MTN FA Cup quarter-finals: Berekum Chelsea, Bechem United in showdown

The battle for MTN FA Cup glory intensifies this afternoon as two Premier League rivals, Berekum Chelsea and Bechem United go head-to-head at the Baba Yara Stadium in what promises to be a fiery quarter-final clash.

A fierce regional rivalry adds extra spice to this encounter, with Bechem United holding the psychological edge following their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Chelsea at the Golden City Park in the league earlier this season.

But with a semi-final spot at stake, Samuel Boadu’s Berekum Chelsea will be determined to turn the tables and exact revenge on their foes.

For Chelsea, this match represents a golden opportunity to bolster their cup pedigree.

Despite their historic Premier League triumph in 2010-11, the FA Cup has remained elusive. Bechem United, on the other hand, tasted cup success in 2015-16 when they defeated Okwahu United 2-1 to lift the trophy. 

However, their journey since then has been fraught with near misses and Kwaku Danso’s men will be desperate to reclaim their place among Ghanaian football’s elite.

Key Battles 

A fascinating attacking duel is on the cards, with Chelsea’s talisman Stephen Amankona—joint top scorer in the Ghana Premier League with 10 goals—leading the charge for his side. Bechem’s Emmanuel Abban, who has netted seven times this season, will be equally vital in his team's push for victory.

Beyond these star forwards, Bechem United will look to the experience of Augustine Okrah, Seth Kwadwo, Abdul Mumuni Salifu, Isaiah Nyarko and David Asabere to maintain their cup ambitions. Meanwhile, Berekum Chelsea will be banking on a star-studded cast including Amankona, Safianu Awudu, Osei Bonsu, Francis Debrah, Prince Gyamfi, Eric Asiedu and Godfried Adjei to see them through.

Tactically, the battle in midfield could prove decisive. Bechem’s ability to control possession and dictate the tempo will be tested by Chelsea’s energetic pressing and swift counter-attacks, a hallmark of Boadu’s tactical blueprint.

Both managers will need to get their strategies spot on to outwit their counterpart and keep their cup dreams alive.

David vs Goliath affair

The action continues tomorrow evening as giants Asante Kotoko take on True Democracy FC in another intriguing quarter-final tie at the Baba Yara Stadium.

Kotoko, currently leading the Ghana Premier League, have been in formidable form throughout the tournament, dispatching Future Stars 2-0, Acceler8z FC 2-0 and overcoming Sekondi Eleven Wise 1-0 in previous rounds.

The Porcupine Warriors are determined to add the FA Cup to their silverware collection this season and will be strong favourites against their lower-tier opponents.

True Democracy, however, have proved to be giant-slayers, knocking out defending champions Dreams FC with a stunning 1-0 victory in the Round of 32 and edging past 2012 champions Nania FC 5-4 on penalties in the Round of 16. 

Their resilience and ability to rise to the occasion make them a potential banana skin for Kotoko.

Kotoko will rely on the attacking prowess of Samuel Tenedu, who netted the winner in their recent 1-0 league victory over Basake Holy Stars. 

Albert Amoah, with seven league goals to his name and Kwame Opoku, who has struck six times, will also be key figures in attack.

Captain Justice Blay will anchor the midfield, while Evans Adomako, Solomon Sarfo Taylor and Joseph Ablorh provide additional firepower. 

Under the tactical guidance of Prosper Narteh Ogum, Kotoko will aim to dominate possession and break down their underdog opponents with clinical efficiency.

For True Democracy, coach Lukman Imoro’s side will need another inspired performance, with players such as goalkeeper Abraham Odonkor, skipper Daniel Egyin, Emba Kofi Otoo, Samuel Gonah, Kwesi Mensah, Adjei Martei and Kingsley Rahim expected to play pivotal roles in their bid to pull off an upset.

Other clashes

The FA Cup drama extends beyond these two mouth-watering fixtures. Attram De Visser SC take on Pac Academy FC this afternoon at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, while Karela United will square off against Golden Kicks FC at the same venue tomorrow.