The match is seen by sports enthusiasts as a face-saver and one to redeem the image of the country.
Come Saturday, Oct 12, 2024, Asante Kotoko SC will be at the Audi Field in Washington DC to lock horns with Major League Soccer (MLS) side DC United, in an international soccer friendly.
The annual ceremonial match forms part of activities to mark Ghana Week DC 2024 and is put together by the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) in collaboration with the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Kotoko, popularly known as the Porcupine Warriors, is the second Ghanaian Premier League club to face DC United. Previously, Medeama SC played against DC United and suffered a 2-1 defeat on October 14, 2023.
Join our WhatsApp Channel for more news
The Porcupine Warriors earned the opportunity to represent Ghana after winning the first Democracy Cup, defeating their rivals Hearts of Oak 2-1 at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The match, seen by sports enthusiasts as a face-saver and one to redeem the image of the country with the defeat of Madeama FC last year at the hands of DC United, has the support of Ghana’s parliament.
At a review meeting with Primeval Media, the organizers of the match, Speaker Albin Bagbin emphasized Parliament’s responsibility as the initiator of the Democracy Cup to ensure that Kotoko fulfills their commitment to play in the USA. He also highlighted the role of football in promoting and developing nations, noting the historical significance of the match venue for both countries.
Meanwhile, Asante Kotoko supporters in North America have launched a spirited campaign to raise funds to support their darling Club in the land of Uncle Sam.
An intercepted “May We Win Together” message by the supporters’ executives reads:
“As you’re all aware, our beloved Asante Kotoko will soon embark on a historic trip to the USA to face DC United on October 12 in Washington, DC. As individuals fostering a strong Asante Kotoko community here in North America, the least we can do is host the players and organize a match tailgate.”
The appeal for funds message urges, “All executives to make a moderate $100 donation, while members contribute $50.”
“This will enable us to host our players who are crossing over to a whole different continent for this historic encounter”, states the North American Kotoko supporters.
Sources close to the Club indicate that no stone is being left unturned to ensure that Kotoko brings glory to Ghana.
According to Kotoko’s legendary Samuel Opoku Nti, “This is a valuable opportunity, and we are committed to giving our best. This will be our first match in the USA, and the team is excited about the experience.”
