Hearts of Oak capped off their GHALCA Top 4 campaign with a statement win, beating fierce rivals Asante Kotoko 2-0 in the final round at the University of Ghana Stadium. But despite the commanding performance, it was Bibiani GoldStars who walked away with the trophy on head-to-head advantage.
The Phobians, who have had a mixed run against Kotoko in recent years, looked hungry from the first whistle. Their swift passing unsettled the Porcupine Warriors and paid off just four minutes in when youngster Frank Duku finished off a flowing 15-pass move, calmly sliding the ball through goalkeeper Ibrahim Mohammed’s legs.
Kotoko tried to mount a response but struggled to break down Hearts’ compact defensive shape. After the break, Hearts nearly stretched their lead through Martin Karikari, whose powerful volley was brilliantly pushed onto the crossbar by substitute goalkeeper Mohammed Camara.
The second goal finally arrived in the 73rd minute when Emmanuel Amankwah rose highest to head home from a corner, sparking wild celebrations among the Phobian faithful in Legon.
While Hearts claimed bragging rights in the rivalry clash, Bibiani GoldStars emerged champions of the competition, edging the standings on head-to-head. The mini-tournament has offered all four clubs a valuable chance to fine-tune their squads ahead of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.
