The ambition of Asante Kotoko to seal a CAF Confederation Cup group stage qualification, fell flat last night, after a goalless draw in the second leg of the playoff. The Ghanaian club shot themselves in the foot when they lost 1 - 2 to ES Setif at home. Nonetheless, there are some positive notes to pick from this encounter. 

First, from every department of the game, Asante Kotoko proved on the night that they have quality. For instance, Goalkeeper Razak Abalora made a breathtaking saves to deny ES Setif home goals. What this means is that, the present squad ought to be kept together for a year or two, and that will precisely change the narratives years to come. This looks impossible, but If they are exchanged for cash, the team will be back to square one in CAF inter club competitions. Asante Kotoko will have to wait for unknown years to conquer Africa. It is therefore imperative to build a winning side, capable of rocking shoulders with other African giants to annex a continental trophy. This does not bar further additions to the current crop of players. A few purchase but not a wholesale will put the team into an effective shape for local and continental assignments.

As the clamor for consistency is heightened, same must be done at the technical department. Coach Johnson Smith and coach Gazali should be given ample time to lead the club. A new coach comes on board and the build up restarts. 

Another salient point worthy of note, is the need for management to communicate in plain terms to the supporters, how unprepared the team is at the moment to cause an upset in Africa. It was obvious, prior to the first leg, how most fans exerted unbearable pressure on themselves by believing beyond doubt that, Asante Kotoko will easily boot out the Algerian giants. To avert pressure from supporters, the onus lies on management to furnish fans with the reality on the grounds. Winning Ghana Premier League is not synonymous to conquering Africa.

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