Following their resounding victory over Karela United last weekend, Hearts of Oak’s Head Coach Ouattara Abubakar has made strategic adjustments to his starting lineup for the upcoming showdown against Legon Cities. With a keen eye on maintaining their winning momentum, let’s delve into the composition and tactical nuances of the starting XI.
Richard Attah retains his position between the sticks, offering a formidable presence in goal and serving as the last line of defense against Legon Cities’ attacking threats.
The defensive quartet comprises Michael Ampadu, Denis Korsah, Thomas Winimi, and captain Kofi Abegsimah, forming a solid backline to thwart any incursions from the opposition’s forwards. Their cohesion and discipline will be crucial in denying Legon Cities space and opportunities in the attacking third.
In midfield, the absence of Glid Otanga due to suspension sees David Oppong Afrane stepping in, bringing his tenacity and ball-winning abilities to bolster the midfield battle. Alongside him, Enoch Asubonteng earns a starting berth, tasked with dictating the tempo of play and orchestrating offensive transitions. Linda Mtange and Martin Karikari complete the midfield quartet, providing a balance of creativity and defensive stability in the center of the park.
Coach Abubakar Ouattara maintains faith in his striking duo of Kassim Cisse and Hamza Issah, relying on their pace, movement, and predatory instincts to unlock Legon Cities’ defense and capitalize on scoring opportunities.
With a traditional 4-4-2 formation, Hearts of Oak aim to maintain a compact shape defensively while posing a potent threat on the counter-attack through quick transitions and precise combination play in the final third.
THIS IS HOW HEARTS OF OAK LINEUP AGAINST LEGON CITIES :
Richard Attah
Denis Korsah
Thomas Winimi
Michael Ampadu
Kofi Agbesimah
Enoch Asubonteng
Linda Mtange
David Oppong Afrane
Martin Karikari
Hamza Issah
Kassim Cisse