Martin Karikari’s Late Stunner Sends Hearts of Oak to GPL Summit After Third Straight Win

According to a report by TV3Gh, on Saturday October 24, 2026, Accra Hearts of Oak have climbed to the top of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League table after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Basake Holy Stars, with Martin Karikari producing a moment of brilliance to settle Friday’s Matchday 8 encounter.

The Phobians claimed all three points at the University of Ghana Stadium on October 23, 2026, thanks to Karikari’s spectacular 82nd-minute strike, extending their winning streak to three consecutive league matches and strengthening their early-season title ambitions.

The victory continues Hearts of Oak’s impressive run under head coach Nebojša Kapor, following their previous successes against FC Port City and Vision FC.

The latest result has further boosted confidence within the team as they seek to maintain their consistency throughout the campaign.

Despite Hearts’ determination to secure an early breakthrough, Basake Holy Stars proved difficult opponents, displaying impressive defensive organisation and discipline for much of the contest.

The visitors remained compact at the back, frustrating Hearts’ attacking players and limiting their opportunities to find space in dangerous areas. They also attempted to threaten on the counterattack whenever possession was regained.

Hearts, however, continued to apply pressure and came close to opening the scoring when Ransford Mensah unleashed a powerful free-kick that struck the woodwork. The near miss left the hosts searching for another opportunity to break the deadlock.

Their persistence eventually paid off in the closing stages of the second half when Karikari delivered the decisive moment.

The forward demonstrated excellent composure and individual skill to create room for himself inside the penalty area before unleashing a superb left-footed finish past the goalkeeper.

His effort proved decisive, sending the home supporters into celebration and securing a valuable victory for the Phobians.

Hearts head coach Nebojša Kapor was particularly pleased with the quality of the winning goal, describing it as an outstanding moment.

“I’m happy especially how we scored. That is a really, really good goal,” he said.

The result takes Hearts of Oak to the summit of the Ghana Premier League standings with 17 points after eight matches, placing them three points clear at the top ahead of the remaining Matchday 8 fixtures.

Their continued progress will depend on maintaining the same level of performance as the competition intensifies.

Another major positive for the Phobians has been their defensive solidity. The team has kept clean sheets in each of its three consecutive victories, underlining the growing balance between its attacking threat and defensive organisation.

Defender Kelvin Osei Asibey was named NASCO Man of the Match, earning the recognition for the third consecutive time.

His consistent performances have contributed significantly to Hearts’ recent success and their ability to protect narrow leads.

For Basake Holy Stars, the defeat represents another disappointing away result despite their disciplined display. The visitors managed to frustrate Hearts for long periods but ultimately could not prevent Karikari from delivering the decisive blow.

The result also highlights the contrast between Holy Stars’ performances at home and on the road, with the club still struggling to collect points away from their own ground.

Hearts of Oak will now turn their attention to their next league assignment against Debibi United, where they will attempt to extend their winning streak and strengthen their grip on the top position.

Basake Holy Stars, meanwhile, will seek to recover from the setback when they host Dreams FC, hoping to return to winning ways and maintain their strong home form.

With three successive victories behind them, Hearts of Oak have sent a clear message to their title rivals that they intend to remain firmly in the race for the Ghana Premier League crown.

However, with the season still in its early stages and other contenders yet to complete their Matchday 8 fixtures, the Phobians will need to sustain their momentum to remain at the summit.

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