The 2025/26 Ghana Premier League rolls into matchweek eight this weekend as Basake Holy Stars square off with Accra Hearts of Oak at the AAK III Sports Arena in Ampain on Sunday, November 2, 2025.
The hosts will be desperate to turn their season around, having endured a torrid start to life in the top-flight this season. Basake Holy Stars remain without a win in their opening six matches, recording two draws and four defeats, with one outstanding game yet to be played. The self-styled “Big Holy” have declared Sunday’s clash against the Phobians as their “Day of Redemption”, hoping to finally give their fans something to cheer about.
Match Preview
Basake Holy Stars find themselves rooted to the bottom of the 18-club league table with just two points, and the pressure is beginning to mount on head coach Evans Adotey to inspire a change in fortunes. Despite flashes of promise, Holy Stars have struggled to find their spark, as they are yet to score a single goal while conceding 9 — the second-worst defensive record in the league.
Captain George Nana Kissi will be tasked with rallying his men to stay organized against a formidable Hearts side, while Jacob Boazee and Francis Oteng will need to provide creativity and defensive cover in midfield. Forward Tey Bismark remains one of the few bright sparks, with his pace and direct runs often troubling defences, even if end product has been lacking.
On the other hand, Hearts of Oak are beginning to rediscover their form after a shaky start to the campaign. The Phobians currently sit sixth on the league table with 13 points from seven matches, having lost just once in their last five outings. A thrilling 2-2 draw with Bibiani Goldstars last weekend showcased their attacking intent, though defensive lapses remain an area of concern for coach Didi Dramani.
The 21-time Ghanaian champions have been fluid going forward, with Hamza Issah leading the attack and Mohammed Hussein providing pace. Midfielder Rocky Dwamena has been instrumental in linking play, while captain Benjamin Asare’s leadership between the posts continues to steady the team’s youthful core.
Hearts will view this trip to Ampain as a prime opportunity to strengthen their push for the top four and given their current form, they enter as overwhelming favourites.
Team News
Basake Holy Stars:
Midfielder Kingsford Baffoe is expected to return after missing the Heart of Lions game. Meanwhile, captain George Nana Kissi will anchor the backline, with Gideon Quaison likely to get another start in midfield after impressing in patches during recent matches.
Hearts of Oak:
The Phobians are expected to make minimal changes to the side that drew with Goldstars. Kevin Osei Asibey will slot back into defence alongside Ransford Mensah. Prince Owusu and Hamza Issah are both expected to start in attack, supported by the lively Mawuli Wayo on the flanks. There are no new injury concerns.
Basake Holy Stars possible starting lineup:
Dubi Kassi Tayi (GK); George Nana Kissi (C), Peter Arhin, Sadat Zumah Ibrahim, Tey Bismark; Jacob Boazee, Kingsford Baffoe, Francis Oteng; Gideon Quaison, Richard Akwei, Emmanuel Nyarko.
Hearts of Oak possible starting lineup:
Benjamin Asare (GK) (C); Kevin Osei Asibey, Ransford Mensah, Raphael Amponsah; David Oppong Afrane, Rocky Dwamena, Prince Owusu, Mawuli Wayo; Mohammed Hussein, Yaw Amankwah Baafi; Hamza Issah.
We Say: Basake Holy Stars 0–3 Hearts of Oak
Hearts of Oak’s quality and attacking balance should be too much for a struggling Holy Stars side low on confidence. Expect Hamza Issah to open the scoring midway through the first half after a fine team move, before Mohammed Hussein doubles the lead with a curling effort from the edge of the box. Substitute Prince Owusu could then seal the victory late on with a clinical strike to secure all three points for the Phobians.
Where is the game being played?
The match takes place at the AAK III Sports Arena in Ampain, the home of Basake Holy Stars.
What time is kick-off?
The game kicks off at 15:00 GMT on Sunday, November 2, 2025.
By: Pascal Amoah
