Arda Kardzhali, a Bulgarian first-division football club has issued an apology for holding a minute's silence for a former player, only to discover he was still alive

Before their league clash with Levski Sofia, Arda held what was intended to be a respectful tribute to former player Petko Ganchev, with both teams gathering in the centre circle for a minute’s silence.

However, the solemn tribute quickly took an unexpected twist when the club discovered it had been misinformed.

Ganchev is a former Bulgarian footballer who played professionally, including a stint with Bulgarian top-flight club Arda Kardzhali.

He recently gained unexpected attention after the club mistakenly held a minute's silence in his honour, believing he had passed away—only to later discover he was still alive.

Before the final whistle was blown, Arda issued a public apology on Facebook, expressing regret for the error.

The club stated that the management of PFC Arda extended a sincere apology to former player Ganchev and his relatives after receiving incorrect information about his death.

The statement also conveyed well wishes, expressing hope that Ganchev would enjoy many more years of good health and continue to celebrate the success of Arda.

"The management of PFC Arda would like to express a huge apology to the former Arda player Petko Ganchev and his relatives after the club received wrong information about his death," the club wrote.

"We wish Petko Ganchev many more years of good health and to enjoy the success of Arda," per BBC Sports.

The incident quickly gained widespread attention online, with fans sharing memes and humorous reactions to the unusual blunder.

While some drew comparisons to other infamous sporting mishaps, many expressed relief that Petko Ganchev is alive and in good health.

@Evelya232 reacted,

"Awkward mistake, big apology needed! ⚽🙈"

@Reemler said,

"They should just continue the bit by saying “sometimes it feels he’s still with us."

The match between Arda Kardzhali and Levski Sofia ended in a 1-1 draw after a hard-fought contest.

Levski Sofia took the lead through Marin, who found the back of the net to put the visitors ahead. However, the momentum shifted in the 71st minute when Levski’s Jawad was sent off with a red card, reducing his team to ten men.

Arda capitalized on the advantage and eventually found the equalizer in the 82nd minute through Stanislav, ensuring the home side salvaged a point in front of their fans.

Earlier, reported on West Ham’s Michail Antonio and his remarkable survival after a horrific car crash.

Antonio was reportedly attempting to escape through the window but was hindered by the intense pain from his shattered leg.

While he has no recollection of the crash itself, witnesses say he remained conscious and was able to speak with emergency responders at the scene.

Source: TUKO.co.ke