We are going in to frustrate Kariobangi Sharks - Kotoko Coach

Charles Kwabena Akonnor, head coach of Kumasi Asante Kotoko, has said his team, is mapping up strategies to frustrate Kariobangi Sharks of Kenya, in their upcoming Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) Confederations Cup first leg game in Kenya, on Thursday, December 13.

Akonnor, who made this known after his side beat the National U-23 team, the Black Satellites 3:0, in their final preparatory match at the Accra Sports Stadium, said they have watched and monitored their opponents and seen how good and formidable they were.

He added that, they have also prepared adequately for good results in their first leg in the high altitudes.

“We played a good game today against a side that only had a week to prepare. The score line is not that important, but most the important thing for us, is how my team has been improving match after match.

“Realistically, we are going to play a Kenyan team, that is very good and tough, they score a goal in every match, but what is important, is how we can stop that and how we could frustrate them in the game for a good score line before the return leg.

“So it’s all about strategizing the way we would play in the first leg, where the results would be very key for us in the return fixture, we have seen their play and they have also seen ours, which is a fact, so we have to prepare and hope that we get good results from there” he added.

The former AshantiGold coach used the day to debunk rumours that he hasn’t gotten his first eleven yet adding that, contrary to that, he has his team but it was important he gave the opportunity to every player to prove himself.

“I do have my first eleven, but you have to give room to all players at your disposal. You should not have a static team or one way side.

“At every given time you study your opponent well and look at the team you have and what you can do, so the fact is not about having my first eleven, but having an all-round team capable of playing every opponent”.

Kumasi Asante Kotoko would take on Kariobangi Sharks of Kenya on 22nd December, 2018 in the return leg of the CAF Confederations Cup at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Kumasi.