Asante Kotoko return to domestic duty this weekend as they host the in-form Heart of Lions at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday, October 5, in one of the headline fixtures of Matchday 4 in the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.
Match Preview
The Porcupine Warriors enter the game brimming with confidence after advancing to the next stage of the CAF Confederation Cup qualifiers, edging Nigeria’s Kwara United 5–4 on aggregate. Having secured continental progress, Abdul Karim Zito’s men now turn their attention back to the league, where they began their campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 away victory over Berekum Chelsea on opening day.
Zito’s side will be looking to build on that momentum and record back-to-back league wins as they pursue a return to the summit of Ghanaian football. Kotoko’s home form has been particularly impressive — they have won 10 of their last 11 matches at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium (D1), keeping seven clean sheets in that period.
However, their recent record against Heart of Lions at home serves as a warning. Kotoko have failed to score in their last two home meetings with the Kpando-based outfit, drawing 0–0 in the 2023/24 season before suffering a 0–1 defeat last term.
Form Guide: Heart of Lions
Heart of Lions arrive in Kumasi as the league’s most in-form side, maintaining a perfect start to the new campaign. Their narrow 1–0 triumph over Bechem United last weekend extended their winning streak to five league matches, dating back to the end of last season.
Under the guidance of Bashir K. Hayford, the Lions have combined defensive organisation with attacking precision, keeping three clean sheets and conceding just two goals during that run. Their performances have made them early title contenders, sitting atop the standings as the only side yet to drop a point this season (W3).
A victory in Kumasi would mark a statement result and their first back-to-back away wins in the top-flight since June 2024, further solidifying their growing reputation.
Team News
Asante Kotoko are expected to field a strong starting XI, with goalkeeper Camara set to start behind captain Samba, Ablorh, Asiedu and Lord Amoah in defence. Midfield anchors Adabo and Gyauwill look to dictate play, while forwards Donzo, Amoah provide attacking depth.
Heart of Lions, meanwhile, will rely on their solid backline marshalled by Attah Agyei and Danso, while Freeman and Obeng Jnr lead the line in attack.
Predicted Lineups
Asante Kotoko:
Camara, Samba, Ablorh, Hamzata, P. Aseidu, Adabo, E. Antwi, Gyau, Acquah, Donzo, A. Amoah
Heart of Lions:
Osei (GK), Dogli, Hennessy, E. Abban (C), Addo, Atta Agyei, Obeng Jnr., B. Anim, Freeman, Danso, Quansah
Kickoff and Coverage
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Venue: Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Kumasi
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Date: Sunday, October 5, 2025
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Kickoff: 3:00 PM local time
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Live Broadcast: TV3 and Onua TV
Prediction
This clash promises an intense tactical battle between two disciplined sides. Kotoko’s formidable home record gives them a narrow edge, but Lions’ early-season momentum cannot be ignored.
Prediction: Asante Kotoko 2–1 Heart of Lions
