Hearts of Oak withdraw from GHALCA Top-4 tournament over scheduling concerns

Hearts of Oak have withdrawn from the 2026 Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) Top-4 Tournament, citing a clash with their existing programme and concerns over preparations for the new Ghana Premier League season.

The Accra-based club confirmed its decision in a statement issued on Tuesday, 11 August 2026, saying the dates set for the tournament conflict with other commitments already planned by the club.

Hearts also said the timing of the competition, coming close to the start of the new league season, could affect their preparations and disrupt other important programmes.

The Phobians said they had previously engaged GHALCA over the issue and requested that the tournament dates be changed to allow them to take part.

However, according to the club, those discussions did not lead to a change in the schedule, leaving Hearts with little choice but to withdraw.

"After careful consideration, the Club has therefore decided that withdrawing from the tournament is the most appropriate course of action at this time," the statement said.

The decision is a setback for the organisers, with Hearts of Oak having been expected to feature in the pre-season competition involving some of Ghana's leading clubs.

Despite their withdrawal, Hearts thanked GHALCA for its efforts in organising the tournament and wished the association and the participating clubs success.

The club also stressed that its decision would not affect its relationship with GHALCA, saying it remained committed to maintaining cordial relations and working with the association and the wider Ghanaian football community.

Hearts will now turn their attention to their preparations for the 2026/27 season, with the club keen to ensure that its pre-season programme remains focused on building the squad ahead of the new campaign.

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