Kwara United have been eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup after a narrow 1-0 defeat to Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko at the MKO Abiola National Stadium in Abeokuta on Sunday.

The loss sealed a 5-3 aggregate defeat in the preliminary round, ending the Harmony Boys' continental campaign despite a spirited and dominant performance in the second leg.

The decisive moment came in the 53rd minute when Hubert Ayau scored the only goal of the match, capitalising on a rare opportunity amid Kwara United's sustained pressure.

Head coach Tunde Sanni rued his team's inability to convert chances, as missed opportunities ultimately cost them a historic progression.

In other Confederation Cup action, Nigeria's second representative, Abia Warriors, also exited the competition after a 1-0 home defeat to Mali's Djoliba, losing 2-1 on aggregate.

Both results mark an early end to Nigerian hopes in this year's tournament, with calls growing for improved preparation and stadium standards to support future continental bids.