Hearts of Oak secured a 3-1 victory against ten-time Togolese champions AC Semassi FC in a preseason friendly at the Stade Municipal de Sokodé this afternoon.
The match marked the ‘Phobians’ first game since arriving in Togo for their preseason preparations.
The encounter started cautiously, with both teams taking time to assess each other’s style of play. However, Hearts of Oak broke the deadlock in the 40th minute when new signing Asamoah Boateng Afriyie, who joined from Nations FC this summer, found the back of the net. Just five minutes later, Martin Karikari doubled the lead, giving the Ghanaian side a comfortable 2-0 advantage at halftime.
In the second half, AC Semassi FC came out stronger, managing to pull one back in the closing stages of the game. However, Hearts of Oak responded quickly, with Isaac Frimpong scoring to restore their two-goal cushion, sealing a 3-1 victory.
Coach Aboubakar Ouattara will be pleased with the performance but is likely to focus on addressing any remaining weaknesses as the team continues their preseason tour in Togo.
Hearts of Oak is expected to face current Togolese champions ASKO Kara in their next friendly before wrapping up their stay in the West African country.
