It appeared a heartwarming news when Asante Kotoko and Ashanti Gold acquiesced to participate in Caf’s inter club competition. In the midst of the infamous global pandemic, covid-19, which brought unquantified dim on sporting activities, many may have decided otherwise.
The decision to compete got tongues wagging, sparking spontaneous agitation among some club loyalists, but the bid to play is settled in the minds of fans.
In as much as we commend management of both clubs for this splendor, the fact remains, these avid fans ought to tame their expectations going into the campaign as both teams continue to embark on major transition at the management and playing body levels.
The playing body of both teams are working assiduously to bolster squad depth for a stellar output in the competition, with Emmanuel Keyekeh, Yussif Mubarik and others joining the fold at Kotoko whiles Ashanti Gold has had scores of their target men exited the team at this crucial moment.
Nonetheless, Ashanti Gold management briskly ward off fears though, bringing on board Empem Dacosta and others. Realistically, the wrath of covid-19 would not permit teams to enjoy a fully accomplished pre-season which would have an adverse impact on the playing body.
Again, the projected and meaningful blend between the new additions and the current players may not be settled from the genesis.
This plays advantageous incident for their opponents. I must point out that same could occur to their opponents.
Therefore, the coach and his backroom staff are required to lay out a carefully planned workout to be formidable, but that would not come on a silver platter since Rome was not built in a day. This palpably demands time to efficiently manifest.
Administratively, Kotoko and Ashanti Gold are now shaping up. Whereas AshantiGold President’s beloved son, Emmanuel Frimpong took over the miners earlier this year, Nana Yaw Amponsah is still fresh in his Kotoko portfolio.
The experience of these leaders would be brought to bear in the clubs’ campaign. Although they would not be hustling and bustling on the field, but their skills to lead the team across the continent cannot be under-emphasized.
It is worth to caution that off-field decisions in any team is germane to team success in any competition. For instance, winning bonuses and per diems, which fall under financial package, have to be made readily-available by the CEOs.
This hefty financial task rests on the shoulders of administrators. Their ability to put things in order could determine how far the ‘boat thrives on the ocean.’
Obviously, we need not wait for rocket science to prompt us that Ghanaian representatives have a daunting task ahead of the impending CAF Champions League and confederation cup kickoff, but their ability to impact in the competition is how well they blend at the technical and administrative source.
Kotoko and AshantiGold supporters ought to brace themselves up for any unbudgeted eventualities by lowering their expectations.
It would be classically unfair if any group of supporters press their team to either win the competition or leave a monumental mark in the end.
It is imperative on the leadership of Kotoko’s Circle and AshantiGold’s Shaft to as a matter of urgency conscientize their members on the need to trim their hopes so as to avert any unacceptable name-calling and vitriolic attacks post competition.
However, Management on the other part should opt out of voicing sugar-coated, unrealistic and mirage targets to the supporters so they do not turn out to be heartbroken in case any misfortune befalls.
Long Live Ghana Football
Long Live Kurt Okraku administration
Long Live our local clubs
