Africa-Press – Ghana. Kumasi Asante Kotoko recorded their first victory in five matches under newly appointed Head Coach Abdul-Karim Zito, defeating visiting Aduana Stars 1-0 at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.
The Porcupine Warriors had relinquished the top spot on the Ghana Premier League table after a disappointing run of two draws and two losses in their last four games – a poor stretch that led to the dismissal of former coach Prosper Nartey Ogum.
As such, all eyes were on the team ahead of their clash with Aduana Stars, seen by many as a litmus test for the recent changes in the technical department.
Kotoko came out strong with a dominant display in the early stages, pressing high and spending much of the time in the opposition half in search of an early breakthrough.
Kwame Poku proved a constant threat to the visitors’ defense.
The “Ogya Boys,” however, held firm until the 25th minute, when Poku finally broke the deadlock with a ferocious strike from the edge of the box following a slick build-up through midfield.
Aduana Stars responded with urgency, knowing a loss could significantly dent their league standing.
Their pressure earned them a penalty ten minutes later after one of their attackers was brought down in the Kotoko box.
Skipper Sam Adams stepped up but squandered the chance, his poorly taken effort comfortably saved by Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Kamara.
As the first half nearly reached its end, both teams pushed for another goal but failed to convert their chances before the whistle.
The second half resumed with renewed intensity from both sides.
The midfield became a battleground as each team sought control, with Kotoko having a slight edge in possession and creativity.
Tactical shifts from both benches added intrigue to the contest, though they struggled to carve out clear-cut chances in a tightly contested affair.
As the match entered the final 10 minutes, the tempo increased, with both sides launching late offensives.
Kotoko, however, held their ground, preserving their slim lead through five minutes of added time to secure all three points.
The win offers a confidence boost for the Porcupine Warriors and a promising start for Coach Abdul-Karim Zito at the helm.
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