Asante Kotoko head coach Eric Tinkler says he wants to mark his first meeting with Hearts of Oak with victory when the two rivals meet in the 2026 Democracy Cup.
The annual fixture, which commemorates Ghana’s Parliament and the country’s Fourth Republic, has added incentive this year, with the winners earning the opportunity to face English Premier League club Sunderland in the United Kingdom.
Tinkler, who took charge ahead of the 2026/27 season, said his experience of managing major derbies in South Africa has prepared him for one of Ghana’s biggest football occasions.
“We are obviously looking to prepare over the next two weeks to ensure that we get to the game on the 28th in the Democracy Cup against Hearts of Oak and put on a good performance, especially at home in front of our own fans,” he told the club website.
The 56-year-old expects a packed crowd for the clash and is determined to give Kotoko supporters a memorable first derby under his leadership.
“I have been involved in a number of derbies back in South Africa, so I am looking forward to it because I believe it’s a big [rivalry] here in Ghana, and we expect a big crowd.
“Obviously, I want to please the Asante Kotoko fans with a win,” Tinkler added.
The fixture has been scheduled for September 28 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, with kick-off scheduled for 16:00 GMT.
The Democracy Cup will provide Tinkler with an early chance to make his mark before the Ghana Premier League season begins.
Kotoko open their 2026/27 league campaign away to newly promoted Debibi United as the South African embarks on his first full season in charge of the Porcupine Warriors.
