Ahead of their match against DC United in the Capita City Africa Cup, Ghanaian powerhouse Asante Kotoko has reported that two team members have gone missing in the United States.
Esmat AbdalHamid Mohamed and Obdoelkarem Yoouef Yagoub, two Sudanese players, left the team's hotel after requesting permission and haven't come back.
A search for both players is underway after the team notified US authorities of the situation.
In a club statement, Asante Kotoko asked its thronging fans to maintain composure while they investigate the situation.
"Asante Kotoko SC regrets to notify our followers and the public that two players, Obdoelkarem Yoouef Yagoub and Esmat AbdalHamid Mohamed, both Sudanese nationals, are currently absent from the camp," the statement says.
"On Friday, October 11, 2024, the players departed the team's hotel without authorization, and every attempt to get in touch with or find them has failed. The club has formally informed US law enforcement and is working closely with them to ensure they return safely.
"We ask our fans to maintain composure as we collaborate with the appropriate authorities."
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We need to improve on winning games even though we are performing well. Coach Otto Addo of Ghana
Despite recent failures, Black Stars head coach Otto Addo is still confident in his team's performance, stating that the only thing lacking is the ability to convert impressive performances into wins.
The Ghanaian strategist admitted that although the squad is performing well, they need to improve their ability to secure victories after Thursday's goalless draw against Sudan in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
After the game, Coach Otto Addo spoke to the media and commended the team's effort but acknowledged that they did not convert their chances.
"Every team is dangerous, and Sudan played strong defense tonight, especially their goalie. However, the coach said, "We would have won if we had been a little more clinical with our opportunities."
"I think we were the better side," he continued. We had plenty of opportunities, but we missed the final touch. Although Sudan's goalie performed admirably, I wouldn't say their performance was very noteworthy outside of the points they earned. Our current focus is on winning matches, which is what we need to work on.
The Black Stars, who are now in a close race for qualifying, are under increasing pressure. "We need to win the next game to stay in contention," says Otto Addo, who is still confident.
Following their departure, the Black Stars are now in Libya, where they will play Sudan in a pivotal rematch on Tuesday, October 15. As part of their final preparations, the team will train at the Martyrs of February Stadium on Monday before the game.
A victory is necessary to increase Ghana's prospects of making it to the 2025 AFCON tournament in Morocco. The match is scheduled to begin at 13:00 GMT.
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