An own goal by Ansu Henry handed last season’s Ghana Premier League champions, Bibiani Gold Stars a victory over Asante Kotoko in the opening match of the 2025 Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) competition at the Legon Sports Stadium.
Kotoko began the match brightly, creating several chances in the opening minutes but failed to capitalise on the opportunities. In the 16th minute, Albert Amoah expertly controlled a long pass from Captain Gilbani Ndongani Samba and fired home to give the Porcupine Warriors the lead.
After going behind, Bibiani Gold Stars grew into the game and began to dominate possession. Kotoko’s relaxed approach after taking the lead gave the visitors the momentum to push for an equaliser.
Their breakthrough came when Kotoko captain, Gilbani Ndongani Samba, fouled a Gold Stars player in the box, conceding a penalty. Gold Stars Samuel Atta Kumi stepped up and superbly converted from the spot, sending Kotoko goalkeeper Mohamed Camara the wrong way.
The game grew more intense as momentum swung back and forth between the two sides. In the 30th minute, play was briefly halted after a rough challenge from a Bibiani Gold Stars player on Ansu Henry.
Towards the end of the first half, Kotoko had a golden opportunity to restore their lead with a free kick on the edge of the box, but the Gold Stars goalkeeper pulled off a fine save to deny them, conceding only a corner. The first half eventually ended level.
Kotoko began the second half piling on the pressure and creating numerous chances, but failed to find the finishing touch. In the 60th minute, Albert Amoah, scorer of their opening goal, was presented with a clear sight of goal chance, but he woefully squandered the opportunity.
The decisive moment came in the 63rd minute when Kotoko right-back Henry Ansu played a blind back pass, without checking the goalkeeper’s position, resulting in a costly own goal.
Despite the Porcupine Warriors’ relentless efforts to respond, they were unable to find an equaliser. As the game edged towards its closing stages, frustration began to creep into the Kotoko camp, leading to unnecessary fouls and avoidable free kicks. Their best chance to draw level came in the 70th minute from a set piece, but once again, they failed to capitalize on it.
The match ended 2-1 in favor of Bibiani Gold Stars. Kotoko must now secure a win against Heart of Lions on Friday to keep their hopes alive in the competition, while Bibiani Gold Stars will face Accra Hearts of Oak in their next fixture.
By Jesse Otoo
