The FA Cup round of 32 took place over the weekend, with Asante Kotoko, Aduana Stars, King Faisal and Legon Cities booking their place in the last 16 at the expense of Benab FC, Tano Bofoakwa, Bibiani Goldstars and Accra Great Olympics.
However, Accra Hearts of Oak's dream of winning the competition for the third time running hit a snag as they were defeated by a resilient Dreams FC side at the Accra Sports stadium on Sunday.
So what did we learn from the FA round of 32?
Hearts fans are turning on Matic
If there ever was a honeymoon period during Slavko Matic's early days at Accra Hearts of Oak, it is fair to say it is well and truly over.
Hearts' 1-0 loss to Dreams FC on Sunday seemed like the tipping point for most Hearts fans.
The Phobians are winless in 3 matches across all competitions. Matic is already under pressure despite taking over from Samuel Boadu in October 2022, and making a slow start is not advised at Hearts based on the club's track record of axing managers.
A section of Hearts' disgruntled social media fans have already started the 'Sack Matic now agenda' whilst reminiscing about their former coach, who won the Ghanaian Premier League and 2 FA Cups during his time in Accra.
Aduana Stars Remain on course for a double
Aduana Stars overcame Tano Bofoakwa in a tight contest at the Sunyani Coronation park and booked their place in the last 16- meaning they are on course to win the domestic double.
Admittedly, they still have a long way to go. With clubs like Kotoko, King Faisal, and Legon Cities still in the competition, it won't be easy for the Ogya family, then there's the big matter of cup upsets associated with this competition.
With every win, however, it begins to seem more and more likely that Paa Kwesi Fabin and his charges could just do the impossible.
The Magic of the Cup Lives
For more than 45 minutes of football, lowly Benab FC were equals with reigning league champions Asante Kotoko, brought together by the FA Cup.
Abu Adams' side played with no fear and took the game to the Porcupine Warriors. The hosts found their feet straight away and set about quietening the Kotoko fans on attendance.
Benab FC passed the ball confidence and created a fee chances, taking advantage of Kotoko's decision not to press high. Though they lost on the pitch, ghey won the hearts of many football faithful and neutrals alike.
