Asante Kotoko staged a dramatic comeback to clinch the 2025 GHALCA President’s Cup, defeating Hearts of Oak 2–1 at the Accra Sports Stadium. The Porcupine Warriors claimed their ninth President’s Cup crown, leaving their rivals to rue missed opportunities in a fiercely contested clash.

Hearts took the lead in the 23rd minute when Hamza Issah capitalised on goalkeeper Mohammed Camara’s error, tapping in from close range after Camara spilled a cross  . Despite the early setback, Kotoko responded early in the second half. Shortly after kickoff, Peter Amidu Acquah delivered a dangerous ball into the box that deflected off defender Konadu Yiadom for an own goal, levelling the contest.

Moments later, Kwame Opoku seized on a defensive lapse and finished calmly from close range in the 53rd minute to give Kotoko the lead  . The match then swung into dramatic territory. Hearts had a last-gasp penalty, but goalkeeper Camara redeemed himself by saving Emmanuel Amankwah’s spot kick, preserving Kotoko’s advantage.

Tactical Insights & Standout Performers

Kotoko’s high-press approach, orchestrated by coach Prosper Narteh Ogum, disrupted Hearts’ rhythm and forced early errors from the away side. The midfield trio controlled the tempo, while defender Kwame Opoku contributed crucial interventions and Opoku’s goal delivered a decisive edge.

What This Means

The victory extends Kotoko’s unbeaten run over Hearts to six matches in high-stakes fixtures and bolsters their reputation in President’s Cup history  . The win also sets the tone for Kotoko as they look ahead to the upcoming Champion of Champions clash in August. For Hearts of Oak, late drama and wasted chances will trigger tactical introspection as they prepare for the league campaign.

Arsenal have reached a verbal agreement with Sporting CP to sign Swedish striker Viktor Gyökeres on a five-year deal. The transfer is reported to be worth €80 million (approximately £69 million), potentially making him the most expensive Swedish player ever. Personal terms have been agreed, and the clubs are in advanced negotiations over the final package.

Gyökeres, 27, arrives after consecutive Primeira Liga titles and an extraordinary scoring record. He netted 54 goals in 52 appearances last season with Sporting. He has agreed a five-year contract and is reportedly prepared to resist returning to Sporting training until the transfer is finalized.

A Striker Who Fits Arteta’s Vision

Standing at 1.89 m, Gyökeres combines physical presence with clinical finishing and intelligent movement. These attributes align well with Mikel Arteta’s attacking philosophy. His ability to link play and press aggressively should complement Arsenal’s forward line and offer a fresh dimension to their offensive setup.

Sporting’s decision to lower their valuation in recent days has helped advance the deal. Arsenal have made securing a top striker a priority this summer and are also working on other key signings.

With personal terms agreed, the transfer now depends on final approval between Arsenal and Sporting. Gyökeres is expected to join the squad for pre-season in preparation for a highly anticipated campaign.

Arsenal have officially completed the signing of 26-year-old Spanish midfielder Martín Zubimendi from Real Sociedad on a five-year contract. The deal is valued at £51 million, which matches his release clause. It marks a major coup for Mikel Arteta’s side as they bolster their midfield following the departures of Jorginho and Thomas Partey.

Zubimendi arrives from Real Sociedad, where he featured in 236 senior matches, helped the club win the Copa del Rey in 2020, and earned 19 caps for Spain, including a key role in their Euro 2024 triumph. He turned down interest from Premier League rivals Liverpool and suitors Real Madrid. He becomes Arsenal’s second major summer signing after Kepa Arrizabalaga, signaling the club’s ambition for sustained success.

How His Style Fits Arsenal

Renowned as a composed deep-lying playmaker with strong defensive instincts, Zubimendi is often compared to Sergio Busquets for his calm game control and ability to dictate tempo. He fits seamlessly into Mikel Arteta’s tactical blueprint, offering coverage in front of the defence and enabling more dynamic midfield partners like Declan Rice and Martin Ødegaard to operate further forward.

At Arsenal, Zubimendi will wear the No. 36 shirt. His early acquisition will allow him to integrate fully during pre-season ahead of a challenging Premier League campaign that includes high-profile clashes with Manchester United, Liverpool, and Manchester City.

By securing a specialist in the holding midfield role, Arteta not only replaces outgoing experience but also adds a young, technically proficient, and tactically intelligent player. Zubimendi is expected to become a key figure in Arsenal’s pursuit of Premier League and Champions League silverware.