Ibrahim Danlad's penalty heroics earn Asante Kotoko 2026 Democracy Cup triumph over Hearts of Oak

Asante Kotoko won the 2026 Democracy Cup after goalkeeper Danlad Ibrahim saved two penalties in a 4-1 shootout victory over rivals Hearts of Oak following a goalless draw at the Baba Yara Stadium.

The third edition of Ghana's showpiece fixture between the country's two biggest clubs ended without a goal after 90 minutes, before Danlad emerged as the hero to hand the Porcupine Warriors their second Democracy Cup title.

Kotoko made a fast start and pinned Hearts back early, forcing three corners inside the opening two minutes as they dominated possession.

The Kumasi side thought they had broken the deadlock in the 17th minute when new signing Emmanuel Marmah found the net, but the effort was ruled out for offside.

Hearts gradually grew into the contest and began to string together promising passing moves, although Kotoko continued to enjoy the greater share of possession.

Both sides created chances after the break, but the goalkeepers proved difficult to beat.

Danlad produced a series of important saves to keep Hearts at bay whenever the Accra club threatened, while Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare was equally impressive at the other end, denying Kotoko on several occasions.

Kotoko fashioned the clearer opportunities in the closing stages but could not find a way past Asare, leaving the match to be decided by penalties.

Danlad then took centre stage, saving two Hearts spot-kicks as Kotoko converted four of their penalties to seal a convincing 4-1 shootout win.

The victory gives the Porcupine Warriors a second Democracy Cup crown and another memorable success over their fiercest rivals.

Kotoko will now go on to represent Ghana in a mini-tournament in the United States, with the date yet to be announced.