The 2025/26 Ghana Premier League (GPL) season kicked off over the weekend, producing drama, surprises, and early statements of intent from title hopefuls. From historic victories to resilient debutants, week one signaled what promises to be a fiercely competitive campaign.
Kotoko End 15-Year Berekum Drought The biggest talking point came from the Golden City Park, where Asante Kotoko finally broke their 15-year winless run against Berekum Chelsea with a narrow 1-0 victory. Albert Amoah’s decisive strike not only gave the Porcupine Warriors a morale boost but also provided perfect momentum ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup clash with Nigeria’s Kwara United next weekend.
Hearts Held by Brave Debutants Over in Accra, Hearts of Oak stumbled to a 0-0 draw against league newcomers Hohoe United. Despite being reduced to 10 men in the second half, the debutants stood firm, frustrating the Phobians in front of their home crowd.
The result has raised early questions about Hearts’ attacking sharpness, while Hohoe United walked away with confidence-boosting respect in their maiden GPL appearance. Champions Start Strong Defending champions Bibiani Gold Stars wasted no time reminding rivals of their pedigree, defeating Bechem United 2-1 at the Duns Park.
A quick-fire brace from Samuel Atta Kumi sealed the points, with Bechem’s Dalvin Yeboah netting a consolation. The champions look determined to maintain their grip on the title.
Medeama and Nations Impress
Medeama SC, one of the preseason favourites, also made a strong statement with a convincing 2-0 away win over Dreams FC in Dawu. Goals from Kwesi Donsu and Abdul Fatawu powered the Mauve and Yellow to three points, underlining their ambition to challenge for the crown after last season’s near miss.
Nations FC, meanwhile, announced their intentions with a comfortable 3-1 home victory over Legon Cities. Former U-20 star Prince Osei dazzled with a brace, while veteran forward Sadat Karim added the third to cap a dominant performance. The visitors managed a consolation late on, but the result firmly established Nations FC as a side to watch this season.
Karela United Edge Eleven Wonders
At the Naa Sheriga Sports Complex, Karela United secured a narrow 1-0 win over Eleven Wonders. Young striker Bright Mensah netted in the second half to seal the victory, giving Karela a perfect start to the campaign in front of their home fans.
Tamale Derby Drama
In the north, football lovers were treated to a pulsating derby as Real Tamale United and Tamale City battled to a 2-2 draw. Both sides exchanged blows in an end-to-end affair, with Mohammed Yahaya scoring a last-minute equalizer for RTU to salvage a point. The match drew a massive crowd, highlighting the passion and intensity northern derbies bring to the GPL.
Looking Ahead
Matchday one provided thrills, shocks, and storylines that are sure to shape the coming weeks. Kotoko’s drought-ending win, Hearts’ early slip, the champions’ strong start, and the resilience of debutants Hohoe United have set the tone for what promises to be one of the most unpredictable seasons in recent memory.
All eyes now turn to Matchday Two, where Kotoko will shift focus briefly to continental duties before returning to domestic action, while Hearts of Oak face a tricky away test. For now, the 2025/26 GPL season has truly kicked off with fireworks.
