Asante Kotoko secured a 2-1 victory over lower-tier side Bekwai Heroes in a friendly encounter at the Adako Jachie training ground on Sunday morning.
The match served as a preparation exercise for the Porcupine Warriors, whose Ghana Premier League (GPL) matchweek two fixture against Nsoatreman FC was postponed due to Nsoatreman's participation in the CAF Confederation Cup this weekend.
Kotoko entered the match with intent, seeking to keep their players match-fit ahead of their upcoming GPL fixtures. The game’s early moments saw Asante Kotoko dominating possession, utilizing their fluid attacking play to press the Bekwai Heroes defense.
The breakthrough came in the early stages of the first half when Emmanuel Antwi delivered a perfectly curled free-kick to open the scoring. The beautifully executed strike left the Bekwai Heroes goalkeeper rooted to his spot, handing Kotoko a 1-0 lead within minutes of kickoff.
However, the joy for the Porcupines was short-lived as the visitors quickly regrouped and mounted their own offensive. A defensive lapse from Kotoko allowed Bekwai Heroes to capitalize and level the score shortly after the opener. The equalizer injected life into the match, with both sides creating several half-chances, but neither team was able to find the net again before the referee signaled for halftime. The score remained 1-1 at the break, leaving the game finely poised.
The second half saw Asante Kotoko regain control of the match, as they dominated possession and sought to break down the resolute Bekwai Heroes defense. The Porcupines' technical team made tactical adjustments, with midfielders pushing further up the pitch to create attacking opportunities.
Kotoko’s persistence paid off in the 63rd minute when Saaka Dauda restored their lead. Amidu Acquah played a delightful through ball, splitting the Bekwai defense, and Dauda was quick to latch onto it, expertly placing the ball beyond the goalkeeper’s reach. The goal re-energized Kotoko, as they began to assert more authority over the game, limiting Bekwai Heroes' attacking threat.
While Bekwai Heroes pressed for another equalizer, Kotoko’s defense held firm, with Justice Blay and Patrick Asiedu forming a solid partnership at the back. Blay, in particular, made crucial interventions to stifle the visitors’ attacks.
The final moments of the match saw both sides exchange a few more opportunities, with Kotoko coming close to adding a third goal. However, the scoreline remained unchanged as the Porcupines comfortably saw out the final minutes to claim a 2-1 victory. This result will certainly boost the morale of Coach Prosper Narteh Ogum’s squad, who are eager to build momentum for their upcoming league campaign.
The friendly match allowed Kotoko’s coaching staff to rotate the squad, giving key players the chance to sharpen their match fitness and try out new tactical formations. Notably, Emmanuel Antwi, who scored the opener, looked in fine form, while midfield dynamo Amidu Acquah impressed with his vision and passing.
The defensive setup, led by Justice Blay, showcased Kotoko's resilience at the back despite Bekwai’s equalizer. Frederick Asare, who started in goal for the Porcupines, had a solid outing, with timely saves and good distribution.
Asante Kotoko will now shift focus to their next GPL fixture, where they face newly-promoted side Young Apostles next weekend in a matchweek three fixture. With this win under their belt, the Porcupines will head into that match with renewed confidence, hoping to claim their first league victory of the season after their opening draw against Heart of Lions.
Kotoko Starting XI:
Frederick Asare (GK), Emmanuel Kotei, Henry Ansu, Justice Blay, Patrick Asiedu, Samuel Tenadu, Emmanuel Antwi, Saaka Dauda, Amidu Acquah, Albert Amoah, Baba Yahaya.
Final Score:
Asante Kotoko 2-1 Bekwai Heroes
