Following a 1-1 draw with Bechem United on Sunday afternoon, Asante Kotoko lost points at home, allowing Bibiani GoldStars to tie them for first place in the Ghana Premier League standings.
The Porcupine Warriors had a slim lead going into the match and were hoping to strengthen their position by winning at Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
But Bechem United had different plans, staying competitive the entire time and almost winning all three points.
After a well-planned move that startled the home crowd in the 69th minute, Darlvin Yeboah broke the tie and forced Kotoko to chase the game.
Kotoko pressed forward in an attempt to equalise, their title hopes on the line, and were given a lifeline when they were given a contentious penalty in the last moments.
In order to restore parity, Albert Amoah took the initiative and did it flawlessly right away.
Kotoko’s winning streak now stands at seven games, but the atmosphere at the finish was everything but joyous.
Knowing that they had blown an opportunity in front of their home audience, the players and head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum were clearly frustrated.
A victory would have prevented them from falling behind GoldStars, who levelled the score with a 1-0 victory over Young Apostles in Bibiani.
Bechem United, who entered the match fresh off two straight losses, successfully carried out their strategy.
They almost won all three points, and their disciplined play gives them confidence. They are also quick on the counter and compact in defence.
Kotoko will now focus on a challenging journey to the Accra Lions, where a further setback could end their chances of winning the championship. In contrast, Bechem hosts GoldStars in a matchup that might further slant the title race.
