GPL Matchday 7 Preview: Hearts of Oak Eye Top Spot as Lions Seek Redemption

The Ghana Premier League enters Matchday 7 this weekend with several intriguing fixtures lined up across the country. From Heart of Lions’ homecoming in Kpando to a title-chasing showdown involving Medeama and Hearts of Oak, teams are eager to make strong statements as the early-season table begins to take shape.

Heart of Lions vs Basake Holy Stars (Friday)

Heart of Lions make their long-awaited return to the Kpando Sports Stadium on Friday, determined to end a three-game winless run. After a bright start to the season that saw them win their opening three matches, Lions have stumbled in recent weeks, suffering a 3–1 defeat to champions Bibiani Gold Stars in their last outing. Currently fifth with 11 points, they’ll fancy their chances against a struggling Basake Holy Stars side they beat 3–1 at home last season.

Aduana FC vs Dreams FC (Saturday)

Aduana Stars continue their pursuit of top spot when they welcome Dreams FC on Saturday. The Ogya Boys, second on the log with 12 points, come into the clash buoyed by a 2–0 victory over Hohoe United. Dreams FC, meanwhile, broke their poor run with a hard-fought win against Nations FC and will look to build on that momentum.

Medeama SC vs Swedru All Blacks (Sunday)

League leaders Medeama SC will hope to tighten their grip at the summit when they face Swedru All Blacks. Coach Ibrahim Tanko has challenged his players to “learn from their mistakes” after their 1–1 draw with Samartex, a result that halted their winning streak. All Blacks, however, come into this tie with renewed confidence following their win over Basake Holy Stars.

Nations FC vs Eleven Wonders (Sunday)

Nations FC’s inconsistent form continues to frustrate their supporters after managing just one win in their last four games. Hosting bottom-placed Eleven Wonders at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex presents a perfect opportunity for them to rediscover their rhythm. Wonders are still searching for their first victory of the campaign.

Young Apostles vs Berekum Chelsea (Sunday)

Berekum Chelsea’s early-season struggles show no signs of easing. Following defeats to Gold Stars and Hearts of Oak, Samuel Boadu’s men find themselves in the relegation zone with just one win so far. Young Apostles, on the other hand, are in good form, having lost only once while picking up three victories.

Karela United vs Bechem United (Sunday)

Karela United’s slump continues after three winless matches, their last triumph coming against Medeama in September. They’ll aim to get back on track when they face Bechem United, who head into the game fresh from a 2–0 victory over Vision FC. Karela sit 8th, while Bechem are battling lower down in 13th.

Samartex vs Hohoe United (Sunday)

Samartex boss Christopher Ennin believes his side’s draw with Medeama was down to “a lapse in concentration.” Still unbeaten after six games, the Samreboi-based club will be favourites against Hohoe United, who lost their previous fixture and sit mid-table in 10th place.

Hearts of Oak vs Bibiani Gold Stars (Sunday)

Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani says he is delighted with his team’s growing confidence in front of goal after their 2–0 win at Berekum Chelsea. “We are improving as a team, but we must stay focused,” he said. The Phobians are just a point behind Medeama and could move top with another victory. Bibiani Gold Stars, however, are in fine form themselves, having won back-to-back matches against Heart of Lions and Chelsea.