The 2025/26 Ghana Premier League kicked off with drama, resilience, and early statements of intent across the country. Champions Bibiani Gold Stars were made to work hard for their opening win, while Asante Kotoko, Karela United, and Nations FC all secured strong victories to set the tone for the season.
At the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday night, Hearts of Oak were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Premier League debutants Hohoe United in the season opener. The Phobians dominated for large spells but could not find a breakthrough against the newly promoted side, who battled bravely despite finishing with ten men.
Saturday’s early blockbuster saw Asante Kotoko make a winning start to their title chase with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Berekum Chelsea. Striker Albert Amoah proved the difference, scoring the decisive goal that earned the Porcupine Warriors three vital points away from home.
Later that day in Bibiani, champions Gold Stars began their title defence with a nervy 2–1 victory over Bechem United at Dun’s Park. Star forward Kumi Attah was the hero, scoring twice to cancel out Darlvin Yeboah’s strike and secure a winning start for the champions in front of their home crowd.
Sunday’s fixtures added more intrigue to the opening weekend. Basake Holy Stars were held to a cagey 0–0 draw by returning Eleven Wonders at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena, while Vision FC and FC Samartex also cancelled each other out in another goalless stalemate. Vision, reduced to ten men, showed resilience to deny the Timber Giants an opening-day win in Tema.
Elsewhere, Heart of Lions edged Dreams FC 1–0 in Kpando, thanks to a first-half strike from Ebenezer Abban that lifted the Lions to a winning start.
Former Champions Medeama SC also made their intentions clear, securing a convincing 2–0 win away to Young Apostles with goals from Emmanuel Owusu and Paul Yeboah.
At the Aliu Mahama Stadium, Karela United extended their dominance over Aduana with a 1–0 victory. Malik Abubakar delivered the decisive moment, ensuring Karela continued their remarkable record of never losing a home league match to the Fire Boys.
The biggest drama unfolded at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, where Nations FC came from behind to beat newly promoted Swedru All Blacks 2–1. Kweku Baffoe gave the visitors the lead, but Samuel Tetteh equalised before Emmanuel Annor struck late to seal a rousing comeback for Nations.
As the dust settles on Matchday 1, Gold Stars survived a tough opening test, Kotoko showed their grit away from home, and Karela and Nations made strong statements. Hearts of Oak were left frustrated, debutants Hohoe United impressed, and Medeama reminded everyone they remain a force in the title race.
Matchday 1 Results
Hearts 0-0 Hohoe United
Berekum Chelsea 0-1 Kotoko
GoldStars 2-1 Bechem United
Holy Stars 0-0 Eleven Wonders
Heart of Lions 1-0 Dreams
Vision 0-0 Samartex
Source Lovinghananews.com
