Two-time champions Asante Kotoko of Ghana qualified for the group stage of the African Champions League for the time on Sunday.

Despite losing 1-0 away to USCAFOOT of Madagascar, Kotoko qualify 6-1 on aggregate thanks to their 6-0 first leg victory two weeks ago.

The Kumasi-based club won the competition in 1970 and 1983 but have been unable to qualify for the group stages of the competition since its present format started in 1997.

"We fought very hard and deserve the qualification," Kotoko coach E.K. Afranie said.

"Qualifying for the group stage of this competition means a lot to me personally and we will fight hard to go for the ultimate."

The draw for the next round of the competition will be held in Cairo on Saturday 13 May.