Nations FC claimed a vital 1–0 victory over Aduana FC in their Ghana Premier League Matchday 19 encounter at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex on Sunday, producing a disciplined display to protect an early lead and extend their impressive home form.
The hosts took the initiative after weathering early pressure from Aduana, who fashioned the first clear chance of the afternoon. Collins Awuni and Emmanuel Marfo combined neatly down the right flank to pick out Prince Adu Kwabena in the area, but his header lacked the power to trouble goalkeeper Rabin Sanon.
Nations responded with purpose and found the breakthrough in the 21st minute through Joseph Effah. Rising above his marker, Effah met a well-delivered cross and guided a firm header past goalkeeper Joseph Addo to hand the Abrankese-based side the lead.
The goal prompted Aduana to raise the tempo as they searched for an equaliser before the break. Emmanuel Marfo came close on two occasions, first bursting through on goal only to be denied by an excellent save from Sanon, and later failing to capitalise on a loose ball following a free kick, with the Nations goalkeeper again equal to the effort.
Despite sustained pressure, Nations remained compact and composed, heading into halftime with a narrow 1–0 advantage.
After the restart, Aduana enjoyed greater control of possession and dictated the rhythm of play for extended periods. Charles Gyamfi Kamara tested Sanon with a powerful long-range strike in the 55th minute, while Marfo dragged another effort wide during a promising attacking move.
Kamara went close again minutes later, flashing a shot goalward, but Sanon stood firm to preserve Nations’ lead. In a bid to turn the tide, Aduana coach Cioba Aristica introduced Salim, Sidibe and Tsivanyo, later adding Mezack Afriyie to further bolster the attack.
Despite their dominance and attacking changes, the Ogya Boys struggled to convert half chances as Nations defended resolutely and managed the game effectively.
Nations almost sealed the contest late on when Botchway broke through in the 88th minute, only for Aduana goalkeeper Prince Osei to deny him with a timely save.
Both teams finished with equal possession at 50 percent. Nations registered seven shots, six on target, and earned six corner kicks, while Aduana managed eight shots with four on target and two corners.
The victory keeps Nations FC unbeaten at home and lifts them to 11th place on the league table with 24 points. Aduana FC, meanwhile, slip to fourth with 32 points, missing the chance to strengthen their push near the top of the standings.
