Defending Ghanaian champions Bibiani GoldStars got their GHALCA Top 4 campaign off to a flying start after rallying from behind to defeat giants Asante Kotoko 2-1 in the opening fixture at the University of Ghana Stadium.
The contest was evenly balanced for large spells, with both sides enjoying moments of dominance. However, it was the Miners who proved more clinical, capitalizing on Kotoko’s defensive lapses to snatch all three points.
Kotoko made the brighter start and broke the deadlock just 16 minutes into the game. Forward Albert Amoah latched onto a neat pass from skipper Samba O’Neil before slotting past the goalkeeper to give the Porcupine Warriors an early advantage.
GoldStars, however, wasted no time in responding. Only three minutes later, a sweeping team move forced a defensive error from Kotoko’s captain, whose mistimed challenge inside the box gifted the Miners a penalty. Samuel Atta Kumi stepped up and coolly converted from the spot, leaving goalkeeper Mohammed Camara rooted despite his reputation as a penalty specialist.
The second half resumed with Kotoko pushing forward in search of a winner, dictating much of the play, while GoldStars held their lines with discipline. But in the 62nd minute, disaster struck for the Reds. A miscommunication between defender Henry Ansu and goalkeeper Camara opened the door for GoldStars to pounce, with Atta Kumi involved again as the Miners grabbed their second to turn the game on its head.
Kotoko threw men forward in the closing stages, but GoldStars’ compact defending and composure under pressure ensured they held on for a famous 2-1 victory.
The win sees Bibiani GoldStars make a statement start to the preseason tournament as they prepare for the CAF Champions League. They now turn their attention to their second match against Hearts of Oak on Friday, August 22. Kotoko, meanwhile, will be desperate to bounce back when they face Heart of Lions on the same day.
