Preview: Kotoko v Ashgold

The MTN FA Cup's last eight draw pits two of Ghana's -and Ashanti's- finest, Kumasi Asante Kotoko and Ashantigold against each other in a duel with all the makings of a classic game. Having seen off lower-tier opponents in the previous round, either side hungrily bays for bigger scalp.

The Porcupine Warriors are gunning for the 'Double' this season, and while they have the domestic championship all but secured (boasting a handsome 10-point lead over their nearest challengers with six match days to go), triumph in the Cup isn't nearly as certain, especially considering the strength of the opposition they are required to contend with for a place in the semi-finals.


The 'Aboakese' have suffered something of a slump in the second half of the ongoing FCP Premier League season, characterized by three losses in the club's last five games -a run sparked by a 4-1 thrashing away to Kotoko in Kumasi.


Kumasi would have been the venue for Sunday's game as well, but for Kotoko's home ban for recent incidents of ill spectator behaviour, a consequence of which is that the fixture has been moved to the Accra Sports Stadium.


On the reigning Ghanaian champions' official website, Kotoko midfielder Richard Mpong shared what he believes could be key to his club's success against the Obuasi-based outfit.

"We have to go all out and must also listen to the instructions of the coach [Didi Dramani]. That is what will make us win the game," opined Mpong.


Really, though, any Ashgold player could have said same with respect to Bashir Hayford, the technical brain at the helm of the club's affairs and himself a former Kotoko coach.


Given that prior form guides are rarely accurate instruments in predicting such derbies, the tactical discipline and diligence highlighted by Mpong could indeed prove decisive in the end. With pride and passage at stake, neither club could afford to leave anything to chance.