CAF Confederation Cup: ASKO de Kara target home victory against FC Diarra

ASKO de Kara must overturn a 3-2 first-leg defeat by FC Diarra to reach the next stage of the CAF Confederation Cup, with general coordinator Kodjo Afiadegnigban calling for composure and greater efficiency in the return match.

Speaking at a news conference on the eve of the game, Afiadegnigban said the Kondona must resist the temptation to rush in search of a goal and instead make the most of the opportunities they create.

“We are not going to put ourselves under too much pressure, because excessive pressure could make things difficult for the players. We are trying to remain ourselves and play our game,” the ASKO official said.

ASKO de Kara retain hope of progressing, particularly with the decisive fixture being played at home. Afiadegnigban made clear that the team’s priority was simply to win, regardless of how that victory is achieved.

“Our objective is that, whatever the manner, tomorrow we have to win this match,” he said.

Creating chances has not been the main problem for the side, according to the ASKO coordinator. The key task is to convert more of those opportunities when they come.

“We create chances regularly, but we have to be more efficient in front of goal,” was the thrust of his assessment as the Kondona prepared for the second leg.

ASKO de Kara will also be without Adjessi, who was sent off during the opening match in Mali. However, Afiadegnigban said the squad had prepared several alternatives during training to cover for the absence.

With a one-goal deficit to overturn, the Kondona need a controlled performance at home. Their focus, as outlined by the club’s general coordinator, will be to stay calm, maintain their style of play and take advantage of the chances that come their way.