Coach J. E. Sarpong speaks on alleged match manipulation in GPL

Veteran Ghanaian coach, J. E. Sarpong has made explosive claims about long-standing practices undermining the integrity of the Ghana Premier League, alleging that inducements commonly referred to as “losing bonuses” have influenced match outcomes, particularly in the latter stages of the season.

Speaking on Sporty FM, Sarpong suggested that while the league often showcases its best qualities in the first round, the second round tells a different story.

“First round, you can see the beauty of Ghana football,” he said. “When it goes to the second round… it doesn’t go well” he stated.

The experienced coach, who has spent decades within the domestic football system, claimed that behind the scenes arrangements between clubs are hurting the competition.

“It happens,” Sarpong revealed. “You have come to see me for me to play soft… so you pay the losing bonus to my players.”

He explained that in such scenarios, clubs allegedly offer financial incentives to opposing teams to underperform, sometimes even exceeding standard winning bonuses.

“They will pay your team the bonuses you pay them as winning bonus and add something to it so they can take the three points,” he stated.

According to Sarpong, these practices are often driven by financial struggles within clubs, making them vulnerable to such offers.

“You, the management, you have not paid your players for some time you need money to pay them,” he said.

The veteran coach added that these arrangements can lead to surprising results on the pitch, with struggling teams unexpectedly defeating stronger opponents.

“You’ll be surprised a team down there shocks a top team. It has happened,” he emphasised.

PAH/JE