Mental fortitude key for Kotoko against Hearts – Michael Akuffo

Former Asante Kotoko captain Michael Akuffo has emphasised the importance of mental fortitude as the current squad prepares to face their fierce rivals, Hearts of Oak, on Sunday in matchday 31 of the 2023/2024 Ghana Premier League at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

Despite both teams’ underwhelming performances this season, the bragging rights in this highly anticipated encounter are up for grabs.

Akuffo, renowned for his last-minute winner against Hearts in 2012, believes that the psychological aspect of the game cannot be overlooked if the current Kotoko players want to etch their names in history.

“If you want to be seen and heard of in the whole wide world, this is the game for you to prove yourself,” Akuffo stated.

“Whenever we met them, it was not easy. The only thing we used to outwit them was our psychological advantage. Hearts will always come at you to make you forget who you are, and if they succeed in making you forget the tactical aspect of the game that your coach has taught you, that’s when they will overrun you.”

Kotoko secured a 3-2 victory in the first leg, but Akuffo cautions against complacency as the Phobians seek revenge.

He advises the Porcupine Warriors to maintain composure and adhere to the coach’s instructions, the very approach that led to his famous winning goal after Hearts had equalized in the dying moments of that fateful encounter.

The game promises to be a thrilling affair, with Kotoko currently sitting 10th in the league with 40 points, just two points ahead of the 12th-placed Hearts of Oak.

Kick-off is scheduled for 3 pm on Sunday.

The post Mental fortitude key for Kotoko against Hearts – Michael Akuffo first appeared on 3News.

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