Asante Kotoko came from behind in stirring fashion to defeat arch-rivals Hearts of Oak 2-1 in a pulsating President’s Cup clash at the Accra Sports Stadium, claiming their ninth title and extending Hearts’ misery in the storied rivalry.
Watched by President John Dramani Mahama and a host of dignitaries, the match delivered all the drama and tension fans have come to expect from Ghana’s fiercest football rivalry.
Hearts struck first in the 23rd minute after a calamitous error by Kotoko keeper Mohammed Camara, who spilled a routine cross into the path of Hamza Issah for a simple tap-in. The Phobians dominated the remainder of the half, with Kotoko struggling to find rhythm.
But the Porcupine Warriors roared into life after the break. A cross from Peter Amidu forced an own goal from Hearts defender Konadu Yiadom, bringing Kotoko level in the 47th minute.
Moments later, Kwame Opoku pounced on a precise lay-off from Albert Amoah to slot home and complete a sensational turnaround. The red half of the stadium erupted.
Hearts thought they had equalised midway through the second half, only for the goal to be ruled offside in a tight call. Minutes later, they were handed a lifeline when debutant Zackaria Fuseini handled in the box.
But redemption came swiftly for Camara. The same man who gifted Hearts their opener stood tall to deny Emmanuel Amankwah’s penalty, cementing his status as Kotoko’s unlikely hero.
Despite late pressure, Hearts couldn’t break through. Kotoko saw out the win, stretching their unbeaten run in the rivalry to five games and celebrating wildly at full-time.
Hearts now turn their attention to the Eko International Tournament in Nigeria, while Kotoko prepare for a glamour tie against Kaizer Chiefs in the Toyota Cup in South Africa.
