15-Year Golden City Jinx Broken

Asante Kotoko Sporting Club began their 2025/26 Ghana Premier League campaign on a high note, securing a historic 1-0 victory over Berekum Chelsea at the Golden City Park on Saturday — their first win at the venue in 15 years.

Coach Abdul Karim Zito’s men signaled their intent from the blast of the whistle, with debutant winger Philip Amohimpressing in his first topflight appearance. However, the Porcupine Warriors suffered an early setback when experienced striker Kwame Opoku limped off in the 20th minute with what appeared to be a serious ankle injury. Guinean forward Morifing Donzo came on to replace him and added physical presence in attack.

Kotoko carved out decent opportunities in the first half, with Albert Amoah and Amoh both coming close but failing to convert. The hosts, backed by their passionate supporters, grew into the game in the latter stages of the half and came within inches of scoring when a thunderous effort struck the base of the post. Defenders Samba O’niel and Joseph Ablorh stood firm to keep Chelsea at bay heading into the break.

The second half saw Kotoko lift their attacking intensity, especially after the introductions of Hubert Gyau and new signing Walid Fuseini “Neymar”. Their presence injected fresh energy into the Porcupines’ forward play.

The breakthrough finally arrived in the 79th minute. A clever no-look pass from midfield found Albert Amoah, who showed composure and class to glide past his marker before firing a low strike through the legs of goalkeeper Emmanuel Adu, sending the Kotoko fans into raptures.

With the lead secured, Kotoko tightened up defensively and managed the game with maturity, frustrating Chelsea’s late surge. The final whistle sealed a long-awaited and hard-fought win at one of their most difficult away grounds.

The victory not only hands Kotoko the perfect start to the league season but also boosts their confidence ahead of their next challenge in continental competition. Coach Zito’s charges will now shift focus to the CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round clash against Nigeria’s Kwara United at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday, September 21, 2025.