In a tightly contested Ghana Premier League encounter on December 13, 2025, at the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon (also known as the Legon Stadium), Accra Hearts of Oak clinched a hard-fought 1-0 win against Nations FC.
The decisive goal came in the 69th minute from forward Hamza Issah, who rose highest to power a commanding header into the net from a precise, well-delivered cross during a rehearsed set-piece buildup.
The first half was cagey and goalless, with both teams cautious and struggling to create clear chances. Hearts of Oak dominated possession in the second half, registering seven shots on target while limiting Nations FC to just one. Issah had earlier missed a similar heading opportunity but made amends with his clinical finish, sparking jubilant celebrations among the home fans.
This victory marked back-to-back home wins for the Phobians at their new venue, following their relocation from the Accra Sports Stadium. It propelled Hearts of Oak temporarily to third place in the league standings, keeping them in the title race just points behind leaders Aduana FC. For Nations FC, the defeat highlighted ongoing struggles away from home.
Hamza Issah, a key figure for Hearts this season and recently noted for off-field matters, proved his worth once again with the match-winning contribution under coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani.
Hamza Issah has been making headlines for off-field issues in recent days, stemming from a dispute over unpaid wages. On December 8, 2025, his agency, Prosport International, issued a statement announcing steps to terminate his contract with the club, citing three months of unpaid salaries (September, October, and November 2025).
The agency invoked FIFA’s Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players (RSTP), which allows a player to end a contract for just cause if wages remain unpaid for more than two consecutive months.
Reports indicate Issah’s monthly gross salary is GH₵5,000, and the club had made no efforts to settle the arrears despite prior attempts at amicable resolution.
This development highlights broader financial challenges at Hearts of Oak, with some reports suggesting multiple players have faced delayed payments. Earlier concerns, raised by Issah’s representatives, also touched on stalled negotiations for an improved contract and salary hike.
The result provided crucial momentum for Hearts ahead of challenging upcoming fixtures.