“Kwara United will not be intimidate by Kotoko’s big name” – Bashir Badawiy

Nigeria side Kwara United have been handed a tough task in the 2025/26 Preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup as they prepare against Ghana giants, Asante Kotoko.

The Illorin-based club will battle the Ghana FA Cup winners in the first leg of the clash on the weekend of September 19 and 21 before a reverse fixture a week later.

Kotoko are two time African champions and they go into the game from a fine campaign last season – winning the Toyota Cup against Kaizer Chiefs at the Moses Mabhida Stadium. They claimed their 10th Ghana FA Cup and the 2025 President’s Cup.

Kwara United are making their third CAF Confederation Cup appearance after lifting last season’s Nigeria FA Cup.

Notwithstanding these fine accolades, Kwara United’s General Manager, Mallam Bashir Badawiy, insists his team is not moved by the prowess of Kotoko.

“We faced a full-capacity stadium in Sudan and nearly qualified against Morocco’s RS Berkane,” he told Akoma fm.

“Big crowds don’t intimidate us—it’s about mentality. If you can’t perform in such environments, you don’t belong here. Even at Maracanã with 500,000 fans, show the world your talent. You’re a big team—take it easy on us. But we’re coming to win the trophy.”

The winner of the two legs will face Moroccan powerhouse Wydad Casablanca in the second preliminary round. The second preliminary round’s first leg is billed for October 17 and 19, with the reverse fixtures set between October 24 and 26.