Kumasi Asante Kotoko beat Golden Kick SC 2-1 in the 2024/25 MTN FA Cup final at Legon’s University of Ghana Stadium, thanks to a disputed stoppage-time penalty awarded by referee Selorm Bless Yaw.
With the score tied 1-1 and overtime looming, the Porcupine Warriors made a final, controversial push. In a collision inside the penalty box, Kotoko’s leading goal scorer, Kwame Opoku, ran into Golden Kicks’ goalkeeper, Kelvin Kofi Saaba. 
At first, the referee appeared to let play continue, suggesting a fair tackle, then unexpectedly pointed to the penalty spot, igniting fury from everyone associated with Golden Kick.
The furious protests caused several minutes of delay to be added to the play. With order restored, Opoku skillfully evaded Saaba, slotting the ball home to put Kotoko in the lead deep into injury time, prompting boos from the crowd.
A late goal secured Kotoko’s tenth FA Cup victory, ending Golden Kicks’ impressive run from Ghana’s Division One League.
Bent on preventing a repeat of their stunning 2011 final loss against Nania FC, Kotoko immediately took charge, displaying polished ball possession and fast passing plays.
Despite their discipline, Golden Kick’s dangerous counter-attacks almost scored in the 14th minute, forcing a key save from Kotoko’s injured goalkeeper.
Minutes later, Kotoko earned a free kick on the right flank. Joseph Ablorh redirected Lord Amoah’s perfectly placed pass toward the goal, creating a scramble in front of the net. Amid the chaos, Kwame Opoku’s powerful header broke the deadlock, igniting ecstatic celebrations among Kotoko’s fans.
However, the underdogs wouldn’t give up. The setback motivated Golden Kick, who then dominated the game and pressured Kotoko’s defense.
Bless Ege’s superb free kick, a beautifully curved shot that found the top corner, equalized the score in the 30th minute, stunning Kotoko supporters and justifying their team’s efforts.
A Golden Kick attempt nearly put them ahead right before the break; however, Kotoko’s keeper was up to the challenge once more.
A cautious second half saw both teams searching for a breakthrough. Kotoko attacked more, but Golden Kick countered effectively through the organization, composure, and skillful plays.
With full-time approaching, Kotoko failed to capitalize on an excellent opportunity to equalize. Masterfully, Opoku controlled the midfield, passing to Peter Amidu Acquah, whose shot went agonizingly wide despite beating the goalkeeper. Following a goalmouth scramble, Gilbani Dongani Samba had a close-range attempt moments later.
As extra time loomed, a pivotal yet disputed play unfolded. Following Opoku’s quick run and collision with Saaba, referee Yaw changed his mind, awarding a penalty to the disbelief of the Golden Kick team.
Opoku converted the penalty under pressure and amidst protests, giving Kotoko a dramatic FA Cup win (their 10th) and disappointing the admired Division One team.
It was Kotoko’s redemption for not winning the Premier League title. Although Golden Kick’s FA Cup journey ended in a loss, their fervent performance will live on as a legendary tale of Ghanaian football.