Asante Kotoko SC head coach Abdul Karim Zito has announced that the club will commence its pre-season training camp on Wednesday, July 30, 2025, in Cape Coast, as preparations intensify ahead of the 2025/26 Ghana football season and their continental engagements.
The Porcupine Warriors returned home earlier this week after a historic triumph in the 2025 Toyota Cup, where they defeated South African football powerhouse Kaizer Chiefs in a thrilling encounter decided by penalty shootout at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban.
Following their arrival in Ghana, Coach Zito addressed the media, providing updates on the club’s next phase of activities. He disclosed that the players have been granted a brief rest period but emphasized that training will resume promptly as the team begins shaping up for the challenges ahead.
“I shouldn’t go all out at the moment. We will start running very soon,” the experienced gaffer stated.
“Maybe on Wednesday we’ll begin the pre-season camp in Cape Coast,” he added, signaling the club’s readiness to hit the ground running.
Return from South Africa with Toyota Cup Glory
Asante Kotoko’s participation in the Toyota Cup was a significant international test for the Ghanaian giants, providing a glimpse into the club’s current form and competitiveness. Their victory over Kaizer Chiefs not only boosted morale but also served as a statement of intent ahead of the upcoming season.
The match in Durban ended in a 1-1 draw during regulation time before Kotoko emerged victorious in the ensuing penalty shootout. The game was fiercely contested, showcasing the resilience and composure of Coach Zito’s men under pressure.
This victory also marked a rare international title win for the Kumasi-based side, further energizing the fanbase and management as they plot a return to dominance both domestically and on the continental stage.
Focus Shifts to GHALCA Top 4
With the Toyota Cup now behind them, Kotoko’s focus shifts to another high-stakes competition—the 2025 GHALCA Top 4 Tournament, slated for August 20–24 at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. The annual pre-season competition, organized by the Ghana League Clubs Association (GHALCA), will feature four of Ghana’s top-performing clubs from the previous season.
The tournament provides a perfect stage for tactical fine-tuning, squad evaluation, and real-match simulations before the start of the Ghana Premier League and the CAF Confederation Cup campaign.
Zito, who has been tasked with returning Kotoko to the summit of African football, sees these preparatory matches as critical to building team chemistry and assessing his squad’s readiness.
Continental Campaign on the Horizon
In addition to their domestic ambitions, Kotoko will also be representing Ghana in the 2025/26 CAF Confederation Cup, having qualified by virtue of winning the MTN FA Cup earlier this year.
The technical team, led by Zito, is expected to use the pre-season camp and the GHALCA Top 4 competition to integrate new signings, assess trialists, and finalize their squad list for CAF registration.
The Confederation Cup is a major priority for the club, which last made a deep run in a CAF competition over a decade ago. Club management has reiterated its support for the technical team in building a competitive squad capable of holding its own against Africa’s best.
New Era Under Karim Zito
Karim Zito’s return to the Kotoko dugout has been met with optimism, as fans and analysts believe his wealth of experience, especially in grooming young talent, aligns with the club’s long-term vision. A former player and youth national team coach, Zito is widely respected for his tactical acumen and player development credentials.
Since assuming the head coach role earlier this year, Zito has been vocal about instilling discipline, work ethic, and tactical flexibility within the squad. His calm yet commanding presence on the touchline was evident during the Toyota Cup clash in Durban, where his game management earned praise.
“This is a great moment for the club, but it’s just the beginning,” Zito said after the Toyota Cup win.
“We want to build a team that can compete for every title, both in Ghana and in Africa. The journey starts with hard work in Cape Coast.”
Club Vision and Fan Expectations
Kotoko supporters, known for their passionate backing, are hoping this season marks the beginning of a resurgence for the club. With a new technical direction, a proven coach, and early silverware in the cabinet, expectations are understandably high.
Club management has promised continued investment in infrastructure, player welfare, and scouting as part of a broader five-year strategic plan aimed at restoring Kotoko to continental glory.
Meanwhile, the Cape Coast pre-season camp is expected to include friendly matches against local clubs and possibly a few international fixtures, depending on logistics and approvals. It will serve as the foundation upon which Kotoko’s campaign will be built.
Looking Ahead
As the 2025/26 season approaches, Asante Kotoko finds itself at a pivotal juncture. A successful pre-season could lay the groundwork for domestic success and a credible CAF Confederation Cup run. With the ever-ambitious fanbase demanding results, Coach Zito and his men know that their preparations must be meticulous.
The countdown to the new season has begun—and for the Porcupine Warriors, it all starts in Cape Coast.
Africa Live News will continue to provide timely updates from the Kotoko camp, including exclusive reports from their training sessions, transfer developments, and coverage of the GHALCA Top 4 tournament in August.
