Asante Kotoko’s poor run away from home persisted on Saturday, January 31, 2026, as they suffered a 3–1 defeat to Kpando Hearts of Lions in their Week 21 Ghana Premier League clash at the Kpando Stadium.
The home side opened the scoring in the 35th minute when Seedorf Asante powered in a header from a corner kick, capitalising on Kotoko’s recurring vulnerability at set pieces. Hearts of Lions maintained their defensive discipline as the Porcupine Warriors searched for an equaliser, repeatedly frustrating the visitors.
Just before the break, Fauzi Ali doubled the hosts’ advantage, finding the net in the second minute of first-half stoppage time to give Hearts of Lions a commanding lead heading into the interval.
Kotoko responded after the restart and reduced the deficit in the 58th minute when Samba O’Niel confidently converted a penalty to bring his side back into contention. However, any hopes of a comeback were short-lived as Michael Ephson restored Hearts of Lions’ two-goal cushion in the 72nd minute, sealing a memorable victory for the home team.
The final whistle sparked jubilant celebrations at the Kpando Stadium as Hearts of Lions claimed a famous win over one of Ghana’s traditional football giants. For Asante Kotoko, the defeat marked their fourth loss on the road this season, underlining their struggles away from home.
Speaking after the match, Kotoko head coach Abdul Karim Zito voiced his disappointment, particularly with the manner in which his side conceded.
“I wasn’t expecting this scoreline against Hearts of Lions because we prepared well for set pieces in training,” he said.
Two of the goals conceded came from set pieces, adding to the frustration for the Kotoko technical bench.
The result leaves Asante Kotoko fifth on the Ghana Premier League table with 35 points, as concerns persist over their consistency in away fixtures.