GPL: Asante Kotoko to defend home record against Heart of Lions Sunday

Kumasi Asante Kotoko’s head coach, Prosper Narteh Ogum, is preparing his team to defend their unbeaten home record this Sunday as they face Heart of Lions in a Ghana Premier League clash at the Obuasi Len Clay Stadium. 

After adopting the Len Clay Stadium following the temporary closure of Baba Yara Stadium for renovations, the Porcupine Warriors have made it a fortress, securing maximum points on home turf.

However, Kotoko’s season hit a stumbling block last Wednesday when they lost 1-2 to bottom-ranked Legon Cities at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

The defeat, their first of the season, dashed their hopes of claiming the top spot on the league table.

Return to winning ways

Eager to return to winning ways, Kotoko will be looking to reassert their dominance and unleash a strong response against Heart of Lions.

Heart of Lions come into the game with their motivation, led by former Kotoko coach Bashir Hayford. His insight into Kotoko’s tactics and mindset, combined with Heart of Lions' strong showing this season, could make for a challenging encounter. 

Hayford has transformed the Kpando-based team, turning them into formidable opponents, with just one loss this season—a record Kotoko shares.

Adding to the stakes, Heart of Lions claimed victory over Kotoko at the Kpando Park last season, an achievement that will undoubtedly inspire them to repeat the performance.

Under Coach Ogum, Kotoko has also shown remarkable improvement this season, emerging from last year’s challenges to a legitimate contender for the league title this season.

The Porcupine Warriors coach will depend on influential players such as goalkeeper Frederick Asare and midfielder Justice Blay to lead the charge on Sunday.

Other fixtures

Accra Hearts of Oak will start the weekend fixtures today with a tough assignment at the T&A Park in Tarkwa as they clash with Medeama, while Accra Lions welcome FC Samartex 1996 to the University of Ghana Stadium.

On Sunday, Berekum Chelsea will welcome Basake Holy Stars to the Golden City Park at Berekum, Vision FC will entertain Aduana FC at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex, Bechem United will travel to the Nana Konamansah Park to play Nsoatreman, Karela United will host Nations FC at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, while at the Dun's Park at Bibiani, Gold Stars will clash with Dreams FC.