Asante Kotoko edged arch-rivals Hearts of Oak 1-0 in the season’s first Super Clash at the Accra Sports Stadium, thanks to a decisive first-half goal from Morifing Donzo.
Kotoko hit the ground running early in the game, showing clear intent and dominating possession.
Within five minutes, Saaka Dauda came close to giving the visitors the lead when his left-footed effort missed narrowly at the near post.
Karim Zito’s men kept the pressure on, with Hubert Gyau forcing a strong save from Hearts’ goalkeeper Benjamin Asare after a stinging shot from outside the box.
Their persistence finally paid off just before halftime when Amidu Acquah was tripped inside the penalty area by Amankwah Baafi.
Donzo stepped up confidently and buried the resulting penalty to give Kotoko a well-earned lead going into the break.
Hearts tried to fight back after the interval, with Duku’s powerful shot forcing Kotoko goalkeeper Camara into action.
The Phobians continued to push late in the game, and substitute Mawuli Wayo appeared to have equalized with a brilliant finish, but his goal was ruled out for offside.
Kotoko stood firm through the closing minutes to seal another Super Clash victory over their old foes, extending their strong record at the Accra Sports Stadium.
