Interim Asante Kotoko head coach Prince Owusu Yaw has declined to place blame on his players despite the club’s recent dip in form, insisting the technical team must also take responsibility as the Porcupine Warriors prepare for a crucial derby encounter.
Kotoko have endured a difficult stretch, first suffering a league defeat to Heart of Lions before seeing their hopes of defending the MTN FA Cup title dashed after a 4–2 penalty shootout loss to Aduana FC in the Round of 16. The disappointing results ultimately led to the resignation of head coach Abdul Karim Zito earlier this week.
Addressing the situation in an interview with the club’s media team, Owusu Yaw maintained that the players had followed instructions and should not be singled out for criticism.
“We don’t think we can put all the blame on the boys,” he said. “They did exactly what they were asked to do, and because of that, we have to figure out what went wrong.”
The interim coach emphasized the importance of reflection and rebuilding confidence within the squad as they turn their attention to their next assignment. He noted that the focus now is on regrouping mentally and tactically ahead of their biggest domestic rivalry.
“We need to talk to them and get them back to playing Hearts of Oak,” he added.
Asante Kotoko will host arch-rivals Accra Hearts of Oak at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Sunday’s Super Clash, a Matchday 22 fixture expected to draw a packed crowd and carry significant implications for both teams’ league ambitions. Kick-off is scheduled for 17:00 GMT.
