Asante Kotoko staged an impressive comeback to defeat archrivals Hearts of Oak 2-1 and lift their ninth President’s Cup title at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, July 6, 2025.
The highly anticipated clash, played in honour of President John Dramani Mahama, lived up to expectations with drama, goals, and late-game tension.
Hearts of Oak took the lead in the 27th minute after Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Camara fumbled a cross, allowing Hamza Issah to pounce and fire into an empty net.
Kotoko responded strongly after the break. In the 47th minute, Peter Amidu Acquah’s dangerous run and low cross forced Hearts defender Konadu Yiadom to inadvertently deflect the ball into his own net, levelling the score.
Barely a minute later, Kwame Poku completed the turnaround for the Porcupine Warriors, slotting home calmly after a well-placed square pass from Albert Amoah.
Despite having chances to extend their lead, Kotoko squandered opportunities, with Amoah narrowly missing from close range.
Hearts thought they had found a late equaliser, but their goal was ruled offside. Moments later, they were handed a lifeline with a penalty after Kotoko’s Zakaria Fuseini was penalised for handball.
But goalkeeper Camara made amends for his earlier error, diving low to deny Emmanuel Amankwah from the spot.
The Phobians continued to press for an equaliser but failed to capitalise on their chances as Kotoko held on for the win, extending Hearts’ winless streak against their bitter rivals to five matches.
President Mahama presented the trophy to Kotoko captain Samba Gilbani, with several dignitaries, including Sports Minister Kofi Adams, Ashanti Regional Minister Dr. Amoakohene, Greater Accra Regional Minister Linda Ocloo, and GFA Vice President Mark Addo, in attendance.
Hearts will now turn their focus to the upcoming Eko International Tournament in Nigeria, while Kotoko prepare for a trip to South Africa later this month to face Kaizer Chiefs in the Toyota Cup.
