Accra Hearts of Oak delivered a convincing 2-0 victory over rivals Kumasi Asante Kotoko, yet Bibiani GoldStars captured the 2025 GHALCA Top 4 championship on head-to-head criteria.
The match between Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko was a thrilling encounter that saw the former emerge victorious with a 2-0 win. Despite this, it was Bibiani GoldStars who ultimately clinched the championship title based on head-to-head performance.
Hearts of Oak took control of the game early on, with Frank Duku scoring a brilliant goal just four minutes into the match. The team displayed excellent attacking prowess throughout the first half, while Kotoko struggled to break through their solid defense.
In the second half, Hearts continued to dominate the game and created several scoring opportunities. Martin Karikari came close to scoring with a powerful shot that was saved by Kotoko’s goalkeeper Mohammed Camara.
The defining moment came in the 73rd minute when Emmanuel Amankwah scored a header from a corner kick, sealing the victory for Hearts. This win was particularly significant as it marked their first victory over Kotoko in several recent matches.
Despite Hearts’ impressive performance, it was Bibiani GoldStars who claimed the tournament title. In a dramatic penalty shootout against Heart of Lions, GoldStars emerged victorious after a 1-1 draw in regular time.
The tournament provided valuable preparation for all four participating clubs as they gear up for the upcoming Ghana Premier League season. It served as a platform for teams to assess their squad strength, tactical strategies, and player combinations.
Hearts’ victory over Kotoko showcased their improved organization and attacking flair under their current tactical setup. On the other hand, GoldStars’ championship win highlighted their mental fortitude and ability to perform under pressure.
The competition also emphasized the competitive balance among Ghana’s top clubs, setting the stage for an exciting Premier League season ahead. Despite falling short in the penalty shootout, Heart of Lions displayed positive performances that bode well for their league campaign.
