Kotoko Chide Sharks On Solar7 CAF Confederation Thumping

NAIROBI, Kenya- The massive 6-1 victory by SportPesa Shield champions, Kariobangi Sharks FC against Arta Solar7 FC of Djibouti in a CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round fixture in Nairobi on Tuesday evening has send cold shivers into the spines of supporters of Ghanaian side, Asante Kotoko FC.

Kotoko are likely to face Sharks in the next round of the matches after the return leg in Carta against Solar7 on December 4.

“Don’t feel happy that you skinned a team that finished third in the Djibouti league, we are waiting for you,” Kotoko ardent fan, Daniel Bioh, wrote on Sharks   Facebook page.

“We are watching you from Ghana. If you know you cannot beat the African club of the century better don't beat Solar7 to save your image. Fabulous Asante Kotoko awaits you,” Nana Akoto Junior warned.

Philomina Osei criticised Sharks way of play, which she likened to primary school football. Followers like Nana Okity admitted their worry over Sharks saying they are not sure if their side that has won the CAF Champions League trophy twice (1970 and 1983) would be able to overcome the resurgent Kenyan outfit.

“I think high altitude in Nairobi affects visiting teams, we have to be there in time to acclimatize ahead of the match,” Okity said.

Samuel Boateng wondered why Sharks played Solar7 in an empty Kasarani Stadium. He said the opponents would tremble in Kumasi, as their legion of fans will have no mercy on them.

“Prepare for a proper contest in Kotoko in front of our screaming 30,000 spectators in a sea of red, it will not be a walk in the park for you here,” Boateng underlined.

Sharks supporters were quick to counter the vitriol stating Kotoko is already an outdated club whose aged players will add no value to the team in the Confederation Cup.

“Nobody fears Ghana anymore; I don’t know where your football went to. Our national team Harambee Stars beat you in Nairobi and Sharks are coming over there for confirmation,” Francis Wangeci underscored.

Oaks support

Kevin Kibe reminded Kotoko that Sharks only played their second string side to rake in the  6-1 victory as their SportPesa Premier League (SPL) Most Valuable Player , Eric Kapaito and Sven Yidah were rested.

Kotoko’s perennial rivals, Hearts of Oaks FC, have pledged to give Sharks full support when they visit Ghana to engage their old enemy.

“I hope Sharks will play confidently like this when they come to Ghana. If they do, then they will easily beat Kotoko. I’m a Ghanaian but the truth must be told,” Hearts of Oaks fan, Richard Graham Tamakloe emphasized.

Fans of SPL champions, Gor Mahia FC, were not left behind in the international exchange  as K’Ogalo green army  were quick to remind Sharks and Kotoko that they are grumbling over a trophy they won and forgot in 1987 when  they  beat Esperance de Tunis in the final.

“Asante Kotoko is just a name now, if they were worthy of their salt then they could be playing with the big boys like Gor in the Champions League,” Fredrick Omondi stated.

Kotoko sailed to the next round of the championship where they are likely to face Sharks after CAF disqualified Cameroonian side, Eding Sport FC, for submitting their representation late.

Sharks head coach, William Muluya, has said he is targeting to reach the group stages of the tournament in his debut with the club at the continental showpiece.

Those who scored for Sharks in their 6-1 routing of Solar7 included Duke Abuya, Sydney Lokale,Patillah Omotto,George Abege and Fidel Origa with the opponents gifting the hosts with an own goal.

Komenan N’da Konan pulled one back for Solar7 via a penalty after he was brought down inside the box by Thomas Omenda in the 42nd minute.