The Porcupine Warriors are currently without a leader. Specifically, head coach Abdul Karim Zito has officially resigned from Asante Kotoko. This sudden decision follows a devastating exit from the MTN FA Cup. Consequently, the Kumasi-based giants are facing a period of intense uncertainty.
The Catalyst for Departure
The breaking point occurred this past Sunday at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium. Kotoko faced Aduana FC in a high-stakes Round of 16 clash. Despite dominating large portions of the match, the team failed to find the net. The game eventually moved to a penalty shootout. Unfortunately, Kotoko suffered a 4-2 defeat. This result meant the defending champions were knocked out of the competition.
Zito recognized that the pressure was mounting. In addition to the cup exit, the team has struggled for consistency in the league. Therefore, the veteran coach chose to step down during a meeting with management on Monday. By doing so, he effectively avoided the possibility of a dismissal and allowed the club to seek a new direction.
A Legacy of Trophies
Notably, Zito’s tenure was not without significant success. In just 11 months, he secured four major trophies for the club. These included the 2025 FA Cup and the 2026 Champion of Champions title. He also guided the team to a prestigious victory in the Toyota Cup against South African giants Kaizer Chiefs. His tactical brilliance was often undeniable. However, at a club like Kotoko, the weight of expectations is
always immense.
The Looming Super Clash
The timing of this departure is particularly challenging for the fans. Kotoko is scheduled to face their arch-rivals, Accra Hearts of Oak, this coming Sunday. This “Super Clash” is the biggest fixture on the Ghanaian football calendar. Assistant coach Prince Yaw Owusu has been tasked with leading the squad in the interim. He must stabilize the team quickly to avoid a disastrous result in the capital.
Ultimately, Zito’s exit marks the end of a brief but decorated era. The management is now searching for a permanent replacement who can restore the club’s dominance. In short, the Porcupine Warriors must regroup immediately before their season slips away entirely.
Do you believe Zito was right to resign, or should management have supported him through this slump? Furthermore, can Kotoko realistically defeat Hearts of Oak without a substantive head coach? Share your perspective in the comments!