Football historians will tell you that Kumasi Asante Kotoko are in familiar territory as far as the second round of the CAF Confederation's Cup is concerned. After the first round Kotoko have notched two victories and lost one similar to what happened in 2004. Their next assignment in Algiers on Sunday Sept 21 is a back to back fixture against Kabylie of Algeria who were beaten 3-1 in Kumasi quite similar to Kotoko's 2-1 win over Petro Atletico of Angola in 2004.

Kotoko earned a valuable away point in Angola with a 1-1 draw and it was that vital final point that eventually catapulted them into the finals.

In football, history does repeat itself and with the right mental approach Kotoko should be able to stretch the Algerians. It will be tough though because the Algerians will not be in any mood to give Kotoko any red carpet reception. Indeed they insist two of the goals scored by Kotoko were from doubtful offside positions and they are prepared to adopt any means to avenge the defeat.
This should be no threat to Kotoko who have a rich history of overcoming such hostile receptions in continental competitions. Midfield general Stephen Oduro and utility player Kuffour who are veterans in Africa Cup matches must be able to galvanize youngsters like Eric Bekoe, Kojo Poku, Kwabena Yaro and Jordan Opoku to settle down and play good football without unnecessarily panicking. It is remarkable that Kotoko now have a generation of wonderfully talented youngsters looking to make their mark but over enthusiasm could spoil the broth. Everybody must be taught to play to the whistle and avoid cynical tackles.

Footballers must realise that every referee has the right to determine what constitutes serious foul and no player, the captain included, has the right to challenge the referee The law says any player who lunges at an opponent in challenging for the ball from the front, or from the side or from behind using one or both legs with excessive force endangers the safety of the said player and must be punished. It is only the referee's interpretation of excessive force that matters. It is common knowledge that some players are adept in acting but the final verdict must be left to the referee.
Sunday's match will be an exciting encounter by all standards and Kotoko's performance will be an indication of how they would fare in their next trip to North Africa to face El Mereikh of Sudan before finally hosting Etoile Sahel of Tunisia in Kumasi.