The Porcupine Warriors shocked the Phobians on their home turf with a first-half goal that proved to be the match-winner in a tightly fought contest.

Kotoko started the game with determination, dominating the early stages and creating promising chances through players like Saaka Dauda and Hubert Gyau. Hearts of Oak struggled to find their rhythm, with their usual pace somewhat disrupted during the opening minutes.

The key moment came just before halftime when Kotoko were awarded a penalty after Amankwah Baafi fouled Peter Amidu Acquah inside the penalty area.

Guinean striker Morifing Donzo calmly converted the penalty, sparking celebrations among the away supporters.

In the second half, Hearts of Oak responded with increased aggression. They held sustained possession, tested the Kotoko defense, and attempted several long-range shots.

Kotoko, meanwhile, defended solidly, stayed well-organized, and absorbed pressure when necessary.

Hearts believed they had equalized late through Mawuli Wayo, but the goal was ruled out for offside before his acrobatic strike hit the net. The match concluded 1-0 in favor of the Porcupine Warriors, who moved up to seventh place with 13 points, trailing the leaders by five points despite having three games in hand.

Hearts of Oak, on the other hand, suffered their first league loss of the season and dropped to fifth in the standings. The Phobians aim to recover quickly when they face Swedru All Blacks next weekend, while Kotoko prepare for an away fixture against Vision FC.

Kotoko’s recent superiority in encounters

Asante Kotoko have clearly dominated this historic rivalry in recent years. The Porcupine Warriors have won four of the last five league matches against Hearts of Oak, demonstrating their dominance in the modern era of the Super Clash.

The only game in that sequence where Kotoko did not claim victory was a goalless draw last season at the Accra Sports Stadium. Although Hearts defeated Kotoko 2-0 in the GHALCA Top 4 before the current season, that was a pre-season friendly, not an official league match.

Kotoko’s recent win in Accra once again showcased their composure and ability to perform in Ghana’s most intense football rivalry.

Coach comments

Kotoko head coach Karim Zito emphasized that the right mentality and attitude made the difference:

“Everyone knows how tough Hearts and Kotoko matches are. You can see the fans today, all happy. It was a difficult game, but the mindset to win was present because winning this match helps us towards our goal.”

“Hard work, commitment, and attitude brought us success. I ask the supporters to remain patient with the players. We will return to African competitions soon.”

Hearts coach Didi Dramani felt his team was unlucky not to earn a point from the game:

“We lost, but I believe we did not deserve to lose, in my view, and anyone who watched the match closely would agree. The game was tightly contested, and the result was unexpected. We have identified some issues and strengths, and there are important lessons to take forward.”

The next Super Clash between these two sides will take place on Matchday 22, with Kotoko hosting Hearts of Oak in Kumasi.