Asante Kotoko break silence on challenging visa issues ahead of DC United game

Asante Kotoko has confirmed the alleged visa concerns that have hindered their trip to the United States of America (USA) for their match against DC United.

In a statement released by the club on Wednesday, October 9, 2024, the Reds noted that organizers have assured them of securing visas for the remaining members of the squad after 18 members were denied visas.

The club announced that the first batch, which includes 9 players and 5 officials will depart for the USA today, October 9, 2024.

"The event organizers have provided strong assurances that they are working diligently to resolve the visa issues for the remaining members of our team. According to their commitments, the outstanding visas will be secured by Thursday night, October 10, 2024, ahead of the scheduled match on Saturday.

At this time, the first group of players, consisting of Mohammed Camara, Abdulhamid Esmat, Justice Blay, Samba O’Neil, Emmanuel Antwi, Elvis Kyei Baffour, and Abdulrahman Yoouef Yagoub, along with assistant coach David Ocloo, goalkeeper’s coach Najahu Issah, and team manager Henry Ohene Brenya, will depart Ghana today. This contingent will be led by head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum, ensuring that initial preparations for the tournament can proceed," part of the statement indicated.

The Reds also stated that the second batch is expected to join the first group on Friday, October 11, 2024.

We are anticipating that the next group of players and officials will join them by Friday if the organizers fulfil their commitments."

Asante Kotoko's statement is in contrast with reports that they have merged with Medeama FC to assemble one team for the game against DC United after a chunk of their players were declined visas.

Kotoko earned the right to feature in the match against DC United after beating Hearts of Oak in the Democracy Cup match back in July 2024.

The match is expected to take place at the state-of-the-art Audi Field in Washington, DC.

The annual ceremonial match, organized by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Ghana Football Association, is part of the activities to mark Ghana Week DC 2024, which takes place from October 7-12, 2024.

The game is expected to be the highlight of the celebration in Washington, DC, to celebrate Ghana’s rich culture.

EE/EK