BY NADIA NTIAMOAH
Hearts of Oak coach Nebojsa Kapor has challenged his players to build on their emphatic opening-day victory after the Phobians made a powerful statement in the opening round of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season.
The Accra giants began their campaign in spectacular fashion, dismantling Berekum Chelsea 4-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium on Sunday to move straight to the top of the league table.
The victory was particularly significant because it marked the first time in six years that Hearts of Oak had won their opening league fixture.
Kapor was understandably pleased with the performance but has refused to allow the size of the victory to distract his squad from the longer campaign ahead.
“The feeling is good. We are very happy with our opener, and I am sure we will continue this path,” the Serbian coach said after the match.
Hearts produced a dominant display against Chelsea, with experienced striker John Antwi setting the tone by scoring twice in the first half. The former Al Ahly and Pyramids FC forward opened the scoring in the fifth minute before adding his second with a header in the 37th minute.
The Phobians continued to control the contest after the interval and eventually extended their advantage late in the match. New signing Kader Mahmoud marked his debut with Hearts’ third goal in the 86th minute, while Ali Mohammed completed the rout from the penalty spot in the 90th minute.
The result immediately placed Hearts at the summit after the opening round and provided an encouraging start to Kapor’s tenure at the club.
The Serbian tactician was appointed on a two-year contract in July as part of Hearts’ attempt to restore stability and competitiveness following a disappointing previous campaign. The club described his appointment as part of a new era and placed emphasis on his experience in Ghanaian football and his ability to develop players.
Kapor, however, knows that one impressive result will not determine the success of his project.
The Hearts coach has already turned his attention to the next challenge, with the Phobians scheduled to travel to face Bibiani GoldStars this weekend.
“We have to be calm and start preparing for our next game. We will face GoldStars with the full force of our power,” he added.
