Asante Kotoko Shocked by Aduana FC in FA Cup, Coach Zito Sacked
📍 Match Report — Round of 16, Ghana FA Cup
In a stunning FA Cup upset on 7 February 2026, Asante Kotoko were eliminated from the competition after falling to Aduana FC on penalties following a goalless draw in regular time.
The match, played at the Accra Sports Stadium, saw Kotoko dominate possession but fail to convert key chances, with Aduana FC holding firm defensively. The game ended 0–0 after 90 minutes, sending the tie to a tense penalty shootout where Aduana triumphed 4–2.
Key Moments
• 12’ – Kotoko’s first shot on target narrowly misses, Aduana goalkeeper makes a sharp save.
• 37’ – Aduana counterattack nearly produces a goal, blocked by Kotoko’s defense.
• 90+3’ – Last-minute Kotoko effort blocked, match heads to penalties.
Penalty Shootout – Aduana converted 4 penalties, Kotoko missed 2, sealing their exit.
🔹 Managerial Fallout: Abdul Karim Zito Sacked
Following the shocking elimination, Asante Kotoko announced the sacking of head coach Abdul Karim Zito along with his technical staff. The club stated that the decision was made to revitalize the team and refocus on the Ghana Premier League title race.
Kotoko fans expressed mixed reactions on social media, with some blaming the team’s inefficiency and others defending Zito’s contributions. The club will now appoint an interim coach while searching for a permanent replacement.
📊 Impact on Ghana Premier League
• Kotoko remain second in the GPL, eight points behind leaders Medeama SC, but the FA Cup exit is a blow to morale.
• Aduana FC, by contrast, advance to the next FA Cup round, boosting their confidence for league matches.
Analysis
• Kotoko’s failure to score despite dominating possession highlights finishing issues and psychological pressure in knockout games.
• The sacking of Zito signals that management is taking a hard line on results and ambitions for both domestic league and cup competitions.
• Fans will now watch closely for the new coach appointment and how it affects squad selection, tactics, and upcoming fixtures.
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