Asante Kotoko coach Abdul Karim Zito shouldered responsibility for his team’s defensive vulnerabilities following their narrow 4-3 victory over Kwara United in the CAF Confederation Cup, stating he had identified his own errors in their preliminary round clash.
In a remarkable display of accountability, the experienced tactician pointed to himself rather than his players after the Porcupine Warriors conceded three goals despite their offensive success at Accra Sports Stadium.
“I’ve seen my mistakes and I have to do well and rectify them before we go there [Nigeria],” Zito stated in his post-match assessment, accepting personal responsibility for the team’s defensive organization.
The coach’s unusual admission came after he expressed surprise at his defenders’ performance, noting he had “applauded the attackers and then told the defenders, you are surprising me” during his post-match team talk.
Zito’s self-critical approach highlights the pressure on Kotoko as they take a slender one-goal advantage into Sunday’s second leg in Nigeria. While the attacking unit delivered four crucial goals, the defensive lapses nearly cost the Ghanaian giants what should have been a more comfortable victory.
Zito’s focus now turns to implementing solutions before the trip to Nigeria, where Kotoko will need both their attacking flair and newfound defensive solidity to secure progression in the competition.