Ghana’s High Commissioner to Kenya, Her Excellency Francisca Ashietey-Odunton, has charged Asante Kotoko to avenge Black Stars’ defeat to Kenya when they play Kariobangi Sharks at the Moi International Sports Centre in Kasarani, Nairobi, on Saturday.
The Porcupine Warriors are in the East African country for a CAF Confederation Cup tie against Sharks, three months after the Ghana national team lost 1-0 to Kenya at the same venue in a Nations Cup qualifying match.
Her Excellency Ashietey-Odunton visited Asante Kotoko at the City Lodge Hotel on Wednesday to welcome them to the country, and also remind them to restore Ghana’s image in the game on Saturday.
“Let me tell you one thing, the last time a Ghanaian team came here, we lost the game. That was the Black Stars. This is the second Ghanaian team to come here in a year, and I am here to demand revenge for Ghana.”
“I know we are here to win, and on Saturday, we will be there to support you."
Coach Charles Akonnor and his lads have not had it all rosy since arriving in Kenya on Wednesday as the bus and the pitch offered them for their movements and trainings respectively are all substandard.
“I am here to encourage you,” continued Her Excellency Ashietey-Odunton who doubles as Ghana's Permanent Representative to United Nations Office at Nairobi.
“I have heard about some of the challenges you are facing. We are doing our best to see how they can be resolved. But, as your leadership told me earlier, you have risen above that. Just look beyond it and be focused.”
C. K Akonnor and Captain Amos Frimpong, who spoke on behalf of the technical team and the playing body, respectively, took turns to commend the High Commissioner for the visit and encouragement, and promised to lift high the flag of Ghana in the game.
"We are grateful for your visit," said C.K Akonnor. "We promise to do our best and work very hard because hard work pays. Definitely, on Saturday, we will make our nation proud."
credit: asantekotokosc.com