Match Report: Asante Kotoko Claim Back-to-Back Friendly Victories Over Vipers and Ebusua Dwarfs in Cape Coast
Asante Kotoko intensified their preseason preparations with two impressive victories in back-to-back friendly encounters against Venomous Vipers and Ebusua Dwarfs on Monday, 18 August, at the Cape Coast Stadium.
In the opening fixture, the Porcupine Warriors produced a commanding display to defeat Vipers 3-0. Samba O’Niel broke the deadlock in the 10th minute with a fine finish after a flowing team move. Albert Amoah doubled the lead in the 36th minute, latching onto a swift counterattack before slotting home neatly. The result was put beyond doubt midway through the second half when Kwame Opoku struck clinically in the 58th minute to round off a comprehensive performance.
The second match proved more competitive, as Kotoko were made to work hard against Ebusua Dwarfs. Despite the resilience of their opponents, youngster Jordan Amissah rose to the occasion, netting the decisive goal just a minute into the second half to hand Kotoko a narrow 1-0 win and secure successive victories on the day.
The double triumph marks another important step in head coach Karim Zito’s preseason programme, as he looks to mould a competitive squad ahead of the upcoming GHALCA Top 4 tournament and the highly-anticipated 2025/26 Ghana Premier League campaign. The victories also allowed Zito the opportunity to test new signings and fringe players, while offering supporters a glimpse of the attacking intent the team hopes to carry into the new season.
Fans at the Cape Coast Stadium voiced their delight at the team’s performance, with many confident that Kotoko’s early momentum could signal a strong start to their domestic campaign.