Satellites coach proposes international matches

Coach Francis Oti Akenteng of Black Satellites has proposed international matches for his side ahead of their October Africa Youth Championship (AYC) qualifier.

The coach told GNA Sports that he believes it is relevant that the team extends its tentacles to the international level, having won their matches on the local scene.

The Satellites are to host the winner of the Guinea and Ivory Coast duel to book qualification to the bi-annual championship to be hosted by the Republic of Benin early next year.

Coach Oti Akenteng said the team will be reassembling from their break on Monday 9 August and that they will greatly profit from international exposure before their decider which can make or mar their chances.

"Having defeated big teams like Hearts and Kotoko, I think it is imperative that we pitch our strength against some big teams outside to determine our preparedness for the task ahead."

He explained that though his boys have proven their worth in the last few weeks, they lack international exposure, which he said was an important ingredient to the success of every good team.

The Satellites qualified to this stage without kicking a ball as their initial opponents from Gabon withdrew prior to the encounter owing to financial difficulties.

He said it will be prudent to pitch camp at countries whose climate is the same as their next opponent in their quest to book their ticket for the championship which qualifies the first four teams to represent the continent at the world stage in Holland next year.

The Oti Akenteng-led technical team is currently scouting for two more players to augment the central defence and the attacking line where Hearts of Oak's Prince Tagoe has emerged as the sole contender.

"I am convinced the inclusion of two equally good central defenders and an attacker will provide the needed competition in the camp for the task ahead," he added.