Medeama SC have relieved a ball retriever of his duties following a touchline altercation involving Hearts of Oak assistant coach Gazale Abdulai, with the Ghana Football Association subsequently charging the Phobians coach over his conduct.
The incident occurred during Medeama’s 1–0 Ghana Premier League victory over Hearts of Oak in Tarkwa, where tensions flared after Abdulai confronted the ball boy, who was identified as Kofi, over an alleged delay in returning the ball during play.
Post-match accounts indicated that the ball retriever acknowledged kicking the ball away as Abdulai attempted to restart play, before the confrontation escalated into a physical exchange which led to the Hearts assistant coach being sent off. Video footage of the incident later circulated widely on social media.
Medeama have since confirmed the ball boy has been removed from his role with immediate effect as part of what club described as a drive to “maintain discipline and professionalism” on matchdays.
The league leaders also moved to distance themselves from the controversy as they continue their title push, stressing that matchday conduct remains a priority.
Meanwhile, the GFA has charged Abdulai under Article 12(1)(h) of the Disciplinary Code, which relates to assault. The Association says the matter will be investigated in line with its regulations, with appropriate sanctions to follow if the charge is upheld.
Medeama sealed victory in the match thanks to a second-half strike from Salim Adams.
By: Pascal Amoah
