Asante Kotoko Suffers First Home Defeat in BetPawa Premier League

Asante Kotoko faced a major setback in their season, suffering a 0-1 defeat to Dreams FC at the Baba Yara Stadium in their ninth match of the betPawa Premier League. This loss marked their first home defeat of the season and extended their winless streak to four games, both at home and away.

According to Ghana News Agency, Kotoko’s performance was disappointing, falling significantly below their usual standard. The team’s lackluster display was met with frustration from their fans, some of whom resorted to applauding Dreams FC in a show of spite. Dreams FC opened the match strongly, with Johnson Oppong threatening Kotoko’s goal in the early minutes. Oppong’s initial strike in the fourth minute and subsequent close attempt in the 14th minute highlighted Dreams FC’s dominance in the game’s opening phase.

Kotoko gradually found their footing after 20 minutes, launching attacks that were thwarted by the visitors’ defense. Their best chance came in the 24th minute when Peter Amidu Acquah narrowly missed scoring. Despite Kotoko’s efforts to take control, it was Dreams FC who scored first. Abdul Aziz Issah’s stunning free kick just before half-time gave the visitors a lead, which they maintained until the break.

In the second half, Kotoko’s coach Prosper Nartey Ogum made tactical changes, bringing on Bernard Somuah and Enoch Morrison. Somuah’s immediate impact forced a save from Dreams’ goalkeeper, but Kotoko’s urgency led to frequent loss of possession, playing into Dreams FC’s strategy. As Kotoko pushed for an equalizer, Dreams FC employed delay tactics, effectively disrupting the flow of the game.

The match ended with Dreams FC securing their first victory at Kotoko’s home ground this season, leaving the home fans in a state of disappointment and dejection. This result adds to the challenges Kotoko faces in the ongoing league, with a widening gap at the top of the standings and a pressing need to regain their form.