GPL Matchday 3 Preview: Early Battles Heat Up Across the Country

Matchday 3 of the Ghana Premier League promises another round of drama, goals, and rivalries as teams look to set the tone early in the season.

From clubs seeking their first win to title hopefuls aiming to build momentum.

Hearts of Oak vs Eleven Wonders (Friday)

Hearts of Oak will be chasing back-to-back victories when they welcome Eleven Wonders to the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Phobians are unbeaten so far, building on a solid defensive record that has seen them keep five clean sheets in their last seven home games.

Their 1–0 win over Dreams FC on Monday ended a four-year wait for victory against the Believers, a result that boosted confidence in Mas-Ud Didi Dramani’s side.

Wonders, back in the top flight after three years, remain winless and were humbled 4–1 by Heart of Lions in their last outing.

Aduana FC vs Swedru All Blacks (Saturday)

Aduana Stars return to Dormaa in search of another home win after edging Nations FC 1–0 last weekend.

The two-time champions boast one of the strongest home records in the league, winning their last seven games at the Nana Agyemang Badu I Park.

All Blacks, meanwhile, are still adjusting to top-flight football after their promotion via the playoffs.

They haven’t won an away league match since 2009.

However, their resilience in last season’s Division One campaign offers some hope.

This clash marks the first league meeting between these sides at Dormaa in more than a decade.

Karela United vs Medeama SC (Sunday)

Medeama SC have made a flying start to the season and sit top of the table with two wins from two games.

The champions have combined ruthless attacking play, six goals scored, with defensive discipline, keeping consecutive clean sheets. Karela United, however, are no pushovers.

They opened their campaign with a win before battling to a 1–1 draw with Samartex. A victory here would underline Medeama’s title credentials, but Karela will see this as an opportunity to shake up the early standings.

Heart of Lions vs Bechem United (Sunday)

Heart of Lions will look to continue their perfect start when they host Bechem United at the Kpando Sports Stadium.

The Lions have impressed with a blend of defensive strength and attacking sharpness, scoring five times while conceding just once in their first two matches.

Bechem United, by contrast, are still searching for their first win after losing to Gold Stars and drawing with Basake Holy Stars.

Kassim Mingle’s side must tighten up in front of goal if they are to trouble the in-form hosts. Lions’ momentum, however, makes them strong favourites in this clash.

Nations FC vs Samartex (Sunday)

Nations FC return home aiming to bounce back after a narrow defeat to Aduana Stars in Week 2. Last season’s nearly men know a strong performance is needed to keep their title push on track.

Samartex, unbeaten so far, bring experience and defensive resilience that has seen them draw both opening fixtures.

The visitors’ tactical discipline makes them a tricky opponent, especially away from home. This match could serve as an early litmus test for both sides’ championship ambitions.

Vision FC vs Hohoe United (Sunday)

Vision FC host Hohoe United in a battle between two sides still finding their rhythm.

Vision sit bottom of the table with just a point to their name and will be desperate to make home advantage count.

Despite that, they showed promise last season with four wins in their last six matches.

Hohoe United, promoted this season, have shown grit with two consecutive draws, though they remain untested against stronger opposition. Both teams will view this game as a chance to build confidence and climb the table.

Young Apostles vs Dreams FC (Saturday)

Young Apostles welcome Dreams FC in a clash that could prove decisive for both clubs’ early-season momentum.

Dreams, fresh from a disappointing defeat to Hearts of Oak, are still searching for consistency in attack.

The Apostles, meanwhile, see this fixture as an opportunity to establish themselves after promotion.

With both sides eager to respond to early setbacks, the game promises intensity and urgency. The outcome could hinge on who handles the pressure moments better.

Asante Kotoko and GoldStars on Africa duty

Asante Kotoko and Bibiani Gold Stars will not be involved in league action this weekend.

They turn their attention to continental duties.

Kotoko face Nigeria’s Kwara United in the CAF Confederation Cup. While Gold Stars take on Algerian giants JS Kabylie in the CAF Champions League.