Ilorin, Nigeria – Kwara United’s General Manager, Mallam Bashir Badawiy, has expressed measured optimism as the Nigerian club prepares to face Ghanaian heavyweights Asante Kotoko in the CAF Confederation Cup first preliminary round.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Akoma 87.9 FM, Badawiy emphasised that while the match will be fiercely contested, the team approaches it with professionalism and calm determination rather than undue pressure.
“The expectation is for us to do better than the last time we played in the Confederation Cup,” Badawiy stated.
“We are not here to boast – football is the same everywhere. It’s not a war; it’s not do-or-die. We will try our best to make our fans, supporters, and well-wishers happy.”
Renewed Ambition After Past Campaigns
Kwara United last participated in the CAF Confederation Cup in 2022, falling short in the early stages against RS Berkane of Morocco, the eventual champions. Since then, the Ilorin-based side has rebuilt its squad, focusing on tactical discipline and player development.
For Badawiy, the upcoming tie against Asante Kotoko represents not just an opportunity for redemption but also a test of how far the club has progressed on the continental stage.
A Clash of West African Titans
The pairing is one of the most eye-catching in the preliminary round, pitting a rising Nigerian side against one of Ghana’s most storied clubs.
Asante Kotoko, based in Kumasi, are two-time CAF Champions League winners (1970 and 1983) and have a strong tradition in African competitions. They remain one of the most followed and supported teams on the continent, with a passionate fan base that fills the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to capacity on matchdays.
Badawiy acknowledged the stature of their opponents but was quick to point out that football history is no guarantee of current dominance.
“There was a time Hearts of Oak dominated, then Kotoko won the league back-to-back. Later, Medeama became one of the best before Kotoko came back again. Things change in football, and so we will overcome this hurdle against Kotoko,” he said.
First Leg in Kumasi – A True Test
The first leg of the tie is scheduled for September 19–21, 2025, at the intimidating Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi.
Known for its deafening atmosphere and sea of red-clad supporters, the venue will pose a stern test for Kwara United’s resolve. Yet, Badawiy insists his players are mentally prepared for the occasion.
The return leg will take place in Nigeria between September 26–28, with Kwara United aiming to capitalise on home advantage to secure progression to the next round.
The Prize – Wydad Casablanca Await
The stakes could not be higher. The winner of the two-legged tie will face Wydad Casablanca of Morocco, one of Africa’s most formidable clubs and recent CAF Champions League finalists.
A potential showdown with the Moroccan giants serves as additional motivation for Kwara United to deliver their best performance against Kotoko.
Badawiy’s Philosophy – Respect Without Fear
In his remarks, Badawiy outlined a balanced philosophy toward competition. While acknowledging Kotoko’s pedigree, he emphasised that Kwara United must focus on their own strengths rather than being overwhelmed by their opponents’ reputation.
“Football is about preparation, unity, and belief. We will respect our opponents, but we are not afraid. We know our capabilities, and we are going to Kumasi to compete,” he noted.
Continental Football’s Cycles of Power
Badawiy’s reference to the shifting dominance in Ghanaian football speaks to a broader truth in African club football – no team stays at the top forever.
Hearts of Oak, Asante Kotoko, Medeama SC, and others have each enjoyed spells of supremacy in Ghana’s domestic league, only to be overtaken in subsequent seasons.
For Kwara United, this serves as inspiration: history shows that with the right preparation and execution, underdogs can triumph over established giants.
Preparation in Full Swing
Sources within Kwara United confirm that the team’s preparations are well advanced, with focus on both physical conditioning and tactical drills tailored to counter Kotoko’s strengths.
The coaching staff has been studying recent footage of the Ghanaian side to identify vulnerabilities, particularly in transitions and set-piece defending.
The Nigerian club is also counting on its blend of experienced campaigners and young, hungry players to create the right mix of stability and energy on the pitch.
The Fans’ Role
Badawiy expressed gratitude to the club’s supporters, who have stood by the team through highs and lows.
“Our fans are the heartbeat of this club. Their support lifts the players, whether we are at home or away. We will fight to make them proud,” he said.
Kwara United is expected to receive travelling support in Kumasi, with some Nigerian fans planning to make the trip across West Africa to cheer their team in the first leg.
Kotoko’s Perspective
While Kotoko are yet to officially respond to Badawiy’s comments, local media in Ghana have reported that the club views the tie as a stern early-season test.
Having missed out on continental glory in recent years, Kotoko’s faithful are eager to see their team reassert itself on the African stage.
A Broader West African Rivalry
Nigeria vs. Ghana is a rivalry that extends far beyond international football. Whenever clubs from the two nations meet, there is an added layer of pride and competitiveness.
Matches between sides from the two countries often draw large audiences and intense media scrutiny, as fans on both sides relish the bragging rights that come with victory.
Looking Ahead
While Badawiy has downplayed the tie as a “war” or “do-or-die” affair, there is no denying the competitive edge that will define both legs.
For Kwara United, success would mark a significant step forward in their continental ambitions and provide a morale boost for the entire squad ahead of the domestic season.
For Asante Kotoko, a win would reinforce their status as one of Africa’s enduring football institutions and set up a blockbuster clash with Wydad Casablanca.
Conclusion
As the countdown begins to the first whistle in Kumasi, Kwara United are striking a balance between respect for their opponents and belief in their own capabilities.
Whether they can translate that quiet confidence into a historic result will be revealed over 180 minutes of football in one of West Africa’s most anticipated early-season continental clashes.
One thing is certain – for the players, officials, and fans of Kwara United, the journey is about more than just advancing in the CAF Confederation Cup. It is about proving that Nigerian clubs can match, and even surpass, the continent’s best when preparation meets opportunity.
