Heart of Lions will be determined to return to winning ways when they welcome Berekum Chelsea to the Kpando Stadium on Sunday in a crucial Matchday 9 fixture of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League.
Match Preview
After a bright start to the campaign, Heart of Lions have stumbled in recent weeks, winning just one of their last five matches — a run that has seen them drop to fifth place in the league standings. Head coach Fatawu Salifu will be eager to see a response from his team as they look to rediscover their rhythm and maintain their push toward the top four.
The Lions will draw confidence from their strong home record and the passionate support of their fans at Kpando. Their ability to dominate possession and create chances will be key if they are to overcome a well-organized Berekum Chelsea side.
Their visitors, Berekum Chelsea, head into this encounter with renewed optimism after earning a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Vision FC last weekend — a win that ended their three-game winless run. Despite that, pressure continues to mount on head coach Samuel Boadu, who is looking to guide his side back into consistent form.
Historically, matches between Heart of Lions and Berekum Chelsea have been closely contested, with Lions holding the upper hand in their head-to-head record — five wins and two draws in ten previous league meetings. That record, coupled with their home advantage, makes them slight favourites going into Sunday’s encounter.
Team News
Heart of Lions have received a major boost with the return of midfielder Seedorf Asante from injury, while skipper Ebenezer Abban and full-back Yaw Danso are expected to play pivotal roles. Forward Kwadwo Obeng Junior will lead the attack as the hosts aim to break down Chelsea’s resilient defence.
For Berekum Chelsea, goalkeeper Emmanuel Adu retains his spot after a strong showing against Vision FC. Captain Prince Anane will marshal the midfield alongside Michael Awuah, while attackers Marvin Owusu and Abubakari Seidu will look to exploit spaces on the counterattack.
Probable Lineups
Heart of Lions (4-3-3): Lawrence Osei (GK); Ebenezer Abban (C), Ruben Hennessy, Bismark Anim, Ishmael Addo; Yaw Danso, Etse Dogli, Samuel Quansah; Michael Ephson, Chauncy Freeman, Kwadwo Obeng Junior.
Berekum Chelsea (4-2-3-1): Emmanuel Adu (GK); Benjamin Abaidoo, Abdul Rahman, Vincent Adjei; Prince Anane (C), Michael Awuah, Kwesi Badori, Kennedy Mensah, Richard Osei Agyemang, Marvin Owusu, Abubakari Seidu.
Prediction
Heart of Lions have been formidable at home this season and will look to capitalize on their familiarity with the Kpando pitch to return to form. Berekum Chelsea are capable of causing problems on the counter, but the Lions’ attacking strength and home support could tilt the balance in their favour.
Prediction: Heart of Lions 2–1 Berekum Chelsea
