“We’ll Be Facing a Very Tough Opponent on Sunday” – Ibrahim Tanko Ahead of Hearts Visit
Head coach of Medeama SC, Ibrahim Tanko, has described Accra Hearts of Oak as a formidable opponent ahead of their Ghana Premier League matchday 17 encounter on Sunday at the TnA Stadium in Tarkwa.
Speaking during his pre-match press briefing, Tanko acknowledged the quality of the Phobians but expressed confidence in the readiness of his squad.
“We’re playing against a very tough team on Sunday, but I think my boys are ready for the game,” the Medeama boss said.
Tanko was also keen to downplay any notion that Medeama’s impressive form has been driven by individual brilliance, instead highlighting the collective effort within the squad.
“A lot of the players are doing well, and those who come off the bench help a lot. Kelvin Nkrumah has stood out, but the rest of the team are also doing very well,” he added.
Sunday’s fixture marks the final round of matches in the first half of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season and promises to be a crucial contest in the title race.
Hearts of Oak hold fond memories of Tarkwa, having been the first team—and one of only two—to beat Medeama at the refurbished TnA Stadium since its renovation last season. The Phobians emerged 2-0 winners the last time they visited the Yellow and Mauves in Tarkwa.
However, Medeama have since turned their home ground into a fortress. They remain unbeaten at home this season, recording five wins and three draws from eight league matches.
Hearts, on the other hand, have been equally impressive on the road. The Phobians have lost just once away from home—a 2-0 defeat to Karela United in Tamale—while winning three and drawing four of their eight away fixtures.
Statistically, the clash pits one of the league’s most potent attack against the tightest defence. Medeama are the second-highest scoring side with 21 goals, while Hearts boast the meanest defence in the league, conceding just six goals in 16 matches—only three of those coming away from home, averaging 0.4 goals conceded per game on the road.
Medeama currently sit top of the table with 30 points, level with Asante Kotoko, while Hearts of Oak are fifth with 28 points. With the title race finely poised, Sunday’s encounter is a must-win for both sides as they look to strengthen their championship ambitions heading into the second round of the season.