The 2021/22 Ghana Premier League (GPL) Matchday 20, played in March 2022, delivered a series of gripping encounters, with Asante Kotoko emerging as the standout victors. The Porcupine Warriors solidified their position at the top of the league with a resounding 5-0 thrashing of newcomers Bibiani Gold Stars at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi. Cameroonian forward George Mfegue led the charge with a brace, while Augustine Agyepong, Franck Mbella, and Boateng also found the back of the net. Under coach Prosper Narteh Ogum, Kotoko’s relentless attack overwhelmed the debutants, further cementing their lead in the GPL standings.
Hearts of Oak Stunned in Dormaa
In contrast, Hearts of Oak suffered a disappointing setback at the Nana Agyemang Badu Park in Dormaa, falling 1-0 to Aduana Stars. A late first-half strike from Sam Adams proved decisive, handing Hearts a bitter defeat and allowing Aduana Stars to maintain their second-place position on the league table. The loss highlighted Hearts’ inconsistent form, as they struggled to convert opportunities against a resolute Aduana side.
Other Notable Results
Across the country, Matchday 20 produced several significant outcomes:
- Ashanti Gold Break Winless Streak: At the Len Clay Stadium in Obuasi, Ashanti Gold ended their drought with a 2-0 victory over King Faisal. Goals from Opoku Agyemang and Mamudu Kamaradin lifted the Miners and boosted their mid-table standing.
- WAFA Edge Out RTU: At the Red Bull Arena in Sogakope, West African Football Academy (WAFA) secured a narrow 1-0 win against Real Tamale United (RTU), thanks to a brilliant first-half goal by Joshua Torsutsey. The result offered WAFA a glimmer of hope in their fight against relegation.
- Great Olympics Triumph in Accra: Accra Great Olympics clinched a 1-0 victory over Legon Cities at the Accra Sports Stadium, with Samuel Ashie Quaye’s solitary goal proving enough to secure three points.
- Bechem United’s Away Success: Bechem United staged a comeback to defeat relegation-threatened Elmina Sharks 3-2 in a thrilling contest, showcasing their attacking flair on the road.
- Medeama’s Home Win: At home, Medeama SC edged out Eleven Wonders 1-0, with Ahmed Toure’s 65th-minute strike securing a vital victory against the struggling side.
- Berekum Chelsea’s Narrow Victory: Berekum Chelsea claimed a 1-0 win over Karela United, courtesy of Emmanuel Sarpong’s 50th-minute goal.
- Accra Lions’ Late Drama: Accra Lions kept their survival hopes alive with a dramatic 1-0 win over Dreams FC, sealed by Fawzan Dandawa’s 94th-minute goal.
League Standings Update
Following Matchday 20, Asante Kotoko led the GPL with a commanding point total, their 5-0 rout of Bibiani Gold Stars reinforcing their dominance. Aduana Stars held firm in second place, while Accra Great Olympics rounded out the top three with their consistent performances. At the bottom, WAFA, Eleven Wonders, and Elmina Sharks remained entrenched in the relegation zone, facing increasing pressure to secure points in the remaining matches.
Implications for the Season
Kotoko’s emphatic victory underscored their title credentials, with Mfegue and Mbella proving pivotal in their attacking setup. Aduana Stars’ win over Hearts of Oak highlighted their ability to challenge top teams, while Hearts’ struggles raised questions about their consistency in the title race. The relegation battle intensified, with Accra Lions’ late win and Elmina Sharks’ defeat underscoring the high stakes at the bottom. As the 2021/22 GPL season progressed, Matchday 20 showcased the league’s competitiveness and set the stage for a thrilling conclusion.
