Asante Kotoko withdraws from US tourney over visa hurdles

Accra, Ghana - October 11, 2024 - Ghana Premier League giants Asante Kotoko have announced their withdrawal from the Capital City Africa Cup, scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C. on October 12.

The club cited inability to secure visas for all players and technical staff as the reason for their decision. Despite initial optimism, Kotoko failed to overcome the visa hurdle, forcing them to pull out of the tournament.

Visa Challenges Prove Insurmountable

Kotoko were set to face DC United in the Capital City Africa Cup after defeating Hearts of Oak in the 2024 Democracy Cup. However, visa issues plagued the team, preventing the full squad and technical staff from traveling to the US.

Club Statement

In a statement released on October 10, Asante Kotoko expressed "deep regret" over their withdrawal. "Despite ongoing discussions with event organizers, the necessary visas for our full squad and technical team have unfortunately not been secured in time," the statement read.

"It is with deep regret that we announce our decision to withdraw from the Capital City Africa Cup, scheduled to take place in Washington, D.C on Saturday, 12th October, 2024," the statement said.

"Despite ongoing discussions with the event organisers and the expectation that the visa challenges faced by our contingent would be resolved by Thursday evening, 10th October 2024, the necessary visas for our full squad and technical team have unfortunately not been secured in time. Given these hurdles, the club has determined that we are unable to proceed with participation in this year’s game.

"Throughout this process, we have maintained our professionalism and patience, working diligently with all involved parties to explore every possible avenue for a smooth participation. However, due to circumstances beyond the club’s control, it is now in the best interest of the club to focus on our immediate priorities.

"We understand that our decision may disappoint our supporters, who were eager to see Asante Kotoko SC compete on an international stage. However, this course of action reflects our commitment to ensuring the club operates under conditions that uphold our standards and values. As a result, we wish to make it clear that the brand Asante Kotoko SC is not associated with the game or any activities related to the Capital City Africa Cup.

"We would also like to inform our supporters that the first contingent, including seven players and technical staff currently in the United States of America, will return to Ghana on Sunday, 13th October 2024. Upon their return, the team will immediately shift its focus to solidifying and building on our strong start to the Ghana Premier League season, ensuring continued success in the domestic campaign.

"Asante Kotoko SC remains fully committed to upholding the reputation, dignity, and values of the club. We are grateful to our fans for their understanding and continued support during this period,'' the statement added.

The club has assured supporters that the team will now focus on the Ghana Premier League season. The first contingent, currently in the US, will return to Ghana on October 13.

Source: Lead News Online