Dreams FC’s impressive run in the CAF Confederation Cup continued today as they clinched a vital 2-1 victory away from home in Bamako, Mali against Stade Malien.
They have become the first Ghanaian club to win away from home in the knockout stage of any CAF organized competition in 24 years since Accra Hearts of Oak traveled to Tunisia and defeated Esperance de Tunis 2-1 in the first leg of the CAF Champions League final in 2000.
Dreams FC’s intent to win the game was shown just at the beginning of the game, exerting their dominance and controlling large portions of the game in the first half.
However, with less than 10 minutes after the break, Yoro Diaby put Stade Malien ahead in the 53rd minute of the game.
With defeat staring, John Antwi scored twice in the 66th minute and the 73rd minute to help Dreams comeback from behind to claim this historic win.
Having secured their maiden appearance in the Confederation Cup this season, they’ve defied expectations by navigating the group stages and now securing a vital away win in the knockout round against one of Africa’s stalwarts, Stade Malien.
Dreams won four games in group stages and lost two to secure top spot in a group containing Tunisia giant, Club Africain, Academica from Angola and Rivers United of Nigeria.
This win marks a remarkable achievement for Dreams FC and Ghana football in general.
Ahead of the sect leg encounter in Kumasi, this victory gives Dreams an advantage to progress to the semis.
Ghanaian clubs have over the years suffered in Continental competitions. Their poor performances has resulted in Ghana losing two slots in Africa. Ghana now has only two slots, one for Champions League and the other for Confederation Cup.
With the Still Believe boys flying in Africa, it is Ghana’s hope that the slots that have been lost will be regained.