MTN FA Cup round 16 draw throws up big clashes

MTN FA Cup Round of 16 draws for the 2025/26 have produced an exciting set of fixtures that promise drama, rivalry and potential upsets as clubs intensify their chase for Ghana’s most prestigious knock-out title.

Asante Kotoko will play against Aduana FC in what is widely regarded as the headline fixture of the round, at the draw held at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) headquarters in Accra.

Asante Kotoko, which claimed its 10th MTN FA Cup title in the 2024/25 season after a thrilling 2-1 victory over Golden Kick in the final at the University of Ghana Stadium, seeks to defend its title again, generating more tension ahead of the games this weekend.

Other matches will see Medeama SC take on FC Samartex 1996, Hearts of Oak face Berekum Chelsea, Bechem United battle Dreams FC, Legon Cities clash with King Faisal, Nations FC meet Bofoakwa Tano, Karela United play Eleven Wonders, and Real Tamale United square off against Okwahu United.

The fixtures reflect the competitive depth of the MTN FA Cup, bringing together Premier League sides, ambitious lower-division teams and traditional rivals, all hoping to advance one step closer to silverware.

The matches are expected to be played in early February, with venues to be confirmed by the GFA.

Following the draw, reactions from the clubs have already begun to add spice to the competition.

The loudest response came from Aduana FC, whose Chief Executive Officer, Collins Attah Poku, welcomed the challenge of facing defending champions Asante Kotoko.

He described the tie as an opportunity for Aduana to prove their quality on a big stage. He emphatically stated that his side is focused on eliminating Kotoko and pushing hard for the FA Cup title.

He also hinted at massive support for the team, indicating that Aduana fans will travel in numbers to back the players.

Asante Kotoko, on the other hand, has remained calm and measured in their public posture, but the draw has set up a stern test of their title defence.

Many football watchers believe the Porcupine Warriors will need to be at their very best to overcome an Aduana side full of belief and motivation.

Although formal comments from most of the other clubs are yet to be widely published, the general mood across the football fraternity is one of excitement and confidence. Teams view the draw as either a chance to assert dominance or an opportunity to cause an upset, a hallmark of the MTN FA Cup’s rich history.

With bold statements already emerging and classic encounters lined up, the stage is set for another gripping round of FA Cup football, where reputations will be tested and dreams could be realised or shattered in 90 minutes.

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