Heart of Lions hold Kotoko to goalless draw in Kumasi

Heart of Lions continued their fine start to the Ghana Premier League with a hard-fought goalless draw against Asante Kotoko at the Baba Yara Stadium.

Despite dominating possession and creating the better chances, Kotoko were unable to break down a resilient Lions defense and had to settle for a point.

Coach Karim Zito made two changes to the team that featured against Kwara United in Nigeria, with goalkeeper Aziz Dari and Emmanuel Antwi starting ahead of Mohammed Camara and Henry Ansu.

Bashir Hayford, on the other hand, kept faith with his usual lineup, featuring Ebenezer Abban, Ishmael Addo, and Kwadwo Obeng Jnr in attack.

The Porcupine Warriors entered the game full of confidence after eliminating Kwara United in the CAF Confederation Cup, but their early pressure failed to yield results.

Donzo Morifing had the first real chance but couldn’t convert, while Albert Amoah’s thunderous volley struck the crossbar.

Lions responded through Freeman, whose powerful effort was superbly saved by Aziz Dari. Kotoko continued to press but found no breakthrough before halftime.

After the restart, Kotoko intensified their search for a goal. Albert Amoah saw his strike saved, and Emmanuel Antwi blasted wide moments later.

Substitute Seth Kwadwo also tested the Lions’ goalkeeper Osei with a long-range effort, but the shot-stopper was up to the task.

Kotoko’s persistence continued late into the game, with Hubert Gyau forcing another save in stoppage time. However, Lions held firm to claim a valuable away point.

The draw means Asante Kotoko will look to bounce back when they host defending champions Bibiani Goldstars at the Baba Yara Stadium.

For Heart of Lions, the result extends their unbeaten run to four matches, three wins and one draw, keeping them top of the league standings.