KUMASI, Ghana (Interstat) — Asante Kotoko delivered a stunning opening-day statement in the Ghana Premier League, thrashing Bechem United 6-0 on Sunday at Baba Yara Stadium.

The match was effectively decided by halftime as the hosts built a commanding 3-0 lead. Forward Morifing Donzo scored twice in the first half, in the 8th and 38th minutes, while defender Gilbani Samba added another in the 22nd. The second half saw goals from Hubert Gyau (51st minute), Johnson Oppong Owusu (59th) and Kwame Opoku (81st).

The lopsided result defied a pregame projection from Interstat, whose simulator had forecast a 1-1 draw. The firm’s ELO rating system, however, gave Kotoko a 79.3% probability to win. The victory gives Asante Kotoko a perfect start to the domestic season.