Hearts of Oak have officially pulled out of the 2025 EKO International Tournament in Lagos, Nigeria, citing concerns over player welfare and a disrupted pre-season schedule.

The Phobians were initially expected to compete in the prestigious tournament from July 6 to 13.

However, organizers recently rescheduled the event to July 13–20, clashing with the club's planned rest and recovery period.

In a statement released on Monday, the club explained the decision followed "careful discussions between management and the technical team," adding that the revised dates interfere with their pre-season preparations. "The tournament was later rescheduled to July 13–20.