Asante Kotoko put their CAF Confederation Cup exit behind them in an emphatic fashion with a 4–2 victory over Karela United in their Ghana Premier League clash at the Baba Yara Stadium yesterday.
A brace from Hubert Gyau and a goal each from Seth Kwadwo and Peter Amidu helped the Porcupine Warriors soothe the pain of their fans, who were left disappointed by the team’s early exit from the continental competition.
Kotoko started the game on a bright note and took the lead as early as the 6th minute when Gyau fired home after a swift attacking move.
However, Karela United fought back and were rewarded in the 17th minute when a defensive lapse by goalkeeper Mohammed Camara led to a penalty, which they converted to level the score.
The equaliser only spurred Kotoko on as they continued to press for more goals. Five minutes later, Gyau restored their lead with a powerful strike from the edge of the box to make it 2–1.
Kotoko’s dominance continued, and in the 35th minute, Seth Kwadwo rose highest to head home their third goal, giving the hosts a commanding 3–1 lead at halftime.
After recess
After the break, Coach Abdul Karim Zito introduced Samuel Tenadu for Gyau to add more energy to the attack.
The change proved effective as Kotoko maintained their tempo, and in the 61st minute, Peter Amidu, who had earlier missed a clear chance, made amends by slotting home the fourth goal.
Karela United managed to reduce the deficit with their secoind goal in the 70th minute, but their efforts came too late to threaten Kotoko’s comfortable lead.
The victory was a welcome relief for the Porcupine Warriors and their supporters after their 6–1 aggregate defeat to Wydad Athletic Club of Morocco in the CAF Confederation Cup.
