Asante Kotoko have imposed an internal disciplinary fine on assistant coach Diogo Mendes Gomes Pinto Peral following an incident involving Medeama SC player Ebenezer Adade during their Ghana Premier League Matchday 9 encounter at the Baba Yara Stadium.
The Portuguese trainer has been accused of assaulting Adade during Sunday’s match, which ended in a 1-1 draw. The incident has since attracted the attention of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), with its Disciplinary Committee charging Peral over the alleged misconduct.
Peral has been given until Wednesday, November 4, 2026, to respond to the charge and present his defence as the GFA begins its disciplinary process.
In a statement issued on Monday, November 2, Asante Kotoko confirmed that the club had engaged the assistant coach over the incident and that he had acknowledged his conduct could have been better.
The club admitted that football is an emotional sport and that tensions can rise during highly competitive matches. However, it stressed that emotions should never be allowed to undermine the professionalism, discipline and respect expected of individuals representing the Porcupine Warriors.
Kotoko further disclosed that Peral admitted during discussions with club officials that he could have handled the situation in a more professional manner.
The club strongly condemned the conduct, insisting that it fell short of the standards and values it expects from its technical team and other representatives.
As part of its response, the Kumasi-based club confirmed that it had imposed a fine on the Portuguese coach as an internal disciplinary measure.
According to Kotoko, the decision demonstrates its commitment to discipline, professionalism and accountability, regardless of an individual’s position within the club.
The club also appealed to its supporters and stakeholders to continue supporting the team as it shifts attention back to its objectives for the ongoing Ghana Premier League campaign.
Meanwhile, the internal sanction does not bring the GFA disciplinary proceedings to an end. Peral is still expected to respond formally to the charge, after which the Disciplinary Committee will consider his defence and determine the next course of action.
The outcome of the GFA process could have further implications for the assistant coach, depending on the committee’s findings.
