Defending champions FC Samartex 1996 will be seeking redemption and a strong finish to their title-defending campaign when they welcome two-time champions Aduana FC to the Nsenkyire Sports Arena on Sunday.
The Timber Giants slipped to seventh in the league standings after a humbling 3-0 defeat to table-toppers Nations FC last weekend, their heaviest loss of the campaign. With just two matches remaining, Christopher Ennin’s men sit on 48 points (W12, D12, L8), having scored 31 goals and conceded 23 in 32 matches.
Despite the setback, Samartex remain a formidable force at home. They’ve won their last five matches at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena, keeping three consecutive clean sheets in the process against Accra Lions, Karela United, and Basake Holy Stars.
Aduana FC returned to winning ways in emphatic fashion with a 4-0 demolition of relegated Legon Cities last weekend. That victory elevated the Fire Club to ninth on the table with 44 points (W11, D11, L10). Under Cioaba Aristica’s guidance, Aduana have scored 35 goals, the third highest in the league, with 13 of those coming in their last five matches. However, their defensive record remains shaky, having conceded 31 goals this season.
Away from home, Aduana FC’s form has been erratic. They’ve lost four of their last five away games, raising questions about their ability to maintain consistency on the road. Yet, they’ll look to draw inspiration from a statement 1-0 away win over Nations FC back in mid-March, a result that proves they can rise to the occasion against top opposition.
Samartex have hosted Aduana FC twice since their promotion in the 2022/23 season, winning both encounters 1-0. With both teams eager to end the season on a high, Sunday’s clash promises to be a tightly contested encounter between two of the league’s recent powerhouses.
