Heart of Lions head coach Bashir Hayford has been handed a five-match suspension by the Ghana Football Association’s Disciplinary Committee following unsporting conduct toward match officials.
The decision comes in response to Hayford’s behavior during Heart of Lions’ matchday 7 encounter against Karela United at Tamale’s Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium, where he allegedly directed abusive language at the referees.
In addition to the suspension, Hayford has been fined GHC 5,000 and issued a warning that any future misconduct could lead to even harsher penalties. This ruling sidelines Hayford for five crucial games, keeping him off the touchline for upcoming matches against Berekum Chelsea, Accra Lions, Legon Cities, Samartex, and Basake Holy Stars. He is expected to return for Heart of Lions’ December 24 fixture against Young Apostles.
Hayford’s absence adds a new layer of challenge for Heart of Lions, who recently achieved a notable victory over Asante Kotoko—a club Hayford previously managed—just one day before the Disciplinary Committee’s verdict. The club has yet to release an official statement regarding the suspension or how it plans to manage the team in Hayford’s absence.
The suspension could impact Heart of Lions’ current form as they aim to maintain momentum in the league. Hayford’s coaching expertise and experience on the sidelines will be missed as the team navigates this critical stretch of the season.
