A patchy pocket full of Accra Sports Stadium was electric on Matchday 32 of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) as Hearts of Oak secured a commanding 3-1 victory over Accra Lions, completing a season double over their rivals and extending their unbeaten streak to five games lately.
The Phobians’ resurgence in the 2024/25 season has been nothing short of remarkable, with this win propelling them to 5th in the league standings, bolstered by a game in hand. Meanwhile, Accra Lions, languishing in 15th, continue their battle to avoid relegation, their inconsistency laid bare by another disappointing defeat.
The match began with Hearts of Oak asserting early dominance. In the 12th minute, fringed Enock Asubonteng ignited the stadium with a stunning individual effort, shooting from the outside the box from a kamikaze of attacking piece of football leaving Lion’s goalkeeper scrolling for nothing.
The early goal set the tone for Hearts’ attacking intent, as they pressed high and suffocated Lions’ attempts to build from the back.
Accra Lions, however, showed flashes of resilience. Despite their struggles, they carved out chances, with striker Laurence Setordjie proving a constant menace. In the 35th minute, Setordjie nearly equalized, forcing a fingertip save from Hearts’ goalkeeper Bemjamin Asare—failed to to increase his clean sheets to 17, after a powerful header from a corner.
The second half saw Lions grow into the game, their desperation for points palpable. In the 70th minute, their persistence paid off. Setordjie delivered a screamer to level the score at 1-1.
The Lions’ faithful erupted, sensing a potential upset. However, their joy was short-lived. Just five minutes later, Setordjie limped off with a suspected hamstring injury, a devastating blow to Lions’ hopes. His absence disrupted their rhythm, and Hearts pounced on the opportunity.
In the 81st minute, Kofi Asmah restored Hearts’ lead with a moment of brilliance. A well-worked move down the left saw winger Martin Karikari deliver a pinpoint cross to the back post, where Asmah rose highest to head home, sparking wild celebrations among the Phobian supporters. Asmah’s goal, his third in four games, underscored his growing importance to Hearts’ attacking unit.
As the clock ticked toward the final whistle, Hearts sealed the victory in the 89th minute. Hamza Issah, introduced as a substitute, showcased his predatory instincts, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up in Lions’ backline.
A poor defensive marking allowed Issah, slot into an empty net, ensuring a 3-1 scoreline that flattered the hosts’ dominance.
The final whistle sparked jubilation among the Hearts faithful, who have watched their team transform from mid-table mediocrity to genuine top four contenders.
Coach Aboubakar Ouattara’s tactical acumen has been pivotal, with his high-pressing, possession-based system unlocking the potential of players like Asubonteng and Asmah. Post-match, Ouattara praised his team’s resilience: “We knew Lions would fight, but our boys stayed focused. This is the Hearts of Oak we want to see—hungry and united.”
For Accra Lions, the defeat was another setback in a season plagued by inconsistency. Lions face a daunting task to climb out of the relegation zone.
