Matchday 17 of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League sees FC Samartex 1996 host Young Apostles at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena on Sunday afternoon in what promises to be a high-stakes clash. Both sides are eager to gain vital points as the league season reaches a critical stage.
Match Preview
The Timber Giants head into the fixture on the back of a statement-making performance in the MTN FA Cup, where they humiliated Debiso Soccer Lions 9-1. That emphatic win not only highlighted Samartex’s attacking firepower but also provided a timely confidence boost as they look to cement consistency in the Premier League.
Coach Ibrahim Tanko is expected to field his strongest XI, with the team likely to start aggressively and aim to control proceedings from the first whistle. Home advantage, coupled with their recent form, gives Samartex a clear edge going into the encounter.
Young Apostles arrive in Samreboi in a precarious position, having won just one of their last eight league matches, with four draws and three losses in that span. Their poor form is compounded by a concerning away record, securing only two points from their last six road games.
The Wenchi-based side will need a disciplined defensive performance and clinical finishing in attack to frustrate Samartex. Ramzy and Ganiyu Muftaw will be crucial in midfield, tasked with breaking up play and initiating counter-attacks.
Predicted FC Samartex Lineup:
Zakari (GK); Essien, Acquah, Agbesimah, Afful; Sarpong, Owusu, Dramani; Agyenim, Mamah, Sefah
Predicted Young Apostles Lineup:
Masawudu (GK); Coka, Nyaabila, Borrtey, Zakari Abdul; Ramzy (C), Afram, Ganiyu Muftaw; Huseine Issah, Prempeh, R. Opoku
Tactical Battle
Samartex are expected to dominate possession, relying on quick interplay and attacking width to exploit Apostles’ defensive vulnerabilities. Apostles, on the other hand, may adopt a compact formation, looking to absorb pressure and hit on the counter. The clash could hinge on set-pieces and the finishing of the frontmen, as both sides look for the decisive breakthrough.
Prediction
Given their home advantage and recent scoring form, Samartex are favorites to claim the win, while Apostles’ resilience on the counter could see them salvage a draw if they remain disciplined.
Score Prediction: FC Samartex 3-1 Young Apostles
