A disturbing incident marred a Division One League match between All Blacks and Elmina Sharks on Sunday, February 16, 2025, as a match official was attacked on the field. The controversy began when a dubious penalty was awarded against Elmina Sharks, sparking outrage among players and fans.
This incident comes on the heels of a recent tragedy, in which Kotoko fan Nana Pooley lost his life during a match between Nsoatreman and Kotoko just three weeks prior. The escalating tensions in Ghanaian football have raised concerns about player and fan safety.
Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, owner of Elmina Sharks, expressed his disappointment and frustration with the match officials’ behavior in an interview with GTV Sports Plus’s Sunday Night Live show. “I was at the stadium even before the referee and the match commissioner came. Usually, there is a conference before every match to address concerns, but these match officials did not show up for that match conference,” Dr. Nduom stated.
Recalling the incident, Dr. Nduom said, “Twelve minutes into the match, I witnessed an incident that should not have resulted in a penalty. When that decision was made, everyone was in disbelief.” In an effort to calm the situation, Dr. Nduom instructed his players to leave the field in protest, demonstrating his commitment to fair play.
Dr. Nduom criticized the referee’s behavior, saying, “I have worked with many referees, but this referee was quite, in my view, insolent. It seemed he did not care about his responsibilities.” The match continued, but Dr. Nduom’s concerns about the future of football in Ghana lingered. He even questioned the viability of his club’s participation in the league, saying, “Right now, I am considering whether to even continue having this team in the league. Is it worth it? I don’t do it for money; I do it for the community and the players.”
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
