Swedru All Blacks claimed a crucial 1-0 victory over Asante Kotoko in their Ghana Premier League Matchday 6 clash at the Swedru Sports Stadium on Saturday, with Danquah Wiafe’s 93rd-minute penalty settling a fiercely contested encounter.
The hosts were the more threatening side for much of the game, creating several opportunities and forcing Kotoko goalkeeper Aziz Adari into a series of important saves. Despite their attacking pressure, All Blacks struggled to find a way past the impressive shot-stopper during the opening half.
William Danquah tested Kotoko’s defence with a long-range effort in the 17th minute, while Faisal Charwatey came close eight minutes later when his dangerous free-kick was tipped over the crossbar by Adari. The Kotoko goalkeeper continued to frustrate the hosts with further saves, including a crucial stop in first-half stoppage time.
Kotoko also had opportunities to take the lead, but Gyau failed to capitalise on a promising chance. Adari’s performance kept the visitors in contention as both teams went into the break without a goal.
The Porcupine Warriors made changes at half-time, with Seth Kwadwo Osei and Inusa Adams replacing Richard Boadu and Opoku Agyemang. Although Kotoko showed some improvement after the restart, All Blacks maintained their attacking intent and continued to apply pressure.
The decisive moment arrived deep into stoppage time when Patrick Asiedu brought down Vincent Baah Junior inside the penalty area. Danquah Wiafe stepped up in the 93rd minute and calmly converted from the spot, sending Adari the wrong way to secure all three points for the home side.
The victory moves Swedru All Blacks to ninth place with eight points, level on points with Asante Kotoko, who suffered their first away defeat of the season. Kotoko will next face Young Apostles, while All Blacks prepare to take on Karela United.