Ghana Premier League Matchday 1: Holy Stars Stun Hearts of Oak, Gold Stars Shine Bright
The Ghana Premier League (GPL) matchday 1 continued on Sunday, September 8, 2024, with five thrilling matches that showcased the competitive spirit of the league.
The highlight of the day was GPL newbies Basake Holy Stars’ stunning 1-0 victory over Accra Hearts of Oak at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Holy Stars broke the deadlock in the second minute of the first half, catching Hearts of Oak off guard. The Phobians had several chances to equalize, but forward Mawuli Wayo missed two crucial opportunities within the first twenty minutes.
Despite an intense second half, Hearts of Oak couldn’t find the back of the net, and Holy Stars claimed a historic win.
In other results, Aduana Stars hosted Heart of Lions in a low-scoring stalemate. Yakubu Mustapha scored for Heart of Lions in the 81st minute, but Emmanuel Marfo equalized for Aduana Stars in the 90+5 minute, securing a point for the home team.
Nations FC played host to Bechem United in a scoreless draw, with both sides receiving a red card each. The match was intense, but neither team could find the winning goal.
Karela United suffered a 1-0 loss at home to Asante Kotoko, with Albert Amoah’s 36th-minute goal proving to be the difference. Kotoko’s win puts them in a strong position early in the season.
Bibiani Gold Stars secured the highest scoreline of the day with a 2-1 win over Legon Cities. Samuel Attah Kumi gave Gold Stars the lead in the second minute, but Dennis Adoma equalized for Legon Cities in the 47th minute. Gideon Anaba scored the winning goal for Gold Stars in the 73rd minute, showcasing their attacking prowess.
Nsoatreman FC earned their first clean sheet of the season with a 2-0 win over GPL newbies Young Apostles. Mohammed Abdul Rahaman scored in the 45+2 minute, and Collins Kudjoe sealed the win in the 90+1 minute.
The final match of matchday 1 will kick- off 6pm between Medeama SC and Accra Lions. This encounter is expected to be a tough one, with both teams looking to secure their first win of the season.
The GPL matchday 1 results have set the stage for an exciting season, with Holy Stars’ upset win over Hearts of Oak being the talking point. The league’s competitive nature was evident in all the matches, and fans can expect more thrilling encounters in the coming weeks.
As the season progresses, teams will look to build momentum and secure their positions in the league table. The GPL has a reputation for producing talented players, and this season promises to be no exception. With the likes of Hearts of Oak, Kotoko, and Medeama SC competing for the top spot, the GPL is shaping up to be an exciting and unpredictable ride.
By Phanuel Deseer
