Former Hearts Official Justifies Kotoko’s Winning Penalty
Former Hearts of Oak management member Aziz Haruna Futa has shared his thoughts on the controversial penalty that sealed Asante Kotoko’s 1-0 victory over Hearts in the first Super Clash of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.
Speaking on Sporty FM, Futa admitted the referee’s decision was correct, though slightly harsh. “It was indeed a penalty for Kotoko, even if it looked soft. Unfortunately, we don’t have VAR, but referee Reginald Collins Amoah was close enough to make the call,” he explained.
The decisive moment occurred late in the first half when Amoah penalized Hearts defender Amankwah Baafi for a foul on Peter Amidu Acquah inside the box. Guinean striker Morifing Donzo made no mistake from the spot, putting the Porcupine Warriors ahead.
After the break, Hearts of Oak pushed for an equalizer, coming close through Raphael Amponsah’s long-range effort and a blocked chance that nearly found Hamza Issah. In the dying minutes, referee Amoah was again in the spotlight after disallowing a stunning Mawuli Wayo strike for offside.
The win lifts Asante Kotoko to seventh on the Ghana Premier League table, while Hearts of Oak stay in fifth place after nine rounds of matches.