Asante Kotoko began their 2025/26 Ghana Premier League campaign with a statement win on Saturday, September 13, 2025, defeating Berekum Chelsea 1-0 at the Golden City Park.
The victory, secured by an Albert Amoah strike, not only gave the Porcupines three crucial points but also ended a painful 15-year winless run in Berekum.
Amoah the hero in Golden City
The defining moment of the game arrived when forward Albert Amoah found space in the Chelsea box and drove a low, hard strike past goalkeeper Adu Emmanuel.
The goal proved decisive, as Kotoko’s defensive organisation ensured Chelsea could not find a way back into the contest.
For Kotoko fans, the strike carried added weight as it ended the long-standing jinx that had seen the club fail to win away to Chelsea since 2010.
Chelsea fight hard but fall short
Berekum Chelsea were determined not to give Kotoko an easy ride, pushing forward in search of an equaliser.
However, the Porcupines’ back line, marshalled with composure and discipline, repelled every attack. Chelsea’s frustrations grew as they struggled to break down Kotoko’s resolute defending.
The Blues must now quickly regroup as they prepare for a tricky away trip against Swedru All Blacks in their second league game.
Zito backs his boys after tough preseason
Kotoko’s head coach, Abdul Karim Zito, was delighted with his side’s performance, describing the victory as a deserved reward after a grueling preseason schedule.
“At the end of the day, after a hard-fought win, football has done justice to Kotoko,” Zito said after the match.
“When you look at the way we created a lot of chances, assuming we ended this game without a win, I don’t think it’s fair. I’m very happy for my boys and it will also ginger us towards this week’s Confederation Cup that we are going to play.”
The Kotoko trainer admitted that his players were fatigued after featuring in four preseason competitions but praised their determination to dig deep and claim maximum points.
Confidence booster for continental challenge
The timing of the victory could not be more crucial. Kotoko are set to begin their CAF Confederation Cup campaign with a preliminary round clash against Nigeria’s Kwara United on September 21.
For the Porcupine faithful, Saturday’s win was more than just three points—it was a morale-lifting performance that demonstrated the team’s ability to grind out results under pressure.
A statement of intent
The victory in Berekum sends a strong message to Kotoko’s domestic rivals that they are serious contenders for the Premier League title this season.
By breaking a long-standing away jinx, Zito’s men showed resilience, tactical maturity, and hunger for success.
With confidence high and momentum on their side, the Porcupines now look ahead to their continental assignment, hoping the Golden City triumph will serve as the spark for a memorable campaign at home and abroad.
