A group of disgruntled Accra Hearts of Oak fans expressed their frustration through a protest at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex during the team’s match against Nations FC in the Ghana Premier League on Saturday, December 16, 2023.
The supporters, adorned with red headbands and holding placards, used the match as an opportunity to voice their discontent over the team’s lacklustre performance, having failed to secure a victory in their last five matches.
The sentiments were noticeable as the placards bore messages such as “We need a competent local coach,” “We need strikers,” and “Hearts is bleeding,” among other expressions of frustration.
The top brass of the Hearts of Oak board found themselves at the centre of blame, with calls for their dismissal gaining momentum during the protest.
The fans demanded accountability, expressing sentiments such as “We don’t need Nyaho,” “Hearts keep sinking under Togbe Afede,” and “Some board members are interfering with the coach’s job.”
Despite the pressure exerted by the demonstration, Hearts of Oak failed to secure a victory against Nations FC, conceding a late goal that resulted in a 1-1 draw.
The protest by the Hearts of Oak fans follows their team’s recent defeat at home in the Ghana Premier League against arch-rivals Asante Kotoko.
This demonstration occurs during a challenging period for Hearts of Oak in the league, marked by their struggle to secure a win in their last five matches.
With three draws and two defeats in recent outings, the Phobians find themselves in the 9th position on the league table, raising concerns of further descent after matchday 15.
In addition to these challenges, Hearts of Oak faced elimination from the MTN FA Cup at the prelims, suffering a setback at the hands of Nania FC.
The difficulties prompted the club to part ways with their Dutch coach, Martin Koopman, in the wake of the team’s poor run.