Kumasi Asante Kotoko secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over arch-rivals Accra Hearts of Oak in the inaugural Democracy Cup final today at the Accra Sports Stadium. This win extends their dominance over the Phobians, marking their third consecutive victory against them.

New faces, familiar hero

The game saw plenty of new faces on display, with both teams fielding several debutants. Kotoko, under the guidance of Assistant Coach David Ocloo, gave starts to four of their six new signings, including Sudanese defender Esmar Abdulhamid and forward Elvis Kyei Baffour. Hearts also handed debuts to their acquisitions from National FC, forward Asamoah Boateng Afriyie and defender Michael Awuah Mensah.

Despite the influx of fresh talent, it was a seasoned Kotoko player, Justice Blay, who broke the deadlock in the 32nd minute. The midfielder coolly converted from the penalty spot after Peter Amidu Acquah was brought down inside the box.

Hearts fight back, But Amidu steals the show

Hearts, however, remained a threat, particularly from set-pieces. Kotoko goalkeeper Frederick Asare, possibly hampered by an injury, struggled with deliveries into the box. This almost gifted the Phobians an equalizer just before halftime, but a goal-bound effort was cleared off the line.

The second half saw Hearts emerge with renewed vigor. Their persistence paid off in the 50th minute when debutant Afriyie rose highest to head home a cross, silencing the Kotoko faithful. However, the lead proved short-lived. Kotoko's teenage sensation, Amidu, atoned for an earlier miss by firing a powerful shot past a surprised Hearts goalie, Kwesi Nketiah at his near post to restore the lead in the 62nd minute.

Hearts push in vain

Despite dominating possession in the latter stages, Hearts lacked the cutting edge to truly trouble the Kotoko defense. Even a late unforced error by Nketiah, which nearly gifted a goal to Kotoko's Sudanese substitute Yoouef Yagoub, couldn't tip the scales.

Kotoko triumph, Facing DC United next season

With the final whistle confirming their victory, the Porcupine Warriors celebrated not only the Democracy Cup win but also the opportunity to face Major League Soccer side DC United in Washington next season as part of their prize package.

This match, played with an all-female officiating team led by FIFA referee Juliet Appiah, served as a fitting tribute to Ghana's 30th anniversary of Parliament, promoting diversity and inclusion in Ghanaian sports.