Asante Kotoko continued their impressive start to the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season with a gritty 1-0 win over their fiercest rivals, Accra Hearts of Oak, at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday afternoon.
A first-half penalty expertly converted by forward Morifing Donzo proved to be the difference in a tense and emotionally charged Super Clash that lived up to expectations. The victory not only extended Kotoko’s unbeaten streak but also reaffirmed their dominance in the early stages of the league campaign.
A Rivalry Rekindled in Accra
Whenever Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko meet, the entire nation pays attention. This fixture, famously known as the “Super Clash,” represents more than just a football match. It is a historic rivalry that divides homes, workplaces, and communities across Ghana. Sunday’s encounter was no different, drawing thousands of supporters to the Accra Sports Stadium, with both clubs determined to assert their superiority.
The pre-match atmosphere was electric. Fans in red and white filled one section of the stands, singing Kotoko chants, while those in rainbow colours of Hearts of Oak responded in equal measure. Police presence was heavy, ensuring order as emotions ran high before kickoff.
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Team Selection and Tactical Set-Up
Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani made several tactical adjustments heading into the game. The Phobians lined up in a 3-5-2 formation designed to offer defensive solidity while maintaining attacking flexibility. Ali Mohammed, Osei Asibey, and Baba Adamu formed a back three tasked with neutralizing Kotoko’s pace on the break. In midfield, the trio of Nurudeen Lawal, Abdul Rashid, and Suraj Seidu worked tirelessly to control possession and feed the forwards. Up front, Hamza Issah partnered with Frank Duku, whose movement was expected to stretch Kotoko’s defense.
On the other hand, Kotoko coach Karim Zito maintained the structure that has brought his side success this season but made a key change to his starting lineup. Henry Asu was introduced in place of the suspended Joseph Ablorh. The decision proved effective, as Asu added balance in midfield and composure on the ball. The Porcupine Warriors set up in a fluid 4-3-3 shape, focusing on pressing high and attacking through the wings.
Kotoko Take Control Early
From the opening whistle, Asante Kotoko looked the more composed and confident side. Their quick passing and coordinated pressing unsettled Hearts of Oak, forcing the home side to retreat deep into their half. The first real opportunity came in the 11th minute when midfielder Hilary Adabo unleashed a powerful shot from outside the box, forcing goalkeeper Benjamin Asare into a fine save.
Moments later, Kotoko nearly took the lead after Peter Amidu broke free on the right flank and delivered a dangerous low cross. Morifing Donzo was inches away from connecting, but Hearts defender Baba Adamu made a crucial clearance to keep the scoreline level.
Hearts gradually grew into the game, creating a few chances of their own. In the 22nd minute, George Paaku’s curling free-kick forced Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Camara into action. Camara, who has been in superb form this season, dived full stretch to tip the ball over the bar, drawing applause even from neutral fans.
Donzo Breaks the Deadlock
Kotoko’s relentless pressure finally paid off in the 43rd minute. Peter Amidu, who had been a constant threat with his direct running, was brought down in the penalty box by Hearts defender Amankwah Baafi after a clever turn. Referee Reginald Collins Amoah did not hesitate to point to the spot, much to the dismay of the Hearts players and their supporters.
Morifing Donzo stepped up with confidence and calmly slotted the ball into the bottom corner, sending goalkeeper Benjamin Asare the wrong way. The stadium erupted as Kotoko fans celebrated wildly, waving flags and chanting their famous “Fabulous” songs. The goal gave the Porcupines a deserved 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
Hearts Push for an Equalizer
Trailing by a goal, Hearts of Oak came out of the tunnel with renewed determination. Coach Didi Dramani introduced attacking midfielder Isaac Mensah to add creativity to the final third. The Phobians began to dominate possession, launching wave after wave of attacks, but Kotoko’s defense remained disciplined and organized.
In the 57th minute, Frank Duku came close to leveling the score when his left-footed strike from just outside the box rattled the crossbar. Kotoko responded immediately on the counterattack, with Donzo almost doubling the lead after being set up by Adabo, but his effort was denied by a last-ditch block from Osei Asibey.
As the minutes ticked away, the tension in the stadium grew. Hearts fans urged their team forward, but Kotoko held their shape, frustrating their opponents with intelligent defending and tactical fouls when necessary.
Kotoko’s Defensive Resilience
One of the standout features of Kotoko’s performance was their defensive resilience. Center-backs Richard Boadu and Stephen Henneh were commanding at the back, winning aerial duels and clearing dangerous crosses. Full-backs Henry Asu and Samuel Boateng also played vital roles, providing cover whenever Hearts switched play to the wings.
Goalkeeper Mohammed Camara, who had already made key saves in the first half, continued to impress. His ability to command his box and organize the defense ensured that Kotoko never looked in serious danger of conceding. Every corner and free kick that Hearts delivered was dealt with calmly, a testament to the discipline instilled by Karim Zito.
Dramatic Final Moments
Hearts of Oak threw everything forward in the closing stages. In the 88th minute, substitute Isaac Mensah delivered a teasing cross that narrowly evaded Hamza Issah’s head. Two minutes later, a goalmouth scramble saw Kotoko defenders block successive shots before Camara finally gathered the ball.
Referee Reginald Collins Amoah added five minutes of stoppage time, during which Kotoko had to survive another dangerous free kick. The Porcupines stood firm until the final whistle, sparking wild celebrations among their traveling supporters.
Coach Reactions
After the game, Kotoko head coach Karim Zito praised his players for their discipline and commitment. “This was a tough match, but we came with a clear game plan and the boys executed it perfectly. Hearts of Oak are a strong side, and beating them here in Accra is never easy,” he told reporters during the post-match press conference.
He also highlighted the contribution of Morifing Donzo, whose composure from the penalty spot secured all three points. “Donzo has been improving with every match. His confidence and calmness under pressure show how important he is to this team,” Zito added.
Hearts of Oak coach Didi Dramani, though disappointed with the result, commended his players for their effort. “We created chances but could not take them. Kotoko were more clinical. We will learn from this and come back stronger,” he said.
Player of the Match: Morifing Donzo
Morifing Donzo’s all-round display earned him the “Player of the Match” award. Beyond his match-winning goal, Donzo was a constant threat with his movement and link-up play. His ability to hold up the ball and draw fouls helped Kotoko relieve pressure whenever Hearts pushed forward.
Speaking after the match, Donzo expressed delight at helping his team secure victory. “It feels great to score in such an important game. The fans deserve this win, and we will keep working hard to maintain our unbeaten run,” he said with a smile.
Looking Ahead
The victory takes Asante Kotoko to the top of the Ghana Premier League table with 13 points after five matches. The Porcupine Warriors remain unbeaten and have now recorded three consecutive clean sheets, a sign of their growing confidence and defensive strength.
Hearts of Oak, on the other hand, will return to the drawing board. The defeat leaves them mid-table, with questions about their consistency and finishing ability. Coach Dramani is expected to make tactical adjustments before their next game against Dreams FC.
Conclusion
Asante Kotoko’s 1-0 triumph over Hearts of Oak once again highlighted why this rivalry remains one of Africa’s greatest football spectacles. The game had everything—intensity, controversy, tactical battles, and passionate supporters on both sides.
For Kotoko, it was a statement victory that reinforced their title credentials and extended their unbeaten start to the season. For Hearts, it was a painful but instructive loss that underlined the need for more cutting edge in attack.
As the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season unfolds, both teams will continue their chase for glory, but for now, it is the Porcupine Warriors who can proudly claim the bragging rights from yet another thrilling Super Clash in Accra.
