GFA Clarifies Referee Switch in MTN FA Cup Final

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has addressed concerns over the last-minute referee change in the MTN FA Cup final between Asante Kotoko and Golden Kick.

Initially, Referee Selorm Yao Bless was set to officiate, but he reportedly sustained an injury during warm-ups.

As per standard practice, fourth official Latif Abdul Adaari replaced Bless as the centre referee. The GFA explained,

“The decision was in line with standard practice, where the fourth referee assumes the role of centre referee in the event of injury or illness to the designated match official.”

The GFA also addressed speculation surrounding the change, particularly after Kotoko were awarded a controversial penalty.

“The replacement was necessitated by the circumstances and not due to any conspiracy theories circulating in the public domain,” the GFA stated.

The clarification aims to restore confidence in the refereeing process and assure fans that the decision was made based on protocol, not ulterior motives.

The GFA’s statement provides insight into the challenges of managing last-minute changes in high-stakes matches.