Caf CL: Johnson Smith confident of overturning first Leg loss to Al-Hilal

Asante Kotoko interim trainer, Johnson Smith is confident his side will progress to the group stage of the Caf Champions League despite losing the first-leg of the second preliminary round to Al-Hilal.

The Porcupine Warriors suffered a slim 0-1 defeat at home to the Sudanese champions at the Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday afternoon, thanks to a second half strike by Vinny Kibongona.

Ahead of the return leg in Sudan, Smith who replaced sacked Maxwell Konadu has urged the supporters of the club to rally behind the team.

“We are psyching the boys after yesterday’s defeat,there are more games to come.The next game is the most Important.

He also admitted that the club has been struggling to win games at their adopted venue.

“We struggle in games at the Accra sports stadium.

“The Al Hilal side is matured and very disciplined.
I believe we will get a positive result and qualify in Omdurman,” Johnson Smith told West Gold Radio.

Asante Kotoko SC will need an emphatic 2-0 win in Sudan to book a place in the money zone of the 2020/21 CAF Champions League.

The second leg is scheduled for January 6, 2021.