Sports
Premier League: Hearts face-off against Accra Lions in capital derby on Friday
Hearts of Oak welcome Accra Lions to the Accra Sports Stadium in the capital derby on Friday, hoping to keep their top-four ambitions alive.
The Phobians are currently 5th on the table with 49 points after 32 matches. They come into the fixture on a high after a narrow 1-0 away win over Berekum Chelsea, extending their decent run to two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five.
Despite their defensive solidity , only 17 goals conceded, the second-best in the league, Hearts have struggled at home, earning just 25 points from 15 matches, a tally bettered by all but three teams. However, they remain tough to break down on their turf, keeping three consecutive clean sheets (W1, D2). Coach Aboubakar Ouattara will view this as a vital opportunity to strengthen their push for a top-four finish.
Accra Lions, on the other hand, are still fighting to avoid relegation. Their thrilling 5-3 win over Aduana FC temporarily lifted them out of the drop zone on goal difference. With 35 points from 31 games, they have scored 31 goals (joint third-highest) but conceded 35, the second most in the league. Their away form is concerning: just one win in 15 matches (D3, L11), making them the fourth worst travelers this season.
Reiner Kraft’s men will look to draw inspiration from their recent attacking display and last season’s 1-0 away win over Hearts, their only victory at the Accra Sports Stadium in three visits. Hearts had previously won the 2021/22 (2-0) and 2022/23 (1-0) fixtures.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and all the clubs participating in this weekend’s competitions will pay special tribute in honour of the memory of the late Dominic Frimpong of Berekum Chelsea FC (on loan from Aduana FC).
The GFA has in a statement announced that all the players and team officials of the 6 clubs playing this weekend competitions will wear black armbands on their jerseys as a mark of respect during their respective matches.
In addition, a minute of silence will be observed before the commencement of each game in his honour. This tribute will take place during the MTN FA Cup semi-final matches as well as the Women’s Premier League final scheduled for this weekend.
“The GFA counts on the full cooperation of all clubs and the fans in respectfully observing these arrangements as we collectively pay tribute to Dominic Frimpong,” the statement added.
The FA expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their understanding and support in these times.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Daniel Laryea will handle the MTN FA Cup semifinal clash between Aduana FC and Nations FC at the Swedru Stadium on Friday, April 17, 2026.
Roland Addy will serve as Assistant I, with Seth Abletor as Assistant II, while Adaari Abdul Lattif works as 4th Referee.
The match is scheduled for a 3:00pm kick-off at the Swedru Stadium on Friday, April 17, 2026.
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