FC Samartex 1996 will take the place of Accra Hearts of Oak in the upcoming 2026 GHALCA Top Four Tournament. 

The decision follows Hearts of Oak's official withdrawal on Tuesday, August 11, due to a date conflict with their existing schedule and pre-season preparation plans. 

Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) Chairman John Ansah confirmed Samartex's inclusion shortly after.   

"Hearts of Oak wrote to us to change the date, but consistency is key in building the confidence of the corporate world," Ansah told Asempa FM's Ultimate Sports Show.   

"We have decided to replace Hearts of Oak with FC Samartex, who finished fifth on the league log last season." 

Why Nations FC Was Omitted

Addressing questions on why CAF Confederation Cup representatives Nations FC were not selected to fill the slot, Ansah cited tournament criteria.

"We have been sticking to the top four teams for the past three seasons now, and so even though Nations FC will play in the CAF Confederation Cup, they did not finish in the top four," he said.    

The 2026 GHALCA Top Four Tournament will run from August 26 to August 30.