VIDEO: Kotoko Edge Kwara United to Reach Second Round of CAF Confederation Cup
Kumasi Asante Kotoko advanced to the second round of the CAF Confederation Cup after completing a 5–3 aggregate victory over Nigeria’s Kwara United, following a 1–0 triumph in the second leg at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta on Sunday.
The Porcupine Warriors had secured a slim 4–3 win in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium, and needed at least a draw in Nigeria to progress. However, midfielder Hubert Gyau rose to the occasion in the 54th minute, calmly slotting home the decisive goal after a nervy first half ended goalless.
Kotoko’s resilience was tested as Kwara United pressed for an equalizer, but the Ghanaian giants held firm. Goalkeeper Mohammed Camara pulled off several crucial saves to preserve the lead and keep the Nigerian side at bay until the final whistle.
The result delighted head coach Abdul Karim Zito, whose tactical reshuffle from the first leg paid off. “We knew Kwara would come at us strongly in front of their fans, so we had to remain compact and take our chances. The boys showed character, discipline, and belief, and that made the difference,” Zito said in a post-match interview.
With this victory, Kotoko have set up a tantalizing clash with Moroccan giants Wydad Athletic Club (WAC) in the second round. The North African powerhouse, a multiple-time continental champion, are regarded as one of the toughest sides in African club football, and the tie is expected to be a stern test of Kotoko’s credentials.
Sunday’s qualification also rekindled hope among Kotoko’s teeming supporters, who are eager to see the club restore its reputation on the continental stage after years of early exits. The Porcupine Warriors last made a deep run in CAF competitions over a decade ago, and fans believe this year’s team, led by a mix of youthful exuberance and experience, has the potential to go far.
Kotoko will now shift focus to preparing for their encounter with WAC, with the first leg scheduled to be played in Kumasi before the return fixture in Casablanca.
