JSM Bejaia Coach, Giovanni Solinas is on cloud nine after his team progressed to the next round of the CAF Champions League at the expense of Asante Kotoko.

The Algerian minnows stunned the Porcupine Warriors with a one-all draw in the second leg clash of the 1/16th round at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, to advance on the away goal rule after 1-1 aggregate tie.

Midfielder, Michael Akuffo fired Asante Kotoko into the lead on the stroke of half time before Mohammed Derrag grabbed the much-needed equalizer to cut short the continental ambitions of the twice African champions.

The Italian admitted the encounter was very difficult as his defence was kept under constant pressure throughout the game. “It was a difficult game and the weather too did not help us. The players were tired but they fought on. I’m very satisfied with the performance of my players.”

The Algerians will face last year’s losing finalists, Esperance of Tunisia in an-all North African meeting at the next round, and Solinas reckons that will serve their biggest test yet.

“The next stage is difficult. We have a young team and a small squad. In football, everything is possible,” he said.

The exit of Asante Kotoko closes the chapter on Ghana’s participation in the continental club championship after regional rivals, Edubiase were bundled out of the CAF Confederation Cup at the preliminary round.