Asante Kotoko defender Samba Oneil expressed his joy at being likened to his idol, Sergio Ramos.

The Congolese defender played a key role in Kotoko's 2-1 win over Hearts of Oak in the first-ever Democracy Cup at Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday.

This victory marks Kotoko's third consecutive win over Hearts of Oak in the 2023-2024 season, adding to their earlier victories in the Ghana Premier League.

Oneil, who was named Man of the Match, shared his excitement: “I feel happy. Asante Kotoko is a big club and I was playing (against) Hearts of Oak which is also big that’s why I wanted to show myself to Kotoko supporters that I’m here," he said.

"I’m happy to hear people say that (compare me to Sergio Ramos) because Ramos is my model…so me too I want to play like him," he added.

Justice Blay and Peter Amidu scored for Kotoko in their Democracy Cup win.

Looking ahead, Asante Kotoko will embark on a European tour to prepare for the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League season, starting on September 6.

Following their Democracy Cup success, Kotoko will also play against DC United in Washington, USA.