GFA Fines Berekum Chelsea Coach and Players for Misconduct, Suspends Penalties
Coach Samuel Boadu
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) Disciplinary Committee has fined Berekum Chelsea head coach Samuel Boadu and five of his players GHS 1,000 each for misconduct toward match officials during their MTN FA Cup semi-final loss to Asante Kotoko at TNA Park in Tarkwa.
The sanctioned players—Mizack Afriyie, Stephen Amankona, Zakaria Fuseini, and Seidu Mohammed—along with Coach Boadu, were found guilty of breaching Article 12(1)(i) of the GFA Disciplinary Code (2019) and Article 34(6)(d) of the Premier League Regulations.
According to the GFA, the individuals approached match officials in an “aggressive, angry, and fierce manner” after the final whistle. The conduct was deemed unsporting, disrespectful, and damaging to the reputation of the game.
The match, which ended in a narrow 1–0 win for Kotoko, was marred by controversy over refereeing decisions, prompting emotional reactions from the Berekum Chelsea camp.
Following a disciplinary hearing, the Committee ruled that the conduct of the coach and players violated the principles of sportsmanship and respect for officials. Each was fined GHS 1,000, but the penalties have been suspended for six months—conditional on maintaining good behaviour during that period.
In addition to the fines, Coach Boadu received a stern warning that any future infractions could attract harsher punishments, including touchline bans or suspensions from all football-related activities.
Earlier, the GFA Prosecutor charged Coach Boadu based on post-match video evidence and referee reports, citing violations of the Association’s ethical standards. He and the players were given until May 15, 2025, to respond.
The GFA reiterated its zero-tolerance policy on misconduct that undermines the integrity of Ghanaian football, particularly during high-stakes matches like the FA Cup.
Asante Kotoko have since advanced to the MTN FA Cup final, where they will face Golden Kick FC.
Credit: JoySports
