Exactly 21 years today, Shamo Quaye died in a mysterious manner in Ghana after returning from his base in Sweden.

He passed away while playing a fun match in Tema, 25 km east of Accra. It was reported that he was hit in the face by a ball during the game and died after being rushed to the hospital.

Shamo Quaye was part of the famous Accra Hearts of Oak musical youth, promoted to the first team of the Phobians in the late 1980’s by Dr. Nyaho Nyaho Tamakloe, following the sacking of majority of the senior team players of the club at the time.

READ MORE: I am proud to be a Ghanaian: Mario Balotelli

He would inspire Hearts of Oak to a league and FA Cup double in 1990.

Shamo Quaye represented Ghana in the 1992 Olympics staged in Barcelona. Ghana made history as the first African country to win a medal in football at the Olympics- bronze medal.

Quaye was one of the two players who epitomized domestic football in the early 1990’s in Ghana. His ability to entertain fans with his goals and runs drove several football loving fans to the various stadia.

Shamo Quaye and Joe Debrah of Kotoko dominated the headlines as the debate as to who was the finest player at the time was endless.

He earned a lucrative deal to join Umea of Sweden from Accra Hearts of Oak in 1995.

However, the whole nation was thrown into a state of mourning when the mercurial striker passed away in a mysterious manner on the field.

READ MORE: Christian Atsu pays for release of nine African prisoners

Hearts of Oak, the club that defined the football career of the man affectionately called Shamo Leather on the 21st anniversary of the passing of the legendary attacker took to their Twitter handle to pay another glowing tribute to him.

Shamo Quaye born on 22nd October, 1971 died at age 26.

As we say legends live on. The memories of Shamo Quaye would forever be in the minds of lovers of the beautiful game.