Kumasi Asante Kotoko Sporting Club triumphed in the 2025 President’s Cup with a 2-1 victory over their archrivals, Accra Hearts of Oak.
The match, held at the Accra Sports Stadium in honor of Ghana President John Dramani Mahama, lived up to its high expectations and provided an exciting spectacle.
Hearts took an early lead in the 23rd minute when Hamza Issah capitalized on a mistake by Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Camara, who failed to secure a cross.
However, Kotoko made a strong start to the second half, quickly turning the match around with two goals.
Forward Albert Amoah had a missed opportunity when he shot wide from just seven yards out. Yet, shortly afterwards, Hearts of Oak’s defender Konadu Yiadom inadvertently scored an own goal, heading Peter Amidu’s cross into his own net and giving Kotoko the lead.
A minute later, Camara delivered a huge clearance deep into Hearts of Oak’s box that caused confusion but Amoah was on hand to brilliantly spot the run of his teammate Kwame Opoku and feed him the ball for an easy finish.
Midway through the second half, Amidu was strangely ruled offside before further controversy ensued after Hearts of Oak’s goal was ruled offside with a very tight call.
Kotoko new boy Zackaria Fuseini conceded a penalty moments later after a shot attempt struck his hand but Emmanuel Amankwah delivered a poor kick that Camara easily saved to atone for his mistake in the first half and seal the win.
President Mahama attended the event and was on hand to give the trophy to Kotoko captain Samba Gilbani; Sports Minister Kofi Adams, Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Amoakohene, Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, Ghana Football Association Vice President Mark Addo were among the dignitaries in attendance.
The President’s Cup has extended Hearts of Oak’s winless streak against Kotoko to five matches. Meanwhile, Hearts of Oak is preparing to travel to Nigeria to participate in the eight-team Eko International Tournament.
In contrast, Kotoko will be departing for South Africa later this month to compete in the Toyota Cup against Kaizer Chiefs.
