Accra Hearts of Oak retained their MTN FA Cup title on Sunday, June 26, 2022, after coming from behind to beat Bechem United 2-1 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
The victory means the Phobians achieve a record 12th title to become the most successful club in the competition.
Bechem United took the lead on the stroke of halftime through Emmanuel Avornyo’s rebound after goalkeeper Richmond Ayi had parried Augustine Okrah’s powerful strike.
The ‘Hunters’ celebration couldn’t last for long as Caleb Amankwa saw his half-volleyed in added-on time to equalise for Accra Hearts of Oak.
The goal came after a well-rehearsed free-kick between Samuel Inkoom and Daniel Afriyie Barnieh was cut back for the former WAFA and Aduana Stars defender to cancel out Emmanuel Avornyo’s strike before recess.
Coach Samuel Boadu’s men restarted the second half with loads of determination and energy that saw the rainbow club taking the hunters to the cleaners.
At the hour mark, the defending champions’ efforts paid off in the 60th minute when Daniel Afriyie Barnieh gave the Phobians the lead with a world-class finish after converting a Gladson Awake cross.
The goal sent the stadium agog as the supporters stood on their feet to help the former Black Satellite captain, Daniel Afriyie Barnieh celebrate his 21st birthday in a grand style with the goal.
Eight minutes later, Bechem United was reduced to 10 men after the team’s poster boy Augustine Okrah was sent off in the 68th minute when he headbutted the assisted referee one.
Accra Hearts of Oak will play arch-rivals Kumasi Asante Kotoko in the Ghanaian Super Cup om September ahead of the 2022/23 season and also represent the country in the CAF Confederation Cup.
