Kotoko Dominate Basake Holy Stars 3-0 At Baba Yara

Asante Kotoko SC welcomed Basake Holy Stars to the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on 25 January 2026 for a league home match that kicked off at 3:30pm. The hosts secured a commanding 3-0 victory in a match that showcased their attacking prowess and defensive solidity under the watchful eye of referee Nathan Anafo.

Kotoko lined up in a classic 4-4-2 formation, deploying Mohamed Camara in goal. The defensive line featured Lord Amoah at right back, Samba O’niel and Henry Ansu as central defenders, and Joseph Amoah on the left. In midfield, Peter Amidu Acquah took up the right midfield role, with Prince Badu and Hubert Gyau operating centrally, while Saaka Dauda provided width on the left. Up front, Yakubu Dogo and Morifing Donzo led the attack. The substitutes named were Albert Amoah, Emmanuel Kotei, Johnson Owusu Oppong, Adam Inusah, and Kwame Opoku.

The 4-4-2 setup was designed to balance defensive cover with attacking options, expecting the full-backs to support wide play and the midfield duo to control the centre of the park. The forwards were tasked with pressing the opposition defence and capitalising on chances created by the midfield and wide players.

From the outset, Kotoko showed intent. Hubert Gyau forced an early save from the Basake goalkeeper in the second minute, signalling Asante Kotoko’s attacking threat. Lord Amoah’s long pass in the 13th minute carved open a chance, demonstrating his ability to launch attacks from right back.

The visitors were kept under pressure as Saaka Dauda and Morifing Donzo both had attempts on goal in the 20th and 22nd minutes respectively, but neither could find the net. Kotoko’s midfield remained vigilant, with Prince Badu intercepting a dangerous move by Holy Stars' Prince Tweneboah in the 23rd minute to prevent a Basake chance.

In the 28th minute, under pressure, HolyStars defender fouled Saaka Dauda in the penalty box as centre referee Nathan Anafo whistled for a penalty. Skipper Samba O’niel stood up and upconverted the penalty with his right foot in the 30th minute, giving Kotoko the lead and rewarding their early dominance.

As the first half progressed, Mohamed Camara made a crucial save, tipping a shot over the bar in the 43rd minute to maintain the clean sheet. The half concluded with Kotoko leading 1-0, a scoreline that reflected their control and efficiency in front of goal.

At the interval, Kotoko made a tactical substitution, bringing on Albert Amoah for Yakubu Dogo to freshen the attack. The second half saw Basake Holy Stars winger Kofi Quayeson receive a yellow card for a bad tackle in the 57th minute, indicating their frustration and the physical nature of the contest.

In the 64th minute, an injury forced Kotoko to replace Lord Amoah with Emmanuel Kotei, who would soon make a significant impact after over a year out with ACL injury. The visitors struggled to create clear-cut chances as Kotoko maintained their grip on the game.

The Porcupine Warriors doubled their advantage in the 75th minute through Albert Amoah, who scored an exquisite overhead kick with his right foot, assisted by a precise cross from Emmanuel Kotei. This goal highlighted the effectiveness of coach Karim Zito's substitutions and Kotoko’s attacking depth.

Shortly after, tactical changes saw Johnson Owusu Oppong replace Peter Amidu Acquah, and Adam Inusah come on for Saaka Dauda in the 76th minute, aiming to sustain the team’s momentum and energy on the flanks.

Morifing Donzo was substituted for Kwame Opoku in the 82nd minute, another tactical move that paid dividends almost immediately. Just a minute later, Kwame Opoku scored a spectacular overhead kick, also with his right foot, assisted by a cross from Albert Amoah. This third goal emphatically sealed the victory for Kotoko.

The match ended 3-0 in favour of Asante Kotoko SC, a comprehensive win that reflected their tactical discipline, clinical finishing, and defensive resilience. Hubert Gyau’s industrious midfield performance earned him the player of the match accolade, underscoring his vital role in controlling the game and linking play.

Kotoko’s victory at Baba Yara Stadium sends a strong message in the league, as they continue to build momentum with a well-rounded team display against Basake Holy Stars.