Bashir Hayford, the head coach of the Hearts of Oak Lions, delayed his team’s game against Bechem United on Saturday by sitting in the centre of the pitch due to biassed officiating.

During the game at Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, Hayford took a seat in the centre of the pitch, forcing a 20-minute stoppage in play.

The legendary Ghanaian trainer’s actions were in protest of what was described as one-sided officiating.

“The spectators threw urine and insulted me and the players. We needed to protect ourselves, so we raced to the pitch, but to be honest, I responded to them,” he told Akoma FM.

“As a 30-year lover of the game, I had never seen anything like this before. It was more like a fight than a football match.”

Following a brief break, Hayford left the field, allowing the game to resume. Despite playing with one man down, Bechem averted a loss on the day.


The draw drops Lions into the relegation zone, three points below Bofoakwa Tano, who sits above it.

Nurudeen Adamu, FC Samartex 1996 coach, says his team is keen to represent Ghana in the CAF inter-club tournament next season if they win the Premier League this season.

The Samreboi-based team presently leads the Premier League standings with 52 points after 28 games, with around seven matches remaining in the 2023/24 season.

In an interview with Graphic Sports, Coach Nurudeen reaffirmed his team’s ambition to play in the CAF Champions League next season, saying that nothing will stop them from taking advantage of the opportunity to represent the country on the continental scene.

Recognising the obstacles of CAF tournaments, Coach Nurudeen emphasised the significance of bolstering his team with experienced players to handle the demanding event.

He cited Dreams FC’s outstanding achievement in the tournament this season as a model for FC Samartex to emulate and expressed trust in management and the board of directors.

Drawing inspiration from Dreams FC’s surprising success, Coach Nurudeen emphasised the need for effort, commitment, and organisational support in accomplishing their objectives.

He also emphasised the financial benefits of participating, citing the ability to exhibit their talents to international clubs, which may generate income for the club.

Despite the financial hardship and the need for experience, Coach Nurudeen insisted that FC Samartex was brave enough to achieve its goals.

He reaffirmed their commitment to following Dreams FC’s lead and indicated a willingness to overcome any obstacles that may arise in their quest for CAF inter-club aspirations.

Meanwhile, FC Samartex will meet Real Tamale United on matchday 29 at the Naa Sheriga Sports Complex this weekend.

Dreams FC’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign came to an end on Sunday afternoon with a loss to Zamalek SC.

The Ghana Premier League team lost 3-0 at the Baba Yara Stadium in the second leg of their semifinal match.

Zamalek took an early lead when Hamza Mathlouthi scored in the 12th minute, capitalising on Dreams’ defensive failure on a set piece.

15 minutes later, Samson Akinyoola increased Egypt’s advantage, putting further pressure on the hosts.

Despite producing several excellent opportunities, Dreams FC failed to convert, as Zamalek maintained a comfortable lead at halftime.

Mostafa Shalaby scored 15 minutes into the second half to increase Zamalek’s advantage to three goals.

Despite Dreams FC’s late scoring efforts, they were unable to hit the back of the goal, and Zamalek easily defeated them, ending Dreams FC’s excellent run in the league.

Dreams FC has now turned their attention to the Ghana Premier League, where they have three great games.