Stephen Nyarko’s 30th minute strike helped Asante Kotoko to secure a hard fought victory over their Ivaorian counterparts Asec Mimosa to lift the Otumfuo 20th Anniversary Cup.

Despite a late fight from the visitors to draw level, the Porcupine Warriors made sure the trophy remained in Ghana.

It was an open game in the first 10 minutes as both sides tried to settle very well in the game.

Asec Mimosas had most of the ball but were unable to create any goalscoring opportunity with their possession.

Kwame Boahene had the chance to draw the first blood for Kotoko, after he was put through on goal by Kwame Bonsu, but Sanogo Issah excellently blocked his effort.

Stephen Nyarko broke the deadlock of the game on the 30th minute after heading a great cross by Augustine Sefa from the right.

Asec Mimosas reacted very well after going down by dominating the play in all departments.

Lassina Ouattara tried his luck in the 43rd minutes but his feeble shot went wide.

None of the sides was able to find the back of the net as referee Laryeah whistled for the end of the first half.

Kotoko came back stronger after the break.

The first chance fell to Emmanuel Gyamfi after running through the penalty box but his cut in cross was easily saved by Sylla Mamadou.

Prince Acquah should have made it two after he was set up by Gyamfi, but his effort was blocked Sako Oumar.

It was a wonderful exhibition of good football as both sides tried to show their superiority in the midfield.

Samake Gaussou’s powerful shot from the left went over the bar as the visitors pushed for the equalizer.

Kone Mohammed also came close but his free kick in the 87th minute was easily dealt with by Felix Annan.

Substitute Mamady Barry nearly made two for the Porcupines but his curl was saved by Sylla Mamadu.

The game ended 1-0 in favour of Asante Kotoko.

ASANTE KOTOKO

Felix Annan, Augestine Sefa, Evans Owusu
Wahab Adams, Abdul Ganiu, Habib Mohammed, Prince Acquah, Stephen Nyarko, Kwame Bonsu, Kwame Boahen,Songne Yacouba

Substitute.

Muntari Tagoe, Abdul Fatawu Safiu
Zabo Teguy, Emmanuel Gyamfi, Agyemang Badu , Collins Ameyaw, Obed Owusu
Daniel Darkwah ,Umar Bashiru

Asec Mimosa

Sylla Mamoudo, Sanogo Issah, Faittey Fils Junior, Sako Oumar, Traore Adama, Fofana Halassane, Badie Gbagnon, Diarrassoba Salifou, Samake Gaousou, Ouattara Lassina, Agbo Claude.

Substitute

Bamba Aboubacar, Kone Mohamed, Adrian Junior, Kijevidjin Kodjoime, Dosso Yaya, Drarrassouba Drisaa