Hearts of Oak claimed a hard-fought win over rivals Asante Kotoko in their final meeting of the season, triumphing 1–0 at the Baba Yara Stadium despite playing most of the match with 10 men.
The result not only handed the Phobians bragging rights but also brought an end to Kotoko’s unbeaten league run at home this season. It also kept Hearts firmly in the title race, as they moved to within five points of leaders Medeama SC and climbed into second place on the table.
The decisive moment arrived early when Baba Adamu rose highest in the 14th minute to head home a looping effort. Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Camara appeared to misjudge the flight of the ball, allowing it to sail past him and into the net.
Hearts looked comfortable in the early stages until right-back Emmanuel Amankwah was sent off after picking up a second yellow card for a reckless challenge. Reduced to 10 men, the visitors switched to a defensive setup and stayed compact, determined to protect their slender advantage.
Kotoko responded with sustained pressure but struggled to carve out clear chances. The closest they came was when Raphael Amponsah missed a one-on-one opportunity that could have sealed the contest for Hearts earlier in the game.
In the closing stages, Kotoko pushed forward in search of an equaliser, but Hearts goalkeeper Benjamin Asare produced an outstanding performance, commanding his area and making key saves to preserve the lead. His display earned him the Man of the Match award.
The victory marked Hearts of Oak’s first league win over Kotoko in Kumasi since the 2020/21 campaign, underlining the significance of the result.
Kotoko remain outside the top four and will next travel to face Young Apostles FC as they look to bounce back. Hearts, meanwhile, will host Berekum Chelsea in their next league outing as they continue their push for the title.
