GPL: Heart of Lions Upset Kotoko; Legon Cities Continue Resurgence
In a surprising turn of events on Sunday, November 3, 2024, Asante Kotoko SC faced their first home defeat of the season, losing 1-0 to Heart of Lions at the Len Clay Stadium in Obuasi. Kwadwo Obeng Junior’s decisive strike in the 28th minute proved to be the difference, leaving the Porcupine Warriors stunned and their fans in disbelief.
Despite dominating possession throughout the match, Kotoko’s inability to convert opportunities into goals ultimately cost them dearly. With this defeat, the team slipped to third place in the Premier League standings, overtaken by Nations FC, who capitalized on Kotoko’s misfortune.
In other matches on the same day, Gold Stars FC managed to maintain their lead at the top of the table, albeit with a disappointing 0-0 draw against Dreams FC at the Duns Park in Bibiani. The match, though entertaining, failed to see any goals, as both teams shared the spoils. Gold Stars currently sit atop the league with 19 points, while Dreams remain entrenched in the relegation zone.
Basake Holy Stars made headlines with an impressive 2-2 draw against Berekum Chelsea at the Golden City Park. Emmanuel Sarpong opened the scoring for Chelsea just before halftime, but the newcomers responded valiantly. Stephen Awuah Baffour equalized for Holy Stars, followed by Daouda Ben Sedibe giving them a brief lead. However, a late equalizer from Stephen Amankona ensured that Chelsea wouldn’t walk away with all three points.
Nsoatreman FC also fought hard to secure a 2-2 draw against Bechem United at home. Mohammed Abdul Rahman gave Nsoatreman an early lead, but the game took several twists as Emmanuel Abban equalized and an unfortunate own goal from Emmanuel Ankrah gifted Bechem the lead. Nsoatreman’s Collins Kofi Kudjoe then restored parity, ensuring that both teams left with a point.
In another tightly contested match, Vision FC and Aduana FC settled for a scoreless draw at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex. Both teams displayed resilience but failed to find the back of the net, resulting in a shared point.
Meanwhile, Nations FC continued their impressive run with a crucial 1-0 victory over Karela United FC, thanks to a stunning 75th-minute goal from Faisal Charwetey. This victory propelled Nations FC to second place in the league standings, just three points behind leaders Gold Stars FC.
Legon Cities’ Premier League mini-revival continued on Monday night as they comfortably beat Young Apostles FC 2-0 at home.
A goal in each half helped the Royals to their second successive win at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra.
Dennis Adoma put the hosts in front in the 15th minute before Rahim Yaya Abdul added the second in added time.
The win is expected to lift confidence in Legon Cities in particular due to their struggles since the start of the season.
The capital-based side are still in the bottom three in 16th position with 8 points despite the impressive win.
Young Apostles FC, with 9 points from four defeats, are 13th.
