Herbert Mensah's mission

It has been a difficult time for Ghanaian club Asante Kotoko. 18 months ago 126 fans perished in Africa's worst stadium disaster, when a game against arch-rivals Hearts of Oak ended in a stampede after police fired tear-gas into the crowd.

Victory in the African Cup Winners Cup would go a long way in helping fans, players and the club as a whole to start looking forward.

Supporters of the Porcupine Warriors firmly believe that their first major trophy in nearly two decades is just around the corner.

Since 1999, Kotoko have been undergoing a major rebuilding exercise.

The present management, led by millionaire businessman and media guru Herbert Mensah, represents the club's new image.

Mensah has not been afraid to ring the changes.

Coaches have been hired and fired, including Briton David Booth, German Ernst Middendorp and Scotsman Ian Porterfield

The most recent departure has got messy.

Ian Porterfield claims he was wrongfully dismissed and has accused his former employer of man-handling him in the team dressing room.

The Scot is planning legal action and is demanding over forty thousand pounds in compensation and alleged unpaid wages.

But Mensah denies the assault allegation and plays down the acrimony.

"It is unfortunate that we had a separating of ways with Mr. Porterfield. Luckily for us we have gone from strength to strength,'' he said.

Kotoko have also tried out a large number of players - nearly 90 have passed through the club gates in three years.

The squad is young and enthusiastic, and fans believe that the Cup Winners Cup is theirs.

Mensay however refuses to play down their opponents, Wydad Casablanca.

"No, no, no! They are a team to be given maximum respect," he said.

With the possibility of a court case and failure to win the domestic championship for over ten years weighing on Mensah's mind, a continental trophy cold be just what is needed.

And there is all the desire to give those that died in last year's tragedy a final and fitting farewell.