Published: August 6, 2025
Harbel, Margibi County – Hippo Football Club has paid tribute to its former star forward Gabrielle Sabina Lines while rejecting what it described as “misleading and opportunistic” claims by Republic FC, the club she last played for before her sudden death last month.
Lines, who died under unclear circumstances on July 6 while in training camp with Republic FC, was laid to rest on Saturday, August 2. Hippo FC, where she spent nine seasons and wore the iconic No. 8 jersey, held a memorial ceremony and announced that the number has been officially retired in her honor.
“She was our MVP, our captain, and one of the Women’s League’s top scorers,” Hippo FC said in a statement. “Gabrielle was also called up to the U-20 Lone Star and represented Liberia with unmatched pride and discipline. Her teammates knew her as a tenacious striker with a relentless love for the game.”
The club’s statement followed remarks by Republic FC, which claimed it had “done more” for Gabrielle during her final months. Hippo FC dismissed those remarks as an attempt to capitalize on the player’s legacy.
“While they claim to have done more, we believe actions speak louder than words,” the club said. “Gabrielle spent nearly a decade with Hippo FC before her brief time at Republic FC. Our tribute is rooted in love, respect, and appreciation, not competition.”
Hippo FC also addressed speculation that its recent withdrawal from league activities was due to financial distress. The club called the move a “strategic decision to rebuild, recruit, and return stronger.”
In response to allegations of mismanagement, Hippo FC defended its chief executive officer, Dr. Syrulwa Somah, describing criticism of his leadership as “baseless and disrespectful.”
“Dr. Somah has been instrumental in securing sponsorships and scholarships for our players, many of whom have gone on to represent Liberia at national and international levels,” the club said.
Despite the controversy, Hippo FC called for unity across Liberia’s football community in the wake of Gabrielle’s passing.
“In times of grief, sports organizations should come together to support one another rather than engage in petty disputes,” the club said. “We remain focused on growing the game, honoring the legacies of our athletes, and promoting mutual respect among clubs.”
The family of the late player has also weighed in. In a tearful phone interview with The Liberian Investigator, Gabrielle’s mother, Barbara Lines, accused Republic FC of negligence. She alleged that an unqualified medic at the club administered intravenous fluids to her daughter after she fell ill in camp — a treatment she believes may have contributed to her death.
“My daughter never died at JFK,” she said. “She died before they took her there. The medic, not a registered nurse or doctor, gave her a drip. I don’t even know what kind. They wanted her to play, so they put her in cold water.”
Barbara said her daughter left their home in Margibi County on Sunday, July 6, in perfect health to join Republic FC’s training camp.
In a statement released Monday, Republic FC did not respond directly to Barbara Lines’ allegations. Instead, the club addressed what it called “false claims” from individuals connected to Hippo FC.
“We call upon the Liberia Football Association and the Ministry of Youth and Sports to investigate the circumstances surrounding Gabrielle’s death,” the statement read. “Her passing, along with the circulation of falsehoods and public attacks, has only deepened the pain.”
Republic FC further urged football authorities to protect clubs, players, and officials from “public misrepresentation and mistreatment, especially during periods of mourning.”
As public tensions mount between the two clubs, the official cause of Gabrielle’s death remains undisclosed. Both sides have called for a formal investigation, but neither the LFA nor the Ministry of Youth and Sports has issued a statement as of press time.
Gabrielle Lines leaves behind a legacy as one of Liberia’s most promising young footballers, remembered by former teammates, coaches, and fans for her fierce talent, quiet leadership, and unwavering love for the game.
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