Accra Hearts of Oak have withdrawn from the 2026 Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) Top Four Tournament, citing scheduling conflicts and concerns over preparations for the new Ghana Premier League season.
In a statement dated August 11, the Phobians said the dates for the competition clash with programmes and commitments already planned by the club.
They also expressed concern that the tournament’s timing, coming close to the start of the 2026/27 league campaign, could disrupt their preparations.
Hearts said they had earlier engaged GHALCA and requested a change in the tournament dates to allow them to participate, but no adjustment was made.
The withdrawal leaves three confirmed teams for the competition: Medeama SC, Bibiani Gold Stars and Dreams FC. The three clubs were originally joined by Hearts after finishing in the top four of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League.
Medeama won the league with 62 points, followed by Gold Stars on 60 points, while Hearts finished third with 54 points. Dreams FC secured fourth place with 52 points.
GHALCA has clarified that selection for the 2026 tournament is based strictly on the final standings of the previous Premier League season.
This means clubs do not qualify simply because they won another competition or secured a place in CAF inter-club competitions.
For instance, Nations FC will not participate despite qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup because they finished outside the top four.
The tournament is designed as a pre-season competition, allowing the selected clubs to test new players, tactics and squad combinations before the league begins.
However, the detailed 2026 Top Four match schedule has not yet been publicly confirmed by GHALCA. The association has only confirmed the participating clubs so far.
Hearts’ withdrawal means the organisers will now have to determine how the revised competition will be structured and scheduled.
Hearts said their decision would not affect their relationship with GHALCA and assured the football community of their continued cooperation.
