VIDEO: Watch Albert Amoah's late strike which sealed victory for Kotoko over Hearts
Kumasi Asante Kotoko claimed a dramatic late victory over arch-rivals Hearts of Oak in a thrilling Ghana Premier League clash at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday. A stoppage-time goal from Albert Amoah secured a 1-0 win for the hosts, marking their third consecutive league triumph over the Phobians.
In a match where both teams were evenly matched for large stretches, Kotoko began on the front foot, forcing Hearts’ goalkeeper Benjamin Asare into a spectacular save just 27 seconds after kick-off. Hearts of Oak, rattled by Kotoko's intensity, gradually grew into the game, controlling possession but failing to trouble the opposition defence with any clear-cut chances.
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Kotoko came close to breaking the deadlock in the first half. Albert Amoah, Kotoko’s prolific striker, squandered a golden opportunity with a misdirected header from close range, while Kelvin Osei Asibey’s last-ditch tackle thwarted another chance for Amoah. Hearts nearly took the lead themselves when Baba Yahaya, unmarked in the box, blasted over the bar just before half-time.
The second half began with Hearts of Oak dictating the tempo. Salim Adams orchestrated their attacks with precision, and his deft through ball to Kwabena Boateng nearly resulted in a goal, but a well-timed intervention denied the chance. Baba Yahaya missed yet another clear opportunity for Kotoko, compounding frustration for the home side as the game appeared destined for a draw.
The deadlock was finally broken in added time. A defensive mix-up between Kelvin Osei Asibey and Benjamin Asare left Amoah with a clear sight on goal, and the striker made no mistake, slotting home his seventh goal of the season. The late strike sent the home crowd into raptures and secured a crucial three points for Kotoko.
The victory lifts Kotoko above Hearts of Oak into sixth place on the league table, with the Phobians slipping to seventh. Amoah’s clinical finish not only solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most reliable scorers but also extended Kotoko's dominance in one of Ghana’s most storied football rivalries.
Watch the goal below;
GOALALALALALALAAAZOOOO!!
— Kotoko News & Updates (@DailyPorcupine) December 15, 2024
Albert Amoah wins it for Asante Kotoko. pic.twitter.com/8IOuXp8IjV
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