Ghanaian giants, Asante Kotoko, proved too strong for Nigeria’s Kwara United today as they secured a hard-fought victory in their CAF Confederation Cup clash at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta.
They eliminated Kwara United 5-3 on aggregate, to set up a first round clash with Wydad Casablanca of Morocco.
The Harmony Boys, who went into the game full of belief after their spirited outing in the first leg, were undone by the tactical discipline and ruthlessness of the Porcupine Warriors, who came determined to snatch victory on Nigerian soil.
Kwara United started on the front foot, enjoying possession in the opening minutes, with John Mark Aule, who scored two goals in Ghana, Junior Aimufua and Alao Mohammed troubling the Kotoko backline, with Captain Musa Abdulafeez providing flings from the wings
Despite the early pressure, Kotoko held on, to make it goalless in the first half.
Asante Kotoko scored the all-important goal in the 51st minute, through Hubert Gyau, who powered home a grounder from the far side in a well initiatsd counterattack, to silence the home crowd.
The Ghanaians grew in confidence from that moment, dictating the tempo and forcing the Harmony Boys into errors.
Kwara United made four changes, introducing Ozor Philip, Shola Abdulraheem, Toheeb Gidado and Emeka Obiora, but their efforts made no difference.
Asante Kotoko’s persistence nearly paid off again, as a defensive mix-up in the Kwara United backline allowed Kotoko to operate dangerously.
Kwara United rallied late on, but Kotoko’s resolute defending and experience in continental football saw them hold firm.
It would be recalled that Kwara United had earlier lost 4-3 at the Accra Sports Stadium in Ghana a week ago, hoping to build up on the three away goals scored, but looked more confused, after conceding the goal.
For Kwara United, it is a painful defeat on home soil, as their aspirations in the competition suffered a huge blow.
The Harmony Boys will now need to regroup and reflect on their shortcomings, while Asante Kotoko march confidently into the next phase of the tournament.
