On Sunday night, in a matchweek 27 fixture, Asante Kotoko made a comeback to defeat league leaders Aduana Stars at the Baba Yara Stadium. Kotoko’s coach, Abdulai Gazale, made some bold changes to the lineup, replacing first-choice goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim with Frederick Asare and Mohammed Alhassan with Mubarik Yussif. However, after serving suspensions, Captain Richard Boadu and Serge Zeze returned to the starting lineup.
In contrast, Coach Paa Kwesi Fabin maintained the same starting lineup from the previous game, selecting experienced players such as captain Joseph Addo, Adom Frimpong, Stephen Anokye Badu, Sam Adams, and the in-form Frank Owusu. Both teams played aggressively from the beginning, vying for the first goal.
Isaac Mintah scored Aduana Stars’ opening goal in the 26th minute, as he often performs well in significant matches. However, Kotoko equalized in the 37th minute through Steven Mukwala’s 11th goal of the season. In the second half, the Porcupine Warriors surged forward and scored their second goal with a beautiful finish from Serge Zeze.
Aduana Stars attempted to equalize by committing more players forward, but Kotoko’s defense stood strong. Kotoko appeared calm and composed in preserving their lead, maintaining possession, saving energy, and seeking opportunities to counter-attack.
At full time, Asante Kotoko secured a crucial 2-1 victory, allowing them to get back to their winning ways.