Late Drama and Upsets Define MTN FA Cup Quarterfinals as Kotoko and Golden Kick FC Advance
In an electrifying weekend of MTN FA Cup action, Asante Kotoko and Golden Kick FC each secured their places in the semifinals, setting the stage for thrilling matchups ahead.
Asante Kotoko advanced with a dramatic 2-1 victory over True Democracy, thanks to a last-gasp winner from Kwame Opoku. The Porcupine Warriors took an early lead in the 13th minute when Saaka Dauda capitalized on a quick throw-in to slot home the opener. Kotoko had a chance to extend their advantage when they were awarded a penalty after Opoku was fouled in the box, but Justice Blay’s shot struck the post, leaving True Democracy in the game.
The miss proved pivotal as True Democracy equalized in the 62nd minute through Isaac Botchway, whose free-kick deflected off the wall and wrong-footed Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Camara. Just when it seemed the match would head to penalties, Opoku struck in the 93rd minute, netting a stoppage-time winner that sent the Kotoko fans into a frenzy.
With this victory, Kotoko will face Berekum Chelsea in the semifinals, with the winner advancing to meet either Attram De Visser or Golden Kick FC in the final.
In another quarterfinal shocker, Golden Kick FC stunned Premier League side Karela United in a tense penalty shootout, winning 5-3 after the match ended 0-0 in regulation time. Golden Kick played with ten men from the 83rd minute after midfielder Zakaria Mumuni received a second yellow card, yet they held firm against Karela’s advances.
Karela United, who had enjoyed a solid run in the cup with victories over Young Apostles and TF Exponential, struggled to break down their Division One League opponents. The match went to penalties, where Golden Kick’s Edward Bentum clinched the victory with a decisive kick, capitalizing on a missed attempt from Karela’s Fatawu Mohammed.
With this unexpected triumph, Golden Kick FC moves on to the semifinals where they will face Attram De Visser as Asante Kotoko take on Berekum Chelsea in the other fixture.
