Asante Kotoko legend Samuel Opoku Nti has expressed concern over the timing of Abdul Karim Zito’s departure from the club, describing the decision as hasty and ill-timed. According to the former club CEO, it would have been more appropriate for the experienced coach to remain in charge for the Super Clash before stepping aside.
Zito resigned just days before the high-profile Ghana Premier League showdown, leaving assistant coach Prince Yaw Owusu to take temporary control of the team. The encounter, played at the Baba Yara Stadium, ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for Kotoko.
Hearts of Oak secured the win through a decisive first-half header from Baba Adamu, ending their long winless run against their fierce rivals and dealing a blow to Kotoko’s momentum.
Speaking in an interview with Kessben FM, Opoku Nti said the coach’s exit on the eve of such an important fixture was unfortunate and may have influenced the outcome.
He maintained that if he had been part of the club’s leadership, he would have advised that Zito stay on for the derby before parting ways, noting that matches between Kotoko and Hearts often shape the fortunes of both players and coaches.
Opoku Nti also highlighted the emotional significance of the fixture to supporters, adding that fans had high expectations going into the clash and were hoping for a positive result.
Following the defeat, Asante Kotoko now sit fifth on the Ghana Premier League table with 35 points, trailing leaders Medeama SC by nine points as the title race intensifies.
