The Porcupine Warriors rallied from behind to brush aside the lower division side in their first pre-season game in Accra
Asante Kotoko came from two goals down to defeat Panthers FC 4-2 in a pre-season friendly at the Legon Park in Accra on Monday.
The Porcupine Warriors, who are expected to depart the country in the coming days to Turkey for a tour, were pegged back in the game after Panthers punished them twice due to defensive blunders.
However, Stephen Amankona pulled one back by the half-hour mark from the spot after a Kotoko player was brought down in the box.
Few minutes later, Ernest Osei Poku who has been handed a two-week trial at the club, levelled the score against the run of play for Kotoko before Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala sent the Premier League champions into the lead for the first time in the game.
After the break, Kotoko showed class and dictated the play, especially in midfield, and began to cause troubles for Panthers’ back four.
Their pressure eventually paid off as substitute Afoakwa added another goal from close range to make the game a none contest.
Kotoko, who have temporarily suspended their tour to Turkey due to visa processing issues, will begin their title defence on September 9 against debutants Nsoatreman FC at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
They have already unveiled Koualao Dane Djomian Thomas Pele in a three-year deal as a free agent, goalkeeper Pouaty Moise D’assise from Cameroon and Ugandan striker Steven Mukwala.
The club is also expected to announce the signing of Enoch Morrison from city rivals King Faisal this week after the player has been training with the first team.