Asante Kotoko claimed the 2025 Toyota Cup after defeating South African giants Kaizer Chiefs 3-2 on penalties at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban on Saturday.
The Ghanaian side held their nerve in a tense shootout, with goalkeeper Mohammed Camara emerging as the hero after saving three penalties to seal victory for the Porcupine Warriors following a goalless draw in regulation time.
Kaizer Chiefs, fresh from their pre-season tour of the Netherlands, handed starts to new recruits Thabiso Monyane, Nkanyiso Shinga, and Flavio Da Silva.
The South African club made a bright start, testing Camara with a powerful strike from Glodly Lilepo, which the Guinean shot-stopper did well to parry away.
Kotoko responded with a threat of their own as Henry Ansu’s looping header forced a fingertip save from Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen. Chiefs continued to press, with Da Silva’s header narrowly missing the target after a well-taken corner.
Lilepo remained lively for Chiefs, linking up smartly before firing over from close range. Both sides had opportunities after the break but failed to convert.
Chiefs had a chance to steal it late when they earned an 83rd-minute penalty, but the effort from Miguel was squandered, ensuring the game went to penalties.
In the shootout, Camara’s brilliance between the posts made the difference as he saved three spot kicks. Asante Kotoko converted three of their attempts to emerge 3-2 winners and lift the Toyota Cup.
The win serves as a major confidence boost for Kotoko ahead of the new Ghana Premier League season and highlights their growing strength ahead of their CAF Confederations Cup campaign.
Credit: ghanasoccernet
