Staff Reporter.
Asante Kotoko have been crowned champions of the 2025 Toyota Cup after a dramatic 3-2 penalty shootout win over Kaizer Chiefs at Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday evening.
After a goalless draw in regulation time, the winner of the cup had to be decided from the penalties.
While Gaston Sirino and Mduduzi Shabalala scored their penalties, Wandile Duba, Aden McCarthy, Pule Mmodi, and Inacio Miguel missed.
Henry Ansu, Albert Amoah, and Johnson scored for Kotoko, while Lord Amoah, Asiedu, and Samba O’Niel missed.
Chiefs started the game with three new signings. Nkanyiso Shinga and Thabiso Monyane occupied the full back positions, while Portuguese striker Flavio Da Silva was in attack alongside Chiefs youngster Mfundo Vilakazi and DR Congo winger Glody Lilepo.
Midfield maestro Nkosingiphile Ngcobo ran the show alongside Thabo Cele as Chiefs zipped the ball around with confidence.
Kotoko almost shot themselves in the foot in the 67th minute as a Shabalala free kick was sent loopingh towards his own net by Dayda Saaka, but Henry Ansu was on hand to head clear.
Chiefs appeared destined for a late winner when substitute Mmodi was brought down inside the box in the 84th minute, earning a penalty. But defender Miguel sent his effort wide, leaving the thousands in attendance stunned.
The game then went to penalties, Kotoko went on to win 3-2 in sudden death. Both teams shift focus to their additional pre-season activities.