Karela United welcome FC Samartex 1996 to the Aliu Mahama Stadium in Tamale on Sunday afternoon for a crucial Ghana Premier League Matchweek 19 encounter, with both sides eager to strengthen their positions as the season enters its decisive second half.
The Pride of Passion come into the fixture on the back of a painful 2-1 defeat to Aduana FC last weekend, a match in which they conceded a heartbreaking stoppage-time winner after putting in a spirited performance.
That result summed up Karela’s recent struggles, as consistency has eluded the Tamale-based side in recent weeks.
Currently sitting 7th on the league table, Karela have managed just one win in their last five matches, alongside two draws and two defeats, a run that has seen them hover uncomfortably close to the congested mid-table pack.
A home victory could provide a timely morale boost and create breathing space away from the danger zone, while another defeat would heighten anxiety as teams begin to look over their shoulders in the relegation battle.
Samartex, however, arrive in Tamale with growing belief. The Timber Giants have shown resilience despite a roller-coaster campaign and have lost only twice in their last eight league outings.
Their improved form has lifted them to sixth place with 28 points from 18 matches.
A win could propel Samartex as high as fourth, firmly keeping them in the hunt for a top-four finish, while defeat may slow their momentum.