Kotoko Snatch Super Clash Glory with Controversial Penalty
Donzo spot-kick settles fiery Accra derby; Hearts denied late equalise
2025/26 Ghana Premier League: Week 9 Hearts of Oak 0-1 Asante Kotoko Super Clash decided by controversial penalty at Accra Sports Stadium
Accra, Nov 9, 2025 – Asante Kotoko claimed bragging rights in the opening Super Clash of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season, edging arch-rivals Hearts of Oak 1-0 courtesy of a contentious first-half penalty.
The game’s defining moment arrived in first-half stoppage time. Referee Reginald Collins Amoah pointed to the spot after Hearts defender Amankwah Baafi tangled with Kotoko’s Peter Amidu Acquah inside the box. Guinean striker Morifing Donzo kept his nerve to slot home the resulting kick, sending the travelling Porcupine Warriors supporters into rapture.
Hearts roared back after the interval, peppering Kotoko’s goal with intent. Raphael Amponsah stung the palms of the keeper from distance, while a blocked cut-back denied Hamza Issah a tap-in. The Phobians thought they had levelled in stoppage time when Mawuli Wayo rifled home a spectacular volley—only for the assistant’s flag to chalk it off for offside following a lengthy consultation.
Kotoko started sharper, forcing early saves through Saaka Dauda and Hubert Gyau, but Hearts grew into the contest. Final stats showed a tightly fought affair:
| Team | Shots | On Target | Possession |
|---|---|---|---|
| Asante Kotoko | 6 | 3 | ~51% |
| Hearts of Oak | 5 | 1 | ~49% |
League Impact
- Kotoko climb to 7th (4 wins in last 5 league meetings vs Hearts) and sit 5 points off top spot despite three games in hand.
- Hearts suffer first league defeat, staying 5th ahead of a midweek trip to Swedru All Blacks. Kotoko visit Vision FC.
