Asante Kotoko recorded their first victory of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season after defeating Heart of Lions 2-1 at the Baba Yara Stadium.
The Porcupine Warriors put in a determined performance to claim all three points and give head coach Eric Tinkler his first league win of the campaign.
Kotoko took the lead in the 27th minute through Emmanuel Mamah. The forward reacted quickly to Patrick Asiedu’s dangerous low cross and provided the decisive touch to beat the Heart of Lions goalkeeper.
The home side continued to look dangerous after taking the lead and eventually doubled their advantage in the second half.
Mamah turned provider in the 62nd minute when he set up Isaac Opoku Agyemang for a simple finish. The goal gave Kotoko a 2-0 lead and appeared to put them in control of the match.
Heart of Lions, however, refused to give up. The visitors were awarded a late penalty, which Francis Odoom converted to reduce the deficit and set up a tense finish.
Kotoko were then forced to defend with 10 men after Hamaid Fuseini received a straight red card.
The numerical disadvantage gave Heart of Lions hope of finding a late equaliser, but Kotoko remained organised and managed to protect their advantage until the final whistle.
The 2-1 victory is an important result for Kotoko after their opening matches of the season. The three points will provide a much-needed boost to the Porcupine Warriors as they look to build momentum in the league.
