Congolese midfielder Glid Otanga has offered support to his former Hearts of Oak teammate Kelvin Osei Assibey, despite the latter’s error leading to the Phobians’ stoppage-time defeat against Asante Kotoko in their matchday 13 clash of the Ghana Premier League on Sunday.
The highly anticipated encounter at the Baba Yara Stadium appeared to be heading for a draw until Albert Amoah capitalized on a defensive mix-up between Osei Assibey and goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. Amoah’s injury-time strike, his seventh of the season, sealed a dramatic 1-0 victory for Kotoko, extending their winning streak over Hearts to four consecutive games.
Despite the costly mistake, Otanga took to his Facebook page to defend Assibey, encouraging him to learn and grow from the setback:
“Things must be hard for you right now, but for me, you remain a good defender and the future for your nation. Mistakes are part of our work. Keep working and accept criticism because that is what will make you grow. I am proud of you.”
The loss leaves Hearts of Oak looking to regroup quickly as they prepare to face Berekum Chelsea in their next fixture. For Kelvin Osei Assibey, the match offers a chance to bounce back and regain confidence after the disappointing Super Clash defeat.