Asante Kotoko displayed resilience and determination to defeat their arch-rivals, Accra Hearts of Oak, 2–1 in a dramatic comeback victory to win the 2025 President’s Cup at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
The match, which formed part of the celebrations for Republic Day (July 1), lived up to its billing as Ghana’s biggest football rivalry – with thrilling goals, a missed penalty, and a fired-up crowd adding to the excitement.
The Phobians drew first blood in the 27th minute after capitalising on a defensive blunder. Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Mohammed Camara, misjudged a cross from the right flank, allowing Hearts striker Hamza Issah to tap the ball into an empty net. The early goal gave Hearts a psychological advantage as they headed into halftime with a 1–0 lead.
Kotoko returned from the break with renewed energy. In the 52nd minute, Peter Amidu Acquah sent a dangerous cross into the Hearts’ penalty area. Under pressure, defender Konadu Yiadom unintentionally deflected the ball into his own net, drawing the game level at 1–1.
Just one minute later, Kwame Poku capitalised on a defensive lapse to score the winning goal for Kotoko. He calmly slotted the ball into the net after receiving a low pass in the box, sending the Porcupine Warriors’ fans into a frenzy.
Hearts of Oak were handed a golden opportunity to equalise after being awarded a penalty in the dying minutes. The spot-kick came after a goal was disallowed for offside. However, goalkeeper Mohammed Camara redeemed his earlier error by saving the penalty, preserving Kotoko’s narrow lead and ensuring victory.
This victory marks Asante Kotoko’s ninth President’s Cup title, making them the most successful club in the history of the competition. The win also serves as a morale booster for the Kumasi-based club as they prepare for the upcoming Ghana Premier League season.
The President’s Cup is organised annually by the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) to honour the sitting President of the Republic and promote national unity through football.
The rivalry between Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak, often referred to as the “Super Clash”, is the most anticipated fixture in Ghanaian football. It draws fans from across the country and even beyond, with each side battling for supremacy, pride, and legacy.
Though Hearts of Oak started strong and had opportunities to level the score, Kotoko’s fighting spirit and tactical execution under pressure ultimately made the difference.
Match Summary
Fixture: President’s Cup 2025
Date: Sunday, July 6, 2025
Venue: Accra Sports Stadium
Final Score: Hearts of Oak 1–2 Asante Kotoko
Goal Scorers:
Hearts: Hamza Issah (27’)
Kotoko: Konadu Yiadom (own goal, 52’), Kwame Poku (53’)
Man of the Match: Mohammed Camara (Asante Kotoko) – for a crucial penalty save
With this victory, Kotoko will look to carry their winning momentum into the next football season. For Hearts, it’s back to the drawing board as they work on strengthening their squad and correcting defensive lapses.
