In an electrifying encounter at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Asante Kotoko triumphed over Hearts of Oak with a decisive 2-0 victory, thanks to a brace from Ugandan forward Steven Dese Mukwala. The win not only secured a season double over their fierce rivals but also underscored Mukwala’s exceptional form as he netted his 14th and 15th goals of the season.
The match started with high intensity, and it didn’t take long for Mukwala to make his mark. In the 10th minute, a well-coordinated offensive play from Asante Kotoko saw Mukwala receiving a precise through ball. Demonstrating his striking prowess, he calmly slotted the ball past the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, giving Kotoko an early lead. This goal set the tone for the rest of the match, with Kotoko asserting their dominance on the pitch.
Despite several attempts from Hearts of Oak to equalize, Asante Kotoko’s defense remained steadfast. The home team showcased a disciplined and organized backline, effectively neutralizing the attacking threats posed by Hearts of Oak. Goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim also put in a solid performance, making crucial saves to maintain the clean sheet.
As the match progressed, Hearts of Oak intensified their efforts, pushing forward in search of an equalizer. However, it was Mukwala who once again stole the spotlight. In the 94th minute, during a swift counter-attack, Mukwala displayed his speed and finishing ability. Breaking away from the defense, he found himself one-on-one with the goalkeeper and finished clinically to secure his second goal of the match and seal the victory for Asante Kotoko.
Mukwala’s brace in this match brought his season tally to 15 goals, making him one of the top scorers in the league. His performance has been pivotal for Asante Kotoko’s campaign, providing them with the offensive edge needed to compete at the highest level
Asante Kotoko’s coach lauded Mukwala’s performance, highlighting his crucial role in the team’s success. “Mukwala has been outstanding for us this season. His goals today were a testament to his hard work and dedication. We are proud of his contributions and look forward to more stellar performances from him,” the coach remarked.
Hearts of Oak, on the other hand, will need to reassess their strategies as they look to bounce back from this defeat. Despite creating several opportunities, their inability to convert chances into goals proved costly.
This victory strengthens Asante Kotoko’s position in the league standings and boosts their confidence as they approach the final stages of the season. For Hearts of Oak, the focus will shift to addressing the gaps exposed in this match and coming back stronger in their upcoming fixtures.
The match at Baba Yara Sports Stadium was a showcase of skill, strategy, and resilience, with Steven Dese Mukwala emerging as the hero. His two goals not only secured a memorable win for Asante Kotoko but also highlighted his significant impact on the Ghana Premier League this season. As the league progresses, all eyes will be on Mukwala and Asante Kotoko to see if they can maintain their winning momentum.
