Accra Hearts of Oak produced a spirited performance on the road to defeat Asante Kotoko 1-0 in a tense Super Clash at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, ending their long wait for victory in Kumasi.
Roared on by a packed crowd in Ghana’s football capital, Kotoko started brightly and dominated the early exchanges, pushing the Phobians deep into their half. The Porcupine Warriors created the first real chance, but Hearts goalkeeper Benjamin Asare reacted sharply to keep the score level.
Despite the pressure, Hearts gradually grew into the game. Their compact midfield and disciplined backline frustrated the hosts, while they looked dangerous on the counterattack.
The breakthrough arrived when Hearts capitalised on a defensive lapse. A quick transition caught Kotoko exposed, and a low cross into the box was calmly finished to silence the home supporters and send the travelling Phobian fans into wild celebrations.
The game took another dramatic turn later when Hearts were reduced to 10 men after a defender received a second yellow card for a late challenge. Down a man, the visitors were forced into a backs-to-the-wall defensive effort.
Kotoko piled forward in search of an equaliser, throwing numbers into attack and delivering wave after wave of crosses. However, Hearts’ defence stood firm, with the goalkeeper making a series of crucial saves while defenders cleared desperate balls off the line.
After several minutes of added time, the referee’s final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations from the Hearts bench and supporters. The victory marked Hearts of Oak’s first win in Kumasi in years and a significant psychological boost in the fiercely contested rivalry.
The result not only strengthens Hearts’ position in the league standings but also hands them bragging rights in one of African football’s most historic derbies.
For Kotoko, the defeat will raise questions about their finishing after dominating large portions of the match without reward.
