Asante Kotoko claimed the 2026 Democracy Cup after defeating rivals Hearts of Oak 4-1 on penalties, with goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim emerging as the hero by saving two spot-kicks following a goalless draw at the Baba Yara Stadium on Friday.
The third edition of the annual fixture between Ghana’s two most successful clubs delivered an intense and closely contested encounter, but neither side could find a breakthrough during regulation time.
Kotoko started brightly and immediately put Hearts under pressure, winning three corners within the opening two minutes. The Porcupine Warriors dominated possession in the early stages and thought they had taken the lead in the 17th minute when new signing Emmanuel Marmah found the back of the net.
However, celebrations were cut short after the goal was ruled out for offside.
Hearts gradually grew into the game and enjoyed spells of neat passing football, although Kotoko continued to see more of the ball for much of the contest.
Both sides created chances after the break, but the goalkeepers stood firm. Danlad produced a series of important saves to deny the Phobians, while Hearts goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was equally impressive at the other end, making crucial interventions to keep Kotoko at bay.
Kotoko arguably fashioned the better opportunities in the second half, but Asare’s performance ensured the deadlock remained intact until the final whistle.
With no goals after 90 minutes, the winner was decided through a penalty shootout.
Danlad once again proved decisive, saving two Hearts penalties as Kotoko converted four of their spot-kicks to seal a convincing 4-1 shootout victory and lift the trophy.
The triumph secured Kotoko’s second Democracy Cup title and added another memorable chapter to their long-standing rivalry with Hearts of Oak.
As champions, the Kumasi-based club will also represent Ghana in a mini-tournament in the United States, with organisers yet to announce the date of the competition.
