Asante Kotoko have clinched the 2025 Toyota Cup with a thrilling 3-2 victory on penalties against South African powerhouses Kaizer Chiefs at Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday, July 26, 2025.
The match ended in a tense 0-0 stalemate after regulation time, leading to a shootout where Kotoko’s goalkeeper Mohammed Camara became the hero by saving four penalties, securing the title for the Ghanaian side.
The game saw Kaizer Chiefs, who had recently returned from a pre-season tour in the Netherlands, start strongly by testing Camara early with a powerful shot from Glody Lilepo that was well stopped.
Kotoko responded with chances of their own, including a dangerous looping header by Henry Ansu that was tipped over by Chiefs goalkeeper Brandon Petersen. Both teams struggled to convert offensive opportunities amid a tough, sandy pitch that hindered fluid play.
A key moment came late in the match when Kaizer Chiefs were awarded a penalty in the 83rd minute after a defensive foul by Kotoko.
Chiefs captain Inacio Miguel, however, missed the chance to break the deadlock, sending his shot wide. This miss was crucial as it ultimately led to the game proceeding to penalties.
In the shootout, goalkeeper Mohammed Camara stood out by saving four penalty attempts from the Chiefs, despite Kotoko missing three of their own kicks.
Kotoko converted three penalties and emerged victorious, lifting the Toyota Cup and delivering a significant boost ahead of their preparations for the upcoming Ghana Premier League season and CAF Confederations Cup campaign.
This victory marks a major preseason triumph for Asante Kotoko, underscoring their strength and potential as they aim to solidify their dominance both locally and continentally.
For Kaizer Chiefs, the defeat, especially on home turf, provides challenges to address as they seek better fortunes in their domestic and continental competitions going forward.
Source: www.kumasimail.com
