Asante Kotoko beat Bibiani Gold Stars 1-0 to lift the Champion of Champions title on Sunday at the Dun’s Park in Bibiani.

Gold Stars, last season’s Ghana Premier League winners, faced the FA Cup holders in a keenly contested clash that promised more than silverware, as both teams sought momentum ahead of the league kickoff on September 12. Fresh from winning the GHALCA Top 4, the Miners entered as favourites, while Kotoko had failed to win a game in the pre-season tournament. Yet it was the Porcupine Warriors who prevailed.

Kotoko settled quickly, dominating possession, though Gold Stars threatened with a dangerous first-half free-kick that was expertly saved by goalkeeper Frederick Asare Camara. With few clear chances, the opening half ended goalless.

The breakthrough arrived in the 68th minute when midfielder Hamzata pounced on a loose ball from a set-piece, slotting home decisively. Gold Stars pressed late on, but Kotoko’s backline held firm.

The victory secured Kotoko’s fourth Champion of Champions crown, boosting coach Karim Zito’s side ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup campaign, while Gold Stars must regroup for their Champions League challenge.

Source GhanaSoccrernet