Asante Kotoko Edge Basake Holy Stars to Extend Unbeaten Run

• Asante Kotoko secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Basake Holy Stars, extending their unbeaten run to four matches and moving to the top of the league table
• Samuel Tenedu’s deflected goal in the 14th minute proved to be the decisive moment as Kotoko dominated possession but struggled to add to their tally
• With momentum on their side, they now turn their focus to their next fixture against Berekum Chelsea, while Basake Holy Stars continue their battle to avoid relegation

Asante Kotoko continued their impressive form with a narrow 1-0 victory over Basake Holy Stars at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday afternoon.

The decisive moment came in the 14th minute when Samuel Tenedu’s deflected strike found the back of the net, securing Kotoko’s third consecutive win and extending their unbeaten streak to four matches.

The Porcupine Warriors dominated much of the contest, controlling 52 percent of possession and creating several goal-scoring opportunities.

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However, their familiar trend of narrow wins persisted as they struggled to extend their lead despite their attacking efforts.

With this victory, Kotoko now sit one point clear at the top of the table, taking advantage of Bibiani Gold Stars’ failure to secure a home win against Hearts of Oak.

Meanwhile, Basake Holy Stars offered little attacking threat and remain dangerously close to the relegation zone.

Looking ahead, Kotoko will aim to solidify their position at the summit when they host Berekum Chelsea in their next fixture.

Basake Holy Stars, on the other hand, must regroup quickly as they continue their fight for survival in the league.

How Kotoko coach used psychology to help his players

After the match, the focus shifted to the mental resilience of the players.

When asked how he managed to prepare his squad mentally for such an emotional return to action, Ogum—who holds expertise in Sports Psychology—offered insight into his approach.

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The tactician revealed that he deliberately shielded his players from content that could amplify their grief, restricting access to videos and images featuring Pooley.

This, he explained, was a strategic decision to prevent emotional distress and ensure his team remained focused on the task at hand.

Ogum’s methods proved effective, as Kotoko not only honoured Pooley’s memory with a win but also demonstrated remarkable mental strength in difficult circumstances.

Up next for Ogum and his charges in the Ghana League is an away trip to Samreboi, where the Reds will face Samartex on Sunday, March 16. Before then, they will lock horns with Sekondi Eleven Wise in the FA Cup on March 12, per Sofascore.

Kotoko bans top media organisation

Meanwhile, YEN.com.gh reported that ahead of their first competitive match since Pooley's passing, Kotoko imposed a media ban on one of the country's leading broadcasting organizations.

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The decision followed controversial remarks made by sports journalists from the station regarding Pooley’s death.

Their comments suggested an alternative narrative, implying his passing might have been linked to activities outside the game rather than the stadium violence initially reported.

Source: YEN.com.gh