Accra, Dec 16, GNA-Alhaji Karim Grunza's King Faisal, would have a rather challenging task in defending their Coca Cola Top Four crown when this year's competition kick-starts in January next year.

The club, which combined brilliance and zeal to toppled all to annex the last edition's trophy are billed to open their defence against Accra Hearts of Oak at the Kumasi Sport Stadium on January 23.

The Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) on Wednesday paired the teams in what connoisseurs of the game have touted as expected cracker in the first game.

When both sides met at the same venue in the last competition, Faisal pushed a 1-0 bitter pill down the throat of the Phobians, who is on record to have won the maiden edition.

The "Nokia Boys" who exhibited great display throughout the competition and chalk remarkable 2-1 victory over the "Porcupine Warriors" could however, managed only a draw in the returned leg played at the Nation's Wembley.

Kumasi Asante Kotoko would play as guest of debutants, Kpando Heart of Lions at the Ohene Djan Sports Stadium in Accra.

The 4th Top Four Clubs Competition, which ushers in the annual season, is expected to provide all clubs the platform to prepare well for their respective domestic and continental assignments, which begins in January.

Apart from the Lions, all three other teams have participated in the last three editions.

Hearts won the maiden edition of the competition, whilst Kotoko won the 2003 version.