Nations FC head coach, Kassim Ocansey Mingle, remains confident ahead of his side’s daunting trip to face Asante Kotoko this weekend, despite acknowledging the tough challenge that lies ahead.
Matches between the two sides have always been fiercely contested, and this weekend’s encounter promises to live up to that tradition. In their first meeting this season, Nations FC delivered a statement performance by defeating the Porcupine Warriors 2-0 at the Len Clay Stadium, with goals from Nafiu Sulemana and Faisal Charwetey.
Asante Kotoko, who have dropped to third place in the league with 47 points after a three-match winless run, will be looking to bounce back, while Nations FC have capitalized on Kotoko’s struggles, moving into second place with 48 points.
In a pre-match interview on Media General’s Akoma FM in Kumasi, Mingle spoke of the challenge awaiting his team at Kotoko’s home ground in Abrankese. However, he expressed belief that the better team on the day will come out victorious.
“Kotoko is coming into this match after losing to Accra Lions, and Abrankese is their home, so we know it will be a difficult game,” Mingle said. “But we want to build on our current form and results. It won’t be easy, but the better side will win.”
Mingle went on to add that, while Kotoko may have more experienced players, he has full confidence in his team’s ability to compete. “Albert Amoah and the others played in the first leg, and we won. They are good players, but we also have comparable players here, so we don’t fear anyone at Kotoko,” he explained.
“Kotoko may have more mature players, but football is unpredictable, and as I always say, the better side will win,” Mingle concluded.
The match is scheduled for Sunday, April 20, at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, with kickoff at 15:00 GMT (3:00 PM).
