Asante Kotoko’s return to the Baba Yara Sports Stadium was met with high expectations, but the Porcupine Warriors were left frustrated after failing t
Asante Kotoko’s return to the Baba Yara Sports Stadium was met with high expectations, but the Porcupine Warriors were left frustrated after failing to break down a resilient Heart of Lions side.
The match, part of the Ghana Premier League’s Week 4 fixtures, marked Kotoko’s first home game in months, and fans hoped for a celebratory win.
However, the visitors, led by coach Bashir Hayford, proved why they sit at the summit of the league table, maintaining their unbeaten run with a disciplined performance.
Kotoko started brightly, eager to capitalise on their home advantage. Striker Albert Amoah nearly electrified the crowd with a spectacular bicycle kick in the 26th minute, only for the ball to crash against the crossbar.
Despite enjoying slightly more attacking momentum, Kotoko struggled to convert their chances, registering six attempts compared to Lions’ four.
The midfield duo of Emmanuel Antwi and Hubert Gyau tried to create openings, but Heart of Lions’ compact defence held firm.
Heart of Lions, though less threatening in attack, were tactically sound and purposeful on the break.
Their pace on the flanks occasionally troubled Kotoko’s backline, but they too lacked the final pass or shot to make a real impact.
A free kick in the 66th minute offered a glimmer of hope, but the effort sailed narrowly wide. Their ability to absorb pressure and counter effectively showcased the maturity of a side that has grown in confidence this season.
Kotoko coach Abdul Karim Zito made several changes in the second half to inject urgency into his side.
Substitutions included Seth for Donzo and, later, Walid and Asiedu for Antwi and Joseph. These moves brought fresh energy, and Kotoko continued to press, winning corners and free kicks, but the final execution remained elusive.
A late substitution saw Amoh replace Peter Amidu in the 87th minute, but it did little to alter the outcome.
The draw leaves Kotoko still searching for their first league win since returning from continental duty, where they had progressed past Nigeria’s Kwara United in the CAF Confederation Cup.
Their next fixtures include Bibiani GoldStars, Hearts of Oak, and Basake Holy Stars, as they prepare for a crucial clash with Wydad Casablanca in the final play-off of the CAF Confederation Cup.
Meanwhile, Heart of Lions remain top of the table, one point ahead of Medeama, and will host Berekum Chelsea next.
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