â??We are a teamâ?? â?? Hearts Coach Dramani unfazed by key absences ahead of Dreams clash

Hearts of Oak coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani has expressed unwavering confidence in his squad's depth, dismissing concerns over the suspension of two key players ahead of Friday's Ghana Premier League clash against Dreams FC at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

The Phobians will be without last weekend's hero, striker Mawuli Wayo, whose dramatic stoppage-time winner secured a 1–0 away victory over Hohoe United. Also missing is centre-back Kelvin Osei Asibey. Both players are suspended due to an accumulation of yellow cards.

In his pre-match remarks, Dramani shifted the focus firmly to the collective strength of the team.

"The key aspect is that we have a consolidated team, and so we are a team," he stated. "Whether you like it or not, these two players will not be eligible. And so once players are not eligible, we try not to even focus on them."

The coach pointed out that the squad has already navigated similar challenges this season, dealing with other injuries, and has learned to adapt. "Apart from these two, there are still others that are also not available because of injuries. And then we have survived all this period," he explained.

While confident in his replacements, Dramani offered advice to the suspended Wayo, acknowledging the striker's importance. "I think that it’s a very short cut, but I think that Mawuli will learn from that. Out of excitement, you need to be very modest so that you don’t lose your head. Because he’s an important person in our setup."

The match presents a fascinating tactical battle. Hearts of Oak, sitting fifth with 31 points, possess the league's most formidable defense, having conceded a mere seven goals in 18 matches. They are also in formidable home form, having won their last three games at home without conceding a goal.

In stark contrast, Dreams FC travel with momentum from a 3–0 win over Heart of Lions but carry a vulnerable defense, having let in 20 goals so far this season.

Dramani's calm leadership and faith in his squad will be tested as Hearts of Oak aim to extend their impressive home run and keep their title aspirations on track against an attack-minded Dreams side.

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