Top 5 clubs who could emerge 2024-25 GPL champions 

With less than 48 hours till the start of the 2024-25 Ghana Premier League season (GPL), all 18 teams will be eyeing the coveted trophy this season.

Defending champions FC Samartex 1996 would face a difficult battle in retaining the GPL championship, given their involvement in the 2024-25 CAF Champions League.

Some clubs enjoyed a successful preseason, while others struggled, but that won’t matter when the season begins on Saturday, September 7, 2024.

Here are five clubs that would enter the season as favourites to win the trophy at the end of the season in June 2025.

FC Sarmatex 1996
Of course, the defending GPL Champions should be strong contenders to retain the championship, given some quality players who they have signed, especially with their participation in the CAF Champions League.

Despite the departure of crucial midfielder Emmanuel Keyekeh, the “Timber Giants” have made some impressive signings, including Baba Kushibo, Solomon Adjei, and Isaac Baffoe.

FC Samartex’s home form was critical to their first GPL title, as they won 16 of 17 games at home.

Their sole home loss was to Nations FC, who were also chasing the crown but fell short in the end.

FC Samartex had the best home form for last season and  would have to replicate that form if they are to retain this season’s league.

Kumasi Asante Kotoko
Last season, the Porcupine Warriors finished sixth in the league, representing one of their poorest performances in club history.

This triggered a significant turnover at the club during the offseason, with more than 20 players leaving and some new players joining.

Some promising football players, like Elvis Kyei Baffour, Joseph Ablorh, Emmanuel Antwi, and Sudanese combo Yoouef Yagoub and Mohamed Al Hasan, would be crucial to the team’s success this season.

The team’s preseason record is remarkable, having defeated Hearts of Oak, Vision FC, Rainmakers FC, and Bibiani Gold Stars, among others.

The Porcupine Warriors’ offensive line was sharper in the preseason, scoring 21 goals in eight games, and if they continue this form in the league, Kotoko would be a strong force to be reckoned with.

Under the guidance of coach Prosper Nartey, Kotoko have a highly-rated gaffer who could propel them to their 26th league title.

Medeama SC

The “Mauve and Yellow” lads have over the years entered the GPL season as one of the favourites, and after winning their first league title in 2023, they would be strong contenders this time round.

Medeama are certainly becoming one of the strongest teams in the GPL, particularly since 2010, when the club was formerly known as Keesben FC.

Following the remarkable debut in the 2022–23 CAF Champions League, where they reached the group stage, Medeama retained a core of that team and  made some good signings.

With players like Ali Moro from Nania and midfielder Prince Owusu from Suhyen Sporting Club, the Mauve and Yellow would be an interesting team to watch.

Aduana Stars

Last season, the “Ogyaa Boys,” as they are affectionately known, finished fifth in the GPL.

Aduana Stars were once at the top of the league in the late stages of the season, but some surprising home losses contributed to their decline.

The Nana Agyeman Badu I Park has been a fortress for Aduana Stars, and earning a point at that arena was a feat for many clubs.

Aduana Stars dropped 10 points at home last season, and their away form was less impressive, which accounted for their title setback.

Coach Yaw Acheampong and his lads would have to be flawless at home this season to stand a chance of winning the league having made some good recruitments.

Accra Lions

Accra Loins are arguably the most exciting Premier League team to watch, and their performance has remained steady since their promotion in 2021.

Last season’s second-place finish was their best in the league, and they were at the top for a few weeks.

The Accra Lions’ depth has always made them a formidable team in the league, led by seasoned coach Ibrahim Tanko.

They always appear to have a good start to their league campaigns but then fade in the later stages, but this year may be different.
GNA