Karela United returned to winning ways in the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League after securing a narrow 1-0 victory over Dreams FC at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale on Sunday, October 11.
Midfielder Malik Abubakar scored the decisive goal in the first half to hand Karela United all three points and deepen Dreams FC’s difficult start to the season.
The home side began the encounter with attacking intent, putting the Dreams FC defence under pressure as they searched for an early breakthrough.
Karela captain Fataw Mohammed came close to opening the scoring with an impressive long-range effort, signalling the hosts’ determination to take control of the match.
Abubakar also threatened moments later after a cross from Ali Mohammed fell into his path following a defensive clearance that failed to deal with the danger. However, the midfielder was unable to direct his initial effort on target.
He eventually made amends with the opening goal after Ali Mohammed combined with Mohammed Zaidan to create the opportunity. Abubakar finished the move with a powerful strike to put Karela United ahead midway through the first half.
The goal rewarded Karela’s bright start and gave them a valuable advantage as they sought to extend their impressive home record.
The hosts had another opportunity to increase their lead before half-time when Eric Antwi failed to find Abubakar with a pass despite the midfielder being well positioned at the far side with a clear opportunity to score.
Dreams FC went into the break trailing by a goal and needed a stronger response after the restart to get back into the contest.
The visitors showed some improvement in the second half and came close to equalising, forcing Karela goalkeeper Ganiu Mohammed into a spectacular save with one of their best efforts of the afternoon.
Karela, however, remained dangerous on the counterattack and continued to search for a second goal that would put the result beyond doubt.
Dreams FC goalkeeper Rahman Osman kept his side in the game with crucial interventions, denying Mohammed Mankuyeli and Felix Mortu from extending the hosts’ advantage.
Despite those opportunities, Karela were unable to add to their tally. They nevertheless maintained their defensive discipline in the closing stages, preventing Dreams FC from finding an equaliser.
The final whistle confirmed a 1-0 victory for Karela United, who collected their third win in three home matches this season.
The result provides a timely boost for Karela as they seek to establish greater consistency in the league. Abubakar’s decisive contribution also highlighted his importance to the team’s attacking efforts.
For Dreams FC, the defeat represents another setback in what has been a challenging opening to the campaign. The visitors struggled to convert their opportunities and ultimately paid the price for conceding in the first half.
Dreams FC will need to improve their attacking efficiency and defensive organisation as they look to turn their fortunes around in the coming weeks.
Karela United, meanwhile, will take confidence from their ability to protect a narrow lead and secure maximum points, particularly as they continue to make the most of their home advantage in the Ghana Premier League.
