Medeama sure to beat Mazembe

CAF Confederation Cup contenders, Medeama Sporting Club, will go into tomorrow’s crucial second leg encounter against Tout Puissant (T.P) Mazembe of DR Congo at the Sekondi Stadium at Essipon as the underdogs but with vengeance on their mind.

Medeama were thrashed 3-1 by the Congolese side in the first leg meeting in Lubumbashi less than two months ago, but need a home win badly to brighten their semi-final chances.

However, Mazembe have been a tough nut to crack for Ghanaian clubs and Medeama, Ghana’s sole continental hope for this year, would savour the opportunity to atone for the slip in Lumumbashi.

Coach Prince Yaw Owusu is quite sure about victory, although he expects a very tough match even at home.

The optimistic trainer is banking his hopes on some magic from returnee strikers, Abass Mohammed and Benjamin Bature from injury and the creativity of youngster Enoch Atta Agyei who is due to join Tanzanian side, Azam FC, in January.

Also expected to enhance Medeama’s chances is the newly-signed dependable goalkeeper Daniel Adjei, reliable defender, Daniel Amoah alongside rugged Paul Aidoo, Malik Akowuah, Kwasi Donsu and the others.

Coach Owusu, whose relentless hope ahead of the duel casts a bright shadow for the home side, earlier told the Daily Graphic that his charges were geared up for the much-needed home victory.

“There is high morale in camp because salaries and bonuses which were outstanding have been settled and the boys are ready to fight for victory,” he assured.

Kick-off is at 3p.m. and the referees for the match are Davies Ogenche Omweno (Kenya), Marwa Range (Kenya) and Abel Baba (Nigeria).

In the other group match, Young Africans of Tanzania face off with M.O.Bejaia of Algeria in Dar Es Salaam today.