The Ghana Premier League is entering its critical phase, and cracks are beginning to show for some of the title hopefuls. Asante Kotoko, who led the table heading into Matchweek 22, suffered a humbling 3-0 defeat to relegation-threatened Accra Lions.
The Lions, fighting for survival all season, produced one of their best performances yet. Gildas Jacob opened the scoring after reacting quickest to a rebound off the post before Yao Sopkoli doubled the lead with a ruthless four-on-two counterattack just before halftime. David Akintunde sealed the win with a powerful finish after a solo run into the box.
Kotoko’s only chance at a consolation goal was denied by goalkeeper Daniel Afful, who stopped a Kwame Opoku effort. The defeat is Kotoko’s heaviest this season and sees them slip to third place on 47 points. They now turn their attention to a crucial clash against second-placed Nations FC.
For Accra Lions, the win is a lifeline. They climb out of the drop zone, sitting 14th with 29 points.
Elsewhere, Hearts of Oak’s inconsistent form continued as they were beaten 2-0 by Aduana Stars in Dormaa. A first-half strike from Sam Adams and a late goal by Ivorian forward Abdel Latif Bamba handed Aduana the win. Under new manager Ciorba Aristica, Aduana are looking revitalized.
The Phobians have now lost four of their last seven matches, winning just once in that run. They have dropped to 6th on the table with 41 points.
In other results, Bibiani Gold Stars claimed the top spot with a 2-0 victory over Bechem United.
Full Week 22 Results:
Accra Lions 3-0 Asante Kotoko
Aduana Stars 2-0 Hearts of Oak
Bechem United 0-2 Bibiani Gold Stars
Heart of Lions 1-0 Medeama
Basake Holy Stars 1-0 Vision FC
Nations FC 1-0 Dreams FC
Samartex 2-0 Karela United
