Bibiani Gold Stars Clinch GHALCA Top 4 Trophy After Thrilling Comeback Victory
Bibiani Gold Stars pulled off a stunning comeback to win the 2025 GHALCA Top 4 tournament, edging Hearts of Oak on head-to-head despite the Phobians’ morale-boosting victory over arch-rivals Asante Kotoko yesterday.
The Miners needed a late lifeline against KpandoHeart of Lions at the University of Ghana Stadium — and found it in the sixth minute of stoppage time. Substitute Sampson Aduku rose highest to head home Emmanuel Adjei’s pinpoint cross, cancelling Al Fawzi’s first-half strike after Gold Stars’ goalkeeper had spilled a routine corner.
With the score tied 1-1, the contest went straight to penalties. Lions, who had dominated large spells and wasted glorious chances, faltered under pressure. Goalkeeper Emmanuel Kobi, jittery in the first half, turned hero with a decisive save as Gold Stars triumphed 4-3 in the shootout.
The bonus points from that win carried them above Hearts, who had briefly topped the standings after beating Kotoko in the evening kick-off.
Hearts finally floor Kotoko
If the trophy slipped away, Hearts still savoured sweet revenge. The Phobians ended a painful seven-match winless streak against their fiercest rivals with a commanding 2-0 win. Debutant Frank Abora Duku lit up the contest with a fine fifth-minute strike before substitute Emmanuel Amankwah sealed the result with a 74th-minute header.
Hearts’ pressing and movement unsettled Kotoko, who looked toothless up front despite half-chances for Shaibu and Emmanuel Antwi. Kotoko’s goalkeeper Mohamed Camara prevented a heavier defeat, pulling off spectacular saves, most notably denying Yaw Amankwah Barfi’s acrobatic volley.
But Hearts’ intensity proved too much, and their fans celebrated a long-awaited victory over their eternal rivals.
Gold Stars’ late drama ensured they walked away with the Top 4 crown, a huge confidence booster ahead of the upcoming Champion of Champions clash with Kotoko at the DUN’s Park (Bibiani) on Sunday.
For Hearts, ending their hoodoo against Kotoko could prove just as valuable, while the Porcupine Warriors must quickly address their blunt attack.
The atmosphere at the University of Ghana Stadium was electric as Bibiani Gold Stars celebrated their victory with the GHALCA Top 4 trophy. Fans of the club were in jubilant spirits as they witnessed their team’s remarkable comeback and ultimate triumph.
The GHALCA Top 4 tournament provided thrilling matches and unforgettable moments for football fans across the country. Bibiani Gold Stars’ victory will surely go down in history as one of the most dramatic and memorable moments in Ghanaian football.
As the celebrations continue, all eyes are now on the upcoming Champion of Champions clash between Bibiani Gold Stars and Asante Kotoko. The stage is set for another thrilling encounter as these two teams battle for supremacy in Ghanaian football.
Overall, the 2025 GHALCA Top 4 tournament was a showcase of talent, determination, and passion for the beautiful game. Congratulations to Bibiani Gold Stars on their well-deserved victory, and here’s to more exciting football moments in the future.
