- Black Stars No.1 goalkeeper Benjamin Asare paid a heartfelt tribute to Shatta Wale with a special gesture
- A staunch admirer of the dancehall star, Asare showed his support shortly after the “Killa Ji Mi” hitmaker’s release from the EOCO headquarters
- However, his homage to the SM boss could not inspire Hearts of Oak, who suffered defeat in the closing stages of the GHALCA Top 4
Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare brought a different kind of emotion to the pitch during his side’s GHALCA Top 4 clash with Bibiani Gold Stars, honouring dancehall star Shatta Wale in the middle of an intense contest.
The 31-year-old returned to action after missing Hearts’ opening game against Heart of Lions, taking charge of the post in the preseason tournament.
Source: Twitter
Hearts of Oak falls to defeat against Bibiani Gold Stars
The Phobians had barely settled into the match when Gold Stars broke the deadlock in the 20th minute.
Samuel Atta Kumi, the Miners’ talisman, confidently converted from the spot to register his second goal of the competition.
Fifteen minutes later, Hearts’ woes deepened. Justice Arthur pounced from close range, extending the lead and leaving the Accra giants chasing shadows.
For Asare, who is known for keeping clean sheets, it was the kind of half he would have hoped to avoid.
But if there is one thing Hearts of Oak pride themselves on, it is their fighting spirit.
True to their famous motto, “Never say die until the bones are rotten,” the Rainbow Lads mounted a comeback.
George Paaku offered a glimmer of hope before halftime, pulling one back to lift the mood around the University of Ghana Stadium.
Just three minutes after the restart, Hussein Mohammed struck again, sparking wild celebrations as Hearts drew level, according to Ghanasoccernet.
Benjamin Asare pays tribute to Shatta Wale
Amid the frenzy, all eyes turned to goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. A known supporter of Shatta Wale, the shot-stopper used the moment to honour the embattled musician.
Cameras caught him throwing up the signature Shatta Movement hand gesture, a show of solidarity with the “Killa Ji Mi” hitmaker.
His celebration quickly went viral, especially given the circumstances surrounding Shatta Wale’s recent troubles.
Photos of Asare’s gesture:
The dancehall king had only been released a day earlier from EOCO custody after being questioned over his Lamborghini Urus.
Despite Hearts’ fightback, the game ended in heartbreak. According to KickGH, the tie went to penalties, and the Phobians stumbled, allowing Gold Stars to clinch victory.
Still, all is not lost. Hearts have one final chance to make a statement in the preseason competition when they face old foes Asante Kotoko on Sunday, August 24.
Shatta Wale’s recent ordeal with EOCO
Away from the pitch, Shatta Wale’s name has dominated headlines.
He was detained by the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) in connection with the purchase of his 2019 Lamborghini Urus.
Investigators linked the luxury car to Nana Kwabena Amuah, a Ghanaian serving a seven-year prison term in the United States for financial crimes.
Shatta Wale’s release on Thursday, August 21, was welcomed by his fans, and Asare’s tribute on the pitch was a reminder of how deeply the musician’s story resonates beyond the music scene.
Source: Twitter
Benjamin Asare’s wages triple at Hearts of Oak
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Benjamin Asare’s wages at Hearts of Oak saw a massive boost after his standout debut for Ghana in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
His new deal includes a substantial pay rise, jumping from GHC 3,000 to around GHC 10,000 a month.
Source: YEN.com.gh
Source: Yen.com.gh
