Asante Kotoko head coach Eric Tinkler has called on his players to concentrate on what they can control as they prepare for a difficult away trip to FC Samartex in the Ghana Premier League.
The Porcupine Warriors travel to the Nsenkyire Sports Arena on Sunday for their Matchday Three fixture, seeking to maintain their unbeaten start to the 2026-27 campaign.
Tinkler, who took charge during the off-season, has overseen a promising opening to the season, with Kotoko beating Kpando Heart of Lions 2-1 before drawing 2-2 with league newcomers Debibi United.
Their opponents have also enjoyed a strong start under new coach Nana Kweku Agyemang, winning both of their opening matches to move up to second place in the standings.
Speaking ahead of the encounter, Tinkler stressed the importance of staying focused despite the challenges posed by the long journey.
“I said to the players we need to think about focusing on the controllables,” the South African said.
“We can’t control the fact that the trip will be a very long trip; that is just a fact, and we have to accept it, but we’ve got to try to make the best of it.”
Tinkler acknowledged the challenge awaiting his side but believes their approach and performance will be key to the outcome.
“Playing against Samartex is not going to be an easy game, but our actions will determine the results.”
Kotoko sit fourth in the table and will be aiming to extend their unbeaten run when they face Samartex, with kick-off scheduled for 15:00 GMT.
