Dreams FC have written another chapter in their remarkable story, securing a place in the CAF Confederation Cup semifinals in their first ever appearance in the competition after a dramatic two-legged tie against Stade Malien in the quarters.
Following a 1-1 draw in the second leg at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, Dreams FC progress on a 3-2 aggregate etching their names in Ghanaian football history as the third team to reach that stage of the competition after both Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko made it into the semis and eventually into the final in 2004.
The second leg in Kumasi was a tense affair, mirroring the first leg of some sort, where Dreams FC secured a vital 2-1 away victory in Bamako.
Stade Malien came out firing, determined to overturn the deficit.
But the Ghanaians began the game on a brilliant note, scoring in the opening five minutes of the game, only to be denied by VAR as the goal was ruled out for offside.
The away side created some decent chances in the first half but failed to convert them into goals.
There was a bit of a scare for Dreams within fifteen minutes after the break. The deadlock was broken in the 59th when Yoro Diaby found the back of the net for Stade Malien to peck the game 2-2 on aggregate.
However, Dreams FC displayed remarkable composure and resilience. They responded by creating several chances of their own, eventually equalizing in the 70th minute through Sylvester Simba and to restore their lead on aggregate.
The Malian side pushed for the crucial goal to level things on aggregate but it became elusive.
The final whistle sparked jubilation in the Dreams FC camp. The players, coaching staff, and management can be immensely proud of their historic achievement.
This is the first time a Ghanaian club has reached the Confederation Cup semifinals in 24 years.
Looking Ahead: A Dream Within Reach
Dreams FC now face a daunting task in the semifinals, where they will come up against a team with more continental experience in the shape of Future FC or Zamalek as their next opponent. However, having defied the odds throughout their journey, the belief within the Dreams FC camp will be sky-high.
They will be aiming to continue their dream run and potentially write their names even larger in the history books by reaching the final.