Heart of Lions will play against Asante Kotoko on Saturday afternoon in matchweek 21 of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League at the Kpando Stadium.
The match will come-off at 3:30pm, with both teams hoping to boost their chances of finishing high on the league table.
Match Preview
Heart of Lions go into this game hoping to recover from last weekend’s defeat. The team, coached by Bashir Haydord, lost 1–0 away to Bechem United at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, continuing their poor run of form.
After 20 matches, the Dzie Woa Nu are seventh with 27 points, having won seven games, drawn six and lost seven. Although they have been inconsistent, Heart of Lions are usually strong at home and will believe they can cause problems for one of the title-chasing teams.
Asante Kotoko travel to the Volta Region in good shape and still fighting for the league title. Led by head coach Abdul Karim Zito, the Porcupine Warriors sit third on the table with 35 points after 20 games, just eight points behind leaders Medeama SC.
Kotoko have been solid at the back and dangerous going forward this season, and they will be looking to keep pressure on the teams above them with a good away result.
Team News
Heart of Lions Team News
Heart of Lions are expected to have most of their players available for the match. Coach Bashir Haydord may keep faith with the players who faced Bechem United, but could make small changes to improve the attack.
Captain Ebenezer Abban is expected to lead the defence, while Samuel Quansah and Michael Ephson will be key in creating chances for striker Kelvin Asenso.
Asante Kotoko Team News
Asante Kotoko also have no major injury worries going into the game. Coach Abdul Karim Zito may make a few changes but is likely to keep his strongest players in key areas.
Goalkeeper Mohammed Camara should start again, while Albert Amoah will lead the attack, with support from Hubert Gyau and Seth Kwadwo.
Possible Lineups
Heart of Lions:
Lawrence Osei (GK); Ebenezer Abban (C), Ishmael Addo, Bismark Anim; Yaw Danso, Etse Dogli, Michael Ephson, Chauncy Freeman; Ruben Hennessy, Samuel Quansah; Kelvin Asenso.
Asante Kotoko:
Mohammed Camara (GK); Ndongani Samba Gilbani (C), Lord Amoah, Henry Ansu, Zackaria Fuseini; Lord Hilary Adabo, Philip Amoh, Hubert Gyau; Peter Amidu Acquah, Albert Amoah, Seth Kwadwo.
We Say: Heart of Lions 1–2 Asante Kotoko
This should be a close and exciting match, especially with Heart of Lions enjoying strong support at the Kpando Stadium. The hosts are likely to score, with Kelvin Asenso a good chance to find the net.
However, Asante Kotoko’s stronger squad and attacking quality may make the difference. Albert Amoah is expected to score again, while Hubert Gyau could also get on the scoresheet as Kotoko claim a narrow away win.
Where is the game being played?
The match will be played at Kpando Stadium, the home ground of Heart of Lions.
What time is kick-off?
The game kicks off at 3:30pm on Saturday, January 31.
By: Pascal Amoah
