Benjamin Asare Vienna Robbery Allegations: GFA, Hearts of Oak Set the Record Straight
- The Ghana Football Association and Hearts of Oak have moved to set the record straight on the 'spurious' allegations circulating about Benjamin Asare
- The claims are believed to have emerged in the wake of the robbery incident that rocked the Black Stars camp in Vienna ahead of the clash with Austria
- Meanwhile, Asare, who did not feature in Ghana’s heavy defeat, is expected to be between the posts again for the friendly against Germany on March 30
The Ghana Football Association and Hearts of Oak have moved quickly to shut down false claims involving goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, following reports of a robbery incident in the Black Stars camp in Vienna.
Source: Twitter
Speculation quickly spread online after the incident, which reportedly saw two players lose valuables, including a Rolex watch worth $20,000, while a member of the technical team is said to have lost more than $2,000.
However, some posts maliciously attempted to link Asare to the situation.
GFA, Hearts dispel Benjamin Asare robbery allegations
Both the FA and his club, Hearts of Oak, have firmly dismissed the allegations, describing them as baseless and damaging.
The capital-based club, in an official statement, made their position clear while throwing their full support behind their player.
"We wish to categorically state that these reports are entirely false, misleading, and defamatory. The Club has engaged directly with the Ghana Football Association, and both parties confirm that there is absolutely no truth to these claims," part of the statement read.
The club also confirmed that it has taken steps to address the misinformation, reporting those responsible to the relevant authorities, as cited by Ghanasoccernet.
"Consequently, we have formally reported the perpetrators behind this act, including the alleged content creator, to the appropriate law enforcement and regulatory authorities for thorough investigation and the necessary action."
Below is Hearts of Oak's post on X about the matter:
The GFA echoed that stance, with General Secretary Prosper Harrison Addo confirming that the matter is now in the hands of the police.
In a post on X, he wrote:
"The Ghana Police Service is active. Within minutes of seeing the heartless, hurtful and malicious fake post, we engaged the Ghana Police Service. GFA and the club are on the same page. This police pursuit is without prejudice to any legal action Mr Benjamin Asare may also take."
Source: Twitter
Asare eyes role vs Germany amid allegations
With the off-field noise addressed, attention returns to football matters as Ghana prepare to face Germany in their next friendly match.
Asare, who did not feature in the 5-1 defeat to Austria, is expected to earn a starting spot as Otto Addo considers changes to his lineup.
Watch highlights of Ghana's defeat against Austria on YouTube:
The goalkeeper position remains under scrutiny following that heavy loss, and this presents an opportunity for Asare to stake his claim.
He is not alone in pushing for a place in the starting XI.
Players such as Marvin Senaya, Patrick Pfeiffer and Kamaldeen Sulemana are also in line for opportunities as the technical team looks to freshen up the squad.
For Ghana, the clash against Germany now carries added importance, not just for results but also for restoring focus and stability after a turbulent few days.
Benjamin Asare impresses with juggling skills
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Benjamin Asare had impressed during Ghana's training session in Austria with his skills.
The goalkeeper was captured on video performing a remarkable sequence, keeping the ball up with ease using his head.
Proofreading by Bruce Douglas, copy editor at YEN.com.gh.
Source: YEN.com.gh
