Bechem United will look to extend their impressive form in the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League when they face defending champions FC Samartex 1996 at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park on Saturday, December 21, 2024.
The match, kicking off at 3:00 PM GMT, promises to be an exciting clash as the Hunters seek to stay firmly in the title race while Samartex aim to recover from their recent slump.
Match Preview
Currently 3rd on the league table with 23 points, Bechem United have been in scintillating form, recording four wins and one draw in their last five matches. Their 2-0 victory over Legon Cities last weekend further underlined their status as one of the league’s strongest contenders.
The Hunters have been exceptional at home, remaining unbeaten with four wins and one draw in five matches. What makes their home record even more formidable is the fact that they are yet to concede a goal on home soil this season. With a solid defense and a balanced attack that has produced 12 goals, Bechem United will look to maintain their dominance in front of their fans.
Defending champions FC Samartex have had a season to forget so far. The Timber Giants sit 10th on the table with 17 points, having won just one of their last five matches (W1, D1, L3). Their recent form includes three consecutive losses, a stark contrast to their title-winning exploits last season.
On the road, Samartex have struggled, failing to register a single win with three draws and two losses. With only nine goals scored and eight conceded, their attacking and defensive setups have been far from convincing. The Timber Giants will need to produce something special to break their poor away form and revive their campaign.
Head-to-Head Record
Bechem United have a perfect home record against FC Samartex since the Timber Giants’ promotion to the Premier League in the 2022/23 season. The Hunters secured a 2-0 win in their first home encounter and followed it up with a 1-0 victory in the 2023/24 season. With history on their side, Bechem United will be confident heading into Saturday’s clash.
Team News
Bechem United are expected to field a strong lineup, with captain and goalkeeper D. Aziz leading from the back. Defenders like Abban and Abdulai will look to maintain their defensive solidity, while attackers such as Salifu and Yeboah will aim to trouble Samartex's defense.
For FC Samartex, captain Baah will look to inspire his side from goal. The likes of Agbesimah and Adjei will anchor the defense, while Mensah and Sarpong are expected to provide the attacking spark.
Predicted Lineups
Bechem United Predicted Starting XI:
D. Aziz (GK) (C); Abban, Abdulai, Acheampong, Acquah, Mantey, Nyarko, Owusu, Regain, Salifu, Yeboah
FC Samartex Predicted Starting XI:
Baah (GK) (C); Acquah, Adabo, Afful, Agbesimah, Adjei, Ephson, Mamah, Mensah, Sarpong, Sefah
Kickoff Time: 3:00 PM GMT
Prediction:
Bechem United’s home form and recent performances give them the edge in this matchup. While Samartex have the quality to challenge, their current struggles make them the underdogs. Expect a hard-fought game with the Hunters narrowly coming out on top.
Prediction: Bechem United 1-0 FC Samartex
