Asante Kotoko Advances in CAF Confederation Cup; Faces Wydad Next
Asante Kotoko stamped their authority in the CAF Confederation Cup, securing a place in the second preliminary round after a hard-fought aggregate victory of 5-3 over Nigerian side Kwara United. The Porcupine Warriors showcased resilience and determination in a tense second leg held at Abeokuta Stadium.
Coming into the match with a narrow 4-3 lead from the first leg in Kumasi, Kotoko needed a strong performance to cement their progression. Midfielder Hubert Gyau emerged as the day’s hero, scoring the decisive goal in the 54th minute. Gyau reacted swiftly to a loose ball just outside the penalty area, unleashing a powerful low shot that left the Kwara goalkeeper with no chance.
Despite persistent pressure from Kwara United as they sought an equalizer, Kotoko’s defense, anchored by a standout performance from goalkeeper Mohammed Camara, held firm. Camara made crucial saves throughout the match, ensuring that the Nigerian side could not break through.
With this victory, Asante Kotoko now sets their sights on a challenging clash against Moroccan giants Wydad AC in the second preliminary round. Wydad, one of Africa’s most decorated clubs, poses a formidable challenge, but after overcoming a spirited Kwara United, Kotoko enters the encounter with newfound confidence and momentum.
### Other Matches in the CAF Confederation Cup
In a thrilling display, Zambian club Zesco United overturned a two-goal first-leg deficit with a stunning 5-0 victory over Gabonese side FC 105. The hosts made a dream start, with David Simukonda and Kabaso Chongo scoring within the first six minutes, leveling the tie on aggregate. Alex Ngonga, Kelvin Kampamba from the penalty spot, and Chad international Amine Hiver added to the scoreline, propelling Zesco into the next round.
Zesco will face Botswana’s Jwaneng Galaxy, who advanced after a penalty shootout victory against Mighty Wanderers of Malawi, winning 6-5 on penalties following a 1-1 aggregate tie.
Meanwhile, Nigerian clubs continued to struggle in the competition. Abia Warriors faced a tough challenge against Mali’s Djoliba, losing 1-0 in the second leg after a 1-1 draw in Nigeria. Raye Cisse scored the decisive goal for Djoliba, sending them through to a matchup with USFA of Burkina Faso.
In South Africa, Kaizer Chiefs needed a penalty shootout to eliminate Kabuscorp of Angola, after both teams won their respective home matches 1-0. Chiefs’ Aden McCarthy converted the decisive penalty to secure a 5-4 win in the shootout.
In another matchup, African debutants Simba from the Democratic Republic of Congo edged Djabal from the Comoros 1-0 in a delayed first leg. The winner of that tie will face Kaizer Chiefs in the next round.
