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Albert Amoah’s stoppage-time strike handed Asante Kotoko a dramatic 1-0 win over Hearts of Oak in a thrilling showdown at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday. The late goal, a result of a defensive mix-up, secured Kotoko a hard-fought victory over their fierce rivals.
The game’s decisive moment came in added time when a lapse in communication between Hearts defender Kelvin Osei Asibey and goalkeeper Benjamin Asare allowed Amoah to pounce on the loose ball. With composure, he slotted it into the net, leaving the Hearts defense stunned after an otherwise impressive display by both players.
Kotoko started strongly, dominating the early exchanges with relentless pressing. Within the first minute, goalkeeper Benjamin Asare made a brilliant save to deny them an opener. Despite Kotoko’s intensity, Hearts gradually grew into the game, controlling possession but struggling to create clear opportunities. Their attempts were largely restricted to long-range shots that failed to trouble the Kotoko goalkeeper.
Albert Amoah was a constant threat for Kotoko in the first half. At the half-hour mark, he was denied a chance to score by Osei Asibey’s perfectly timed tackle. Later, Amoah thought he had broken the deadlock after finishing off a smooth attacking move, but his effort was ruled out for offside. Baba Yahaya also missed a golden opportunity for Kotoko just before the break, sending his shot over the bar after beating his marker.
The second half saw Hearts of Oak step up their game, with midfielder Salim Adams orchestrating their attack. Adams created a golden chance for Kwabena Boateng, but a last-ditch tackle from Kotoko’s defense kept the scoreline intact. Both sides battled fiercely, trading attacks and near-misses as the match approached its conclusion.
Just when the game seemed destined for a draw, Amoah capitalized on a defensive error in the dying moments to secure victory. The late goal sparked wild celebrations from Kotoko coach Prosper Ogum, who dramatically removed his red tie and embraced his jubilant players on the pitch.
The win marked Kotoko’s third consecutive league triumph over their bitter rivals, elevating them to sixth place in the standings, just above Hearts, who dropped to seventh. For Hearts, it was a heartbreaking finish to an otherwise competitive display, while Kotoko once again underlined their dominance in Ghana’s most iconic football rivalry.
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