Martin Karikari produced a moment of brilliance late in the game to hand Hearts of Oak a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Basake Holy Stars on Friday, sending the Phobians to the top of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League (GPL) table after eight matches.

Karikari’s superb volley proved the difference in a closely contested encounter at the University of Ghana Stadium, extending Hearts’ winning streak to three matches and further strengthening their early-season title ambitions.

The victory extends the Phobians’ winning streak to three matches following earlier successes against FC Port City and Vision FC, keeping their momentum firmly intact. 

Hearts of Oak now sit three points clear at the top of the Premier League table, strengthening their early-season title credentials ahead of the remaining Matchday 8 fixtures on Sunday.

They dominated large spells of the contest, creating the clearer chances and registering 17 shots, 10 more than their opponents.

Basake Holy Stars, however, proved difficult to break down. The visitors remained compact and disciplined defensively, absorbing Hearts’ pressure while looking to threaten on the counterattack whenever opportunities presented themselves.

Hearts came close to opening the scoring when Ransford Mensah unleashed a powerful free-kick that crashed against the post, leaving the hosts frustrated as they continued their search for a breakthrough.

The decisive moment eventually came through Karikari, whose individual brilliance settled the contest. 

The attacking midfielder showed composure and clever footwork to create space with a couple of neat shimmies before unleashing a stunning volley beyond the goalkeeper.

It was a goal of exceptional quality, worthy of deciding a tight encounter, and one that sent the Hearts faithful into celebration as the Phobians secured all three points.