The first round of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League (GPL) has concluded with unexpected twists and standout performances. From underdog triumphs to individual brilliance, here’s a detailed recap:
Bibiani Gold Stars lead the pack
After 17 matches, Bibiani Gold Stars sit atop the league table, defying expectations. Head coach Frimpong Manso, who guided the team to an 11th-place finish last season, has exceeded projections with an exceptional campaign.
Key stats from their first-round performance:
- Wins: 9 victories, the joint-highest in the league.
- Home Record: Unbeaten at home, with 7 wins and 1 draw in 8 games.
- Losses: Only 2 defeats in the entire round.
Samuel Attah Kumi has emerged as the hero for Bibiani, netting 8 goals and trailing the top scorer, Faisal Charwetey, by just one. The team’s success blends youthful energy, represented by Foster Agyei, with experienced leadership, such as defender Vincent Atingah, fueling their title dreams.
Kwame Poku sparks Kotoko revival
Asante Kotoko’s signing of Kwame Poku has proven timely. Following Albert Amoah’s injury setback, Poku stepped up, scoring 4 goals in 3 games, including a decisive strike in their Matchday 17 victory over Vision FC.
Kotoko’s first-round highlights:
- Wins: 9 (6 at home, 3 away).
- Goals: League-high 20 goals scored.
- Position: 3rd place with 31 points, just 2 points behind leaders Gold Stars.
Under Prosper Ogum’s guidance, the Porcupines remain strong contenders for the title.
Hearts of Oak end Samartex jinx
Accra Hearts of Oak, after a shaky start, gained momentum with consistent results. Following a tough defeat to Kotoko, the Phobians remained unbeaten in their next four matches.
The standout moment came in their Matchday 17 clash with Samartex at the Nsekyire Park, where they secured their first-ever point at the venue with a hard-fought draw. Hearts now sit in a better position than last season, showing promise for the second round.
Surprise package: Hearts of Lions
A team that battled relegation last season, Hearts of Lions, shocked fans with their transformation. Led by Bashir Hayford, the Kpando-based side topped the table for most of the first round and now sit 4th with 30 points. They are being touted as genuine title contenders.
Faisal Charwetey leads the goal race
Nation’s FC striker Faisal Charwetey has been a revelation, scoring 9 goals in 15 games. His clinical finishing has propelled Nation’s FC to 2nd place with 32 points, just one shy of Gold Stars.
Key first-round stats at a glance
- Top Scorers: Faisal Charwetey (9), Samuel Attah Kumi (8).
- Top Teams: Gold Stars (33 points), Nation’s FC (32 points), Kotoko (31 points).
- Unbeaten Runs: Gold Stars (home), Hearts of Oak (last 4 games)
As the league heads into its second round, fans can look forward to more drama and surprises.
The relegation battle: Accra Lions, Legon Cities, and Karela
The fight to avoid relegation in the Ghana Premier League is intensifying, with surprises unfolding as the first round concludes. With 17 matches played, the battle for survival promises to be fiercely contested in the second half of the season.
Accra Lions struggle unexpectedly
Accra Lions, who finished second last season, find themselves in a shocking relegation battle. After a stellar campaign last year, their current form has been dismal, managing only 2 wins in 17 games. With 8 losses and a mere 13 points from a possible 51, they are firmly entrenched in the relegation zone.
Legon Cities’ ongoing woes
Once considered promising after their league debut, Legon Cities have endured a steady decline. Currently sitting 17th, they face an uphill battle to escape relegation. Following the mid-season departure of head coach Paa Kwesi Fabin, Yaw Acheampong has taken over, tasked with turning their fortunes around and reigniting their survival hopes.
Karela’s challenges
Karela United have also faced their share of difficulties this season. Struggling to find consistent form, the Tamale-based club sits precariously in 16th place with 14 points.
GPL Table after first round
As the second round approaches, all three clubs remain hopeful of improving their performances and avoiding the drop to Division One. The fight for survival promises to be one of the most gripping narratives of the league’s second phase.
