Hearts of Oak endured another disappointing outing on Thursday evening, falling 1-0 to Nations FC at the Tuba Astroturf in their Ghana Premier League Week 21 clash.
Forced to play away from their traditional home due to ongoing renovations at the University of Ghana Stadium, the Phobians struggled to find their rhythm and were undone by a second-half strike from Black Stars defender Razak Simpson.
The game kicked off at a lively pace, with Hearts of Oak determined to control possession and dictate play. Despite managing 48% of the ball, they struggled to break through a well-organized Nations FC defense. Their opponents, with 52% possession, looked sharper on the counter and carried more threat in the final third.
The breakthrough came in the 57th minute when Razak Simpson pounced on a defensive error, controlled the ball calmly, and unleashed a powerful volley that beat the Hearts goalkeeper.
Hearts of Oak responded with urgency, mounting sustained pressure and registering 16 shots, six of which were on target.
However, the Nations FC goalkeeper proved equal to the task, making six crucial saves to preserve the lead. In contrast, Nations FC had 13 total shots, with four on target, including the decisive goal.
Set pieces offered little relief for the Phobians, as they earned five corner kicks but failed to convert any into real danger. Nations FC, with three corners, remained efficient and compact in both attack and defense.
Frustration crept into Hearts’ play as the match wore on, resulting in three yellow cards, while Nations FC picked up two bookings of their own.
The defeat extends Hearts of Oak’s winless run to four games, piling more pressure on head coach Aboubakar Ouattara. The Phobians now find themselves further adrift from league leaders Asante Kotoko, who sit eight points ahead. Meanwhile, Nations FC’s impressive form continues, with the win propelling them back into the top four.
Up next, Hearts of Oak face a stern test against in-form Medeama SC, as they look to get their season back on track.