Asante Kotoko, the record champions of the Ghana Premier League (GPL), have found themselves in a period of turbulence, with their title aspirations hanging in the balance.
The Porcupine Warriors have endured a dismal run of form, losing seven of their last eight competitive fixtures, allowing their fierce rivals, Hearts of Oak, to leapfrog them in the league standings.
The four consecutive defeats have proven too much for the Kotoko hierarchy, particularly the manner in which they have been conceded. Last weekend’s loss against Nations FC further compounded their woes, widening the gap to league leaders Samartex to a daunting 10 points.
Adding salt to their wounds, the GPL record titleholders were unceremoniously eliminated from the FA Cup in February, succumbing to a 2-0 defeat against Karela United in the round of 16.
In the wake of their struggles, assistant Coach David Ocloo made an impassioned plea to the club’s faithful supporters, urging them to remain steadfast in their support.
“I think we need some time, it will come, and they should forgive us for such a result. They should keep supporting us, and we will not disappoint them. It is not over yet, but this is the time that we need them most. They shouldn’t neglect us; they should be with us, and we will turn things around,” Ocloo appealed after the loss to Nations FC.
Less than a year ago, Dr Prosper Narteh Ogum was appointed as Kotoko’s head coach and a member of the management team. However, in 23 matches under his tutelage, the team has recorded a mere nine wins, nine losses, and five draws, averaging a paltry 0.96 goals per game.
Instead of delivering attractive and successful football, Ogum has been conspicuous for his seeming helplessness and tactical missteps, particularly since the league’s resumption following the AFCON 2023 break.
With eleven games remaining in the league season, rumours are swirling that the club may decide to part ways with Ogum, as they have reportedly issued a three-game ultimatum for him to turn the team’s fortunes around.
The current situation has left Kotoko’s supporters unsettled and overwhelmed, as the once-mighty club finds itself mired in uncertainty, with their title hopes hanging by a thread. It seems that nothing can be taken for granted, and the road ahead promises to be arduous for the Porcupine Warriors.