Heart of Lions will begin their 2025/26 Premier League campaign with a cracking home clash against Dreams FC at the Kpando Sports Stadium on Sunday, September 14, in what promises to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening weekend.
Both sides ended last season on strong footing, and with their reputations as tough top-half contenders, this opening-day clash promises to set the tone for another thrilling campaign.
Lions- Building on history
Last season marked an impressive milestone for Heart of Lions, who clinched a second-placed finish, their highest league position since the 2013/14 season. That performance earned them a place in the Ghalca Top Four, confirming their resurgence as a formidable force in Ghanaian football.
The Kpando outfit thrived particularly at home, where they secured 12 wins, 3 draws, and just 2 defeats, making them one of the league’s top five strongest home sides. Their attacking prowess was equally impressive, netting 24 goals at Kpando while conceding just 9, statistics that highlight their balance between efficiency up front and resilience at the back.
Yet, season openers have been problematic. Head coach Bashir Hayford’s men are winless in their last two opening-day fixtures (D2), including a 1-1 draw at Aduana FC last term. That slow start did not prevent them from climbing to second place, but the Lions will be eager to snap that streak with a winning start this time.
Adding to the intrigue is the memory of their 1-2 home defeat to Dreams FC in March 2025, a result that still lingers as unfinished business for the Kpando faithful. 
Dreams FC - Ready for the challenge
Dreams FC, on the other hand, continue to cement their reputation as one of the league’s most consistent performers. The Believers closed last season in the top half of the table for the third consecutive year, thanks in part to an excellent second-round run where they recorded 11 wins, 3 draws, and only 3 defeats.
The off-season has only reinforced their momentum. Three victories in as many pre-season matches showcased their readiness for the new campaign, with fresh additions to their squad further bolstering hopes of another successful year.
Dreams were also among the league’s strongest travellers in 2024/25, finishing as the fifth-best away side with 5 wins, 5 draws, and 7 losses on the road. The Kpando trip will be daunting, but the Believers will be keen to repeat last season’s 2-1 away triumph and secure back-to-back victories over the Lions at their fortress.
Head-to Head - Level ground in Kpando
Since Heart of Lions returned to the Premier League in the 2023/24 season, the two sides have met twice at the Kpando Sports Stadium, with each team claiming a win:
That even record sets the stage for Sunday’s clash as a decider of sorts, with both sides eager to tilt the balance in their favour.
What to Expect
Heart of Lions will rely on their strong home record and hunger to erase memories of their defeat to Dreams FC, while Dreams arrive with confidence, tactical sharpness and the belief that their away resilience can once again shine through.
With both teams eyeing a statement win to launch their campaigns, the Kpando Sports Stadium is set for a thrilling, high-intensity contest – one that may well be decided by fine margins.
GFA Communications