Asante Kotoko maintained their unbeaten start to the 2025/2026 Ghana Premier League season with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over rivals Hearts of Oak in the first Super Clash of the campaign at the Accra Sports Stadium.
Morifing Donzo’s first-half penalty, his maiden goal for the Porcupine Warriors, proved decisive in a match dominated by Karim Zito’s side, who looked sharper and more organized throughout. The win extends Kotoko’s unbeaten record in all competitions and reinforces their title credentials under the experienced head coach.
The visitors started on the front foot, creating multiple early chances through Saaka Dauda and Hubert Gyau, who forced Hearts goalkeeper Benjamin Asare into several saves. Hearts, led by Didi Dramani, struggled to find rhythm and were pinned back for large spells of the first half, with only a few counterattacks offering relief.
Kotoko’s breakthrough came just before halftime after Amidu Acquah was fouled inside the box by Amankwah Baafi. Donzo stepped up confidently to send Asare the wrong way and give his side the lead.
After the break, Hearts introduced Martin Karikari to inject energy into their attack, and they came close to equalizing through Raphael Amponsah and Hamza Issah. However, Kotoko’s defense, marshaled by captain Samba, remained resolute, with crucial interventions denying the Phobians any clear breakthrough.
A moment of panic nearly gifted Kotoko a second when a poor back pass from Assibey set Donzo through on goal, but his effort was blocked by Ali Mohammed. Hearts’ substitute Mawuli Wayo thought he had found the equalizer with a spectacular strike, only for the assistant referee to raise the flag for offside.
Despite late pressure, Hearts could not breach Kotoko’s backline as the visitors saw out the game professionally to claim all three points.
Speaking after the match, Kotoko head coach Karim Zito praised winger Hubert Gyau for his tireless performance and leadership, describing him as “a player who embodies the spirit of Kotoko.” The coach added that the team’s focus remains on maintaining consistency and discipline as they push for a league and FA Cup double.
The victory marks another memorable Super Clash triumph for the Porcupine Warriors, who continue to dominate their arch-rivals in recent encounters at the Accra Sports Stadium.
2025/26 GPL: Kotoko and Hearts of Oak Target Unbeaten Run Ahead of Super Clash