League champions, Kumasi Asante Kotoko, continue their quest for an elusive double tomorrow when they face city rivals King Faisal at the Baba Yara Stadium in a semi-final clash of the MTN FA Cup.
The match has been bedevilled by numerous postponements but finally comes off after the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Appeals Committee ruled against Ashgold in their abortive quarter-final game against Kotoko. Although the case has not been concluded yet with the Chief Executive of Ashgold, Kudjoe Fianoo, threatening to seek a review, the two clubs are set to thrill Oseikrom fans tomorrow.
Kotoko, the second most successful side in the competition with seven titles, last won the trophy in 2001, incidentally against the same opponents, Faisal, whose best showing was in that final which they lost 0-1.
Since then, the Porcupine Warriors have been losing finalists twice against Nania FC (2011) and Medeama SC (2013), leaving Mas-Ud Didi Dramani and his boys with no choice but to forego their premier league celebrations in anticipation of another gruelling derby.
In sharp contrast, Faisal are battling for league survival as they are embroiled in a very intense relegation dogfight with all the teams from fifth to 16th separated by six points.
Faisal’s situation has been worsened by the absence of their trainer, Dorian Marin, who is still serving a seven-game touchline ban for misconduct.
However, the history of the illustrious FA Cup competition is littered with many upsets which favourites Kotoko will be keen to avoid.
The tie pits two of the brightest attacking talents on the local scene - Seidu Bancey (Kotoko) and Sulley Mohammed (Faisal) - who are also teammates of the local Black Stars, against each other.
The reward for the winners of the contest will be an interesting final against surprise finalists, Inter Allies, and for Faisal, a golden opportunity to grab a ticket for the CAF Confederation Cup.
