GPL Match Report: Newly-promoted side Basake Holy Stars stun Hearts of Oak in Accra

Hearts of Oak suffered a shocking 1-0 defeat to newly promoted Basake Holy Stars in their 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season opener at the Accra Sports Stadium, raising serious concerns about their preparedness for the campaign ahead.

The Phobians, who narrowly escaped relegation in the previous two seasons, now face the prospect of another challenging season after losing to a side with no prior top-flight experience.

Holy Stars, playing in their first-ever Premier League match, showed composure from the outset and took an early lead when Prince Tweneboah headed in a goal in just the second minute. The early strike rattled Hearts of Oak, who struggled to regain control despite dominating possession.

Hearts boasted 69% possession and launched 206 attacks, with 144 deemed dangerous, but their inefficiency in front of goal proved costly.

The Phobians created 15 goal attempts but managed only three shots on target, while Holy Stars made the most of their limited opportunities, registering four shots on target from six attempts.

Holy Stars’ defensive resilience, anchored by standout goalkeeper Abdul Wahab Abubakari, thwarted Hearts’ persistent attacks. Abubakari made several crucial saves to protect his team’s lead.

Holy Stars coach Abdulai Gazale, a former assistant at Hearts’ arch-rivals Asante Kotoko, masterminded the historic win with a strong defensive setup that neutralized the Phobians’ offensive threats. His team will look to build on this performance when they face Dreams FC next.

Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak must regroup quickly as they prepare to take on Heart of Lions in their second fixture, hoping to avoid further setbacks early in the season.