2025 President’s Cup: Hearts of Oak head coach Didi Dramani stays optimistic despite loss in debut game
Didi Dramani’s debut ends in defeat but optimism grows at Hearts of Oak.
New Hearts of Oak head coach, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani has called for patience and unity after a narrow 2-1 loss to arch-rivals Asante Kotoko in the 2025 President’s Cup at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.
In what was seen as his first high-profile assignment since taking over in June, the former Right To Dream coach saw his side being ran over by two quick second-half goals, despite taking the lead in the opening 45 minutes.
Hamza Issah opened the scoring for Hearts of Oak, the perfect start with a composed finish, but the momentum shifted dramatically in the second half. Within the space of two minutes, an unfortunate own goal from defender Konadu Yiadom and a close-range tap-in by Kotoko striker Kwame Opoku turned the match into the advantage of the Porcupine Warriors.
The dramatic turnaround denied Hearts of Oak their first President’s Cup title since 2022 and handed Kotoko their ninth crown in the annual one-off clash.
Despite the disappointment, Dramani remained steadfast and positive about his team’s performance, describing the game as an important step in a long-term rebuilding process.
“We are in a progressive phase,” Dramani told reporters post-match. “I’m very impressed with the team’s structure and execution. Yes, we lost, but this is part of football. Even when we were in control, a key injury changed the rhythm.”
Hearts of Oak midfielder Osei Asibey was forced off early in the second half— a loss that Didi Dramani believes became a major blow to their momentum. Kotoko capitalised on that ruthlessly, showing the kind of clinical edge that has made them nine-time winners of the coveted trophy.
But for Dramani, who replaced Ivorian trainer Aboubakar Ouattara just a month on, the defeat offers more understanding than regret.
“There’s a lot of work ahead, but also a lot of progress made,” he added. “The fans were incredible. That passion fuels us. With a few tactical adjustments and better match sharpness, we will be in a very good place soon.”
The Phobians now turn their attention to a continental competition, with a trip to Nigeria to feature in the 2025 Eko International Cup. Dramani sees the tournament as another crucial opportunity to grab his team’s shape and chemistry.
Meanwhile, Asante Kotoko are “basking in the glow” of another trophy under their belt after clinching the 2024/2025 MTN FA Cup title. Their immediate focus shifts to the “Champion of Champions” tie against 2024/2025 Ghana Premier League winners Bibiani Gold Stars—a fixture that promises to be an enthralling one before their Toyoto Cup friendly against South African giants Kaizer Chiefs in Durban.
Kotoko’s performance was lauded by club officials and the fans, with Kwame Opoku’s winning goal capping a well-organised second half show.
Yet, it is the tactical approach being introduced by Didi Dramani at Hearts that many people say could define the next phase of the club’s identity.
Backed by the board and heated by an enthusiastic fanbase, the new manager insists that this is just the beginning.
“We’re building a team that reflects the tradition of Hearts of Oak but is also forward-looking. It will take time, but the results will come,” Dramani said.
The Phobians on the other hand are left to regroup, reflect, and rebuild as they look to get back to work to face the upcoming challenge in the Eko Cup as well as the 2025/2026 season.
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