After ditching Hearts of Oak to reunite with former club, Kumasi Asante Kotoko, Ivorian striker Ahmed Toure will be in the spotlight this afternoon when the Porcupine Warriors host Hearts of Oak in the Super 2 Cup first leg clash at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
Hearts were close to securing the Ivorian's signature after he featured and scored in their pre-season Top 4 game against Heart of Lions in Accra, but he made a late, dramatic U-turn which left the Phobians shocked and in the cold.
That bitter feeling of betrayal among the Hearts faithful remains strong and will play out this afternoon when the Phobians storm the Garden City in search of that elusive victory in Kumasi to secure the bragging rights, since their 1-0 victory over the Porcupine Warriors in 2010.
But as can be expected, Toure would be hoping for an outstanding display to prove to his employers his readiness to assist them to defend the Premier League trophy in the upcoming season.
It is unlikely if Hearts will be bereft of the inspirational play of midfielder Winful Cobbinah, who is reportedly close to joining Saudi Arabian side, Najran, as well as safe hands Philemon McCarthy, with Kotoko’s squad beefed up with new signings such as goalkeeper Eric Ofori Antwi, Richard Oti and Akwasi Acheampong from Wa All Stars.
Hearts, on the other hand, have in their fold experienced players, including former Kotoko goalkeeping duo of Abdoulaye Soulama and Seidu Mutawakil, as well as old guns, such as Owusu Bempah, Gilbert Fiamenyo and Ollenu Ashitey, all ready to give Kotoko a run for their money.
Although the odds tilt in favour of the Porcupine Warriors, the Phobians have an experienced coach in Herbert Addo, who has what it takes to plot a famous victory over his Kotoko counterpart, Didi Dramani ahead of the upcoming First Capital Plus League.
