Asante Kotoko have advanced to the second preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup after defeating Nigeria’s Kwara United 1-0 at the MK Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta.
A stunning second-half strike from Hubert Gyau sealed the win for the Porcupine Warriors, who completed a double over the Nigerians following their thrilling 4-3 triumph in the first leg in Accra.
Kwara United, chasing the tie from behind, began brightly and nearly struck early, but Kotoko goalkeeper Mohammed Camara produced a fine save to keep them at bay. Kotoko themselves had an opening in the 15th minute, but Peter Amidu failed to convert.
The Nigerians dominated much of the first half, dictating possession without truly threatening Kotoko’s resolute backline, as the first 45 minutes ended goalless.
After the interval, Kwara United continued to press forward but lacked sharpness in the final third. Kotoko then punished them in the 60th minute when Gyau unleashed a thunderous strike from outside the box to give his side the lead against the run of play.
The hosts pushed for an equaliser, with Babatunde going close, but his hesitation in the box allowed Gyau to recover and avert the danger. In the dying moments, captain Samba Oniel produced a vital interception to cut out a dangerous cross, ensuring Kotoko held their ground.
Despite five minutes of added time, Kwara United could not find a breakthrough, as Kotoko stood firm to secure a famous away victory in Nigeria.
The Ghanaian giants will now turn their attention to a mouth-watering clash against Moroccan powerhouse Wydad Casablanca in the second preliminary round.
