GhanaRegions.com’s comprehensive breakdown of the President’s Cup super clash on July 6, 2025, between Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak (“the Phobians”), which ended in a 2–1 victory for Kotoko.
⚽ Match Highlights & Key Moments
Early setback for Kotoko
In the 27th minute, Hearts’ Hamza Issah capitalized on a goalkeeping error. Kotoko’s GK Mohammed Camara spilled a cross, and Issah tapped in to give the Phobians a surprise lead.
Swift Kotoko response
Just after halftime, Peter Amidu Acquah drove in from the left. His effort deflected off Konadu Yiadom into the net, leveling the score 1–1
Kotoko take the lead
A minute later, Kwame Poku finished neatly after a square pass, putting Kotoko ahead 2–1
Penalty drama and Camara’s redemption
Later, Hearts were awarded a penalty. Emmanuel Amankwah stepped up, but Camara redeemed himself with a crucial save, maintaining Kotoko’s lead
Final whistle
Despite late chances, Hearts couldn’t convert. Camara’s penalty save effectively sealed the 2–1 win, giving Kotoko their ninth President’s Cup title
Catch the dramatic equalizer, the lead strike, and the key penalty save—a must-watch for Kotoko fans.
Impact of Kotoko’s New Signing
Pre-game context:
The President’s Cup victory (2–1) came shortly after Johnson Oppong Owusu’s signing announcement on June 25, 2025. Anticipation was high for his first competitive outing.
Match involvement:
While Johnson Oppong Owusu didn’t appear on the scoresheet, Kotoko’s improved attack—the connection that led to Kwame Poku’s winning goal—reflected the quality and confidence he adds to the squad, even if still settling in.
Hearts of Oak’s Missed Opportunity
Penalty miss: Emmanuel Amankwah’s stoppage-time spot-kick could’ve brought Hearts level—but Camara’s decisive save crushed that hope.
Disallowed goal: Earlier in the second half, Hearts thought they had equalized again, but it was ruled offside .
Fans were vocal post-match, frustrated with decisions and the missed opportunities that proved costly
Significance & Context
President’s Cup legacy: This annual fixture, held to honor the sitting President, pits two heavyweight rivals in a celebratory yet fiercely competitive match. Kotoko’s ninth win boosts their record in the event
Momentum boost for Kotoko: Winning this fixture gives Kotoko a strong end to the campaign, energizing them heading into preseason.
Hearts’ silverware drought: After a shaky league season, this defeat deepens Hearts’ struggles and raises fears of another trophyless year.
Tactical Overview
Team Strengths Today Missed Chances
Kotoko – Resilient after conceding; clinical finishing Let chances slip (Poku’s 74′ miss)
Hearts – Strong early structure and tempo. Penalty miss; disallowed goal; inconsistent finishing
Camara’s influence: Was at fault early but grew into the game, delivering two standout moments: his own goal conceded and the decisive penalty-save redemption.
Kwame Poku’s composure: Calm and lethal with the go-ahead goal.
Watch Match Highlights And All Goals
Amankwah’s pressure miss: His penalty failure underscored Hearts’ day of squandered chances.
What This Means Going Forward
Kotoko: With Cup glory and new signings like Fuseini contributing, expectations are rising. The club will aim to maintain this momentum into league play.
Hearts: Must regroup. The penalty miss is symbolic of season-long lapses in consistency. Reinforcements in attack and focus in big moments are crucial ahead of next season.
Final Synopsis:
Score: Asante Kotoko 2–1 Accra Hearts of Oak
Highlights: A dramatic comeback, a killer finish, and a match-winning penalty save
New signing: Fuseini continues to blend into Kotoko’s attack
Turning point: Hearts’ failure from the spot summed up the day
Legacy: Kotoko cements its President’s Cup dominance with a ninth triumph
