Accra Hearts of Oak continued their pre-season preparations in style with an impressive 3-1 triumph over Zilina Africa in a friendly encounter, as the team intensifies its build-up to the 2025/26 football season.
The Phobians began brightly, asserting early dominance by controlling possession and pressing high up the pitch. Their attacking intent was soon rewarded when Kwabena Boateng broke the deadlock with a composed finish, rounding off a fluid team move that sliced through the Zilina defence.
Zilina Africa responded with determination, gradually gaining momentum and pushing forward in search of an equaliser. Their efforts paid off midway through the game when they were awarded a penalty following a foul inside the box. The resulting spot kick was expertly converted to level the score at 1-1.
Hearts of Oak reclaimed the lead shortly after the interval. A well-delivered corner was met by Wayo, who rose highest to power a header past the Zilina goalkeeper, making it 2-1.
The match maintained a high tempo, with Hearts sustaining their attacking pressure. Their persistence paid off once more when a foul on the edge of the penalty area earned them a free kick. Karikari stepped up and curled a sensational effort into the top corner, sealing a 3-1 victory for the Phobians.
It was a positive outing for the Accra-based side, who exhibited attacking flair, tactical discipline, and mental resilience—key qualities the technical team aims to refine ahead of the upcoming campaign.
