By: Kwame Bediako
Accra Hearts of Oak has announced an updated offseason schedule, with the team preparing to participate in the upcoming Eko International Tournament in Nigeria. The tournament features eight teams from various countries and offers a significant opportunity for the Phobia club to showcase their talent on an international stage. This participation marks an important step in their preseason preparations ahead of the new season.
Hearts’ involvement in the tournament follows their scheduled match against their fierce rivals, Kumasi Asante Kotoko, in the President’s Cup set for July 6 at the Accra Sports Stadium. The high-profile clash is expected to draw a large crowd and set the tone for the club’s upcoming competitive fixtures.
The tournament in Nigeria will serve as a critical test for new Hearts coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, as it will be his second major challenge in the offseason after the Kotoko game. Dramani was appointed as the head coach following the club’s disappointing fourth-place finish in the Ghana Premier League and their exit from the MTN FA Cup at the hands of lower-tier side Golden Kick.
Participants in the Eko International Tournament include notable Nigerian clubs like Remo Stars, Enyimba FC, Ikorodu City and Shooting Stars. Remo Stars, winners of the 2024-2025 Nigerian League title, headline the list of competitors, alongside clubs from Sierra Leone, Benin and South Africa. The event promises competitive matches and increased exposure for all participating teams.
Meanwhile, Kumasi Asante Kotoko is preparing for their own international challenge, set to face South African giants Kaizer Chiefs in the Toyota Cup on July 26. This fixture highlights the clubs’ ambitions to gain international experience and strengthen their squads ahead of the upcoming season, with both teams aiming for success on multiple fronts.
