By Aderonke Ojo
Kwara United’s continental dream came to an abrupt end on Sunday evening following a disappointing elimination from the CAF Confederation Cup at the MKO Abiola Stadium, Abeokuta.
The Ilorin-based club bowed out after losing 5–3 on aggregate to Ghanaian powerhouse Asante Kotoko, who sealed their qualification with a resilient performance over two legs.
The tie was delicately poised after the first leg in Kumasi, where Asante Kotoko edged a thrilling contest 4–3. Kwara United went into the return fixture hopeful of overturning the deficit in front of their home supporters.
However, those hopes were dashed when Ghanaian winger Hubert Gyau struck with a brilliant solo effort, giving Kotoko the decisive away goal that ultimately crushed Kwara United’s chances.
Despite dominating possession and creating numerous scoring opportunities, Kwara United were wasteful in front of goal. Several clear chances went begging, with their forwards unable to convert under pressure.
With their continental campaign now over, Kwara United will shift their attention back to domestic football.
The Harmony Boys will resume action in the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL), where they are set to face Plateau United in their next fixture.
The club will now aim to recover quickly from this setback and push for a strong league campaign to earn another chance at continental football in the future.