The highly anticipated match between Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak is set to kick off this Sunday at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi as Kotoko look forward to doing a league double over Hearts of Oak for the first time in over two decades. This Super Clash is expected to be full of fire works with both teams looking to gain momentum in the fight for the Ghana Premier League
Asante Kotoko, currently 5th on the league table with 35 points, will be looking to bounce back from their recent struggles, including a 3-1 loss to Heart of Lions and an FA Cup exit. Interim coach Prince Owusu who took over after coach Karim Dzito’s sack is eyeing redemption and has expressed his team’s readiness for the match.
The visit of the distinguished delegation of revered leaders of the Ashanti Kingdom led by the chief of staff of the Manhyia palace,Mr. Kofi Badu to the team is expected to be a big motivation for kotoko.
Hearts of Oak, on the other hand, are 3rd with 36 points and have been in impressive form, conceding only seven goals in 21 matches. Their disciplined defense and tactical patience will be put to the test against Kotoko’s strong attack.
The match is likely to be a tactical battle, with Hearts of Oak coach Didi Dramani indicating in an interview that the game is for the fans and they will do their best to win as he believes they have prepared very well.
Daniel Laryea, Ghana’s top-rated referee, will be officiating the match, adding to the excitement and anticipation .
The most interesting perspective is the battle of ticket purchase in which the Ashanti Regional minister is leading with 400 tickets bought for supporters followed by the Greater Accra Regional Minister with 250 tickets and Chairman wontumi,The Ashanti Regional chairman of the NPP also securing 200 tickets all for football lovers to fill the Baba Yara sports stadium.
Will Kotoko’s home advantage and attacking firepower be enough to overcome Hearts of Oak’s solid defense, or will the Phobians’ tactical discipline and experience prevail? The question will be answered after 90 minutes on Sunday.