By Kwame Bediako
The MTN FA Cup Round of 16 delivered a series of stunning upsets, as three Premier League giants, Hearts of Oak, Medeama SC, and Bibiani Gold Stars, were eliminated. While Berekum Chelsea proved their dominance with a commanding victory, the tournament continued to showcase its unpredictable nature.
Hearts of Oak, one of the most decorated clubs in Ghanaian football, suffered a heartbreaking exit at the hands of Division One side Golden Kick. The Phobians, who had been idle for 22 days due to the suspension of the league following the tragic incident at Nsoatre, struggled to regain their rhythm.
Despite a goalless regulation time, the match boiled down to a dramatic penalty shootout. Golden Kick demonstrated immense composure, despite missing their first penalty, to secure a 4-3 victory. The loss was compounded by the red card shown to Hearts of Oak midfielder Theophilus Collison, further deepening their woes.
Medeama SC, the former FA Cup champions, also crashed out on penalties against Division One side PAC Academy. After a 1-1 draw at the Tarkwa TNA Park, Medeama failed to capitalise on home advantage. PAC Academy proved more clinical in the shootout, securing a 4-2 win and marking their rise as a force to be reckoned with in the competition.
Division One club Attram De Visser emerged victorious over Ghana Premier League leaders Gold Stars, securing a 4-3 penalty shootout win. The encounter was a thrilling display of skill, composure, and determination, ending in a goalless stalemate after regulation time.
Meanwhile, Berekum Chelsea continued their strong run with a 4-1 triumph over Northern City, showcasing their intent to go far in the tournament. The win highlighted the former FA Cup winners’ class as they comfortably outclassed a lower-tier opponent.
Other results saw Bechem United secure a hard-fought victory at Techiman Liberty and True Democracy edge Nania on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Karela United also emerged victorious against Young Apostles, with goalkeeper Mensah mentally strong in the shootout.
Full results below:
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