Sports
Hearts can scale JS Saoura hurdle
Glorious Accra Hearts of Oak will attempt to scale the final hurdle to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup competition when they face JS Saoura of Algeria in a tough second leg clash in Algeria tomorrow.
The Phobians hold a 2-0 advantage obtained from the first leg clash in Accra.
That should provide Coach Samuel Boadu and his charges some relief as they face a side that would plunge into an attacking mode after the first whistle.
Despite the defeat, the Algerians showed glimpses indicating that in their right moment, they can hurt the Phobians, just like the WAC showed in Accra in what dumped the Phobians out of the Champions League competition.
But Hearts also showed improvement. Despite the struggles in the local league, they have maintained a calm disposition at the continental front and would need a composed performance to hold the Algerians.
In coming out victorious, Coach Boadu would have to work on the psyche of his players, especially at the attack consisting of hitman Daniel Barnie and Isaac Mensah who have been firing blunt.
Their progression would depend on the ability to convert the chances that come their way while the Mohammed Alhassan-led defence must be water-tight to thwart the all guns blazing attacking prowess of the wounded Algerians.
BY ANDREW NORTEY
Boxer Ernest Akushey, popularly known in the ring as “Bahubali,” has died.
His management, Team Dickson, announced his passing in a statement on Tuesday, September 23, 2025.
According to the team, the boxer died in the early hours of the day. Details about the cause of death were not immediately provided.
“Bahubali was a true warrior and a credit to the sport of boxing,” Team Dickson said.
The statement added that his courage and spirit inspired many, especially during his most recent fight on September 12, 2025.
“I am heartbroken by this news. He will be remembered not only for his incredible talent but also for the dignity and class he showed both inside and outside the ring. My thoughts are with his family as they navigate this profound loss,” the statement read.
Team Dickson extended its condolences to Akushey’s family, friends and fans.
By: Jacob Aggrey
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Hearts of Oak secured their first victory of the Premier League campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 away win over Dreams FC on Monday, ending a six-game winless run against the side.
Midfielder Hussein Mohammed struck the decisive goal in the 13th minute at the Nii Adjei Kraku Sports Complex in Tema New Town, calmly finishing to give the Phobians an early lead.
The visitors showed renewed determination after last weekend’s frustrating goalless draw with newly promoted Hohoe United.
Dreams, seeking a response following their opening-day defeat to Heart of Lions, grew into the contest after conceding and dominated possession for long spells. However, Hearts’ disciplined back line, marshalled superbly throughout the afternoon, kept the home side at bay.
Head coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani will take encouragement from his team’s defensive organisation and resilience as they absorbed sustained pressure to preserve their narrow advantage. The victory not only snapped Hearts’ six-match winless streak against Dreams but also handed the hosts their first home defeat since December 2024, when they lost to Asante Kotoko.
With the result, Hearts of Oak climb to four points from their opening two matches, while Dreams remain without a point after back-to-back defeats.
Midfield anchor Raphael Amponsah, instrumental in shielding the defence and dictating play, was deservedly named Man of the Match.
