Asante Kotoko continued their unbeaten start to the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over rivals Hearts of Oak at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
A first-half penalty from Morifing Donzo proved decisive, handing the Porcupines a crucial away win in the season’s first Super Clash.
Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani set up in a 3-5-2 system with Ali Mohammed, Osei Asibey and Baba Adamu at the back, while Hamza Issah and Frank Duku led the attack.
Kotoko boss Karim Zito made one change from the side that beat Karela United, starting Henry Asu in place of the suspended Joseph Ablorh.Kotoko began the game on the front foot, controlling possession and asking questions of the Hearts backline.
Hilary Adabo forced a save from goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, while Hearts nearly responded when George Paaku’s in-swinging effort was pushed away by Mohammed Camara.
The Porcupines continued to threaten, with Morifing Donzo heading just wide from an Asiedu long throw and Peter Amidu missing a clear chance after being put through by Seth Kwadwo. Kotoko eventually broke the deadlock in the 43rd minute after Amidu was fouled by Amankwah Baafi in the box.
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Donzo stepped up and converted calmly for his first goal of the season. Hearts came out stronger after the break, pushing for an equalizer, but Kotoko continued to look dangerous on the counter.
Amidu and Donzo both came close to doubling the lead, while Samba Oniel’s header narrowly missed the target. Hearts thought they had leveled when Mawuli Wayo finished from close range, but the goal was ruled out for offside.
Despite late pressure, Kotoko defended well to secure the victory.The defeat marks Hearts’ first under coach Dramani, while Kotoko remain the only unbeaten team in the league.
Kotoko, who still have three outstanding matches, move to seventh on 14 points two behind Hearts, who sit ninth having played three games more.
Kotoko will face Vision FC on Wednesday in their outstanding Matchday 7 fixture.
