Players of Kotoko celebrating with the trophy
Asante Kotoko have been crowned champions of the 2025 Toyota Cup after defeating South African giants, Kaizer Chiefs, 3-2 on penalties in a tense encounter at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, July 26.
The highly-anticipated clash between two of Africa’s most iconic clubs ended goalless in regulation time, but it was the Porcupine Warriors who held their nerve during the shootout to lift the trophy.
Both sides approached the match with intensity and physicality, using the game as a vital tune-up ahead of their respective 2025/26 domestic campaigns.
While Kaizer Chiefs dominated possession in spells, Kotoko remained disciplined and well-organised, frustrating the South Africans and creating a few decent openings on the counter.
The best chance of the match fell to Kotoko’s Kwame Opoku late in the second half, but his low drive was well saved by the Chiefs’ goalkeeper.
After 90 minutes without a goal, the match was decided from the spot, where the tension escalated.
Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Camara emerged as the hero, saving four crucial penalties and denying Chiefs any late chance in the shootout.
The victory marks Kotoko’s first Toyota Cup title, making them the second club to win the pre-season competition after Young Africans claimed the inaugural edition in 2024.
For new head coach, Karim Zito, that is three trophies since taking charge of the club in April 2025.
FKA/AE
Meanwhile, watch as football fans question FIFA’s move to scrap penalty rebound rule
