Ghana's Ambassador to Benin Her Excellency Madam Christine Churcher has congratulated Asante Kotoko following their 1-0 win over RC Kadiogo in the first leg of the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League on Monday.
Isaac Oppong’s late strike was enough to secure a vital away victory at the General Kerekou Stadium in Cotonou, Benin ahead of the return leg on Sunday in Kumasi.
The Porcupine Warriors missed several chances but with just minutes away from the full time whistle, Oppong ensured the Kumasi-based side returned to Ghana with a win as he found the back of the net with his effort.
"Congratulations. I am more excited than you. For me, until the final whistle goes, you cannot say your team has not won, I believe in that so when the final whistle goes then I give up," Churcher said after the game.
"But I was sure that even if it remains one or two minutes to final whistle, you will score, I was convinced."
"You've done well. A victory for the country. It is Ghana which has won, not Kotoko. I pray that you will do your homework well when you go home."
She added, "You played well but let me make this comment, one thing I've noticed about soccer is that, those who take advantage of opportunities which come their way are most at times are the winners."
"I want to encourage you. Sharpen your prowess at goal scoring and make that all the opportunities you get are translated into countable goals. May the Lord go with you. May you be united more than anymore."
Kotoko will return to Ghana to prepare for the second leg which is scheduled for Sunday, September 18 at the Baba Yara Stadium.
The winner of the two-legged tie will face the winner of the game between Gaborone United Sporting Club and AS Vita Club of DR Congo in the next round of the competition.