Debibi United stun Asante Kotoko with spirited draw in GPL debut

Newly promoted Debibi United announced their arrival in the Ghana Premier League with a bold statement on matchday one, forcing Asante Kotoko to a 2-2 draw in a four-goal thriller at the Berekum Golden City Park. The result marks an impressive start for the Division One League champions in their maiden top-flight campaign, whilst denying the Porcupine Warriors a winning debut under new head coach Eric Tinkler.

Kotoko controlled the opening stages and broke the deadlock through Yakubu Dogo in the 15th minute. The striker displayed composure after receiving a through ball from Hubert Gyau, taking a touch before placing a clinical finish into the right corner. The visitors appeared set for a comfortable victory as they headed into the interval with a 1-0 advantage.

Debibi's remarkable comeback

The home side emerged from the break with renewed determination and equalised just four minutes into the second half when Richard Owusu stepped up to convert a free-kick in the 49th minute. This early second-half strike transformed the momentum of the match, and Debibi pressed forward with increasing confidence.

Owusu struck again in the 73rd minute to complete his brace and give Debibi an unlikely 2-1 lead—their first advantage of the match. The Berekum-based outfit appeared poised for a stunning upset victory over one of Ghana's traditional powerhouses. However, Kotoko showed their pedigree by refusing to surrender, with Hubert Gyau reacting quickest to a goal-mouth scramble in the 79th minute to restore parity at 2-2.

Neither side could break the deadlock in the closing stages, ensuring the points were shared in an entertaining encounter that provided plenty of attacking quality from both teams.

What this means for Ghana football

The draw highlights the improving competitive balance in the Ghana Premier League, where newly promoted sides can now challenge the traditional big clubs with confidence. Debibi United's performance suggests that promotion through the Division One League is producing sides capable of competing at the highest domestic level rather than simply making up the numbers.

For Asante Kotoko, Eric Tinkler's first competitive league fixture yielded a point rather than the victory many would have expected. The Porcupine Warriors currently sit sixth in the league table following the opening round, with Debibi United positioned immediately behind them. Kotoko will seek to bounce back when they host Heart of Lions in their next fixture, whilst Debibi face another stern test against Bechem United.