Fabulous Kumasi Asante Kotoko face another daunting task in their bid to reclaim their glory when they take on Santos of South Africa this Saturday the next stage of the Cup Winners Cup competition. Kotoko scored full marks in their first continental assignment under coach Enrst Middendorp when they eliminated Angola’s Athletico Sonangol on a 4-2 aggregate at the one-sixteenth stage. The German now believes his side is poised to clear the second hurdle against Santos at the 1/8th stage of the competition.
Middendorp told Graphic Sports last Saturday, after his sides snatched a 2-2 draw with Liberty Professionals that he was satisfied with Kotoko’s present form and hoped it would reflect in a good result in Cape Town. “I have high expectations of our match against Santos because the team has shown tremendous form,” he said. “We just have to remain focused and if we do that, the minimum result would be a draw.”
Focus could be the key factor for the Porcupine Warriors who held Athletico Sonangol 2-2 in Namibie last month. But when they face ‘The People’s Team’ on Saturday Kotoko who left Accra on Monday night would have had at least four days to adjust to conditions in Cape Town.
Unlike the difficult conditions they were subjected to in Angola, Kotoko can be assured of a warm reception and first class facilities in South Africa’s “white city.” But on the field they must brace for a tough battle against the runaway leaders of the Rainbow Nation’s Premier Soccer League PSL. Santos, handled by Gordon Iyesund and parading experienced players such as ex-Bafana Bafana goalie, Andre Arendse, and Bradley August, are currently close to winning their first league title. They top the PSL with 61 points from 31 games.
