Asante Kotoko coach Mariano Barreto explains dropping Razak Abalora

Razak Abalora was not in the matchday squad when Asante Kotoko took on Hearts of Oak in the Super Clash on Sunday.

Afriyie Barnieh scored the only goal to defeat the Porcupines at the Accra Sports Stadium in a matchweek 31 encounter – in a game many tagged as the decider for the league title. 

After the game, many have questioned head coach Mariano Barreto’s selection on the day and ask questions on Razak Abalora’s exclusion from the team for the game.

Kwame Baah in the absence of Abalora stood in between the sticks for the Porcupines and produced a fine performance to deny the Phobians on many occasions before the goal in the 65th-minute.

However, in a post-match interview, Barreto was asked why Abalora was dropped from the team for the Super Clash and he said;  – “We think we lost because of the goalkeeper? Kwame Baah did a good job today”

“I have three good goalkeepers and I can use who I think is the best for this game, that’s all” he concluded.

Asante Kotoko after the defeat remains in the second position with 56 points – three points adrift leaders Hearts of Oak.

The Porcupines will next host King Faisal on Sunday at the Len Clay Stadium.