By Nana Owoahene Acheampong
Asante Kotoko’s bid to retain the MTN FA Cup ended abruptly after they were eliminated by Aduana FC, while Nations FC, Medeama SC and Attram De Visser all advanced to the quarterfinals following a dramatic round of matches across the country.
The standout encounter at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi lived up to expectations as Kotoko and Aduana FC were locked in a tense battle that ended goalless after regulation time. Despite several promising moves, both sides struggled to create clear-cut chances in a fiercely contested contest.
Kotoko’s clearest opportunity came early in the game when captain Samba O’Neil stepped up to take a penalty, but his effort was saved, a moment that proved decisive. Aduana FC also had strong appeals for a penalty turned down, drawing protests from their technical bench.
With the scoreline still 0–0 after 90 minutes, the tie was settled by penalties, where Aduana FC held their nerve to win 4–2, knocking out the defending champions and securing a place in the quarterfinals.
At the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex on Saturday, Nations FC continued their impressive run with a 2–1 victory over Swedru All Blacks. Goals from Frederick Nzola and Joseph Effah, one in each half, put Frimpong Manso’s side firmly in control before Williams Danquah pulled one back for the All Blacks. The win sends Nations FC into the last eight, while Swedru exit the competition.
Meanwhile, at T&A Park, two-time champions Medeama SC were taken the distance by FC Samartex, with the match ending goalless in regulation time. Medeama eventually triumphed 4–2 on penalties, with goalkeeper Felix Kyei playing a starring role by saving a spot-kick before converting the winning penalty himself.
The result keeps Medeama in contention for a possible historic double, as they currently sit top of the Ghana Premier League with 43 points from 21 matches. FC Samartex, however, bowed out with credit after a spirited performance.
Earlier on Friday, Attram De Visser delivered one of the biggest shocks of the round, thrashing Premier League side Eleven Wonders 4–0 at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex in Tema New Town. The Access Bank Division One League side booked their quarterfinal place in emphatic fashion, reinforcing their growing reputation after reaching the semifinals last season.
Attram De Visser have become the first second-tier side to reach the quarterfinal stage this season, with fellow lower-division clubs Tamale City, Real Tamale United, and Techiman Liberty Youth hoping to follow suit.
As the MTN FA Cup continues to deliver drama and surprises, the elimination of defending champions Kotoko and the rise of ambitious challengers once again underline the unforgiving nature of Ghana’s premier knockout competition.