Hearts of Oak bounced back from their painful defeat to archrivals Asante Kotoko with a commanding 3-1 victory over Berekum Chelsea on Friday night at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The win ended a two-game winless streak for the Phobians and reignited their hopes of challenging for the league title.
Head coach Aboubakar Ouattara made several key changes to the lineup following the loss to Kotoko. Goalkeeper Sharif Shuaib earned his first start of the season, replacing first-choice Benjamin Asare, who is currently with the Ghana national team preparing for the CHAN 2024 qualifier against Nigeria. Ransford Mensah and Ahmed Ramzy Yussif were also restored to the starting XI.
Hearts took the lead in the 16th minute when Ahmed Ramzy Yussif scored his first goal for the club, putting them ahead early. Striker Hamza Issah doubled the advantage just five minutes into the second half.
Chelsea fought back through Emmanuel Sarpong, who reduced the deficit in the 62nd minute. However, Hearts held firm and sealed the victory in the 81st minute when substitute Kwabena Boateng struck a superb goal to make it 3-1.
The win moves Hearts of Oak back into contention for the league title, keeping their aspirations alive.
