On July, 27 2023 the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) released the verdict of GFA and players regards to match-fixing scandal involving Ashantigold SC and Inter Allies FC last two seasons.
Both teams were charged of match manipulation by the GFA Disciplinary Committee after a purported 6-1 scoreline before 2021-22 Ghana Premier League game at the Obuasi Len Clay stadium ended 7-0 with Hashmin Musah then captain of Inter Allies FC climbed off the bench to score two own goals, knowing his side were trailing 5-0.
Officials of both clubs were punished severely with lengthy ban from football whiles 21 players received several punishment such as 27 months, 18-months, 15-months amongst others.
Nonetheless, the Court of Arbitration for Sport at FIFA has cleared all players involved off the charged and nullified the verdict of the Ghana Football Association Disciplinary Committee. The ruling went on to order the Ghana FA to pay CHS 6,300 to the players involved and also CHS 3,000 to Asante Kotoko SC midfielder Richmond Lamptey.
Joseph Zutah reacting to the ruling, cautioned players to uphold the integrity of the game and avoid indiscipline acts knowing that CAS is there for them.
While the CAS ruling may have cleared the players of their previous sanctions, the PFAG Vice President urged them not to misinterpret this decision as a license to engage in any form of misbehavior.
“Players must understand that the ruling from CAS does not in any way condone or excuse unruly behavior both on and off the pitch,” Tettey Zuta stated. “We, as the PFAG, are committed to promoting fair play and ensuring that players adhere to the highest standards of professionalism.”
“We respect the decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport, and we must abide by it. However, this should not overshadow the core principles of sportsmanship and integrity,” Tettey Zuta commented.
PFAG plays a crucial role in representing the interests of professional footballers in Ghana and has been actively involved in promoting their welfare and development.
Tettey Zutah’s words reflect the organization’s commitment to instilling a sense of responsibility and respect among players, not only towards the sport but also towards fellow players, officials, and fans.
