Accra Hearts of Oak defied the odds to secure a narrow 1–0 victory over their bitter rivals Asante Kotoko in their Matchweek 22 Ghana Premier League clash at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.
In a fiercely contested and physical opening half, Hearts broke the deadlock after just 13 minutes. Centre-back Baba Adamu rose above the defence to head home a well-delivered free-kick from Martin Karikari, silencing the home crowd.
The Phobians were dealt an early setback when striker Hamza Issah was forced off with an ankle injury and replaced by George Paaku. Matters worsened in the 28th minute as Emmanuel Amankwah received his second yellow card of the afternoon, reducing the visitors to ten men.
Head coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani reacted swiftly, withdrawing midfielder Mohammed Hussein in favour of utility right-back Amanakwa Baafi in a tactical adjustment designed to reinforce the defence and strengthen the right flank. Despite their numerical disadvantage, Hearts displayed admirable discipline and resilience to preserve their lead heading into the interval.
Kotoko emerged for the second half with renewed urgency, committing more men forward in search of an equaliser. However, Hearts’ defensive unit remained composed under sustained pressure. The Porcupine Warriors came close in the 62nd minute when Albert Amoah failed to direct Morifing Donzo’s pass on target. Shortly afterwards, right-back Patrick Asiedu’s powerful long-range effort was expertly pushed behind for a corner by goalkeeper Benjamin Asare with 18 minutes remaining.
Hearts nearly doubled their advantage when Raphael Amponsah found space in the area, but Kotoko goalkeeper Mohamed Camara produced a timely save to keep his side in contention.
The fixture came against a backdrop of managerial uncertainty for Kotoko, following the resignation of head coach Abdul Karim Zito. The club subsequently appointed his assistant, Prince Owusu, as interim manager. Reports had suggested that a section of supporters had earlier visited the club’s training grounds to call for his removal, expressing doubts over his suitability for the role.
Referee Daniel Nii Laryea signalled the end of the contest after four minutes of added time. The result lifts Hearts of Oak into second place on 39 points, five behind leaders Medeama SC after 22 matches. Meanwhile, the Kumasi-based side drop to fifth position on 35 points.