Former Asante Kotoko coach Zdravko Lugarosic has said the Ghanaian side were lacking match fitness and that resulted in their defeat to Al Hilal in the opening group C game of the CAF Confederations Cup.
The Porcupine Warriors lost narrowly to the Sudanese, after Waleed Bakheek’s 40th minute goal separated the two sides.
Lugarosic, who is manager of the Sudanese national team says it was obvious the Reds lacked fitness for competitive games.
“The point is one. From the game we watched, you could see that Kotoko are not playing local league or competitive games and that affected them,” Lugarosic said.
“It was clear that they’re not playing regularly and lacked match fitness. If they were playing every weekend before this game the results may have been different from what we witnessed.
Al Hilal were not struggling throughout the game because they play regularly and know their shortcomings.
“Regardless of what happened against Hilal, they still have a chance to qualify from the group. Kotoko have been the same big club two years ago and remain a top side. They can cause problems to the other clubs when they are later in good shape.” he added.
Meanwhile, ZESCO United beat Nkana FC 2-0 in the other group match on Sunday in Zambia.
Kotoko return to action on February 13 when they host ZESCO United at the Kumasi Baba Yara Sports Stadium.
