Hearts of Oak beat Basake Holy Stars to go top of Ghana Premier League

Hearts of Oak moved to the top of the Ghana Premier League table after securing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Basake Holy Stars on Friday.

Martin Karikari scored a stunning late winner at the University of Ghana Stadium to extend the Phobians’ winning run to three matches.

The attacking midfielder produced a moment of individual brilliance, creating space with a couple of clever shimmies before unleashing a superb volley beyond the goalkeeper to settle a closely contested encounter.

The victory follows earlier wins over FC Port City and Vision FC, maintaining Hearts’ momentum as they strengthen their early-season title ambitions.

Hearts now hold a three-point lead at the top of the league table ahead of the remaining Matchday 8 fixtures on Sunday.

Basake Holy Stars proved stubborn opponents, remaining compact and organised defensively while looking to threaten on the counterattack.

The visitors frustrated Hearts for much of the game, with the hosts struggling to find a breakthrough despite enjoying spells of pressure.

Ransford Mensah came close to opening the scoring for Hearts with a powerful free-kick that struck the post, leaving the home side still searching for a goal.

Karikari eventually provided the decisive moment with his spectacular volley, ensuring Hearts claimed all three points.

The Phobians will look to extend their winning streak when they travel to face Debibi United in Matchday 9 next week.

Basake Holy Stars, meanwhile, will aim to bounce back when they host Dreams FC.