey, the club's CEO, remarked, "Death is unpredictable, and without life, we are lost. It’s hard to believe that this young girl is gone, surrounded by the love and support of her family and the Pakwach Young Stars community."

Patrick Okecha, the headteacher of Pakwach Secondary School, remembered the deceased as an "avid football fan who showed no signs of illness."

He expressed his sorrow over the tragic event and extended his sympathies to the family during this difficult time.

Football fans throughout West Nile have been sending their condolences following the loss of this passionate supporter.

Meanwhile, Isaac Oucha Ovona Mandir, the LCI Chairman of Puvungu Jukaal Cell and chief of Puvungu chiefdom, encouraged fans to support their teams with good sportsmanship and to accept the outcomes of football matches gracefully.