JORDAN OPOKU URGES KOTOKO ,FOCUS AHEAD OF HEARTS OF OAK SUPER CLASH.

Accra, Ghana – Former Kumasi Asante Kotoko midfielder and current WAFA assistant coach Jordan Opoku has called on Kotoko players to remain focused and mentally strong ahead of their crucial encounter against rivals Hearts of Oak. Speaking in an interview with Paul Napoleon on ICAD TV Sports Scoreboard, Opoku described the fixture as a high-tension encounter that demands serious preparation and the right mindset. “In a super clash like this, the tension is always high. As players, you prepare before the game, you communicate, and you encourage yourselves for victory. Preparation starts from Monday at training. There’s nothing special — it’s about mindset, and this match requires a different mentality from previous games,” he said. Opoku dismissed any notion of superstition influencing results, stressing that success depends on focus and discipline. “There is no juju in football. It’s the players who must stay focused. If they allow a previous defeat, like the loss to Aduana, to affect them, they can lose everything. Every match is important.” He urged Kotoko not to dwell on past setbacks but instead channel their energy toward victory. “They must put the defeat behind them and concentrate fully. If they put it in their minds that they want to win, they will win. It’s about focus and consistency. If they relax, they will lose.” Reflecting on his own experience in the famous rivalry, Opoku described the memorable 3-3 draw between Hearts and Kotoko as one of his best matches, while also recalling a painful 2-1 defeat in Kumasi as his worst. “If I were to play this match again, I would give it my all. In our time, we played with heart. When we didn’t perform, we worked harder to improve.” The former Kotoko man also addressed supporter concerns, encouraging fans to continue backing the team despite recent performances. “Supporters are not coming in their numbers because of performance. But they should rally behind the team. Criticism is to bring out the best in players, not to break them. Players shouldn’t get angry — it’s about improvement.” Opoku acknowledged Hearts of Oak’s current form, warning that Kotoko must remain alert. “Hearts of Oak are not a bad side. They are performing well. If they score early, it will be difficult because their midfield is strong. Kotoko must stay disciplined and make good use of their chances.” With the rivalry renewed once again, Opoku concluded that the outcome will depend on mentality, execution, and which team remains composed under pressure. The stage is set for another thrilling chapter in Ghana football’s biggest rivalry.