The Ghana Premier League could hardly have asked for a louder opening statement. Hearts of Oak crushed Berekum Chelsea 4-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium, with John Antwi’s two goals setting the tone for a weekend full of goals, surprises and historic moments.
Antwi needed only four minutes to make his mark. The experienced forward struck again in the 37th minute, leaving Chelsea with a mountain to climb before the break and giving new Hearts coach Nebojsa Kapor a dream start.
Kader Mahmoud then added a third late in the game. Ali Mohammed completed the rout from the penalty spot in stoppage time, sending the Phobians straight to the top of the early table.
For Kapor, the result was more than three points. Hearts looked sharp, aggressive and comfortable in attack, while their movement around the final third caused Chelsea problems throughout the afternoon.
The result also placed more attention on Asante Kotoko, who were held to a 2-2 draw by newly promoted Debibi United in Berekum. Dogo Yakubu gave Kotoko an early lead, but Richard Owusu struck twice after the break before Herbert Gyau rescued a point with a goal from a goalmouth scramble.
It was a huge result for Debibi on their first taste of Premier League football. Their comeback showed the confidence needed to compete at this level, while Kotoko left with plenty to consider under coach Eric Tinkler.
FC Samartex 1996 also made a strong start by beating Karela United 3-1. Edwin Kofi Asamoah, Isaac Afful and Meschack Sowah Adjetey found the net for Samartex, while Jonas Wisdom scored a late consolation.
Bechem United edged Bibiani GoldStars 1-0 through Darlvin Yeboah’s first-half stoppage-time goal. Basake Holy Stars also needed a late strike, with Francis Oteng Gyetuah scoring in the 82nd minute to beat Swedru All Blacks.
In Kpando, Heart of Lions and Aduana FC played out a tense 0-0 draw. Neither side could find the final touch in a game where caution appeared to win the tactical battle.
There was also history at Daasebre Boamah Darko II Park. Premier League newcomers Port City FC drew 1-1 with fellow debutants FC Ashantigold in a match that carried the excitement of a new beginning.
Zak Musah put Ashantigold ahead, but goalkeeper Abdul Aziz kept Port City alive with a superb double save from a penalty chance. Captain Hamza Zakari then rose highest in the 66th minute to head Port City level and secure a memorable point.
The opening weekend has already offered a glimpse of what may lie ahead. Hearts have fired the first warning shot, but with Kotoko stumbling and the newcomers showing no fear, the race is already wide open.
