Kotoko players promised huge sums of money ahead of Hearts of Oak clash

The stakes for Sunday's Super Clash have been raised even higher, with Kumasi Mayor Richard Agyemang Boadi promising Asante Kotoko players significant financial rewards if they secure victory against arch-rivals Accra Hearts of Oak.

Speaking during a visit to the team's training session at Baba Yara Stadium, flanked by Ashanti Regional Minister Frank Amoakohene and other dignitaries, the mayor delivered an impassioned rallying cry to the Porcupine Warriors squad.

"We want you to score, and on Monday, you will be financially rewarded. Beat them—Hearts of Oak," he declared.

The promise comes at a crucial moment for Kotoko, who have won just once in their last four matches across all competitions. Recent results include a 3–1 league defeat to Kpando Heart of Lions and a penalty shootout loss to Aduana Stars that ended their MTN FA Cup campaign.

Mayor Boadi didn't stop at simply asking for victory. He challenged the players to make a definitive statement.

"If you are able to beat them by three or four goals on Monday, you will see the amount of money you will enjoy in this city. So play for each other, play for Kumasi, play for the regional minister, and play for Asanteman."

Kotoko currently sit fifth in the Ghana Premier League with 35 points, just one point behind fourth-placed Hearts of Oak. Sunday's fixture at Baba Yara Stadium therefore carries double significance: bragging rights in Ghana's biggest rivalry and the chance to leapfrog their opponents in the league standings.

With the Ashanti Regional Minister present to witness the pledge, the message from Kumasi's political leadership was unmistakable: this is more than a football match—it is a matter of civic pride.

The players now know exactly what awaits if they deliver. Come Monday, victory could mean more than just three points.