2025/26 Ghana Premier League: Week 21 Match Report – Heart of Lions 3-1 Asante Kotoko

Asante Kotoko missed a key opportunity to close the gap on the Ghana Premier League summit after suffering a 3-1 defeat to Heart of Lions in Kpando on Saturday.

With leaders Medeama having dropped points on Friday, Kotoko arrived knowing a win would boost their title push, but they were undone by a spirited and well-organised Lions performance. The hosts put their recent inconsistent form behind them and delivered a commanding display in front of their supporters.

Heart of Lions took control in the first half through goals from Seedorf Asante and Fawzi Ali. Both strikes reflected the hosts’ early urgency and attacking intent, as they pressed Kotoko high up the pitch and capitalised on defensive lapses. Lions maintained their intensity and went into the break firmly in charge.

Kotoko showed signs of a response after the interval when captain Samba O’Neil pulled one back, briefly raising hopes of a comeback. However, Lions remained composed and restored their two-goal advantage through Michael Ephson, who sealed the three points with a decisive finish.

The result piles pressure on Kotoko head coach Karim Zito, whose side again failed to take advantage of results elsewhere. Kotoko remain third on the table, eight points behind Medeama, but their position is under threat with Hearts of Oak closing in and holding a game in hand. The two giants are set to meet in the next league fixture, adding further significance to the defeat.

For Heart of Lions, the victory is a major morale boost. The Kpando-based side climb back to seventh place with 30 points and will hope the result marks a turning point in their season.