Asante Kotoko were held to a frustrating 1-1 draw by Bechem United on Sunday at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, missing the chance to extend their lead at the top of the Ghana Premier League.
The result allowed Bibiani GoldStars to pull level on points with the Porcupine Warriors, intensifying the title race.
Kotoko entered the fixture with a slim advantage at the summit and were favourites to grab all three points in front of their home fans. But Bechem United, despite coming off two straight defeats, put in a solid display to deny the hosts victory.
The visitors struck first in the 69th minute through Darlvin Yeboah, who finished off a well-executed counterattack to silence the home supporters. Kotoko, desperate to avoid a defeat that could derail their title challenge, pushed forward and were awarded a controversial penalty late in the game. Albert Amoah converted calmly to level the score.
While the draw extended Kotoko’s unbeaten streak to seven games, the full-time atmosphere was one of disappointment, with head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum and his players visibly disheartened after dropping crucial points.
Meanwhile, GoldStars secured a narrow 1-0 win over Young Apostles in Bibiani to catch up with Kotoko on points, making the battle for the league title even more intense.
Kotoko now face a tough away fixture against Accra Lions next weekend, needing a win to maintain their momentum. Bechem United will welcome GoldStars in a clash that could further shake up the standings at the top.
