FA Cup: Asante Kotoko Advance to Round of 16 with Easy Victory Over Acceler8z FC

Asante Kotoko progressed to the round of 16 in the MTN FA Cup after securing a 2-0 victory over lower-tier side Acceler8z FC at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday. While the result appeared comfortable on paper, the Porcupine Warriors had to put in a determined and hard-fought performance to overcome their spirited opponents.
Coach Prosper Ogum made a series of changes to his starting lineup, opting to rest several regular first-team players and provide opportunities for fringe players eager to showcase their talent. This tactical shift showed Ogum’s confidence in his squad’s depth and his desire to give the less-played members of the team a chance to prove themselves.
Despite the rotation, the match began with Asante Kotoko asserting their dominance in the early stages, pushing forward in search of an opening goal. However, they were met with stubborn resistance from the lower-tier side, who defended resolutely and worked tirelessly to disrupt Kotoko’s rhythm. Acceler8z FC’s defensive organization and quick transitions forced Kotoko to be patient and work harder to break down their defense.
Kwame Poku, one of the more experienced players in Kotoko’s lineup, stepped up when his team needed him most. Just before the halftime whistle, Poku delivered a moment of precision that broke the deadlock. The match had reached a tense stalemate, with neither team able to find the back of the net in open play, but the breakthrough came from the penalty spot. Saaka Dauda, who had been involved in several attacking moves for Kotoko, was fouled inside the penalty area, earning his team a spot kick. Poku, known for his composure in such situations, stepped up and calmly converted the penalty, sending the goalkeeper the wrong way and giving Kotoko a 1-0 lead heading into the halftime break.
The goal provided a sense of relief for Kotoko, but they knew the second half would be far from easy. Acceler8z FC, with nothing to lose, came out strong after the break, putting pressure on Kotoko and forcing them into defensive situations. Despite the pressure, Kotoko’s defense held firm, and goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim was on hand to make crucial saves when called upon. Kotoko, though, struggled to find the second goal that would have put the game beyond reach, as the visitors refused to give up and continued to press forward.
Coach Ogum made a few tactical changes, bringing on fresh legs to add energy to the midfield and attack. One of those substitutes, Ansu Henry, proved to be the difference-maker in the final stages of the match. In the 83rd minute, Henry latched onto a well-placed through ball and showed great composure in front of goal, calmly finishing past the Acceler8z goalkeeper to seal the victory for Kotoko. The goal provided much-needed breathing room, relieving the tension in the stands and ensuring the Porcupine Warriors would advance to the next round.
The 2-0 win marks another step forward in Kotoko’s quest to lift the FA Cup for the first time since their triumph in 2017. As one of the most successful clubs in Ghanaian football, with nine FA Cup titles to their name, Kotoko’s ambitions are high this season, and this win has kept their hopes of adding another piece of silverware alive. The team will now look forward to the round of 16, where they will hope for a favorable draw as they continue their journey in the competition.
This victory also highlighted the depth of Asante Kotoko’s squad, with fringe players stepping up and making important contributions. Coach Ogum will undoubtedly be pleased with the overall performance, as his team managed to overcome a determined opponent while also giving valuable minutes to players who are striving for more playing time. With the league campaign still ongoing and the FA Cup now in full swing, Kotoko will be hoping to build on this win and challenge for both domestic trophies.