In a thrilling local Ashanti Region derby matchup, a hat-trick from Zubairu Ibrahim helped King Faisal triumph over Ghana Premier League leaders Asante Kotoko by a 3-2 score on Sunday. The result moved the Kumasi-based team into a tie with Kotoko at the top of the table on thirteen points through six games while dealing the Porcupine Warriors their first loss of the season. Faisal’s derby victory was the highlight of the weekend in Ghanaian football with eight games taking place over the weekend.
King Faisal moved into the lead early on when a quick and methodical buildup exposed the Kotoko defense, leaving Ibrahim with an open shot from close range that was deflected into the air by keeper Razak Abalora before Ibrahim headed the rebound into an empty net. It was 2-0 before twenty minutes were over when once again Faisal broke down the right wing before Ibrahim produced a goal poacher’s finish from ten yards out.
Cameroonian forward Mfegue Omgba struck early on in the second half for Kotoko to get a goal back, capitalizing on a goal mouth scramble following King Faisal goalkeeper Frank Boateng’s mistake in dealing with a corner kick. However, it was Zubairu who completed his three-goal feat in the 68th minute when Faisal once again found success attacking down the right flank, a cross coming through to the forward at the far post for him to finish past advancing Kotoko keeper Abalora. Omgba provided an excellent headed goal in response several minutes later, but Kotoko could not complete the rally back.
Highlights from the King Faisal-Asante Kotoko matchup are below followed by video from Elmina Sharks’ victory over Karela United as well as Aduana Stars’ win over WAFA.
Asante Kotoko 2-3 King Faisal
Elmina Sharks 2-1 Karela United
Aduana Stars 3-0 WAFA