President’s Cup: Hearts Talisman Insists His Club Is Not Under Pressure Ahead of Showdown With Asante Kotoko

• Fatawu Mohammed is adamant Hearts of Oak are not under pressure ahead of the titanic fixture against rivals Asante Kotoko in the 2021 President's Cup
• The capital based heavyweights have been less than impressive in the ongoing campaign, lying seventh on the league table
• The first encounter between the country's two most glamorous clubs ended in a stalemate as both sides battle for supremacy tonight

In the space of a fortnight, the country's two biggest clubs will reignite their long-standing rivalry in this year's President's Cup.

The first instalment of the Super Clash between Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko ended in a goalless draw in an outstanding league game in February.

Ahead of tonight's one-off ceremonial match, captain of the Phobians Fatawu Mohammed argues his side is not under pressure against their bitterest rivals.

“We are not under any pressure ahead of the game because Hearts and Kotoko games are not about form but the character and the effort," Mohammed said on Wontumi TV as quoted by Ghanasoccernet.

Hearts of Oak, Asante Kotoko square off again for President's Cup

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Fatawu continued: "Form doesn’t count in that game or the place on the table. That one is a different thing altogether so we as players, know that it is a different game. We played out a goalless stalemate in our first meeting this season but for this game, it will be tough because they have prepared well and we have also prepared well for them.

“The determination for the two sides will be high for the game so it will be tough today but hardwork and determination will bring glory to us.” He ended.

Asante Kotoko pip Hearts to clinch 2019 President's Cup

The Porcupine Warriors defeated Hearts of Oak in the last edition of the President's Cup staged in 2019.

An own goal from Hearts defender Mohammed Alhassan and a strike from Naby Keita Laye rendered Kofi Kordzi's early goal a consolation as the Kumasi-based side grabbed their sixth title in the President's Cup.

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Asante Kotoko is the most successful side in the one-off ceremonial encounter, winning the trophy six times two more than Hearts of Oak.

Hearts of Oak battle rivals Asante Kotoko in President's Cup showdown

Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Hearts of Oak will clash with Asante Kotoko in a second different competition at the Accra Sports Stadium for the annual President's Cup match.

The Phobians have agreed to honour the match against the current league leaders on March 4 in Accra.

The President Cup match is played to commemorate Ghana’s republic day celebrations which will have President Akufu Addo in attendance.