Simba SC midfielder James Kotei has fired a warning shot to Asante Kotoko ahead of their forthcoming friendly encounter.
The Tanzanian giants will be hosting the Porcupine Warriors in a friendly match to mark the Simba Day anniversary of the East African greats.
Simba SC have invited the Ghanaian giants for the friendly match slated for Wednesday August 8 at the 60, 000 capacity Dar es Salaam Stadium.
Speaking to Kumasi-based FOX FM ahead of the invitational game, Kotei has cautioned the Reds to expect a stern test when the two sides clash.
"The Simba Day is a day we unveil our new and all players we have, supporters do come from all regions to witness the event, the 60,000 capacity stadium almost gets filled up", Kotei told FOX 97.9 FM, highlighting the importance of the Simba Day to the club.
"The Simba Day is a day we cannot afford to lose the game because all our fans will be present and it's an entry into a new season after our preseason, so we don't have to lose to make our fans sad, we know Kotoko is equally a good side despite the break in the (Ghana) league, the quality is still available, so it is going to be a difficult match", he said.
Asante Kotoko have been in blistering form of late despite not playing competitive matches for some time, but the former Liberty Professionals midfielder is unperturbed by any verbal media descriptions of his fellow countrymen.
Kotoko will leave the shores of Ghana on Tuesday, play the match on Wednesday and return the next day to continue preparations for the new season.