Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak are set to clash at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday to herald the Matchday 22 games of the Ghana Premier League.
Dubbed the ‘Clash of Titans’ following its enormity in Ghana’s football scene, the matchup is expected to draw crowds from across the country as the two traditional sides battle for the bragging rights currently held by the Porcupine Warriors.
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Kotoko emerged victorious in the initial leg in Accra and will aim for a double, but the Phobians have expressed determination to exact their pound of flesh, promising 90 minutes of fireworks at the venue.
Kotoko has managed just one win in their last six matches in all competitions, enduring back-to-back defeats, including a FA Cup Round of 16 exit on penalties to Aduana FC at home.
A 3-1 league loss to Heart of Lions in Kpando dropped them to fifth place on 35 points, one point behind the top four.
Despite the recent struggles, Kotoko remain one of the league’s most balanced sides.
They have scored 28 goals, the second-highest tally, while conceding only 14.
Their home form is a major boost, as they are unbeaten in 10 league matches at Baba Yara this season, with six wins and four draws.
They are also unbeaten in their last five home league meetings with Hearts.
Hearts of Oak arrive in Kumasi in a calmer atmosphere, with coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani overseeing a disciplined side.
The Phobians are unbeaten in their last four league matches, recording two wins and two draws while keeping clean sheets in all four games.
Their most recent result, a goalless draw against Bechem United, maintained their push near the top of the table.
Hearts sit slightly above Kotoko with 36 points from 21 matches.
Unlike their rivals, Hearts have built their campaign on defensive strength rather than attacking output.
They have scored only 15 goals but boast the best defensive record, conceding just seven times.
Kotoko will rely on their strong home record to rediscover momentum, while Hearts will look to extend their defensive solidity and overcome a difficult record in Kumasi.
The game will kick off at 5:00pm.
