Ashanti Derby: I am not seek revenge against Kotoko, says AshantiGold 04 coach Karim Zito

FC AshantiGold 04 head coach Karim Zito says he has no intention of seeking revenge against Asante Kotoko when the two sides meet in the Ghana Premier League on Sunday.

Zito will face his former club in a Matchday Eight Ashanti derby at the Len Clay Stadium, with both teams looking to strengthen their positions in the league standings.

The former Kotoko coach, who guided the Porcupine Warriors to FA Cup and Toyota Cup triumphs, insists he will approach the fixture like any other game, with the focus firmly on securing three points.

“I am not going to seek revenge against Kotoko. It is a game, and just as I want to win, they also want to beat us. Our approach will be the same as in every other game because the points at stake are the same,” Zito told Akoma FM.

Meanwhile, former Asante Kotoko midfielder Justice Blay, who now plays for AshantiGold 04, says he is focused on helping his new club secure victory rather than dwelling on his past association with the Kumasi-based side.

“Football is a game, and we are preparing very well for it. I have no personal issues with Kotoko. My responsibility is to give my best and help my team secure victory. I am very happy at Ashanti Gold 04 and enjoying my life here,” he said.

AshantiGold 04 will be looking to bounce back after suffering a narrow 1-0 defeat to Aduana FC in their previous league outing.

Kotoko, meanwhile, head into the derby on the back of a 2-1 victory over Young Apostles and will be eager to maintain their momentum.

The Porcupine Warriors occupy eighth place in the standings with 11 points from seven matches, one point ahead of AshantiGold 04, who sit 10th.

With the top three teams level on 14 points, both sides will be targeting victory to close the gap on the leading pack.

Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 GMT on Sunday.