The Matchday 21 encounter saw the league leaders take an early lead when in-form striker Kingsley Braye powered home a fine header in the 8th minute, connecting perfectly with Fatawu Sulemana’s well-delivered corner to put the Mauve and Yellow ahead.

Nations FC, however, responded with determination, led by an inspired performance from captain Razak Simpson. The centre-back restored parity in the 19th minute, rising above his markers to head home from a corner and beat goalkeeper Felix Kyei.

Just before the interval, Simpson completed a remarkable brace. Nations were awarded a penalty in the 43rd minute, and the skipper kept his composure to slot the spot kick into the bottom corner, turning the game around and sending the hosts into the break with a 2-1 advantage.

Medeama pressed hard for an equaliser after the restart, piling sustained pressure on the Nations defence, but the home side stood firm to protect their lead until the final whistle.

The defeat represents only Medeama SC’s second loss of the season and ends an unbeaten run that stretched back to September 2025. Despite the setback, Medeama remain top of the league standings with 43 points, while Nations FC climb to eighth place on 27 points.

Nations FC will look to build on this momentum when they travel to face Hohoe United, while Medeama SC host Aduana FC at the TNA Park in the Matchday 22 fixtures scheduled for next weekend.

The Porcupine Warriors confirmed the acquisition after the midfielder successfully passed his mandatory medical, sealing his move from Nations FC.

Badu arrives at Kotoko with significant top-flight experience, having been a regular fixture for Nations FC over the past two-and-a-half seasons, where he made close to 50 league appearances.

Speaking after finalising the move, the midfielder described the transfer as a major milestone in his career. He acknowledged the weight of expectation that comes with wearing the famous red jersey but insisted it will serve as motivation.

Badu pledged to work hard, continue learning, and contribute fully whenever called upon, as he looks to grow with the club in the coming years.

“Joining Kotoko is a big moment for me. This is the biggest club in the country, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. I know the expectations are high here, but that’s what motivates me as a player,” he said.

“I’m ready to work hard, learn, and give my best whenever I’m called upon. I want to help the team in any way I can and grow with the club over the next few years.”

Head coach Karim Zito also outlined the club’s rationale for the signing, stressing the need to reinforce the defensive midfield department.

He noted that Kotoko currently have limited options in that role and must also manage the workload of young midfielder Lawson Manu.

According to Zito, Badu’s familiarity with the league, tactical discipline, and ability to bring balance will be key to maintaining intensity and stability in midfield both for the remainder of the season and beyond.

The visitors struck first through Chauncy Freeman, who found the net in the 16th minute at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

Nations restored parity before the break when defender Ruben Hennessy, under pressure, steered the ball into his own net.

The decisive moment arrived late on, with Prince Badu firing home five minutes from time to seal the comeback and hand Nations FC their fourth win of the campaign.

The result moves Nations into ninth position on 16 points, having scored 12 and conceded 11 so far this season.

Heart of Lions stay second, though their standing could shift depending on Sunday’s outcomes involving Medeama and Aduana FC, who face Berekum Chelsea and Basake Holy Stars respectively.

Nations FC travel next to face Hearts of Oak, while Heart of Lions regroup for a home meeting with Aduana as they look to get back to winning ways.

Since Frimpong Manso took charge, the club has managed just one victory in four outings. The team’s inconsistent run has left them 14th on the Ghana Premier League table, with 10 points from their opening 10 matches of the 2025/26 campaign.

In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show ahead of the clash at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, Boakye Ansah voiced confidence that the tide will soon shift.

“We’re working on a long-term project, and we believe the change will come. It has to start with beating Bibiani GoldStars,” he said.

The match kicks off at 15:00 GMT.

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Manso, who was appointed earlier this season to replace Kasim Ocansey Mingle, has recorded just one win in four matches. The slow start has left the Abrankese side in 14th place on the Premier League table with 10 points after 10 rounds of games.

Boakye-Ansah admits the team has encountered early challenges but insists the former Ghana international has the pedigree to stabilise the club.

“There were some issues, and that is what we are trying to address. Frimpong Manso is an astute coach. Looking at what he did for Asante Kotoko as a player and the success he had with Bofoakwa Tano and Bibiani GoldStars, we decided to bring him in when we chose to make changes within the technical team, even though there were other names considered,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“It is natural that if you are not getting the desired results, you will not be happy, and we are not all happy. He has expressed his feelings, and I have nothing against that.

“We have a long-term project, and we are hopeful that things will change, and it will start by beating Bibiani GoldStars,” he added.

Nations FC, who dropped points against Berekum Chelsea in their last outing, will seek a response this weekend when they host reigning champions Bibiani GoldStars at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

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Manso, who replaced Kasim Mingle, has recorded just one win in four matches. Following a 2-1 defeat to Berekum Chelsea, he expressed frustration over what he described as a lack of seriousness among certain squad members.

“Those who want to play, I will let them play, and it does not matter who you are. If you are not serious and don’t want to play for the team, I don’t care. I am going for those who are serious,” he told Vision FM.

“When I was appointed, I tried to unite the team, but some players still behave as if they are not serious. Whether intentional or not, I don’t want to dwell on that. Those who are serious will play; those who are not ready to go with me, I leave behind,” he added.

Nations FC currently sit 14th on the league table with 10 points and will host defending champions Bibiani GoldStars in their Matchday 11 fixture.

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After seven matches in the 2025/26 campaign, the Abrankese-based club sits 12th on the league table with eight points, recording two wins, two draws, and three losses.

Despite the slow start, Manso believes his arrival will spark improvement.

“For me, I think we’ve seen a lot of things here, and we believe we can work to also improve the team,” Frimpong said.

“We’ve also come to do our part to make sure that where the team has reached, we will also try to make a mark here at Nations,” he added.

The former Ghana international also identified the team’s poor away form as a key area for concern.

“In away matches, we’ve played three games without scoring, so those are the concerns we also have to make sure we improve,” he noted.

Manso will be hoping to start his tenure on a strong note when Nations FC travel to Bechem to face Bechem United in their Matchday 8 fixture at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park on Friday, October 31.

Manso will be assisted by Aboagye Dacosta, who steps into the role of deputy head coach.

“We are delighted to announce the appointment of Frimpong Manso as Head Coach and Aboagye Dacosta as his Assistant,” the club said in a statement.

The former Ghana international returns to the Premier League dugout just weeks after leaving Bibiani GoldStars, shortly after their CAF Champions League first-leg loss to JS Kabylie.

Manso’s managerial pedigree is well established; he famously led GoldStars to their maiden Ghana Premier League title last season.

Now at Nations FC, he takes charge of a side eager to reignite its campaign after a disappointing start to the 2025/26 season.

The Abrankese-based outfit has managed only two wins in seven matches, prompting the club’s hierarchy to act swiftly in hopes of reversing their fortunes.

The veteran tactician is expected to make his debut in the dugout when Nations FC host Bechem United on Matchday 8 this weekend.

Manso’s return to top-flight management marks another chapter in a storied career, as he looks to reaffirm his reputation as one of Ghana’s most respected and accomplished coaches.

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Both teams created several openings in an entertaining contest, but neither side could deliver the decisive touch as they shared the points.

The hosts came into the fixture on the back of a 2-1 defeat to Medeama SC in Tarkwa — their second loss of the season. With just five points from five matches (W1, D2, L2), Nations FC have endured one of their slowest starts since gaining promotion to the top flight in 2023.

They currently occupy the lower half of the table, having scored three goals and conceded four. Despite their inconsistent form, Nations FC have enjoyed a solid record against Kotoko, remaining unbeaten in their last three home meetings (W1, D2) and keeping three clean sheets in their last four league encounters with the Porcupine Warriors.

For Kotoko, the draw extends their unbeaten start to the campaign, keeping them among the four teams yet to lose this season as they continue to build momentum under their new project.

Nations FC will now turn their attention to their next assignment away to Dreams FC, while Kotoko travel to face Basake Holy Stars.

Elsewhere in Tema, Vision FC secured a commanding 3-0 victory over Bibiani Gold Stars at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex to record back-to-back wins.

The visitors, reigning league champions, started brightly and nearly took the lead early on, forcing goalkeeper Kwame Aziz into a sharp save just eight minutes in. However, Vision FC took full control after the break.

Abdul Naseru Sumaila struck twice to put the hosts in charge, opening the scoring in the 55th minute before doubling his tally in the 84th. Substitute Sherif Mohammed Iddrisu sealed the result in stoppage time with a composed finish.

The win lifts Vision FC to fifth on the table with eight points from five matches, underlining their growing confidence under head coach Nana Agyemang.

Gold Stars, meanwhile, have now suffered consecutive defeats, dropping to 10th place with six points. They will aim to bounce back when they host Heart of Lions in their next outing, while Vision FC prepare for a tricky away test against Bechem United.

The Abrankese-based club will be aiming to bounce back from last week’s defeat to Aduana Stars, while Samartex are still chasing their first win of the season.

Despite the Timber Giants’ slow start, Mingle expects a difficult contest.

“It is not going to be easy, but we’ll have to work for it. It’s a very difficult game,” he said. “They haven’t won in their first two matches, so they’ll be coming like wounded tigers. We also have to double our effort to secure all three points.”

The game is scheduled for 15:00 GMT at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

The Abrankese-based side began their campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over newly-promoted Swedru All Blacks at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Stadium last weekend.

Reflecting on the win, Mingle emphasized that his team is not in the league to make up the numbers but to challenge for glory.

“We are preparing to go for the ultimate. No one comes to fight to say I’m going to lose. It’s the title every team is playing for,” he told reporters.

“We are not playing for playing’s sake. We are targeting the ultimate,” he added.

Nations FC will aim to build on their opening-day triumph when they face Aduana FC in Matchday 2 at the Nana Agyemang Badu Park.

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The decision comes after investigations found Nations FC responsible for the events that led to the abandonment of the match.

In its verdict, the Committee awarded a 3-0 win to Basake Holy Stars, the designated home side. The ruling also imposes a series of punitive measures on Nations FC, citing violations of the GFA Premier League Regulations.

Basake Holy Stars’ protest was upheld, while a counter-protest by Nations FC was dismissed.

The Committee concluded that Nations FC’s actions directly caused the disruption, thereby forfeiting the match under Article 33(1)(b) of the regulations. As a result, three points and three goals have been awarded to Basake Holy Stars in accordance with Articles 33(2) and 34(12), boosting their league position.

In addition to the forfeiture, Nations FC has been docked a further three points from their season tally, as stipulated under Article 33(5)(a).

The club has also been fined GH₵2,500. Half of the amount (GH₵1,250) is to be paid to Basake Holy Stars FC as compensation, while the remaining half will go to the GFA, in line with Article 33(5)(b).

Furthermore, the Disciplinary Committee has directed the GFA Prosecutor to review the reports from match officials and initiate legal proceedings against any individuals found to have contributed to the incident.

All parties involved have been informed of their right to appeal the ruling by filing with the GFA Appeals Committee within 24 hours of receiving the decision.

Meanwhile, Bibiani GoldStars were officially crowned league champions after Nations FC suffered a 2-0 defeat on the final day of the season.

The Matchday 33 fixture was abruptly abandoned after players from Nations FC walked off the pitch in protest over a second controversial penalty awarded to the home side, Basake Holy Stars. The decision sparked unrest in the stands, culminating in chaotic scenes and violent confrontations.

Speaking to Sporty FM in the aftermath, Minister Adams voiced his dismay and highlighted the urgent need for increased understanding of the game among football stakeholders.

“I have been informed about the unfortunate incident, but I have not received the full briefing on what happened and what was not done. However, investigations are ongoing, but it is unfortunate that we continue to have such situations,” Adams said.

Adams stressed the need to prioritize education for club executives, noting that many lack the requisite knowledge and expertise to manage teams effectively.

“What must be done is to have proper education for the club owners, even before the fans.

Some of the club owners seem not to be up to the task beyond owning the clubs. Some club managers are clueless about what football is all about. We need to spend time dealing with such individuals before we even talk to the fans, officiating officials, and match commissioners,” he added.

The Minister further called for stricter sanctions against individuals who incite or participate in violence at football venues. He insisted that decisive measures are necessary to preserve the sport’s integrity.

In the meantime, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has confirmed it has initiated a formal investigation into the incident in Ayinase, with the aim of uncovering the root cause and holding those responsible accountable.

The match was brought to an abrupt halt after Nations FC players walked off the pitch in protest of a second penalty awarded to Basake Holy Stars, triggering chaos and heated confrontations between the two sides.

In a statement issued on Monday, the GFA confirmed its awareness of the incident and assured the public of immediate and thorough action.

“The Ghana Football Association has taken note of reports of violent incidents that occurred during the Ghana Premier League match between Basake Holy Stars and Nations Football Club played over the last weekend,” the statement read.

“A thorough investigation into the reported events has commenced.”

The GFA reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining the integrity of the sport, promising that all individuals found culpable would face appropriate sanctions.

“We urge all parties involved to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigations. Further updates will be provided in due course,” the statement concluded.

The regrettable episode unfolded during Nations FC’s Matchday 33 clash against Basake Holy Stars at the Ampain AAK II Arena on Sunday.

Tensions escalated after two controversial penalties were awarded to the home team, prompting Nations FC to abandon the game in protest over what they described as poor officiating.

In the midst of the chaos, Dr. Kyei and his son, Divine Kyei Boadu, were reportedly attacked by home supporters.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Dr. Kyei did not hide his disappointment.

“I have regretted getting involved in Ghana football,” Dr. Kyei said.

“I have lost the passion for it. We are hoping for a change. If we all just sit and complain about it, then we are not acting right as elderly people,” he added.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has yet to issue an official response to the incident.

Despite the controversy, Nations FC remain at the summit of the league table with 60 points. A win in the disputed match would have clinched their maiden Premier League title.

His comments come in the wake of a chaotic incident during Nations FC’s Matchday 33 clash against Basake Holy Stars on Sunday at the Ampain AAK II Sports Arena in Ayinase.

The match was abruptly halted when Nations FC players and officials stormed the pitch in protest after the referee awarded a second controversial penalty to the home side.

The decision sparked tensions, prompting the visitors to boycott the remainder of the game.

Speaking to Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Dr. Kyei explained the rationale behind their actions and drew a direct link between Sunday’s incident and the unfortunate events in Nsoatre earlier this year, where Nana Pooley lost his life during a football-related dispute.

“We have not learned anything from what happened in Nsoatre with regards to the death of Nana Pooley,” Dr. Kyei said.

“I believe it was good for me to be at Ayinase, but as a country, we have not learned anything from what happened,” he added.

Despite the turmoil, Nations FC remain at the top of the Ghana Premier League table with 60 points, with just one game left to conclude the 2024/25 season.

The Matchday 33 fixture, held at the Ampain AAK II Arena, descended into chaos following controversial penalty decisions awarded to the home side.

Nations FC players stormed the pitch in protest, triggering a series of events that led to violence and the eventual boycott of the game by the away team.

During the melee, both Dr. Kyei and his son, Divine Kyei, who also serves as club president, were reportedly assaulted.

Speaking on Asempa FM, Dr. Kyei expressed his dismay over the incident.

“I was not pleased with what happened at Ayinase, and I have never seen anything like that before,” Dr. Kyei told Asempa FM.

“I don’t care if I will suffer a point deduction and even lose the Ghana Premier League title, because for me to win a league and someone will die, I will never accept that.”

He further criticised the lack of security and fairness, noting that Nations FC fans were denied entry into the stadium and referencing a recent incident where a fan lost their life.

“Our fans were not allowed to come to the stadium. We have recently witnessed a fan losing his life. I’ll not let this happen to my players and any of the fans.”

As of now, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has not issued an official statement on the incident. Despite the match ending prematurely, Nations FC remain at the top of the league table with 60 points, with just one game left in the 2024/25 season.

The game, held at the Ampain AAK II Arena, took a dramatic turn when the referee awarded a second controversial penalty to Basake Holy Stars. The decision sparked outrage among Nations FC players and officials, leading to a walk-off in protest.

Speaking in an interview with 3FM, Boakye Ansah expressed deep frustration over the officiating and the overall treatment of the team, hinting that the club could disband or withdraw from top-flight football altogether.

“Maybe we might disband Nations FC and forget about running football in this country because it’s not worth it. Whatever we saw today and what we were subjected to, it’s not worth it. We might have to advise ourselves,” he said.

He added that the club will await the match commissioner’s report but will also file a formal complaint with the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

“It depends on the report of the match commissioner, but we will file an official complaint to the GFA, and we will see what decision the FA will take. We are not interested in Ghana football anymore. We are tired,” he added.

Despite the controversy, Nations FC currently sit at the top of the Ghana Premier League table with 60 points, with just one game left in the season.

With just one round of fixtures remaining in the season, the match was pivotal for Nations FC, who needed at least a draw to keep their title aspirations alive.

However, the tension escalated dramatically in the 33rd minute when the referee awarded Holy Stars their second penalty of the first half — a decision that sparked furious protests from the Nations FC camp.

Tempers flared as goalkeeper Kofi Mensah confronted match officials in a heated exchange that required police intervention.

Holy Stars had already taken a 1-0 lead from the first spot-kick, and the second decision proved to be the breaking point for Nations FC.

Surrounding the referee in protest, Nations FC players and technical staff vehemently disputed both penalty calls, labelling them as soft and unwarranted.

Following an extended stoppage and intense discussions on the sidelines, the team made the extraordinary decision to abandon the match.

Stunned spectators looked on as the entire Nations FC squad exited the field, refusing to continue play.

Despite efforts to resume the game, the match was officially abandoned after Nations FC declined to return.

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is now expected to review the incident and make a ruling in the coming days, with the season finale looming next weekend.

]]> https://www.adomonline.com/razak-simpsons-absence-will-not-affect-us-nations-fc-chief/ Fri, 30 May 2025 09:23:29 +0000 https://www.adomonline.com/?p=2540066 Nations FC Brands Manager, Kennedy Boakye Ansah, remains confident that the team will perform well against Basake Holy Stars despite the absence of key defender Razak Simpson.

Simpson, a vital figure in Nations FC’s campaign this season, is currently away on international duty with the Black Stars in London, participating in the Unity Cup.

The promising centre-back featured for the entire 90 minutes in Ghana’s 2-1 defeat to Nigeria at the G-Tech Community Stadium earlier this week.

“Fortunately for us, we have a very solid squad, so inasmuch as we would have loved to see Razak Simpson in the game against Holy Stars, we have a worthy replacement for him,” Boakye Ansah told Citi Sports.

“We will miss his presence on the field, but in terms of the team, I’m sure we have a worthy replacement for Razak Simpson,” he added.

Nations FC currently sits atop the league table with 60 points and will be aiming to extend their lead and move a step closer to clinching the Premier League title.

Meanwhile, Simpson is expected to be in action again when Ghana faces Trinidad and Tobago in the third-place playoff at the G-Tech Community Stadium on Saturday.

Nations FC’s Brands Manager, Kennedy Boakye Ansah, has expressed strong confidence that the club will give their all to secure the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League crown.

Currently leading the league with 57 points and just three matches remaining, the Abrankese-based team aims to continue their winning streak when they face FC Samartex in Matchday 32, scheduled for Sunday at 3:00 PM GMT at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Stadium.

Boakye-Ansah said, “It’s been a very beautiful ride and we are going all out for it. Before the league started, all 18 clubs had the vision to be crowned champions, and that also includes Nations FC. From the work done so far, there is nothing that is going to stop the club from being crowned as champions of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.”

After the Samartex match, Nations FC will play Basake Holy Stars at the Crosby Awuah Memorial Stadium and conclude the season at home against Heart of Lions.

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The Abrankese-based club will host Samartex on Sunday in a crucial Matchday 32 encounter at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

Following a dominant 4-1 victory over Legon Cities in their previous match, Coach Mingle praised his team’s performance but acknowledged room for improvement.

“I will say it wasn’t bad, but not to my satisfaction, especially in the first half. We wasted a lot of chances,” he said. “We will go and work on the mistakes they made and do better in the next game,” he added.

Currently sitting atop the league table with 57 points, Nations FC are in strong contention for the title.

After this weekend’s match, they will travel to face Basake Holy Stars at the Crosby Awuah Memorial Stadium before concluding their season at home against Heart of Lions.

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The warning comes after Nations FC secured a commanding 4-1 victory over Legon Cities on Monday at the University of Ghana Stadium, reclaiming the top spot in the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League.

Annor previously drew attention when he celebrated a goal during a 2-0 win against Asante Kotoko by lifting his shirt to reveal an undershirt bearing the message “I Belong To Jesus.”

The act was deemed a violation of the Ghana Football Association’s regulations on political and religious expressions, resulting in a GHC500 fine.

Mingle disclosed that he has addressed the entire squad to prevent similar incidents in the future.

“The whole team, not him alone — I talked to the whole team,” he said. “In Ghana, they won’t caution you — they’ll fine you. They can caution you, they can fine you. So nobody should do it again. I’ve talked to them,” he added.

With 57 points on the board, Nations FC will face FC Samartex on Sunday at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in their Matchday 32 fixture, aiming to maintain their strong title challenge.

Annor received the fine after celebrating a goal by removing his jersey to reveal an undershirt with the inscription, “I belong to Jesus.”

The GFA’s Disciplinary Committee ruled that the act violated league regulations, which prohibit the display of religious or political messages during matches.

In addition to the fine, the striker was issued a formal warning, with the GFA cautioning that any repeat offence could attract harsher sanctions.

However, Annor took to his official X (formerly Twitter) account to express his frustration, describing the decision as an example of double standards within the sport.

“Why can football players celebrate LGBTQ+ sexuality but not their love for Christ?” he questioned.

He quoted Romans 14:8 in his post: “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord.”

Annor ended his post with a bold affirmation of his faith: “It’s the Kingdom’s work on the pitch!”

The Abrankese-based outfit added to Kotoko’s recent struggles with a commanding performance at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex on Matchday 28 of the Ghana Premier League.

Nafiu Sulemana set the tone early with a stunning strike in the 15th minute, before Emmanuel Annor doubled the lead just before halftime to seal a well-deserved win for Nations FC.

Speaking in his post-match interview, Coach Mingle revealed the mindset and message he instilled in his players ahead of the crucial clash.

“We came with our game plan to get the goals, and it worked to perfection,” he said.

“I told my players they will have to win this game if they want to be title contenders. So they were all motivated, and they all played their role well.

“We came to play and win, that was our strategy coming into the game,” he added.

The victory keeps Nations FC firmly in second place on the league table with 51 points. They will next face Berekum Chelsea at the Golden City Park on Matchday 29.

The Abrankese-based club will host the Porcupine Warriors this afternoon at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in a crucial Matchday 28 fixture of the ongoing 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season.

Speaking in a pre-match interview with Akoma FM, Mingle acknowledged Kotoko’s pedigree but remained upbeat about his team’s chances.

“Kotoko are coming into this game after a tough loss. Yes, they are like our senior brothers, and Kumasi is home for them, so it’s going to be a tough match,” Mingle admitted. “But we’re focused on maintaining our form. It won’t be easy, but the better team on the day will win.”

When asked about Kotoko’s individual quality, particularly rising star Albert Amoah, Mingle was quick to play down any fear.

“Albert Amoah and the rest played in the first leg, and we still beat them. They are good players, but so are ours. We don’t fear any player at Kotoko,” he said firmly.

Despite recognizing Kotoko’s advantage in terms of experience, Mingle is confident his side can match up and possibly come out on top.

“They might have more experienced players, but this is football—anything can happen. As I always say, the better side will carry the day.”

Kickoff is scheduled for 15:00 GMT.

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Playing at the Tuba Astroturf, the Phobians battled the Abrankese-based side in a tense encounter. After a goalless first half, Black Stars defender Razak Simpson broke the deadlock in the 65th minute with a stunning strike, securing all three points for the visitors.

Desperate for an equalizer, Hearts of Oak intensified their attacking play, recording 16 total shots against Nations FC’s 13.

However, their finishing let them down, with only six shots on target—all expertly saved by the visiting goalkeeper. In contrast, Nations FC registered just four shots on target but made their opportunities count.

The defeat extends Hearts of Oak’s winless streak to four games, mounting pressure on head coach Aboubakar Ouattara.

It also sees them slip further behind arch-rivals and league leaders Asante Kotoko, who now hold an eight-point lead.

With this victory, Nations FC climbs to fourth place with 39 points, while Hearts of Oak drop to sixth with 37 points.

Looking ahead, Nations FC will aim to build on this momentum when they host Karela United at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak will seek redemption at home against Medeama SC at the Accra Sports Stadium this weekend.

The decision comes after the National Sports Authority (NSA) denied the club access to the Accra Sports Stadium for their rescheduled Matchday 21 fixture.

Initially, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced that the match would take place at the Accra Sports Stadium.

However, the NSA quickly refuted this, clarifying that the facility remains closed for renovations following Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Chad.

Since September 2024, Hearts of Oak have been using the University of Ghana Stadium in Legon as their temporary home ground.

Unfortunately, that venue has also been shut down for refurbishment ahead of the CAF African Schools Football Championship, which runs from April 21 to April 26, 2025.

With limited options available, Hearts of Oak have been forced to relocate their home fixture against Nations FC to the Tuba Astroturf. Kickoff for the match is set for 15:00 GMT.

The games kicked off on Saturday at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena. FC Samartex held Asante Kotoko to a 1-1 draw. Awuah Dramani gave the hosts the lead in the 38th minute, but Kotoko responded swiftly after the break with Kwame Poku equalizing in the 46th minute.

Young Apostles pulled off a surprise at the Nana Agyemang Badu Park, defeating Accra Lions 1-0. Hussein Issah netted the decisive goal in the 72nd minute to hand the hosts all three points.

Hearts of Oak suffered a setback in their title chase, falling 1-0 to Dreams FC at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium. Abdul Razak Salifu’s early third-minute strike was enough to seal the win for the “Still Believe” side.

The Sunday games saw Bechem United secure a comfortable 2-0 victory over Vision FC at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, thanks to a quickfire brace from Yaw Annor in the 24th and 25th minutes.

Heart of Lions edged past Karela United 1-0 in an intense clash at the Kpando Sports Stadium. Kwesi Pong struck in the 72nd minute to hand the hosts a crucial win.

Nations FC fought hard to overcome Medeama SC with a 2-1 triumph at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex. Razak Simpson’s stunning 32nd-minute goal put Nations FC ahead, but Yusuf Mubarak leveled the score in the 60th minute from the penalty spot. However, Faisal Charwartey’s powerful header in the 78th minute sealed the win for the home side.

Legon Cities revived their survival hopes with a crucial 2-1 victory over Berekum Chelsea at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium. Mohammed Alidu opened the scoring for the Royals before Stephen Amankona equalized. However, Kabu Agyemang Raymond’s late goal secured a vital win.

Aduana FC stunned Bibiani GoldStars with a dominant 2-0 win at the Nana Agyemang Badu Park. Kelvin Obeng was the hero, netting twice in quick succession in the 7th and 11th minutes to propel the Fire Club to victory.

The clash between Basake Holy Stars and Nsoatreman FC was abandoned after Nsoatreman announced their withdrawal from the league due to safety concerns.

Following Matchday 24, Asante Kotoko, Bibiani GoldStars, Heart of Lions, and Hearts of Oak occupy the top four spots, while Legon Cities, Karela United, and Accra Lions find themselves in the relegation zone.

𝗙𝗨𝗟𝗟-𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗘

• FC Samartex 1-1 Asante Kotoko
• Hearts of Oak 0-1 Dreams FC
• Young Apostles 1-0 Accra Lions
• Bechem United 2-0 Vision FC
• Heart of Lions 1-0 Karela United
• Nations FC 2-1 Medeama SC
• Legon Cities 2-1 Berekum Chelsea
• Aduana FC 2-0 Bibiani GoldStars
• Basake Holy Stars v Nsoatreman FC [Abandoned]

In their debut season, the Abrankese-based team secured 7th place, finishing with 49 points.

Speaking to the club’s website ahead of the start of the season, the 66-year-old coach emphasized his goal to elevate the team’s performance, with hopes of competing for titles in the upcoming season.

“The league is structured in a way that it doesn’t matter who you play first or last,” Mingle stated.

“The most important thing for us is to ensure we improve on last season’s performance.”

Acknowledging the challenge of their opening match against Bechem United, Mingle described it as a tough start but stressed his focus on preparing his team to face any opponent.

“Starting against Bechem United will obviously be a tough start, but we have to be ready for any opponent,” he remarked.

Nations FC will begin their season with a home game against the Hunters at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

The new season is set to kick off on September 6.

The club announced the acquisition of the forward on Monday, July 22, in an official statement on its website.

Bienvenue chez Nations, Bi Boris! 🤝#WIFW 🔵🟠⚪️ 🦅 pic.twitter.com/Fahsix3SH0

— Nations Football Club (@nationsfcgh) July 23, 2024

“Nations FC is excited to announce the signing of promising Ivorian striker Bi Boris Djangone. This acquisition will significantly boost the team’s attacking capabilities and enhance the team’s performance in the upcoming season.

“Bi Boris Djangone, has emerged as one of Ivory Coast’s most exciting football talents. Known for his exceptional pace, technical skills, and goal-scoring prowess, Djangone has quickly risen through the ranks of Ivorian football.

“Nations FC, renowned for its strategic investments in young talent, sees Djangone as a key asset for our future ambitions. The club’s management believes his addition will provide a significant boost to our offensive lineup and inspire the entire squad,” Nations FC said in its statement.

In their maiden campaign last season in the Ghana Premier League, Nations FC finished 7th place with 49 points under Kasim Mingle as head coach.

Outraged fans attempted to confront match officials during halftime, prompting condemnation from the club.

Following the incident, the Ghana Football Association has charged Asante Kotoko with misconduct, giving them until Wednesday, March 27, 2024, to provide a formal response.

In a statement, the Porcupine Warriors expressed their disappointment towards the conduct of certain individuals at the game, emphasizing that such behaviour contradicts the values upheld by the esteemed club.

“Asante Kotoko condemns the detestable conduct of some persons whose action yesterday in our Premier League matchday 23 against Nations FC at the Baba Yara Stadium went contrary to what this prestigious club stands for,” the club’s statement read.

The club assured its stakeholders that it is actively cooperating with the GFA to address the issue and find a lasting solution.

Additionally, Asante Kotoko urged the GFA to address concerns such as officiating, safety, and security, which could potentially undermine the integrity of the sport.

“While addressing this incident, we also call on the GFA to address issues such as officiating, safety, and security amongst others which tend to undermine the integrity of the game on all levels,” the statement continued.

Acknowledging their recent challenges in the league, including a 1-0 loss to Nations FC, Asante Kotoko emphasized their commitment to restoring their performance.

Currently placed 9th on the league table with 32 points, the club looks ahead to their upcoming fixture against Bechem United at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park this weekend.

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The Phobians who were hoping to record their first win under Bashiru were hosted at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex on Saturday afternoon against the Premier League debutant in the matchday 15 games.

Despite taking an early lead, the Phobians played to a 1-1 draw against Nations FC.

In a post-game interview on StarTimes, Bashiru expressed dissatisfaction with his players’ performance, citing perceived pressure and defensive weaknesses.

“Another blunder from the goalkeeper and also we didn’t defend well just like the last game against Kotoko. That’s the problem we’ve been facing but we will go back and do the homework as well” he stated.

“In the first half no, but the team gave what I was expecting in the second half. There was so much pressure on my boys but I told them to stay calm. It’s like there was so much pressure on them and we didn’t defend aggressively as well,” Bashiru added.

The draw leaves Hearts of Oak at the 9th position on the league log with 17 points and will come up against regional rivals, Great Olympics in the ‘Ga-Mantse’ derby on Friday, December 22, 2023, at the Baba Yara Stadium.

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The Phobians were hoping to return to winning ways following their 3-2 defeat against Asante Kotoko last weekend at the Baba Yara Stadium.

In the matchday 15 games, Hearts of Oak were held by the Premier League debutants at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex at Abrankese.

Hamza Issah broke the deadlock for the Rainbow Club in the 7th minute. 

However, Richard Danso scored in the 94th minute as the home side secured a point against Hearts of Oak.

Ayi failed to grab Danso’s shot as the ball went past his gloves.

After the game, fans of the club expressed their displeasure to Ayi but the goalkeeper apologized to the unhappy fans for his error.

Video below: 

The draw leaves Hearts of Oak at the 9th position with 17 points. The Phobians will be hosted by city rivals, Great Olympics in the matchday 16 game next weekend.

The Premier League newbie hosted the Porcupine Warriors at the Dr Kwame Kyei at Abrankese in the Ashanti region in the matchday six games.

The game however ended 2-2 after 90 minutes.

Mingle after the game said he has been left sad by the results.

According to him, his side should have beaten Prosper Narteh Ogum’s side hands down.

“I’m very sad because we should have won the game hands down,” he told StarTimes after the game. Our boys lost concentration and they punished us with that goal,” he added.

Amidou Diarra broke the deadlock for the home side in the 50th minute and maintained their lead until the 88th minute when Steven Mukwala restored parity for Asante Kotoko.

Kotoko then surged ahead in the 92nd minute, thanks to a goal from Michael Kyei Dwamena but in the 104th minute, Diarra once again stepped up, this time converting a penalty to ensure that the spoils were equally shared.

Nations FC now sit in 14th position on the Premier League summit with 5 points with their outstanding game with defending champions, Medeama SC.

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The fans of the Porcupine Warriors went bonkers after Nations FC were awarded a late penalty in their matchday six games in the ongoing 2023/24 Ghana Premier League.

The irate fans didn’t agree that it was a penalty and the game had to be stopped for a number of minutes before Asante Kotoko head coach Prosper Ogum intervened for the spot kick to be converted to end the game 2-2.

It remains to be seen what the Ghana Football Association will do after this incident.

After the break, Nations FC took the lead from a corner kick in the 50th minute through Andrews Ntim Manu who turned the ball into his own net.

Kalo Ouattara scored the equalizer for Asante Kotoko in the 87th minute before Michael Kyei Dwamena gave the Porcupine Warriors the lead in added time.

Prosper Ogum’s team thought they were heading for the victory but Nations FC didn’t give up.

The hosts were awarded a penalty before the game was put on hold for minutes. It was eventually converted by Amidou Diarra to end the game 2-2.

The Royals in the matchday four games were hosted at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex on Sunday at Abrankese.

Legon Cities broke the deadlock after just seven minutes into the game through Joseph Mereku.

However, in the second half, the host equalized through Barimah Baah in the 54^th minute to end the game 1-1.

Speaking after the game, the former Asante Kotoko and Aduana FC coach said the result was a true reflection of the game

“The draw is a true reflection of the game. We managed to start on the front foot and that unsettled them,” he said as reported by the club on X.

“We got the early goal which is also part of our game plan today. A point here isn’t bad for us and we are happy with it even though we wanted the three points” he stated.

Fabin also said they are aiming to finish the 2023/24 campaign in a respectable position.

“We want to get a respectable position and avoid relegation fights the club suffered these past seasons” he added.

Legon Cities, who sit 2nd on the league log with 7 points will hope to win when they host Bechem United in the matchday five games at the El-Wak Stadium on Sunday, October 15.

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The veteran trainer joins the side after leaving Bechem United at the end of the 2022/23 Ghana Premier League.

Johnson Smith who managed to secure promotion to the top flight will serve as an assistant.

Having secured qualification from the Division One League to the Ghana Premier League, Nations FC is aiming to emerge as a top club in the top flight.

Kasim Mingle has established himself as one of the top coaches in the domestic top-flight following back-to-back performances in the league with the Hunters.

After 34 matches in the Ghana Premier League this season, Kasim Mingle’s Bechem United amassed 54 points in 34 matches, where they finished 3^rd on the league log behind Aduana FC and eventual Champions Medeama SC.

Nations FC will play their home games at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex at Abrankese.

In the Division One League matchday 28 games, Nations FC hosted WAFA at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.

Razak Simpson broke the deadlock for WAFA in the 8th minute but Abubakari Gariba levelled his side up just after two minutes to end the first half of the game 1-1.

After recess, WAFA again scored through Emmanuel Agyemang in the 58th minute.

In the 68th minute, Abubakari Gariba scored a brace to make it 2-2.

The home side continued their dominance in the game as Abubakari Gariba scored the winner in the 9th minute to make it a hat trick.

The win mean Nations FC have qualified for the 2023/24 Ghana Premier League season from Zone Two.

Nations FC, which is owned by Asante Kotoko Board Chairman, Dr Kwame Kyei is one of the fastest-growing football clubs in the country.

They remain one of the few clubs that own their own stadium located at Abrankese.