Karela United secured a 1-0 win over Asante Kotoko SC at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in a Ghana Premier League encounter.
The home side arrived in strong form, having suffered only one defeat in their last five matches, and were eager to climb the table from seventh place with 35 points.
Kotoko, sitting fourth with 39 points, hoped to continue their push for the title after a frustrating goalless draw against Vision FC last weekend.
Early in the match, Kwame Opoku tested Karela goalkeeper Daniel Afadzwu, who tipped his powerful strike over for a corner.
Afadzwu then made a stunning double save to deny Kotoko from scoring off a rebound and close-range attempt.
The game turned in the 40th minute when defender Henry Ansu was sent off, leaving Kotoko down to ten players.
Moments later, Malik Abubakar took advantage of the extra space and calmly finished to give Karela the lead.
Kotoko tried to respond after going a man down, but their attacks were repeatedly blocked by the disciplined Karela defence.
The win lifts Karela to sixth place with 38 points, keeping their hopes alive for a top-four finish.
Kotoko remain fifth with 39 points and will host Nations FC in their next league outing, while Karela travel to face Berekum Chelsea.
The result underscores Karela’s home strength and their determination to finish the season among the league’s top teams.
