Accra Hearts of Oak clinched a hard-fought 1-0 victory over arch-rivals Kumasi Asante Kotoko on Matchday 22 of the Ghana Premier League at the iconic Baba Yara Sports Stadium. Baba Adamu proved the difference-maker in the 17th minute, rising majestically to head home a beautifully delivered cross from Martin Karikari and hand the Phobians an early, decisive advantage.
Having seized the lead, Hearts of Oak exhibited admirable tactical maturity, maintaining a compact and disciplined shape. Kotoko responded with increased possession and mounting attacking pressure, but the visitors’ rearguard stood firm, expertly neutralising the Porcupine Warriors’ advances and limiting them to speculative efforts.
The contest took a dramatic turn when Hearts were reduced to ten men following Emmanuel Amankwah’s dismissal. Yet, even with a numerical disadvantage, the Phobians displayed remarkable resilience and defensive organisation, absorbing sustained pressure while frustrating Kotoko’s desperate search for an equaliser.
The narrow but significant triumph not only strengthens Hearts of Oak’s league ambitions but also hands them priceless bragging rights in Ghana’s most storied rivalry. The result further snaps Kotoko’s unbeaten home league run this season, highlighting Hearts’ grit, discipline, and big-game temperament.
Next up, Hearts of Oak return to Accra to host Berekum Chelsea at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, while Asante Kotoko travel to Wenchi to face Young Apostles FC as they seek a swift response in the title race.