Asante Kotoko’s struggles against Nations FC continued on Saturday as the Porcupine Warriors were held to a goalless draw in a rain-affected Ashanti derby at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in Abrankese.
The result marked Kotoko’s fifth consecutive match without a victory against Nations FC since the latter joined the Ghana Premier League two seasons ago.
Heavy rains earlier in the day threatened a postponement, but the downpour eased just before kickoff. However, the wet and slippery pitch made ball control difficult, contributing to a scrappy contest in which both sides battled hard but failed to find a breakthrough.
With only five points from five matches, Nations FC have endured one of their slowest starts since joining the top flight in 2023. They currently sit in the bottom half of the table, having scored three goals and conceded four.
Despite their mixed start, Nations FC have maintained an impressive record against the Porcupine Warriors, remaining unbeaten in their last three home meetings while keeping three clean sheets in the last four league encounters between the sides.
Kotoko were without in-form striker Albert Amoah, whose absence was felt as the team struggled to generate attacking threat. Nations FC also missed their top scorer, Faisal Charwetey, resulting in a match where defences stood firm and clear chances were limited.
Despite the setbacks, both teams showed intent and pushed for a winner. Nations FC registered six shots on target compared to Kotoko’s three, but both goalkeepers proved equal to the task.
Possession was evenly split at 50 per cent, with each side recording nine total shots. Nations FC earned six corner kicks to Kotoko’s four, while Kotoko picked up four yellow cards against Nations’ two.
The draw leaves Kotoko with work to do as they prepare for continental action. The Kumasi-based giants will host Moroccan side Wydad Athletic on Sunday in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup tie, which demands sharper execution and renewed attacking purpose.
Asante Kotoko remain one of just four unbeaten teams in the league this season as they continue to build momentum in their new campaign.
In Tema, Vision FC produced a commanding 3-0 victory over Bibiani Gold Stars at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex, making it back-to-back wins for Nana Agyemang’s side.
The visitors, reigning league champions, came close early on, forcing goalkeeper Kwame Aziz into a fine save just eight minutes in, but Vision FC took full control after the interval.
A brilliant brace from Abdul Naseru Sumaila put the hosts firmly in command, opening the scoring in the 55th minute before adding his second in the 84th.
Substitute Sherif Mohammed Iddrisu then came off the bench to seal the victory with a well-taken strike in stoppage time.
The win lifts Vision FC to fifth place in the standings with eight points from five games, reflecting their growing confidence after a strong start to the season.
For Bibiani Gold Stars, it’s now back-to-back defeats, leaving them in 10th place with six points. The Miners will look to respond when they return home to host Heart of Lions in their next fixture.
FROM KINGSLEY E. HOPE, KUMASI
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