ASCK boss Silue vows bold approach in Champions League tie with ASEC

ASCK coach Yelato Silue says his side have the quality to eliminate ASEC Mimosas and reach the group stage of the CAF Champions League, with the Togolese club targeting a decisive first-leg advantage in Lome.

ASCK face ASEC Mimosas in the first round of the competition’s preliminary stage, beginning with the meeting at Stade de Kegue on Sunday, 6 September. The Togolese side are aiming to progress beyond this round and secure a place in the group stage for the first time.

Silue, who is Ivorian, believes ASCK are capable of matching their opponents and says extensive preparation has gone into the two-legged tie.

“The whole ASEC team is not above ASCK. After having had so many resources, it is an obligation to reach the group stage. We have full matches involving ASEC that we analysed with the staff and the players. We have the means to work in depth. Beyond the promises, ASCK have an obligation to reach the group stage of the CAF Champions League,” Silue told Sport FM programme Samedi Sports.

The coach now wants that confidence to be reflected in the first leg. He has set his players the ambitious objective of building a substantial lead before the return match in Abidjan on 12 September.

“Three goals at a minimum without conceding any. Scoring three goals against ASEC is within the capabilities of my squad. We will do everything possible to achieve that target. We will not go to Abidjan to defend,” he said.

The result at Stade de Kegue will therefore be central to ASCK’s hopes of advancing, particularly with the club seeking to make home advantage count before travelling to Cote d’Ivoire for the second meeting.

Silue also expects the supporters in Togo to play an important part in the opening match. He called on the home crowd to create a hostile but sporting atmosphere for ASEC Mimosas as ASCK begin their campaign.

“I ask the public to reserve a sporting hell for ASEC,” the coach said.

The first leg will take place in Lome on Sunday, 6 September, followed by the return fixture in Abidjan on 12 September. ASCK’s stated aim is to emerge from the tie with a place in the next stage and continue their pursuit of the CAF Champions League group stage.