The MTN FA Cup bursts back into action this week with an exciting set of Round of 64 fixtures, headlined by defending champions Asante Kotoko, who begin their title defence next Wednesday against ambitious second-tier side Future Stars.
On the same day, 11-time winners Hearts of Oak also enter the fray as they take on lower-tier opposition True Life FC.
However, before the competition's two most successful sides (Kotoko and Hearts have 21 FA Cup titles between them) take centre stage on December 3, the spotlight falls firmly on this afternoon’s cracker between Premier League newcomers Hohoe United and in-form Kpando Heart of Lions, in what promises to be a fiery showdown buzzing with regional pride at the Hohoe Sports Stadium.
Volta regional derby
Hohoe United, still adjusting to the demands of top-flight football and currently 15th on the league table, will look to harness their home support in pursuit of a statement victory and bragging rights.
Lions, on the other hand, arrive as one of the league’s early pacesetters in second place and pre-match favourites to progress to the next round.
With the two sides scheduled to meet again in a league encounter at the same venue in January, today’s clash carries the added weight of psychological advantage, as the home crowd will be desperate to see their side land the first blow.
Today’s fixtures also feature a rich blend of Premier League and Division One clubs scattered across the country, with onetime champions, Ebusua Dwarfs, and former finalists, King Faisal FC, eager to avoid early exits.
Dwarfs, winners of the FA Cup in 1968, take on Police National at the Tuba Astro Turf, while 2022–23 finalists, Faisal, face a tricky trip to the Mohammed Kamil Arena to meet PAC Academy.
Other fixtures
Other encounters include: Northern Zaytuna vs Victory Club Warriors (Tolon Astro Turf Park), Tamale City vs Berekum City (Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium, Tamale),
Dormaa Unity vs Young Apostles (Nana Agyemang Badu Park), Berekum Arsenal vs Mighty Royals (Golden City Park), Debibi United vs Berekum Chelsea (Debibi Park), and BIS Paradise vs Sefwi All Stars (Gyandu Park, Sekondi).
