KEY POINTS
- Hearts of Oak’s FA Cup journey ends after a penalty shootout loss.
- Golden Kick capitalized on missed chances and a red card.
- Asamoah Boateng and Samuel Amofa missed penalties as Hearts fell short.
Following a penalty shootout loss to Division One League team Golden Kick on Sunday, February 23, Accra Hearts of Oak were eliminated from the 2024–25 MTN FA Cup.
Hearts of Oak waste key chances in goalless first half
After a goalless draw in regulation time, the Phobians lost 4-3 in penalties at the University of Ghana Stadium, marking an early exit from the tournament.
Hearts had several opportunities to take the lead but failed to convert their chances. In the 15th minute, Kwabena Boateng came close after receiving a well-placed pass from Michael Ampadu, but his shot missed the post by inches. Eleven minutes later, Boateng had another opportunity, but his effort went straight into the hands of the Golden Kick goalkeeper.
The game took a difficult turn for Hearts in the second half when Theophilus Collins received a second yellow card for a foul, reducing the Phobians to 10 men. The numerical disadvantage put additional pressure on Hearts, forcing them to adopt a more defensive approach.
Golden Kick denied a late winner as Asare saves the day
Despite being a man down, Hearts continued to battle and nearly conceded in the final moments of regulation time. Five minutes from the end, Golden Kick had a golden opportunity to seal the win, but Hearts goalkeeper Benjamin Asare made a crucial save to deny them. Earlier, in the 38th minute, Ampadu forced the opposing goalkeeper into an excellent save with a shot flicked over the crossbar.
With the game still tied at 0-0 after 90 minutes, penalties were needed to determine the winner. Golden Kick held their nerve, converting four of their spot-kicks, while Hearts of Oak faltered. Asamoah Boateng and Samuel Amofa both missed their penalties, sealing Hearts’ fate and ensuring Golden Kick advanced to the next round.
According to Joynews, the defeat marks a disappointing campaign for Hearts of Oak, who were hoping for a deep run in the competition. Golden Kick, on the other hand, celebrated a famous victory, eliminating one of Ghana’s most successful clubs from the FA Cup.
