Asante Kotoko earned a dramatic 1-1 draw against Bechem United at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi in a tense fixture that has sparked widespread controversy over a highly debated penalty decision.
The game saw Bechem United take the lead in the 69th minute through Darlvin Yeboah, whose composed finish gave the Hunters a deserved advantage after a spirited performance.
However, the match took a dramatic turn late in the second half when Referee Joseph Kwofie awarded a penalty to the Porcupine Warriors — a decision that many believe was unjustified. Albert Amoah stepped up and converted the spot kick, levelling the score for Kotoko and securing a point in a game that looked to be slipping away.
Video footage circulating online shows the was no contact in the build-up to the penalty, fueling the outrage from Bechem United fans and neutrals alike. The incident has drawn a flurry of reactions on social media, with fans and pundits branding the decision a “fake penalty” and questioning the standard of officiating.
Critics argue that Kotoko fans, known for their vocal criticism of referees when decisions go against them, have gone unusually quiet in the aftermath — likely because they benefited from the contentious call.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is yet to comment on the incident, but pressure is mounting for improved officiating and the introduction of VAR-like systems in the local league to avoid such contentious moments.
For now, Kotoko walk away with a point, but the manner in which it was earned has left a sour taste for many followers of the game.