Tanzania-based striker Hafiz Konkoni has admitted his Young Africans outfit has been placed in a difficult group for the CAF Champions League.
In the group stage, Young Africans will face reigning champions Al Ahly, Algerian champions CR Belouizdad, and Ghanaian champions Medeama.
In an interview with Koforidua-based Bryt FM, the former Bechem United striker acknowledged Al Ahly as a giant in African football, making the group a tough one.
“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.