2025/26 Ghana Premier League: Week 26 Match Preview - Asante Kotoko vs Nations FC

Asante Kotoko will look to revive their fading title hopes when they host Nations FC in a local derby at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.

Recent results have left the Porcupine Warriors trailing league leaders Medeama by seven points, leaving little margin for error in the closing stretch of the season. A return to winning ways is now essential, especially against a Nations side that has proven difficult to beat in recent meetings.

Kotoko’s immediate concern lies in attack. They head into this fixture on the back of a defeat to Karela on March 8 and have failed to score in their last three home matches, a worrying trend for a side with ambitions of staying in the title race. While their overall home form remains among the strongest in the league, their recent lack of cutting edge has slowed their momentum.

Nations FC arrive in Kumasi in confident mood. They are unbeaten in their last four matches and have won their last three, beating Berekum Chelsea, Bechem United and Eleven Wonders. Their defensive organisation has also stood out, with three consecutive clean sheets underlining their growing solidity.

The recent head-to-head record favours Nations. Since October 2023, they have won three of the five meetings between the sides, with the other two ending in draws. Kotoko have managed just two goals in those encounters, compared to Nations’ seven, highlighting the visitors’ recent dominance in this fixture.

Statistically, Kotoko have been the more consistent side over the course of the season, with 10 wins, nine draws and six defeats from 25 matches, scoring 30 goals and conceding 16. Nations, meanwhile, have nine wins, seven draws and nine defeats, with 24 goals scored and 22 conceded.

Despite that, current form points towards a closely contested derby. Kotoko will rely on home advantage and experience, but Nations’ confidence and defensive stability make them a serious threat.