Hearts of Oak welcome Accra Lions to the Accra Sports Stadium in the capital derby on Friday, hoping to keep their top-four ambitions alive.

The Phobians are currently 5th on the table with 49 points after 32 matches. They come into the fixture on a high after a narrow 1-0 away win over Berekum Chelsea, extending their decent run to two wins, two draws, and one loss in their last five.

Despite their defensive solidity , only 17 goals conceded, the second-best in the league, Hearts have struggled at home, earning just 25 points from 15 matches, a tally bettered by all but three teams. However, they remain tough to break down on their turf, keeping three consecutive clean sheets (W1, D2). Coach Aboubakar Ouattara will view this as a vital opportunity to strengthen their push for a top-four finish.

Accra Lions, on the other hand, are still fighting to avoid relegation. Their thrilling 5-3 win over Aduana FC temporarily lifted them out of the drop zone on goal difference. With 35 points from 31 games, they have scored 31 goals (joint third-highest) but conceded 35,  the second most in the league. Their away form is concerning: just one win in 15 matches (D3, L11), making them the fourth worst travelers this season.

Reiner Kraft’s men will look to draw inspiration from their recent attacking display and last season’s 1-0 away win over Hearts, their only victory at the Accra Sports Stadium in three visits. Hearts had previously won the 2021/22 (2-0) and 2022/23 (1-0) fixtures.

GFA Communications