Ghana Premier League is not fit for purpose – Hearts of Oak chief Sowah Odotei

Hearts of Oak Interim Management Committee (IMC) Lead Administrator Vincent Sowah Odotei has criticised the quality of entertainment in the Ghana Premier League, blaming it for the competition’s persistent poor matchday attendance.

The country’s top-flight league has struggled to attract significant crowds to stadiums over the years, a situation that has affected the financial fortunes of clubs.

Speaking to Joy Sports, Odotei argued that supporters are staying away because the league is failing to provide the excitement and entertainment that traditionally attract fans to football.

“Our football is not fit for purpose. Our football is not entertaining. In football, we’re not in the business of football; we’re in the entertainment business through it,” he said.

“Football is a drama. You need actors; you need stars that people will want to come and watch.

Odotei cited former Hearts of Oak players Shamo Quaye and Ablade Kumah as examples of footballers whose popularity attracted supporters from their communities to the stadium.

He also mentioned former Ghana captain Stephen Appiah and Anas Seidu, highlighting the importance of players having strong connections with their communities in building support for clubs.

“People came to watch Hearts of Oak because of Shamo Quaye and Ablade Kumah. They came from Tema, their community. You go to Newtown, Anas Seidu. You go to Mamprobi, Stephen Appiah and co. That’s where they come from.

“We don’t have that in our football. We are not providing the entertainment, so naturally, people will go to leagues that provide entertainment,” he added.

With Matchday Nine fixtures completed over the weekend, clubs will now turn their attention to Matchday 10, which is scheduled to take place at various venues across the country this weekend.