DORMAA AHENKRO – Hohoe United secured a hard-fought goalless draw against Ghana Premier League giants Aduana FC at the Nan Agyemang Badu Park in Dormaa Ahenkro on Saturday, a result that saw the home side drop crucial points and slip further down the 2025/26 league table. The stalemate marks a significant away point for Hohoe United, showcasing their defensive resilience against one of the league’s perennial contenders.

The highly anticipated fixture, a key encounter in the ongoing GPL season, unfolded as a tactical battle, with Aduana FC dominating possession but struggling to breach a resolute Hohoe United defense. The away side, often considered underdogs, executed a disciplined game plan, frustrating Aduana's attacking ambitions for the entire 90 minutes.

A Battle of Tactics and Missed Chances

From the first whistle, Aduana FC, playing in front of their fervent home support, pressed for an early breakthrough. Their midfield maestros, led by captain Godfred Asamoah, dictated the tempo, orchestrating numerous attacks down both flanks. However, Hohoe United’s backline, marshaled expertly by centre-back Kwame Boateng, stood firm, absorbing pressure and denying Aduana's forwards clear-cut opportunities.

The first half saw Aduana create a few half-chances, with striker Isaac Opoku heading wide from a corner in the 20th minute and winger Emmanuel Kumi forcing a smart save from Hohoe goalkeeper Daniel Mensah just before the break. Despite their territorial advantage, Aduana’s final ball often lacked the precision needed to unlock the visitors’ well-organized defense. Hohoe United, on the other hand, adopted a cautious approach, focusing on defensive solidity and looking to hit Aduana on the counter-attack, though their offensive forays were sporadic and rarely threatened the Aduana goal.

The second half followed a similar pattern. Aduana intensified their efforts, making tactical substitutions to introduce fresh legs and more attacking impetus. Veteran forward Abdul Ganiyu was brought on, adding a physical presence upfront, but even his experience couldn't break the deadlock. The closest Aduana came was in the 75th minute when Opoku's powerful shot from outside the box cannoned off the post, much to the dismay of the home crowd.

Hohoe United, visibly tiring but unwavering in their commitment, continued to defend with tenacity. Their goalkeeper, Daniel Mensah, was particularly impressive, commanding his area and making crucial interventions when called upon. The final whistle was met with a mixture of relief from the Hohoe bench and palpable frustration from the Aduana faithful.

Aduana's Frustration and League Table Drop

The goalless draw is a significant setback for Aduana FC, who had been hoping to consolidate their position in the top tier of the GPL table. The dropped points mean they have now slipped from 3rd to 5th place, losing ground on rivals Medeama SC and Asante Kotoko, who both secured victories in their respective weekend fixtures. This result compounds pressure on Head Coach Samuel Akakpo, whose side has now failed to score in two consecutive home games.

"We are incredibly disappointed with this result," stated Coach Akakpo in the post-match press conference. "We dominated possession, created chances, but we just couldn't find the back of the net. Hohoe United defended admirably, credit to them, but we must be more clinical, especially at home. This drop in the table is unacceptable, and we will work tirelessly to rectify our finishing deficiencies."

Samuel Akakpo, Aduana FC Head Coach

The general manager of Aduana FC, Kwame Owusu-Ansah, echoed the sentiment of disappointment but urged for calm.

"The fans deserve more, and we understand their frustration," Owusu-Ansah commented. "This result puts pressure on us, but we believe in our technical team and players to turn things around. Every point is vital in this league, and we must learn from this and move forward with renewed focus."

Kwame Owusu-Ansah, Aduana FC General Manager

Hohoe United's Strategic Point

For Hohoe United, the draw represents a vital away point against a formidable opponent and is a testament to their growing maturity and defensive organization. Currently hovering in the mid-table, this result will undoubtedly boost their confidence as they navigate their second season in the top flight. It demonstrates their capability to compete with the league’s established teams and provides a strong foundation for their season objectives.

"This is a massive point for us on the road against one of the league's top teams," beamed Hohoe United coach Kofi Adjei. "Our boys showed incredible discipline, tactical awareness, and fighting spirit. We knew it would be tough, but we executed our game plan perfectly. To come to Dormaa and hold Aduana to a goalless draw is a huge achievement and gives us immense confidence moving forward in the season."

Kofi Adjei, Hohoe United Head Coach

The performance of goalkeeper Daniel Mensah, who was rightfully awarded the Man of the Match, was particularly lauded by Coach Adjei, highlighting the collective effort that secured the crucial point.

League Implications and What Lies Ahead

The 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season continues to be an enthralling affair, with the title race and relegation battle intensifying with each passing week. Aduana FC's slip means they now trail league leaders Medeama SC by five points, making their upcoming fixtures even more critical. They will need to rediscover their scoring touch quickly to remain in contention for the league title.

For Hohoe United, this point could prove invaluable in their quest for a respectable mid-table finish or even a push for a top-half spot. Their ability to secure points away from home against strong opposition bodes well for their future prospects in the league. The result has certainly added another layer of intrigue to the GPL narrative.

"This 0-0 draw is more significant than it appears on the surface," observed veteran football analyst, Dr. Ernest Obeng. "For Aduana, it's two points dropped in a tight title race, highlighting a potential over-reliance on individual brilliance rather than consistent team-wide attacking patterns. For Hohoe, it's a testament to their growing maturity and defensive solidity, proving they can grind out results against top opposition. It underscores the competitive nature of the GPL and suggests that Hohoe United could be a dark horse this season."

Dr. Ernest Obeng, Football Analyst

As the GPL 2025/26 season progresses, both teams will face different challenges. Aduana FC will be under immense pressure to convert chances and regain their winning momentum when they travel to face Accra Hearts of Oak next weekend. Hohoe United, buoyed by their performance, will look to build on this draw as they prepare to host King Faisal in what promises to be another gripping encounter.

Doreen Andoh

Nana Aba Anamoah names Doreen Andoh and Kwasi Twum as her dream interviewees