Mixed Opening Day for Hearts and Kotoko in 2025/26 Ghana Premier League

The 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season kicks off with two of the country’s biggest clubs, Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, beginning their respective campaigns under contrasting circumstances — one enjoying home advantage against a newly promoted side, and the other heading into a traditionally tough away encounter.

Hearts of Oak will welcome top-flight newcomers Hohoe United to the Accra Sports Stadium as they look to mount a serious title challenge following a somewhat inconsistent showing last season. Despite finishing in the top four, the Phobians were plagued by inconsistency for much of the campaign. This time around, with a reorganized technical setup and a renewed sense of purpose, they are eyeing a strong start to push for the championship.

Head coach Didi Dramani remains at the helm and will be hoping to build on the club’s strong finish last term. The addition of Aboubakar Ouattara as Special Advisor is seen as part of a broader effort to strengthen the technical leadership and improve strategic planning. With the opening fixture offering what appears to be a manageable test, Hearts know they cannot afford to drop points early on if they want to stay ahead of the pack.

Their opponents, Hohoe United, are making their Premier League debut following a successful campaign in the Division One League. While they may lack top-flight experience, their promotion was hard-earned and they will arrive in Accra eager to prove they belong at the elite level. Facing a team with Hearts’ pedigree is undoubtedly a baptism of fire, but also a golden opportunity to announce their arrival.

While Hearts enjoy home comfort, arch-rivals Asante Kotoko face a much sterner test on the road as they travel to Berekum to face Chelsea at the Golden City Park — a venue that has consistently posed problems for the Porcupine Warriors.

Kotoko enter the new season buoyed by recent silverware, having clinched both the President’s Cup and the Toyota Cup under head coach Karim Zito. Zito, who was initially brought in mid-season after the dismissal of Prosper Narteh Ogum, has since been confirmed as the club’s permanent manager. His impact was immediate, breathing life into a side that had lost form and direction.

However, the upcoming match against Berekum Chelsea is far from straightforward. Kotoko were held to a draw in Berekum last season, and the hosts have built a reputation for being formidable on home turf. The clash presents a real test of Kotoko’s readiness — both mentally and tactically — as they try to reassert themselves as title contenders.

Another layer of complexity for Kotoko is their return to continental competition this season. Balancing league ambitions with the rigors of CAF tournaments will require squad depth, rotation, and consistency — all of which the club will need to manage from the very outset.

With both clubs facing different levels of difficulty in their opening matches, the start of the 2025/26 GPL season promises immediate excitement. Hearts will look to capitalize on their home advantage and gain early momentum against a fresh opponent, while Kotoko must dig deep to secure a strong start away from home.

As the curtain rises on another GPL season, fans across the country will be watching closely. Will Hearts begin their title hunt with flair, or will Hohoe United spring an opening-day surprise? Can Kotoko shake off past struggles at Berekum and begin their campaign with intent?

One thing is clear — the race for the title begins now, and both Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko will be eager to set the tone early.