Kotoko players in control of the ball during Sunday’s match
Asante Kotoko edged Hearts of Oak 1-0 in the first Super Clash of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, with referee Reginald Collins Amoah playing a decisive role in a tightly contested encounter.
The pivotal moment came on the stroke of halftime when Amoah awarded Kotoko a penalty after judging a clumsy challenge inside the box by Amankwah Baafi on Peter Amidu Acquah. Guinean forward Morifing Donzo calmly converted from the spot to give the Porcupine Warriors the lead—a decision that sparked debate among fans but ultimately decided the match.
Hearts of Oak responded immediately after the restart, creating several chances, including a long-range effort from Raphael Amponsah and a blocked pass that could have set up Hamza Issah.
The referee remained central to the drama in stoppage time when Mawuli Wayo appeared to score a spectacular equaliser for Hearts, only for the goal to be ruled out for offside after consultation with his assistants.
Amoah’s decisions ensured that Kotoko held on for the win despite sustained pressure from the Phobians in the second half.
Kotoko started the brighter, with early chances from Saaka Dauda and Hubert Gyau, while Hearts struggled to find rhythm until midway through the first half.
Statistically, Kotoko took six shots to Hearts’ five, managing three on target compared to the Phobians’ single effort, while possession was closely contested.
The win marks Kotoko’s fourth victory in the last five league meetings against Hearts of Oak and moves them to seventh on the table, five points off the top despite playing three games fewer.
Hearts suffered their first league defeat of the season and remain fifth, now preparing to face Swedru All Blacks midweek as Kotoko travel to Vision.
