Asante Kotoko’s interim coach, Prince Yaw Owusu, is confident he can steer the club forward, despite a loss in his debut match.

The former Ghana international took over after Karim Zito’s departure and immediately faced one of the toughest domestic fixtures, a clash with fierce rivals Hearts of Oak.

The much-awaited match took place at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday. Kotoko fought hard but lost to a first-half header by Baba Adamu, the deciding goal in the Phobians’ 1-0 win. The Porcupine Warriors were disappointed, as they want to stay in contention for the Ghana Premier League title.

Yaw Owusu told the media after the match that losing to their biggest rivals is a major blow to Kotoko’s goals. “Losing to Hearts of Oak makes it difficult for us to win the league,” he said. Their title hopes were diminished by the loss, and their winless streak grew to three games, increasing the strain on the coaching staff.

Yaw Owusu, when asked if he was the right person to guide Kotoko through this tough phase, responded with firm conviction. “Yes, there’s no two ways about it,” he stated confidently, signaling his determination to turn things around.

Kotoko will now focus on their upcoming Matchday 23 match against Young Apostles at Wenchi Sports Stadium. Hoping to bounce back and revive their league ambitions, the Kumasi side sees this clash as a path to redemption.