MTN FA Cup: Kwame Opoku’s late strike sends Asante Kotoko to semis

Kwame Opoku emerged as the hero for Asante Kotoko, scoring a dramatic last-gasp goal in the 93rd minute to clinch a 2-1 victory over True Democracy and secure a spot in the 2024/25 MTN FA Cup semifinals.

The Porcupine Warriors’ resilience shone through in a match filled with twists, setting up an eagerly anticipated clash with Berekum Chelsea.

Kotoko struck early, taking the lead in the 13th minute when Saaka Dauda capitalized on a swift throw-in, calmly slotting the ball past True Democracy’s goalkeeper.

The opener showcased Kotoko’s sharp attacking play, but they squandered a golden opportunity to extend their advantage midway through the first half.

After Kwame Opoku was fouled in the penalty area, Justice Blay stepped up to take the resulting spot-kick—only to see his effort cannon off the post, leaving True Democracy with a lifeline.

That miss proved costly in the 62nd minute when True Democracy leveled the score.

Isaac Botchway’s well-struck free-kick took a deflection off the Kotoko wall, catching goalkeeper Mohammed Camara off guard and sending the underdogs’ supporters into raptures.

With momentum shifting, the game appeared destined for a penalty shootout as both sides battled fiercely in the closing stages.

But Kwame Opoku had other plans. In the third minute of stoppage time, the striker latched onto a late chance and fired home the decisive goal, sparking wild celebrations among Kotoko fans.

The 2-1 triumph underscored the team’s never-say-die spirit and kept their FA Cup dreams alive.

Asante Kotoko now turn their attention to the semifinals, where they will face Berekum Chelsea.

The winner of that tie will advance to the final, pitted against either Attram De Visser or Golden Kick, as the race for the 2024/25 MTN FA Cup crown intensifies.