Ghana Premier League: Gold Stars Shine As Kotoko Stumble Yet Again
Matchday 28 of the Ghana Premier League delivered a thrilling array of action, with Gold Stars maintaining their position at the top of the table, Asante Kotoko facing a setback, and Heart of Lions showcasing their dominance. Here’s a recap of the key matches that defined the weekend.
Gold Stars Leave It Late Against Medeama SC
In a nail-biting finish at Duns Park, Gold Stars clinched a dramatic 1-0 victory over Medeama SC thanks to a 96th-minute penalty from Samuel Atta Kumi. The Miners had endured a frustrating match, having previously missed a penalty and struck the crossbar. However, their relentless pressure paid off in stoppage time, allowing them to secure three crucial points and maintain their lead at the top of the table with 53 points. Medeama, despite their resilient performance, remain in 7th place with 41 points.
Kotoko’s Title Hopes Take a Hit
Asante Kotoko experienced a further blow to their championship aspirations, losing 2-0 to Nations FC. First-half goals from Nafiu Sulemana and Emmanuel Annor sealed the victory for the hosts, who remain just two points off the top in second place. The defeat sees Kotoko drop to fourth, now six points adrift of the leaders, raising questions about their title challenge as the season progresses.
Hearts of Oak Held to a Goalless Draw
In a disappointing outing for Hearts of Oak, the Phobians were held to a 0-0 draw against relegation-threatened Karela United at home. Unable to capitalize on their home advantage, Hearts now sit 6th in the standings with 42 points, while Karela hovers just above the relegation zone with 29 points. The inconsistency in Hearts’ performances continues to frustrate their supporters.
Heart of Lions Dominate Accra Lions
In Kpando, Heart of Lions delivered a commanding performance, defeating Accra Lions 3-1. Yaw Danso opened the scoring early, and Nana Kwame Oppong added two more in the second half. Although David Olubi Akintunde found the net late for the visitors, it was not enough to change the outcome. This victory keeps Heart of Lions in third place, level on points with Kotoko and six behind leaders Gold Stars.
Young Apostles and FC Samartex Share Points
Young Apostles played to a 1-1 draw at home against FC Samartex 1996. Emmanuel Fosu Kyei put the Apostles ahead, but an equalizer from in-form forward Emmanuel Mamah ensured the defending champions left with a point. Samartex climbs to 5th place, also on 42 points, as they continue to chase the top teams.
Dreams FC and Vision FC Draw
In a tightly contested match at the Tuba Astro Turf, Dreams FC and Vision FC ended in a 1-1 stalemate. Jonathan Nemorden scored for the hosts, but Emmanuel Akansase’s equalizer for Vision FC means they remain two spots above the relegation zone, while Dreams FC sits in 11th place.
Berekum Chelsea Edges Bechem United
In the Bono derby, Berekum Chelsea secured a 2-1 victory over Bechem United, handing the hosts their second consecutive home defeat. Vincent Klu Adjei opened the scoring for Chelsea, and despite Bechem’s equalizer from Dalvin Yeboah, Jonathan Attuquaye’s strike in the 38th minute sealed the win. Bechem now finds themselves in 8th place, while Chelsea sits just behind in 9th.
Basake Holy Stars Claim Vital Win
Finally, Basake Holy Stars achieved a crucial 1-0 win over struggling Legon Cities, with Issah Yakubu scoring the decisive goal in the second half. This victory lifts the newcomers to 12th place, while Legon Cities remain deep in the relegation battle.
