CAF Confederation Cup: Kwara United bow out after defeat to Asante Kotoko

Kwara United’s CAF Confederation Cup campaign came to an abrupt end after a 1-0 defeat to Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta confirmed a 5-3 aggregate exit from the preliminary round.

The Harmony Boys had travelled to Ghana last week and narrowly lost 4-3 in a thrilling first leg, giving themselves a lifeline heading into the return fixture.

Needing only a win at home to progress, they were expected to capitalise on familiar surroundings and strong local support.

However, despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, Kwara United failed to convert their opportunities.

Their lack of composure in front of goal ultimately proved costly and left them exposed to a decisive counterpunch.

The turning point came in the 54th minute when Asante Kotoko midfielder Hubert Ayau pounced on a loose ball inside the box.

With composure and power, he drove his effort beyond the goalkeeper to net the only goal of the match – a strike that sealed the tie in favour of the visitors.

Spurred by the setback, Kwara United mounted sustained pressure in search of an equaliser.

They poured forward with urgency but struggled with their transition play, often losing momentum in promising areas and snatching at clear chances.

Several attacks broke down under the weight of hurried passes or mis-timed runs, frustrating both players and supporters.

As the clock ticked down, desperation began to show in their finishing.

Long-range shots sailed harmlessly off target, while a late flurry of corners failed to yield a breakthrough.

Kotoko, meanwhile, stood firm at the back, managing the game with discipline and experience to preserve their lead.

The final whistle confirmed Kwara United’s elimination and left their fans reflecting on what might have been after two closely contested legs.

Their profligacy in the decisive moments overshadowed an otherwise spirited effort, underscoring the fine margins that define success in continental competition.

For Asante Kotoko, the result marks another step forward in their bid for continental glory, having demonstrated resilience and clinical finishing across both matches.

For Kwara United, it is a painful reminder that at this level, creating chances is not enough – capitalising on them is what counts.

The Harmony Boys now turn their focus back to domestic duties, aiming to regroup and rebuild confidence after their Confederation Cup disappointment.