Ghana’s President’s Cup Resting In Ivory Coast

The highly coveted President’s Cup is currently resting on the trophy shelves of ASEC Mimosas of Ivory Coast after Asante Kotoko Sporting Club relinquished it in their 2-1 loss to their opponents.

It is the third time the record holders have lost the President’s Cup.

President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Ivorian President Alassane Ouattara watched on at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium as the latter’s club subdued the home team to win the trophy.

After squandering numerous chances in the early minutes of the game dominated by ASEC, 27-year-old Yao Alphonse found the net with a long-range strike that went beyond the reach of Frederick Asare in the 13th minute.

Twelve minutes later, a handball by Justice Blay gave ASEC another golden chance to extend the lead. Midfielder Aka Essis converted the penalty to his side’s advantage.

Kotoko kept their ground to avoid further damage despite the frustration from the opponents as they pressed for parity to no avail in the remaining minutes in the first half.

The scoreline was unaltered after recess. However, Coach Ogum’s boys managed to pull one back when they were awarded a penalty. Ugandan striker Steve Mukwala converted to give the Porcupines the consolation in the 85th minute.

Efforts to equalize were frustrated by ASEC who subsequently lifted the trophy proudly in the presence of their President to the dismay of the Ghanaians.

The President’s Cup organized by the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA) is an annual game between selected clubs.

It is organized in honour of the sitting president of Ghana.

Kotoko have won the cup eight times but have lost in the past three years to fierce rivals Accra Hearts of Oak. In 2022, they lost by 2–1 and 1–0 in 2023.

Kotoko last won the cup in 2019. Before that, they won in 1973, 1984, 2004, 2005, 2008, 2016 and 2017.

This year, the game was organised in honour of the upcoming 80th birthday of President Akufo-Addo and his last year in office.