GPL Week 24: Can struggling FC Samartex stop high-flying Kotoko?

Reigning Ghana Premier League champions FC Samartex 1996 face a stern test of their title credentials as they host high-flying Asante Kotoko at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena, Samreboi, this afternoon.

Samartex have struggled for consistency this season and the mid-season dismissal of head coach Nurudeen Ahmadu—replaced by Christopher Ennin—has yet to provide the much-needed stability. 

However, with the league leaders in town, the champions have an opportunity to make a statement with a morale-boosting victory. 

Last season, the Nsenkyire Arena was an intimidating fortress but that aura of invincibility has faded. The likes of Young Apostles and Kpando Heart of Lions have already inflicted 1-0 defeats on the champions at home, a worrying trend Ennin must reverse if FC Samartex are to stay in the title race.

In stark contrast, Asante Kotoko have been a model of consistency, topping the league table with 37 points. Apart from a shock defeat to Nsoatreman FC, Coach Prosper Nartey Ogum’s men have been relentless, going 10 matches unbeaten across all competitions —save for a minor blip in the tragic 0-1 loss against Nsoatreman FC.

Their title charge is gathering momentum and a win today would stretch their lead over second-placed Bibiani Gold Stars to three points.

If history is anything to go by, FC Samartex face an uphill battle. In their last five encounters, Kotoko have emerged victorious on four occasions, with the hosts claiming just a single win. 

On paper, the Porcupine Warriors are favourites but FC Samartex’s recent 1-0 win over Nsoatreman FC could serve as the spark they need to spring an upset.

For Samartex, this fixture is about more than just three points—it is about restoring belief. Ennin’s primary task is to inject confidence into his squad, ensuring they rediscover the resilience that made them champions.

After three straight draws at the Nsenkyire Arena, the home side must summon the spirit of champions if they are to halt Kotoko’s charge towards the title.

Meanwhile, Coach Ogum will demand another composed performance from his side to cement their position at the summit.

Key battles  

Coach Ennin’s priority will be shoring up FC Samartex’s leaky defence, while instilling self-belief in his players. He will rely on his side’s attacking threats to breach a disciplined Kotoko backline.

For the Porcupine Warriors, a win is non-negotiable as they seek to tighten their grip at the summit. Coach Ogum will look to experienced campaigners—skipper Justice Blay, Yakubu Mohammed, Solomon Sarfo Taylor, Samuel Boateng, Augustine Sefah and Charles Owusu—to impose themselves and dictate the tempo.

FC Samartex, on the other hand, must be disciplined at the back and clinical in front of goal if they are to overcome their formidable visitors.

Other encounters

Elsewhere, the University of Ghana Stadium will witness another showdown when resurgent Hearts of Oak lock horns with Dreams FC this afternoon.

While Hearts are on an upward trajectory after a convincing 2-0 victory over Young Apostles, Dreams FC – who were Ghana’s representatives in the CAF Confederation Cup – have endured a woeful domestic campaign and are now battling relegation.

A win today would be crucial in reviving their faltering season. Coach Abubakar Ouattara has refused to be drawn into title talk, but with Hearts eyeing the league summit, another victory will send a strong message to their rivals.

This afternoon in Dormaa-Ahenkro, Young Apostles will aim to bounce back from their Hearts of Oak defeat as they take on bottom-placed Accra Lions at the Nana Agyemang Badu Park.

Accra Lions have managed just three wins in 20 matches and desperately need maximum points to salvage their season.

Tomorrow, seventh-placed Bechem United will host 12th-placed Vision FC at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, where the home side aims to extend their unbeaten run.

Meanwhile, Basake Holy Stars welcome Nsoatreman FC to the Ampain AAK II Sports Arena, while Heart of Lions—boasting an impressive 70 per cent home win rate—take on struggling Karela United, who have lost their last four away games.

In other Sunday fixtures, Nations FC will attempt to outclass Medeama SC at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, Berekum Chelsea (8th) will lock horns with relegation-threatened Legon Cities (17th) at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium and Aduana FC prepare for a mouth-watering clash against high-flying Bibiani Gold Stars at the Nana Agyemang Badu Park.