Kotoko Stumble at Home, Fall to Samartex

Asante Kotoko suffered a 2-1 defeat to Samartex 1996 in their Ghana Premier League Matchday 28 clash at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium after a sluggish display.

The game, which was halted in the first half on Sunday due to heavy rains, resumed on Monday with Samartex asserting their dominance and controlling the tempo.

Kotoko goalkeeper Aziz Haruna was called into action early, pulling off a crucial save to deny Samartex the opening goal.

Despite the restart, Kotoko struggled to find their rhythm, failing to make meaningful impact in attack. Peter Amidu Acquah came close but his effort inside the box was comfortably dealt with by the Samartex goalkeeper.

Samartex eventually made their dominance count in the 56th minute, with Boateng Christian rising above the defence to head home the opener.

The visitors maintained their composure and doubled their lead in the 82nd minute through Emmanuel Mamah.

Samartex were reduced to 10 men in the 85th minute after Samed Kyei was sent off for a second bookable offence.

Kotoko pulled one back late on through Albert Amoah, who reacted quickest to slot home a rebound after Ndongani Samba Gilbani’s penalty was saved.

However, the Porcupine Warriors failed to capitalise on their numerical advantage as Samartex held on to secure all three points.

The result leaves Kotoko in fourth place with 43 points.