Hearts of Oak edge Heart of Lions in penalty shootout to win 2024 Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Peace Cup

Hearts of Oak claimed the 2024 Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Peace Cup after a dramatic 8-7 penalty shootout victory over Kpando Heart of Lions, following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

The match commenced with Ga Gbese Mantse Nii Ayi-Bonte II performing the ceremonial kickoff, setting the stage for an intense encounter.

Under the guidance of coach Aboubakar Ouattara, Hearts of Oak fielded a lineup featuring eight new signings, including goalkeeper Benjamin Asare and striker Kwame Boateng. The starting XI also featured Yahaya Adramani, Mawuli Wayo, and former Asante Kotoko defender Patrick Asmah.

Kpando Heart of Lions, led by coach Bashiru Hayford, started the match strongly, with Kwadwo Obeng Jr. finding the back of the net against his former club just three minutes into the game.

Despite numerous attempts, the Phobians were unable to equalize in the first half. However, they intensified their efforts in the second half, only to be repeatedly thwarted by Lions’ goalkeeper Lawrence Osei.

With just two minutes left on the clock, substitute Mohammed Hussein finally leveled the score, capitalizing on a rebound after Ransford Mensah’s free-kick struck the crossbar.

The match then moved to a nerve-wracking penalty shootout, where Hearts of Oak emerged victorious, winning 8-7 to lift the cup in a thrilling finale.