The Phobians were stunned at their home ground by their fierce rivals in the 107th edition of the Super Clash
Asante Kotoko shocked Hearts of Oak with a 2-1 win in Ghana Premier League matchday six fixture at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
Justice Blay’s first-half header looked destined to carry the day for Kotoko but a beautiful effort from Joseph Esso levelled the score and set up an intriguing finish as both sides searched for the winner only for Naby Keita to surprise the hosts.
Hearts had the better start of the game with Joseph Esso and Kofi Kordzi having half chances but the duo failed to make it count as Kotoko gradually warmed themselves into the game.
By the 12th minute, Kotoko’s pressing game finally paid off as they snatched the opener. Augustine Okrah saw his teasing free-kick met by Justice Blay, as the midfielder’s header went past goalkeeper Richard Atta.
Eight minutes later, Kordzi had another opportunity to bring Hearts level but his header missed the target narrowly to the surprise of the home supporters.
On the half-hour mark, Kotoko were made to make a change in their midfield setup as Mudasiru Mohammed was stretched off and Collins Ameyaw took his place. Although, the substitution affected Maxwell Konadu’s men a little, they held on to recess with their advantage intact.
After the break, Kotoko continued from where they left and kept pushing their hosts into their own half.
However, Esso snatched the equaliser against the rUN of play after a defensive mistake by Kotoko’s back four.
On 73rd minute, Esso and Keita had a head collusion and Esso was forced to take early showers as Bernard Arthur took his place.
Kotoko finally found an opening to win the day when substitute Mathew Anim Cudjoe’s shot was handled in the box anď Keita stepped up to send the resulting penalty kick into the net.
Hearts will now travel to Dawu to face Dreams next weekend while Kotoko host Liberty Professionals behind closed doors at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium
