Karela United begin the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season on Sunday at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium with a home clash against two-time champions Aduana FC, determined to build on last year’s dramatic escape from relegation.

The “Pride and Passion” lads finished 13th on 41 points but closed with four wins from their final five games and three clean sheets, form that has fuelled optimism for a stronger campaign.

New arrivals Evans Osei Wusu, Bless Ege and goalkeeper Kelvin Saaba have been added to bolster the squad.

Karela’s home record remains a fortress – only four defeats in Tamale last season – and they hold a commanding record against Aduana, winning four of the last five league meetings at home.

They also have a habit of strong starts, winning their opening fixture in each of the past three seasons, including a 1-0 victory over Asante Kotoko last year.

Aduana, meanwhile, will look to overcome a poor away record after dropping points in 15 of 17 away matches in 2024/25.

Coach Aristica Cioaba steadied the ‘Fire Boys’ mid-season to secure a top-half finish but they remain without a season-opening win in two years (D1, L1).