Black Stars defender Rashid Sumaila has heaped praises on Asante Kotoko for their qualification to the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.

Rashid, who last played for Asante Kotoko before traveling out, believes the side has done well by defying the odds to stage a historic campaign.

Despite inactive football in Ghana, the Porcupine Warriors prepared very well for the qualifying stage of the competition and brushed aside Kariobangi Sharks and Coton Sport Garoua to pick a group stage ticket.

And Rashid thinks praising his former side is worth it.

“The team has done very well and must be applauded. The time for preparation was short but CK Akonnor and the players have done well,” Rashid told FootballMadeInGhana.com

He also lauded the management for taking the decision to play in the competition.

“The management also took the right decision by being bold that they will play in the competition. That was a wonderful decision,” he added.

Asante Kotoko beat Kenyan side Kariobangi Sharks 2-1 on aggregate to make it to the playoff phase where they beat Coton Sport Garoua of Cameroon 5-3 on aggregate to pick a ticket for the group stage.