Wednesday’s Democracy Cup: Will Kotoko be third time lucky?

Local giants, Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, are set to face off in the Democracy Cup at the Accra Stadium on Wednesday, a match that will serve as a test of their readiness for the upcoming season. 

This game marks the country's 30th anniversary of Ghana's parliamentary democracy and it is expected to intensify the longstanding rivalry between the two teams, each aiming for bragging rights.

Both teams had disappointing campaigns last season, leading to significant overhauls in their squads. Hearts of Oak have signed Nations FC duo Asamoah Boateng Afriyie and defender Michael Awuah Mensah.

In contrast, Asante Kotoko has recruited internationally, bringing in Congolese defender Gilbani O'Neil Samba and Sudanese forward AbdoelRahman Yoouef Yagoub along with defender Esmat Hassabalbagi.

Despite being new to the local league, Kotoko's foreign recruits are likely aware of the intense rivalry and will be eager to justify their inclusion. 

Hearts of Oak's Ivorian Coach, Aboubakar Ouattara, who has previously been on the Kotoko bench, understands the significance of the match and he is motivated to avenge last season's 0-2 defeat to Kotoko. 

He will also use the occasion to assess his new signings' integration into the squad ahead of the league season.

Ouattara is determined not to suffer a third consecutive loss to Kotoko. On the other hand, Prosper Narteh Ogum, Head Coach of the Porcupine Warriors, faces pressure from fans following an uninspiring league performance. 

Ogum hopes the Democracy Cup will demonstrate the progress of his rebuilding process and validate his choice of foreign players for the team.

His strategy involves blending new recruits with experienced players to create a cohesive and effective team. Both coaches have a lot at stake in this match, which promises to be a thrilling encounter, as they seek to prove their team's strength and readiness for the challenges ahead.