2025/26 Ghana Premier League: Week 23 Match Preview - Hearts of Oak vs Berekum Chelsea

Hearts of Oak will renew acquaintances with former head coach Samuel Boadu on Sunday when they host Berekum Chelsea at the University of Ghana Stadium, Legon, in a crucial Ghana Premier League encounter.

The Phobians come into the match buoyed by their 1-0 victory over rivals Asante Kotoko in the Super Clash, a result that has strengthened belief within the squad as they continue their pursuit of the top spot. Hearts currently sit second on the table with 39 points, five behind leaders Medeama SC.

Boadu, who guided Hearts of Oak to their last league title, returns to face his former side determined to disrupt their momentum while steering Berekum Chelsea away from danger.

Hearts are enjoying a solid run of form, unbeaten in their last five league matches with three wins and two draws, while keeping clean sheets in all five games. Their defensive discipline has been a hallmark this season, with just seven goals conceded so far. However, their home form has shown signs of inconsistency, an area they will be eager to improve despite a strong recent record against Chelsea, having won four of the last five meetings at home.

Berekum Chelsea find themselves in a difficult position, lying 15th with 26 points and hovering just above the relegation zone. Although they secured an important win over Heart of Lions in their previous outing, their struggles away from home remain a concern, having failed to register a single victory on the road this season, drawing three and losing eight.

Hearts of Oak coach Didi Dramani expects a stern challenge from a side known for its compact defensive approach.

“We are coming up against a compact and very defensively oriented side in Berekum Chelsea. If you see where they sit on the league log, it will be a demanding game, but we will work to ensure we get the result while being aware of what they can do on the day,” he told Asempa FM.

He also called for strong backing from the supporters as the title race gathers momentum.

“I will call on the fans to come in their numbers to fill the stadium and support the team.”

Sunday’s fixture presents a blend of narrative and necessity, with Hearts seeking to maintain pressure at the top while Berekum Chelsea fight to ease relegation fears under a coach who knows the Phobians all too well.