Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club PLC has announced its withdrawal from the 2026 GHALCA Top-4 Tournament, citing a clash between the competition’s schedule and other commitments already on the club’s calendar.
In a statement signed by its management and dated 11 August 2026, the club said the decision followed careful consideration of its existing preparations ahead of the upcoming league season, which it felt would be complicated by participation in the tournament at this time.
The statement noted that the Phobians had already approached the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) to request a change of date that would allow the club to feature in the competition, but that those discussions did not result in any adjustment to the schedule.
After careful consideration, the Club has therefore decided that withdrawing from the tournament is the most appropriate course of action at this time.”
Despite pulling out of this year’s edition, Hearts of Oak used the statement to commend GHALCA’s organisation of the Top-4 Tournament and to wish the association and the participating clubs a successful competition.
The withdrawal means Hearts of Oak will be absent from a competition in which they impressed as runners-up just last season
In the 2025 edition, the Phobians opened their campaign with a 1-0 win over Heart of Lions, were then edged 5-4 on penalties by eventual champions Bibiani Gold Stars after a 1-1 draw, and closed out the tournament with a commanding 2-0 win over fierce rivals Asante Kotoko.
That run was enough to finish second overall, with Gold Stars taking the title on a head-to-head advantage despite Hearts’ strong showing.
Hearts of Oak at the 2025 GHALCA Top-4
Beat Heart of Lions 1-0 (opening round)
Lost 5-4 on penalties to Bibiani Gold Stars after a 1-1 draw
Beat Asante Kotoko 2-0 (final round)
Finished runners-up; Gold Stars crowned champions on head-to-head record
The club further reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a cordial working relationship with GHALCA and continuing its collaboration with the football community going forward.
