Accra Hearts of Oak’s title hopes took another hit on Sunday as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by struggling Karela United at the Accra Sports Stadium in a Ghana Premier League match day 28 game.
The result marked the Phobians’ ninth draw of the season, yet another familiar story of missed chances and unanswered questions.
Coach Aboubakar Ouattara handed Mawuli Wayo a return to the starting XI, but just three minutes in, the winger was booked for a reckless challenge, raising early doubts about the decision.
Despite dominating possession, Hearts found Karela goalkeeper Nasiru Abdul Karim in inspired form.
New signing Seth Osei tested him with a snapshot in the 16th minute, followed closely by a long-range strike from Raphael Amponsah, both denied by the keeper.
Kwabena Boateng came closest to breaking the deadlock in the 26th minute, but his effort from close range shaved the post by mere millimeters.
Karela, unbeaten in three of their last seven games, threatened through their attacking duo of Asigri Mohammed and Adamu Alhassan.
The pair nearly combined for a breakthrough late in the first half, but Hearts’ defense held firm.
The draw leaves Hearts of Oak in 5th place on the league table, now trailing leaders Bibiani Gold Stars by 11 points after their narrow 1-0 win over Medeama.
With just a handful of games remaining, Hearts’ title ambitions are quickly fading unless they find form and fast.
