Ghana Premier League champions, Medeama SC, are set to receive a significant financial windfall of $550,000 following their groundbreaking qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage.
This remarkable financial boost is assured even if Medeama fails to progress beyond the group stage, making it a substantial reward for their historic achievement.
The qualification itself marks a monumental moment in the club’s history, as they reach the money-spinning phase of the CAF tournament in their very first attempt.
In a thrilling and closely-contested encounter against Guinean side Horoya AC, Medeama secured their spot in the group phase of the prestigious CAF competition with a 4-3 aggregate scoreline.
Their journey commenced with a convincing 3-1 victory in the first leg at the Cape Coast Stadium. However, they faced a stiff challenge in the reverse fixture in Conakry, where they succumbed to a 2-1 defeat.
Medeama’s goalkeeper, Felix Kyei, emerged as the hero of the day, showcasing a series of remarkable saves to thwart Horoya’s attempts to increase their score.
The scoring began with Jonathan Sowah calmly converting a penalty for Medeama in the first half, taking advantage of a foul in Horoya’s penalty area.
Yet, the hosts, led by Ghanaian-born midfielder Ocansey Mandela, equalized with a rebound goal, seizing upon a shot that Felix Kyei couldn’t quite control.
In the second half, Horoya intensified their efforts to seize the lead, and their persistence paid off in the 78th minute when forward Keita Mohammed capitalized on defensive lapses to score another goal for Horoya, leveling the tie.
Despite Horoya’s tactical adjustments and increased pressure, Medeama’s resolute defense held firm, securing their historic place in the CAF Champions League group stage for the very first time.
This significant accomplishment not only fills the club and its supporters with immense pride but also delivers a substantial financial boost. Medeama SC now stands as the first Ghanaian club in over a decade and a half to reach the highly coveted money zone of the CAF Champions League, marking an unforgettable milestone in the club’s history and a proud moment for Ghanaian football.