Asante Kotoko head coach Karim Zito has urged fans of the Porcupine Warriors to rally behind the team as they prepare for their CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
The Kumasi giants will face Nigeria’s Kwara United in a two-legged first-round tie, with matches scheduled for September 21 and September 28.
Speaking to Asempa FM, the veteran tactician emphasized the importance of unity and fan support as the club embarks on its continental journey.
“Going into Africa is not easy, so I am pleading with the fans to stay united and support the team,” Zito said. “I played and won Africa, so I will be happy to win this tournament, but it must start with the fans coming together.”
The coach revealed that the club’s immediate target is to progress past the Nigerian side and secure a spot in the lucrative stages of the competition.
“The target is to get into the money zone, but we must first win the game against Kwara United,” he added.
Kotoko’s last appearance on the continental stage ended in disappointment after they failed to progress past the preliminary rounds of the CAF Champions League. The Porcupine Warriors were eliminated by RC Kadiogo of Burkina Faso in 2022, missing out on a chance to compete in the group stages.
This year, the club is determined to make amends under the experienced Karim Zito, who believes the current squad has what it takes to go far in the Confederation Cup.
Should Kotoko advance past Kwara United, they will face Moroccan powerhouse Wydad Athletic Club in the second round of the preliminary games.