Ghana’s President, John Dramani Mahama, has rallied Asante Kotoko ahead of their CAF Confederation Cup clash with Nigeria’s Kwara United, urging the players to carry the hopes of the nation with pride.
The Porcupine Warriors, who return to the continental stage after a five-year absence, will face Kwara United in the preliminary round first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium at 4 p.m. today, September 21.
Kotoko players and officials visited the Jubilee House on Friday, where President Mahama assured them of the nation’s support.
“Asante Kotoko is not just a football club; it is a symbol of Ghanaian pride. I encourage you to go into this game with determination and represent the nation well,” Mahama said during the meeting.
Kotoko last made a strong impact in the competition in 1995 when they reached the quarter-finals. Their return leg against Kwara United will take place next Sunday at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Nigeria.
In Nigeria, Remo Stars are also preparing for their own continental test. Technical adviser Daniel Ogunmodede admitted that his side is under immense pressure to finally make progress after faltering in previous outings.
The Sky Blue Stars will face US Zilimadjou of Comoros in the CAF Champions League preliminary round first leg at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena, Abeokuta, at 4 p.m. today, September 2.
“I used to tell people that my name is pressure, Daniel Ogunmodede pressure. I know there is pressure to progress, but we will fight hard,” Ogunmodede said in a pre-match interview.
Recall that Remo Stars were knocked out of the competition by a Ghanaian side, Medeama last season. This time, Ogunmodede is determined to push his team beyond the first round and give their supporters something to cheer about.
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