Ghana’s biggest football rivalry takes center stage once again as Asante Kotoko SC welcome Accra Hearts of Oak to the historic Baba Yara Sports Stadium. Whenever these two giants collide, form often becomes secondary pride, history, and bragging rights take over.
The Porcupine Warriors head into this encounter with plenty to prove. Recent results have not gone their way, including a painful MTN FA Cup Round of 16 elimination on penalties against Aduana FC in Kumasi. In the league, inconsistency has slowed their momentum, and a 3-1 defeat away to Heart of Lions has left them sitting fifth on 35 points after 21 matches, just outside the top four.
Over their last six outings in all competitions, Kotoko have managed just one victory, alongside two draws and three defeats. However, numbers suggest they remain a serious threat. With 28 goals scored — the second-highest tally in the league — and only 14 conceded, they still possess quality at both ends of the pitch.
More importantly, Kumasi has been a stronghold. Under Coach Abdul Karim Zito, Kotoko are unbeaten in 10 home league matches this season (six wins and four draws). Historically, they have also dominated this fixture at the Baba Yara, going unbeaten in their last five home league meetings against Hearts.
Hearts of Oak arrive in Kumasi in solid form, particularly at the back. The Phobians are unbeaten in their last four league matches, collecting two wins and two draws, while keeping clean sheets in all four games under Mas-Ud Didi Dramani.
Despite scoring just 15 goals this season — one of the lowest tallies among the top sides — Hearts have built their campaign on defensive strength, conceding only seven goals in 21 matches.
Away from home, they have been especially impressive. With five wins, four draws, and just two defeats on the road, Hearts boast the strongest away record in the league and have allowed only four goals in away fixtures.
Still, history presents a challenge. The Phobians have not secured a league victory over Kotoko in Kumasi since the 2020/21 season, a record they will be eager to change.
Team News
Asante Kotoko
• Amidu Acquaah is ruled out after picking up an injury in training.
• Patrick Asiedu remains a doubt ahead of kickoff.
•Inusah Adam will also be out due to injury he sustained against Aduana
Hearts of Oak
• Rocky Dwamena is unavailable due to an ACL injury.
Possible Starting XIs
Kotoko: Camara (GK); L. Amoah, J. Amoah, Samba (C), Ansu; Badu, Kwadwo; Saaka, Gyau; Doogo, A. Amoah
Hearts: Asare (GK); Ali, Amankwah, Adamu, Afrane; Abdul Karim, Amponsah, Boateng; Wayo, Husseini, Hamza
Match Information
📺 Live on: TV3, Onua TV & Max TV
🕔 Kickoff: 17:00 GMT (5:00 PM)