2025/26 Ghana Premier League: Week 17 Match Report – Medeama 1-0 Hearts of Oak

Medeama SC closed the first round of the Ghana Premier League in commanding fashion, finishing top of the table and carrying their momentum into the new year after a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Hearts of Oak on Sunday.

The decisive moment came in the 74th minute, when Salim Adams haunted his former club with a close-range finish to separate the two sides at the TnA Stadium in Tarkwa. The former Hearts midfielder showed composure inside the box, pouncing on a precise cut-back from Richard Appiah, who had surged brilliantly down the right flank before delivering an incisive cross that split the Phobians’ defence.

Despite sustained pressure from Medeama throughout the match, Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Solomon Agbasi kept his side in contention with a series of impressive saves. The Phobians were repeatedly tested as Medeama dominated possession and dictated the tempo in both halves, probing patiently for an opening. Agbasi’s resistance eventually crumbled, however, as Adams struck from close range to hand the Mauve and Yellow a priceless victory.

The game’s complexion shifted noticeably following the introduction of Richard Appiah and Derrick Fordjour, whose energy and directness injected fresh impetus into Medeama’s attack. Their impact was immediate, with Medeama increasing the intensity and pinning Hearts deeper into their own half until the breakthrough finally arrived.

Medeama’s victory sees them open a two-point lead at the summit of the Premier League table, sealing top spot at the end of the first round of the season. It marks a significant statement of intent as they continue their push for a second league title, heading into the new year as the team to beat.

The defeat leaves Hearts fifth on the standings with 28 points from 17 matches, a frustrating end to the first half of the campaign after a spirited but ultimately fruitless display.