Asante Kotoko will host Young Apostles at the Len Clay Stadium in Obuasi this Sunday, marking their first-ever clash in the Ghana Premier League.
Kotoko aims to secure their second victory of the 2024/25 season, following a strong start.
This match promises to be an exciting encounter, with Kotoko determined to assert their dominance over the league newcomers.
PREVIEW
This weekend marks the first-ever meeting between Asante Kotoko and Young Apostles in the Ghana Premier League, as the Wenchi-based side makes its debut following promotion this season.
Asante Kotoko aims to capitalize on their promising start, having secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Karela United in their opening match at the Naa Sheriga Sports Complex. The defending champions will be looking to build momentum and strengthen their position in the league.
On the other hand, Young Apostles are still searching for their first win in the domestic top-flight. After two games, they find themselves with one draw and one loss. They kicked off the season with a 2-0 defeat to Nsoatreman FC, followed by a thrilling goalless draw against Nations FC last Sunday.
As Young Apostles prepare for this challenging encounter against the giants of Asante Kotoko, they face a steep uphill battle. Currently, they sit 14th in the league standings, with just one point from their first two matches, while Kotoko holds three points from their single game.
This match promises to be a significant test for both teams, with Kotoko looking to maintain their winning form and Young Apostles eager to secure their first victory of the season.
TEAM NEWS
Asante Kotoko:
The Porcupine Warriors were sidelined last weekend as their match against Nsoatreman FC was postponed due to Nsoatreman’s participation in the CAF Confederation Cup. Kotoko made a strong start to the season with a narrow 1-0 win over Karela United, and head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum will be eager to build momentum at their new home in Obuasi.
Last season, Kotoko struggled with their home form, but with the high-quality pitch at Len Clay Stadium, Coach Ogum will be keen to change that narrative this season. The Reds aim to maintain their strong form and put on an attractive display for their fans.
"We are ready for the game on Sunday against Young Apostles. They are a very good side... We aim to put up a high performance that is attractive and appealing so that our supporters will be motivated," Ogum said in a pre-match press conference.
Asante Kotoko possible starting lineup: Camara (GK), Amoah, Esmat, Samba, Ablorh, Tenadu, Ntim, Acquah, Antwi, Albert Amoah, Baba Yahaya.
Young Apostles
Young Apostles, making their debut in the top flight, are still in search of their first win after two matches. They opened the season with a 2-0 loss to Nsoatreman FC but managed a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Nations FC. As underdogs, the Wenchi-based side will be aiming to pull off a surprise victory and earn their first win of the season.
Young Apostles coach Asare Bediako acknowledged the team's challenges in front of goal but remains hopeful: "We’ve been working on scoring, yet the goals are not coming... I’m sure we will score in our next game."
Young Apostles possible starting lineup: Acheaw (GK); Mensah, Quansah, Zakari, Nti; Gyamerah, Rahman, Hakim, Moftaw, Amanfo; Bawa
PREDICTION
Asante Kotoko come into this match as firm favorites, with Young Apostles seen as underdogs. Kotoko’s experience and home advantage should give them the edge, though Young Apostles have shown resilience in their early fixtures. A 2-0 victory for Asante Kotoko seems a likely outcome.
We say; Asante Kotoko 2-0 Young Apostles
Kick-off: Sunday, September 22, at 15:00 GMT.
