Bechem United head coach Stephen Desmond-Issah Botchway says his side will treat Saturday’s Ghana Premier League clash with defending champions Bibiani GoldStars like any other game, despite the attention surrounding the encounter.
The much-anticipated fixture, set for September 13 at Dun’s Park in Bibiani (15:00 GMT), has been billed as the headline match on the opening weekend of the 2025/26 season.
GoldStars will be looking to begin the defence of their historic maiden league crown after a stellar 2024/25 campaign, while Bechem United aim for a fresh start under Botchway, who took over following the club’s 10th-place finish last season.
Speaking ahead of the game, Botchway expressed confidence in his team’s readiness.
“We have done a lot and I believe in my boys. I know what they can do, and they are going to perform,” he told the club’s media.
“I’ve played this game and I’m now a coach. I’ve gone through so many things, and this [fixture against GoldStars] is not new to me. I see it as a normal game, and we are going to perform.”
Bechem United have bolstered their squad with a number of new signings, most notably former Ghana and Manchester City youth forward Mohammed Aminu, who adds depth and attacking quality to the side.
The Hunters will be eager to make a statement by upsetting the champions on their home turf, as they set their sights on a more consistent and competitive campaign under Botchway’s leadership.
