Swedru All Blacks make their long-awaited return to Ghana’s top-flight after 16 years in the wilderness, with a daunting trip to Abrankese to face Nations FC at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex on Sunday afternoon.
It will be the first-ever competitive meeting between the Black Magicians and Nations FC, setting the stage for a historic clash.
Match Preview
All Blacks, once a staple of Ghanaian football, are back in the Premier League for the first time since 2008/09 after storming to the Division One League Zone Two title last season. They sealed promotion with a game to spare and lifted the crown in front of jubilant fans at the Swedru Sports Stadium in June.
But with the celebrations now over, the reality of Premier League life kicks in. Newly appointed Egyptian coach Ahmed Ibrahim Fathi has stressed the need for a “reset” as he ushers in a “new chapter and a new challenge.” Fathi has already overseen a squad reshuffle, bringing in fresh faces to add steel and flair, while allowing some of the promotion heroes to depart.
The Black Magicians fairytale return will be tested by a Nations FC side with top-half credentials.
The Abrankese-based club are entering their third successive GPL season under Kassim Ocansey Mingle, who guided them to a fifth-place finish last term despite a three-point deduction following disciplinary sanctions.
Nations FC endured a mixed pre-season but have strengthened with several new signings to provide a strong competition. Having opened both of their previous Premier League campaigns without a win, Mingle will be desperate to finally make a winning start in front of their fans.
Team News
Nations FC
Kassim Mingle is expected to stick with his tried-and-tested 3-4-2-1 setup. New signings MacWilliams and Faruk Mohammed are pushing for starts, with both impressing in pre-season. Club captain Simpson will marshal the back three alongside Abbey and Ampoful, while Sanon keeps his place in goal.
Swedru All Blacks
Ahmed Ibrahim Fathi will likely line his men up in a 4-3-3, with captain Bubakari anchoring the defence. New recruit Tahir is expected to lead the line, supported by Yorke and Adjei out wide. Midfield dynamo Baffoe is another of Fathi’s trusted new additions and will be key in transition.
Nations FC possible starting lineup (3-4-2-1):
Sanon (GK); Simpson (C), Abbey, Ampoful; Annor, Badu, Boakye, Kuffour; MacWilliams, Faruk Mo; Sarfo
Swedru All Blacks possible starting lineup (4-3-3):
Aryee (GK); Bubakari (C), Inkoom, Leveh, Tutu; Baffoe, Assiamah, Ofori; Yorke, Adjei, Tahir
Prediction
Nations FC boast experience and a stronger bench, while Swedru All Blacks may need time to adjust to the pace and intensity of Premier League football. Expect the Black Magicians to show flashes of their attacking intent, but Nations’ organisation and superior sharpness should see them through.
We say: Nations FC 1-0 Swedru All Blacks
The breakthrough could come late on, with Faruk Mo finishing off a slick counter-attack after relentless pressure finally breaks down the All Blacks’ backline.
Kickoff: 15:00 GMT, Sunday, September 14, 2025
By: Pascal Amoah
