Former Asante Kotoko defender Osei Kwame Junior has sent a strong message to the players ahead of their upcoming match against Samartex. The struggling Kotoko side is set to face Ghana Premier League leaders, Samartex, at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday for matchday 27.
In an interview with Kessben FM, Osei Kwame emphasized the importance of a victory in this crucial fixture. He warned the players that they cannot afford to lose against Samartex, as the consequences could be severe.
“The players need to be focused and determined. If they think that losing will lead to the coach being sacked, they are mistaken. They must remember that if the coach goes, many of them will also be replaced. It is imperative that they perform well and secure the three points for the club,” Osei Kwame stated.
He expressed his belief that Kotoko should have no excuses for not defeating Samartex at home. Despite recent struggles, Osei Kwame reminded the players of the legacy and reputation of the club that they must uphold.
“Other teams such as Nsoatreman FC and Accra Lions have managed to beat Kotoko in Kumasi. This is unacceptable. Kotoko has a strong tradition that must be protected. Failure to win against Samartex will have serious consequences. The players must remain humble and focused on getting the job done on Sunday,” he added.
As it stands, Asante Kotoko sits in 11th place in the league table with 33 points. The team has endured a difficult run of form, suffering six defeats in their last seven matches and earning just a single point during that period.
Having only secured one victory in 2024, Kotoko’s once-promising title aspirations have faded, and they are now fighting to avoid relegation. With eight games remaining in the season, the players must heed Osei Kwame’s warning and deliver a strong performance against Samartex to secure a vital win.
