Tanzania-based striker Hafiz Konkoni has tipped Medeama to perform in the CAF Champions League group stage despite being drawn in a tough group.
During the draw ceremony last Friday, Medeama were drawn in Group D against reigning champions Al Ahly, Algerian champions CR Belouizdad, and Tanzanian Champions Young Africans.
Making their debut in this prestigious competition, Medeama secured their place by defeating Remo Stars and Horoya AC in the qualifying round.
In an interview with Koforidua-based Bryt FM, the former Bechem United striker who now plies his trade for Young Africans asserted the Yellow and Mauves can put up a good performance in the group stage despite being paired against top clubs on the continent.
“It’s a difficult group considering the teams paired there. It’s won’t be easy playing Al Ahly, who are the defending champions and record Champions League holders, CR Belouizdad and Medeama, in fact, it is one of the toughest group in the Champions League”
“It’s been so many years that Young Africans progress to the group stage, so I think it’s a big achievement securing qualification this time. Our aim is to go far in this competition because Yanga were finalist in the Confederations Cup last season”
“Our President approached me after the draw and made some enquiries about Medeama because we will be playing them. The best team will qualify but for us, we want to qualify to the quarterfinals but it won’t come on a silver platter, we just have to put in much work. Medeama have done extremely well and I believe they will put up a good show in the group. So it will be a very interesting group” he said.
The group stage matches are set to commence in November, with Medeama's first match taking place in Cairo against Al Ahly on November 25th.
The Tarkwa-based side will play their first group game against Al Ahly in Cairo before hosting Belouizdad at the Baba Yara Stadium in the second round.
The next home games will be against Young Africans and Al Ahly in that order.
The CAF Champions League group stage matches are scheduled to begin on Friday and Saturday, November 25 and 26, 2023, and end on March 1 and 2, 2024.