TNA Stadium inauguration match: Medeama’s physical dominance pays off

Medeama defeated Asante Kotoko 2-1 at the inauguration match for the reconstructed TNA Stadium in Tarkwa ahead of the new Ghana Premier League season.

A very entertaining and competitive match it was despite it being friendly match. Both clubs were very much interested in testing their team’s strength against each other after weeks of preseason.

There are notable observations the two sets of technical teams identified from their play.

Medeama’s bright start

Medeama showed their intensity and physical dominance over Kotoko once again. The yellow and mauves showed their ability to chase every scrap that fell off from the physical battles.

Medeama asserted their presence on the pitch, showcasing the physical dominance and intensity that has become their hallmark. Coach Nebojsa Kapor’s high build-up strategy was on full display, with fullbacks pushing into midfield and creating numerical advantages. This tactic not only facilitated quick ball movement but also set the stage for effective counter-pressing, leaving Kotoko struggling to find their rhythm in the early stages.

Bad second period and exposed backline

In as high as Medeama want to play up the pitch, the second-half alterations by Kotoko coach Prosper Ogum to go expansive with Peter Amidu, Bernard Somuah and in some occasions, Emmanuel Antwi exposed Nebojsa Kapor’s backline. Kotoko became more assertive, more dominant and exerted control as they exploited the wide spaces. A big part of Medeama’s fluidity is that everyone can play everywhere but it also creates liabilities with very fast opponents. Kapor still has a couple of weeks to resolve the frailties

Diawisie Taylor

The match also served as a litmus test for individual performers. Diawisie Taylor, once the league’s top scorer, found himself at the center of attention for Medeama – but not always for the right reasons. Despite having a goal controversially disallowed for offside, Taylor’s struggles in front of goal, including a missed penalty, highlighted areas for improvement as the season approaches.

Taylor must reinforce the prolific striker he was years ago hasn’t changed. The 2020/2021 Ghana Premier League top scorer looks like he could become as important to his side if he could get some consistency in his finishing like his days at Karela United. Medeama could be blazing teams away with ease as Kofi Babil, Godknows Dzakpasu and Prosper Boakye add up

Kotoko’s set-piece vulnerability

One recurring theme that emerged from the encounter was Kotoko’s vulnerability on set pieces. Both of Medeama’s goals – Nana Kofi Babil’s opener and Prosper Boakye’s 89th-minute winner – came from dead-ball situations. This defensive fragility on crosses and aerial balls will undoubtedly be a focal point for Coach Ogum in the coming weeks.

The issues appear to be an exploitable structure and a lack of focus from individuals and it’s a surprise that the marking scheme hasn’t changed despite the issues. Near-post flick-ons, unmarked players in the goalkeeper’s area and far-post gifts seem to be an avenue of joy for opponents. Head Coach Prosper Ogum has a task to completely erase or minimize this vulnerability at a crucial point before the season. For once, the issue can’t solely be blamed on poor personnel.

 

Control and dominance

Kotoko’s problems in surrendering corner kicks and free-kicks could stem from a greater problem surrounding control. The Porcupines have not been able to assert control of matches in totality. It is either they have a good first half with a bad second half or vice-versa. To call it a game of two halves would be quite right. Medeama started out dominant but not putting Kotoko away over the first 35 minutes. Following Diawisie Taylor’s goal that was disallowed, Medeama were vibrant in the first 45 minutes making it a one-sided contest.

Kotoko are still in the primitive phase of asserting all-out control but were able to restore dominance in the second half. They were more agile, direct and attacked purposefully. Albert Amoah seemed to lack some sharpness but should he be able to work on his tenacity upfront he could finish off the chances from Bernard Somuah, Baba Yahaya, Peter Amidu and sleek Emmanuel Antwi

Antwi fills Lamptey’s gap but control needed

The performance of Emmanuel Antwi offered a silver lining, showcasing potential to fill the creative void left by departed players. However, the search for a midfield general to provide stability and dictate play may well continue. Relying on Samuel Tenadu or intensifying the pursuit for Shawkan Mohammed of Accra Lions.

Despite these areas for improvement, the friendly served up a feast of attacking football that delighted fans and neutrals alike. It was a reminder of the raw talent and tactical intrigue that makes the Ghana Premier League one of the most exciting competitions on the continent.

As both teams return to their respective training grounds – Medeama staying in Tarkwa and Kotoko to Cape Coast – they do so with renewed purpose. The countdown to the season opener is on, and if this friendly is anything to go by, football enthusiasts across Ghana are in for a treat.

With the league title up for grabs and FC Samartex’s crown there for the taking, Medeama and Kotoko have laid down early markers. Only time will tell if the promise shown in Tarkwa will translate into sustained success when the real battle begins. One thing is certain: the 2024/2025 Ghana Premier League season cannot come soon enough.

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