Newcomers Young Apostles will host defending champions FC Samartex 1996 at the Wenchi Sports Stadium on Sunday, April 20, in a high-stakes Week 28 clash of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.
Match Preview
Young Apostles, in their maiden Premier League campaign, have shown flashes of promise but remain inconsistent. With just one win in their last five matches (D2, L2), they currently sit 13th on the table with 33 points from 27 games. Their major concern has been goal-scoring, having found the net only 18 times—joint-second lowest in the division.
However, the Wenchi-based side has turned the Wenchi Sports Stadium into a difficult ground for visiting teams. They are unbeaten in their last five home games (W3, D2), including a spirited 2-1 win over Berekum Chelsea. Ranked 10th in the home standings, they will hope to extend that run against the reigning champions.
FC Samartex 1996, on the other hand, come into the fixture in resurgent form. The Timber giants have won three of their last five matches (D1, L1) and currently sit 6th on the log with 41 points. Christopher Ennin’s side boasts one of the league’s tightest defences, having conceded just 16 goals, while netting 24 at the other end.
On the road, Samartex have held their own, ranking 4th in the away standings with three wins, six draws, and four losses from 13 outings. With the title race still wide open, three points in Wenchi could significantly boost their chances of retaining the league crown.
Team News
Young Apostles:
There are no major injury concerns reported for the hosts. Coach Isaac Koomson is expected to maintain the core of the side that drew 1-1 with Legon Cities last weekend. Leading scorer Benjamin Yorke is expected to spearhead the attack once again.
FC Samartex:
Samartex are also expected to field a strong lineup. Defender Evans Osei-Wusu remains key to their solid backline, while Emmanuel Mamah and Ebenezer Acquah will be vital in midfield. Top scorer Baba Hamadu will lead the frontline.
Predicted Lineups
Young Apostles XI (Predicted):
Sarpong (GK); Obeng, Amankwah, Atta, Danso; Yeboah, Twum, Manu; Yorke, Ampofo, Boadu
FC Samartex XI (Predicted):
Baidoo (GK); Osei-Wusu, Appiah, Agyeman, Quayson; Acquah, Mamah, Armah; Hamadu, Taylor, Adu
Kickoff Details
Date: Sunday, April 20, 2025
Time: 15:00 GMT
Venue: Wenchi Sports Stadium
Prediction
Young Apostles will rely heavily on their strong home form, but FC Samartex’s experience and defensive structure could prove decisive. It’s expected to be a close contest, but the champions might just edge it.
Prediction: Young Apostles 1-2 FC Samartex
