Caleb Amankwah scored a stunning freekick goal inside extra time to guide Hearts of Oak into the semi-finals of the MTN FA Cup, edging out Elmina Sharks.
The 2017 finalists are on course to win the double this season-won the 20/21 Ghana Premier League after a 1-0 victory over Sharks in the quarterfinals of the League Cup.
Hearts of Oak came close to taking the leading inside 18 minutes but Salifu Ibrahim’s effort was parried away by the opposition goalkeeper, Joseph Essiam.
Frederick Ansah Botchway few minutes after the half an hour mark could have made his moment count but missed yet a glorious opportunity for Hearts Of Oak.
Hence, the first half ended goalless.
The away side continued from where they left off as Caleb Amankwah swing in a freekick finding Daniel Afriyie but the latter’s header on goal was felt with beautifully by Essiam.
The game from there turned to be an even contest and thus ended in a draw after regulation time.
In extra time, James Bissue for the home side tried his luck from a long range but his effort went out wide.
Bissue again fired an effort on goal but Hearts defender Mohammed Alhassan put his body in the way to deflect the ball for a corner which was wasted in the end.
The game remained scoreless for majority of the time although it was eventful.
Hearts of Oak were awarded a freekick about 10 steps away from the 18-yard-box after Afriyie was brought down.
Caleb stepped up and smashed home with straight shot which Essiam could have done better.
The Phobians held on to the late lead and finished the game, booking a place in the semis.
Hearts of Oak will now face the winner of Medeama SC and Attram D.V Academy tie on Sunday, July 25.
