Hearts of Oak returned to winning ways with an impressive 3-1 triumph over Berekum Chelsea on Friday night at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The result ended a two-game winless streak for the Phobians and reignited their hopes of contending for the league title.
The win was particularly significant as it followed a painful loss to archrivals Asante Kotoko SC. Head coach Aboubakar Ouattara responded to that defeat by making key changes to his lineup. Sharif Shuaib made his first start of the season in goal, replacing first-choice keeper Benjamin Asare, who is currently with the Ghana camp preparing for the CHAN 2024 qualifier against Nigeria. Ransford Mensah and Ahmed Ramzy Yussif also returned to the starting XI.
Ahmed Ramzy Yussif opened the scoring in the 16th minute, netting his first goal for Hearts to give the team an early lead. The Phobians doubled their advantage five minutes into the second half through striker Hamza Issah.
Berekum Chelsea, however, showed resilience as Emmanuel Sarpong pulled one back in the 62nd minute. Despite their efforts to find an equalizer, Hearts of Oak remained composed and sealed the victory in the 81st minute when substitute Kwabena Boateng found the back of the net with a superb finish.
The victory was a morale booster for Hearts and a crucial step in their pursuit of the league title.
