Fredrick Asare has set his sights on the quarter-finals as Durban City prepare for their first appearance in the group stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The Ghanaian goalkeeper is experiencing CAF competition for the first time after Durban City secured a historic place in the group phase of their maiden continental campaign.
Asare is determined to make more than a brief appearance on the African stage and has established a clear personal objective.
“Personally, I want to reach the quarter-finals of this tournament, and then we take it from there,” Asare told Muhammad KB.
The goalkeeper accepts, however, that Durban City will need more than individual ambition to progress. The club are also adjusting to the demands of working under a new coach, with tactical preparation now a major priority.
“With a new coach, I think we have a lot to do in terms of the tactical approach to games,” he said.
That work will be important as Durban City move into a higher level of competition and seek to build on the achievement of reaching the group stage.
Asare’s own contribution will be measured not only by his performances but also by his ability to protect the team’s goal. He wants to maintain the highest possible standard and produce as many clean sheets as he can during the tournament.
The goalkeeper is also focusing on specific aspects of his game. He has identified his ability to read balls played behind the defence and his judgement over when to leave his line as areas where he can improve.
A particular emphasis has been placed on aerial duels, an area in which a goalkeeper’s command of the penalty area can have a significant effect on his side’s defensive organisation.
For Durban City, qualifying for the CAF Confederation Cup group stage has already marked an important moment in the club’s first continental campaign. The challenge now is to convert that opportunity into a sustained run.
Asare’s quarter-final target will be pursued through the combined demands of tactical adaptation, defensive discipline and his own work between the posts.
Clean sheets, decisions made when coming off his line and his handling of aerial situations will all form part of the goalkeeper’s contribution as Durban City attempt to advance.
For a player making his first appearance in CAF competition, the tournament represents a new test. Asare’s ambition is to leave a lasting mark on it with Durban City.
By Muhammad KB, Akoma Sports
