The woes of Asante Kotoko deepened as they matched their worst-ever record of four consecutive league defeats in 14 years following a narrow loss to Nations FC.
The Porcupine Warriors, seeking redemption against
regional rivals Nations FC, found themselves on a downward spiral, having
already suffered five losses in their previous six matches, including three
straight defeats in the Ghana Premier League.
Their troubles escalated on Sunday
night as the Abrankese-based side dealt them a 1-0 blow in front of their home
fans. Asamoah Boateng Afriyie’s injury-time goal in the first half sealed the
crucial victory for Nations FC, marking his 10th goal in the league so far.
This
defeat marks the fourth consecutive loss for the Porcupines, their first such
streak since 2010, 14 years ago. During the 2010/11 season, they suffered
defeats to King Faisal, Hearts of Oak, Aduana FC, and New Edubiase, with the
poor run extending as they lost two more games in their subsequent three
matches before clinching a win against Wa All Stars.
The recent defeat to Nations FC follows losses
against Karela United, Accra Lions, and Aduana FC, leaving the 2021/22 Ghana
Premier League champions languishing in ninth place. The mounting pressure
falls on coach Prosper Narteh Ogum, whose second stint with the team has been
far from impressive.
In the latter half of the 2023/24 season, Asante
Kotoko has experienced a slide down the league table, dropping from third place
with only one victory in six games to their credit.
Overall,
their performance has been less than stellar, with just nine wins, five draws,
and nine losses in 23 matches.
The team is determined to turn their fortunes around
and secure a much-needed victory in their upcoming matches, starting with an
away fixture against Bechem United.
Meanwhile, Nations FC continues to
exert pressure on league leaders FC Samartex, who secured a crucial win against
Hearts of Oak on Saturday to maintain their position at the top of the table.
Kassim Mingle’s side aims to build
on their impressive form as they prepare to face Great Olympics at the Dr Kwame
Kyei Sports Complex in their next fixture.
No comments