Asante Kotoko’s tough season continued with a setback on Sunday, as they fell 1-0 to Bechem United at the Nana Gyeabour Park. This loss marks Kotoko’s third consecutive defeat in the Ghana Premier League, following previous losses to Legon Cities and Heart of Lions. The team has now dropped to sixth place in the standings, slipping below their rivals, Hearts of Oak.
The only goal of the game came in the 27th minute when Bechem United’s Kofi Tompuo scored a brilliant long-range strike. After controlling a pass, Tompuo unleashed a powerful shot from distance that left Kotoko’s goalkeeper, Mohamed Camara, with no chance. The goal, Bechem’s first shot on target, secured their win and continued their strong home record against Kotoko, having remained unbeaten at the Nana Gyeabour Park since 2016.
While Kotoko had more attempts on goal with nine shots compared to Bechem’s seven, they struggled to create real scoring chances. Bechem edged the possession battle slightly, holding 51% to Kotoko’s 49%, and maintained a solid defense that Kotoko could not break. Despite Kotoko’s attempts to pressure Bechem’s defense, they failed to register a single shot on target, highlighting their current offensive struggles.
The disappointing performance adds pressure on Kotoko’s head coach, Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, who has pointed to player fatigue as a factor in their recent results. With a crucial local derby against Nations FC next week, Dr. Ogum’s position may face more scrutiny if Kotoko’s poor form continues.
Bechem United, currently sitting in ninth place, will aim to build on this victory as they prepare for their upcoming match against Berekum Chelsea. Meanwhile, Kotoko will need to regroup and find a way to get back on track to keep their season’s hopes alive.
