Kumasi, Ghana – The highly anticipated 2023/2024 campaign opener at the Baba Yara Stadium saw Asante Kotoko and Kpando Hearts of Lions battle to an exhilarating goalless draw.
In front of an enthusiastic home crowd, the Porcupine Warriors displayed flashes of quality football but lacked the cutting edge in front of goal. Despite failing to secure all three points, many fans appreciated Kotoko's possession-based style of play.
Acknowledging the challenging opponent, fans expressed optimism about Kotoko's future prospects. They believed the team was a work in progress and would eventually find their rhythm to compete for the title.
The early exchanges between the two teams saw both sides keeping the ball on the turf. Asante Kotoko dominated the opening minutes and registered their first shot on target in the sixth minute through Julius Ofori.
Despite continuous forays into the visitors' goal area, Kotoko couldn't break through the well-organized Hearts of Lions defense. The home team's beautiful football thrilled the fans but struggled to penetrate their opponent's backline.
In the 21st minute, Kotoko came close to scoring when George Mfegue connected a corner kick, brilliantly saved by goalkeeper Thomas Osei. Frederick Asare was also called into action, saving a long-range effort from Bismark Anim after 29 minutes.
The visitors briefly seized possession and launched dangerous attacks, creating tense moments for the home team as both sides ended the first half goalless, setting the stage for an intense second half.
The second half saw a sense of urgency from both teams, leading to an end-to-end exchange. Coaches made early substitutions to break the deadlock.
Hearts of Lions appeared to have scored in the 65th minute, but the goal was ruled offside by referee George Mawuli Vormawor. Kotoko increased the pressure, but goalkeeper Osei thwarted their attempts.
In a bid to secure the victory, Coach Prosper Ogum introduced more attacking players, but Lions' defence remained resolute. In the dying minutes of the match, the Lions almost broke the deadlock, but Asare made a spectacular save.
Kotoko pressed for a late winner, but their efforts proved fruitless, and referee Vormawor eventually blew the final whistle after eight minutes of additional time, sealing a thrilling goalless draw.
Reporting by Yussif Ibrahim. Editing by Mariam Aminu.
