By: Kwame Bediako
The Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) Disciplinary Committee has taken a firm stance against misconduct in the MTN FA Cup, sanctioning Berekum Chelsea head coach Samuel Boadu and four of his players GHS 1,000 for their behavior towards match officials during the semi-final match against Asante Kotoko.
The incident occurred at the TNA Park in Tarkwa, where Kotoko secured a narrow 1-0 victory.
According to the GFA, Coach Boadu and players Mizack Afriyie, Stephen Amankona, Zakaria Fuseini and Seidu Mohammed approached the match officials in an “aggressive, angry, and fierce manner” after the final whistle. The tensions flared over several refereeing decisions, which the GFA described as “contrary to the principles of sportsmanship, respect for match officials and the integrity of the game.”
The Disciplinary Committee found all the individuals guilty of misconduct and imposed fines of GHS 1,000 each. However, the penalties were suspended for six months, contingent upon good behavior. The committee also issued strong warnings to the offenders, particularly Coach Boadu, cautioning that further infractions could result in stiffer sanctions, including touchline bans or suspensions from football-related activities.
The GFA reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on conduct that threatens the integrity and decorum of Ghanaian football, especially in high-stakes competitions like the FA Cup. This decision reflects the association’s ongoing effort to reinforce discipline and respect for officiating within Ghana football.
Asante Kotoko has since secured a spot in the MTN FA Cup final, where they will face Golden Kick FC. The sanctions serve as a warning to players and clubs, emphasising the importance of sportsmanship and respect for match officials in the league.
