Champions Bibiani Gold Stars started the defence of their Ghana Premier League title with a 2–1 victory over Bechem United, and Asante Kotoko broke a 15-year drought for a league victory away to Berekum Chelsea.
At Bibiani, Samuel Atta Kumi did not hesitate to leave his imprint, scoring to put the champions in front after 3 minutes following a biting attacking foray. He doubled the advantage in the 22nd minute when he finished coolly, prompting premature jubilation among the home supporters.
Bechem United responded almost instantly, however, with Darlvin Yeboah getting one back a minute later. Despite piling on pressure in the second half, the visitors could not find an equaliser as the Gold Stars defence held firm to take all three points.
The victory gives Gold Stars a timely boost as they shift their attention to continental football, where they host Algeria's JS Kabylie in a CAF Champions League qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium this coming Saturday, 20 September.
In Berekum, Asante Kotoko finally broke their long jinx, posting a slim 1–0 win over Chelsea at the Golden City Park. After a keenly contested and balanced first half, the Porcupine Warriors got the opener midway through the second half.
Albert Amoah capitalized on a defensive error, firing low beyond Adu Emmanuel to score the winning goal for Kotoko. The visitors then proceeded to mount a disciplined defensive display to repel Chelsea's attempts at a comeback.
The victory is Kotoko's maiden away win against Berekum Chelsea in 15 years and sets a good start to the campaign. It also sets the tone for their CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round clash with Nigeria's Kwara United on Sunday, 21 September.
Both sides will be hoping to extend their local form to continental action as Ghana's representatives seek to make an impact on the African scene.
