Atta Kusi, a former defender for Asante Kotoko, regrets playing football.

After a close escape in the previous season, Hearts of Oak head coach Abubakar Ouattara has set his sights on making sure the team avoids a relegation struggle this year.

Last season, the Phobians barely escaped relegation, and only a pivotal victory on the last day kept them safe. Although supporters are hopeful about a title challenge, the Ivorian strategist has underlined the importance of stability and consistency.

We are attempting to score more points to avoid the same pressure that we experienced last season since, as you recall, we made it through. We have this motivation because we need more points to get out of that predicament," Ouattara told 3Sports.

Hearts of Oak are preparing for their eagerly awaited matchup with longtime rivals Asante Kotoko at Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday. With three victories and one draw in their last four games, the team is in strong form going into the contest.

As they attempt to attain a higher league position and steer clear of the difficulties from the previous season, a successful Super Clash performance could further increase the team's momentum.