Asante Kotoko's quest for a top two finish in the Confederation Cup Group B standings was dealt a blow after a 2-1 reverse against El-Merreikh on Saturday in Omdurman.
Although technically out of a top place finish before the last round of matches, Kotoko, wanted a win to increase their share of the television rights money.
Abd Al-hemeid Alsoudey put the Sudanese side ahead on the 10th minute mark but Kotoko drew level 11 minutes later.
Midfielder Francis Akwafo was the goalscorer after showing signs of shocking the home team.
But that was short-lived as after three minutes Alsoudey got a double on the 24th minute mark.
Kotoko by virtue of the result finished at the foot of the four team table with 7 points from six matches.
Etoile Sahel qualified from the Group to play in November's final after a 2-0 win over JS Kabylie.
