Asante Kotoko will look to extend their winning streak when they take on relegation-threatened Dreams FC at the Tuba AstroTurf in Accra on Saturday, December 21.
Match Preview
The Porcupine Warriors come into this match riding high after a dramatic 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Hearts of Oak in the Super Clash last weekend.
Kotoko, sitting just three points off the top of the league table, are eyeing a third consecutive win to solidify their title charge. However, Dreams FC, currently battling relegation, will see this as a crucial opportunity to turn their season around. The Still Believe Boys have struggled to make their mark this season, managing only two wins in 13 matches and just one at their adopted home ground in Krokrobite.
Team News
Kotoko will be without key contributors Albert Amoah, Saaka Dauda, Frederick Asare, and Emmanuel Antwi, all of whom are on national duty with the Black Galaxies. Amoah’s absence is particularly significant, as he has been in red-hot form, netting seven goals this season, including the match-winner against Hearts. However, debutant Kwame Opoku is expected to fill the void in attack under the guidance of head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum.
For Dreams FC, head coach Karim Zito will be banking on experienced players like Joseph Esso and Abdul Jalilu to inspire a revival. Despite their struggles, Dreams FC have shown resilience in past encounters with Kotoko, winning three of their last six meetings.
Head-to-Head and Historical Context
The two sides have had contrasting fortunes this season. Kotoko have secured six wins in 13 games, showcasing strong form, while Dreams FC have found the net only five times all season, reflecting their attacking woes. In their last meeting in April, Dreams secured a 2-0 victory, highlighting their potential to cause an upset.
Predicted Lineups
Dreams FC:
- Goalkeeper: Aseako
- Defenders: Adjei, Ahiable, Aziz, Boah
- Midfielders: Boateng, Danso, Esso (C), Guede
- Forwards: Owusu C, Owusu L
Asante Kotoko:
- Goalkeeper: M. Camara
- Defenders: L. Amoah, E. Kotei, Samba, J. Ablorh
- Midfielders: Justice Blay (C), Andrews Ntim, B. Yahaya
- Forwards: D. Saaka, A. Acquah, Kyei Baffour
Kickoff Time: 15:00 GMT
Prediction:
We say; Dreams FC 0-1 Asante Kotoko
Given Kotoko's current form and Dreams’ struggles in front of goal, the Porcupine Warriors are tipped to edge this encounter. However, Dreams’ desperation to escape the relegation zone could make it a tightly contested affair.
