Harambee Stars custodian Ian Otieno has unreservedly apologized to the Zesco United fraternity for the error committed during their CAF Confederation Cup second preliminary return game against AM Royal of South Africa.Otieno’s mistake proved costly as Royal found the back of his net and as a result, Zesco, painfully crashed out of the tournament on the away goal rule.##NAJAVA_MECA_6724260##The former Zambian champions had reaped a positive result in the first leg played at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban two weeks ago where they battled the hosts to a barren draw.The result meant that the Ndola based club needed a win of any kind in front of their fans to secure qualification to the next round.CAFCC: Sven’s Marumo Gallants through to final round as Zesco crash outHowever, the club was held to a 1-1 draw with Otieno who started in between the sticks taking full responsibility for the visitors goal that nailed their fate in the competition.Zesco had taken the lead in the first half through Collins Sikombe but Royal equalized after Otieno unnecessarily handled a back pass outside the area an incident that resulted to a freekick.Ruzaigh Gamildeen stepped up and curled the ball the past the former AFC Leopards custodian to draw Royal level. His goal would see his side advance to the next level at the expense of Zesco.Three more agonising months on the sidelines for Talanta midfielderOtieno, through his social media handles conceded that he made a unavoidable mistake and moved on to offer an apology to his teammates and fans.”So many emotions are running through right now. Frankly speaking, I own up the mistake and apologize to everyone involved including my teammates and supporters. Thank you.. Your criticism is highly welcomed,” he wrote.Zesco’s exit from the competition means that Zambia will not have a team in the CAF inter-club competitions as Red Arrows were also dumped out of the Champions League.
