Three key battles to look out for in Ghana Premier League bigger clash between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko
Expectations of Asante Kotoko’s trip to Ghana’s capital are high when they face defending champions Hearts of Oak on Sunday.
There is, however, a possibility that Sunday’s fixture might be a more tactical affair between the two sides. It is unlikely that the game will not be aesthetically pleasing; given the nature of the two clubs, but it is a tie that could be decided on fine margins.
With that in mind, here are three key battles that could decide Sunday afternoon’s clash.
Mohammed Alhassan v Georges Mfegue
A rock at the heart of Hearts’ defence, Mohammed Alhassan is one of the most underrated players in the division. His defensive abilities will come under the spotlight on Sunday and he will have the big matter of keeping Kotoko’s centre forward Georges Mfegue quiet.
Mfegue may not reach the goal-scoring heights of compatriot Frank Etouga or get the plaudits Mudasiru Salifu gets, but the tricky forward offers so much to the Kotoko attack, and his work-rate and ability to carry the ball forward is commendable.
He is often seen drifting off defenders to receive the ball, but that allows space for Etouga and Lamptey to push forward, and that is certainly something Alhassan has to be mindful of.
Nurudeen Abdul Aziz v Mohammed Sheriff
To stand a chance of beating Kotoko, a team must prevent them from enjoying complete control of the ball in midfield.
Sheriff is crucial to Kotoko’s game plan. Kotoko’s Mr. Versatile repeatedly recycles possession and is often the man leading his side’s press, pursuing his opponents relentlessly until the ball is back at his feet.
It will be Nurudeen Abdul Aziz’s job to stop Sheriff dominating the midfield areas. It is imperative that the former Vision FC man consistently retains possession and ensures that Sheriff does not have the time and space to feed his more offensive teammates.
What happens in midfield could, ultimately, be what decides the tie.
Frank Etouga v Robert Addo Sowah
Boisterous, battling, and gifted with a benevolent finishing, Etouga can show these qualities on his day and will relish reminding Hearts of his talent.
The man who will no doubt be in charge of shackling the hitman this time around, Robert Addo Sowah has reportedly brought calm and stability to a previous erratic defence since the start of the season but one could argue that the centre-back has yet to show signs of his value when up against a significant test.
Two intelligent players, the most interesting aspect of this will be to see who comes out top of the thrilling aerial duels that will no doubt be sprinkled throughout the match.
Should Addo and his centre-back pair survive the test of the rampaging Frank Etouga and Georges Mfegue, than praise should be unremitting.
