Two Premier League sides desperate for their first points of the season will face off as Karela United host Accra Lions at the Naa Sheriga Sports Complex on Sunday.
Both teams have endured a challenging start to the 2024/25 campaign and are in need of a positive result to turn their fortunes around.
PREVIEW
Karela United have lost their opening two games against Asante Kotoko and Berekum Chelsea and they will be looking to bounce back in front of their fans at the Naa Sherigu Sports Stadium in Nalerigu.
Meanwhile, Accra Lions, who also finished as one of the standout teams in the 2023/24 season, securing second place in the league, had a disappointing start to the current campaign. They fell 1-0 to former champions Medeama SC at the TnA Park, a result that did not reflect their ambitions to build on last season’s success and a 2-0 defeat to newly-promoted Vision FC last weekend. Ibrahim Tanko’s side will be eager to bounce back and put in a strong performance in Nalerigu.
Karela United
The now Tamale-based Karela United have struggled in their opening two fixtures, suffering 1-0 defeats both at home to Asante Kotoko and away to Berekum Chelsea.
Despite their difficult start, the team is hoping to secure their first win on home soil in front of their fans. Coach Jimmy Cobblah will be eager to reverse their fortunes and rekindle their home form, where they were traditionally strong.
Karela United possible starting lineup: Ganiu; Basit, Abubakar, Aidoo, Ankrah, Farouk, Ganiu, Gariba, Ibrahim, Yaya, Latif.
Accra Lions
Accra Lions have also faced early struggles, losing their first two matches of the season. They were defeated 1-0 by Medeama SC in their season opener, followed by a disappointing 2-0 home loss to Vision FC.
However, Lions' strong away record last season — where they were the fourth-best traveling team — gives them hope for a turnaround.
Accra Lions: Bonsu, Boateng, Apiiga, Hamzata, A. Mohammed, Awoute, Taylor, Tahiru, Amakye, Praku, Nwafor.
PREDICTION
With both teams in search of redemption, this clash promises to be tense and closely contested. Karela United will look to leverage their home advantage, but Accra Lions’ strong away form from last season could see them leave with a result. A draw seems the most likely outcome, although a narrow win for either side wouldn't be surprising.
Karela United 1-0 Accra Lions
Kick-off: Sunday, September 22, at 15:00 GMT.
