2025/26 Ghana Premier League: Week 8 Match Preview - Asante Kotoko vs Karela United

Asante Kotoko return to the Ghana Premier League seeking redemption after their disappointing elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup. The Porcupine Warriors were comprehensively beaten 6-1 on aggregate by Moroccan giants Wydad Casablanca, and now turn their attention to domestic duties as they welcome Karela United to the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi on Sunday.

Kotoko will be without striker Albert Amoah, who was sold to Libyan side Al Ahli Benghazi immediately after their match in Morocco. Coach Karim Zito confirmed the player’s departure and called for others to step up. "It’s about attitude. He’s gone. We are preparing the next players to take over. Amoah is no more, so we should continue with what we have to get what we want," he told the club’s media.

This fixture marks the first league meeting between both sides in nine months, with anticipation running high in Kumasi. The last encounter ended in a narrow 1-0 victory for Asante Kotoko in January 2025. In their last six head-to-head clashes since May 2023, both sides have won two matches each, while two ended in draws. Karela have scored five goals in those games compared to Kotoko’s four, reflecting how closely matched they have been over recent years.

Kotoko’s Premier League form has been steady. They remain unbeaten after four matches, winning two and drawing two, without conceding a goal. They currently sit ninth on the league table with eight points, but have played three matches fewer than several teams above them. Karela United, on the other hand, are seventh with twelve points from seven matches, having won three, drawn three, and lost one. They have scored seven goals and conceded six, showing consistency and balance in their performances.

Karela enter this encounter with confidence following their 1-0 victory over Bechem United last weekend, while Kotoko approach it on the back of two consecutive defeats to Wydad. The Porcupine Warriors will rely on striker Kwame Opoku, if he is passed fit to start, in attack to unlock Karela’s defence. The visitors are expected to stay compact and hit on the counter.

With both sides in contrasting moods, the contest promises to be competitive. Kotoko will aim to use their home advantage to return to winning ways, while Karela hope to continue their impressive form.

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