Hearts of Oak head coach, Aboubakar Ouattara, found himself in a tense exchange with journalists following his team’s goalless draw against Dreams FC on Sunday.
The Phobians were looking for back-to-back victories in their Matchday 7 clash at the Tuba AstroTurf but were held to a frustrating stalemate after 90 minutes.
During the post-match press conference, Ouattara reacted strongly to questions about the team’s tactics, asserting his authority as the sole decision-maker.
“I am the coach, and I’m the one to decide. I don’t need you to advise me on what I can or cannot do. The way you’re speaking suggests you have the right to dictate something,” the Ivorian tactician responded.
He continued, “You’re a journalist. You ask your questions, and I give you my reply. Don’t expect me to give the response you want—I am the coach. I’m responsible for tomorrow’s match. If things don’t go well, I’m the one who signed the contract, not you. I don’t follow any commentary when making my decisions.”
While the result extended Hearts of Oak’s unbeaten run to five games, the team has managed just two wins during that stretch. Meanwhile, Dreams FC remain winless after seven matches.
The Phobians will next host Bibiani GoldStars on Sunday, October 27, at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.