Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara has passionately called on the club's supporters to rally behind the team in their next crucial match.

Hamza Issa’s first-half strike proved decisive as Accra Hearts of Oak defeated Karela United by a goal to nil in the Ghana Premier League.

Sunday's win over Karela United, the third in a row, has catapulted the Phobians to fourth place on the league table.

Speaking after the game, Ouattara stressed the importance of fan support.

“What I have been telling the fans every time and everywhere I go is that each game we play is for them. If the fans are happy, we are happy," Ouattara said during a post-match interview.

"We need them to come for the next game in numbers to encourage the team—not just on Facebook or social media, but physically at the stadium. Their presence matters.”

Ouattara also highlighted the impact of fan support on the players, particularly a young squad striving to make a mark this season.

“Today, we had students who came to support us, and it made a difference. To win every game, we need that kind of support. Hearts of Oak is a team where expectations are high. We win, we win, we win, and if you lose, there’s a problem. Don’t wait for problems to come before showing support. Be there for this young team to help them go far.”

The coach believes a vibrant home crowd could be the turning point in what has been a challenging campaign.

Hearts of Oak’s next match is set for Friday, November 22, 2024, against Nsoatreman FC. A victory in this encounter is critical to reigniting their title ambitions.