Bonsu: Kotoko can beat Al Itihad

Despite Asante Kotoko's away loss to Libya's Al Itihad club, Ghanaian football fans have high hopes for the rematch at home on Sunday.   

According to sports analyst, Mike Bonsu, Kotoko's performance in Libya two weeks ago was exactly what could be expected of an away team, and overall, the team did well.

"The boys are inspired," said Bonsu. "They have understanding between the defense, midfield and the attackers. There was no complacency in their game." Bonsu also said although the Libyans played a good technical game, Kotoko was miles ahead.

Echoing accusations made by other spectators, Bonsu said he believes that the final score of the game was more a reflection of referee bias than the performance of the two teams.

According to Bonsu's observations, numerous injustices occurred to the detriment of Kotoko, including giving a red card to a Ghanaian player who was undeserving and allowing play to continue 5 minutes after the clock had stopped.

Bonsu indicated that this instance may be indicative of a broader trend in African football, citing a similar injustice that occurred during the Under-17's Nations Cup in Gambia when a spectator entered the goal with the ball and, despite the rules, the goal was counted.

"It is a shame for the game in Africa when referees engage in match convenience," said Bonsu. "We are making laughing stock of ourselves."

He also warned Kotoko's Goalie Suleimana for trying to challenge the referee and urged him to be patient when the going gets tough.