By: Nana Kwame Bediako
Ghana’s FA Cup champions, Dreams FC, made history on Sunday, March 3, by qualifying for the knockout stage of the CAF Confederation Cup despite conceding a 2-1 defeat to Nigerian side Rivers United.
Dreams FC and Rivers United both finished as the top sides in Group C, therefore earning them an automatic place in the quarterfinal stage. Dreams FC made history by becoming the first Ghana Premier League club to progress to the knockout stages of the CAF Confederation Cup in the last decade.
Asante Kotoko and Accra Hearts of Oak were the last to progress from the group stages in the 2004 season. This milestone puts the “still believe club” on a path to achieving more historic status as they continue to represent Ghana on the big stage with pride.
Dreams FC were more composed away from home as their chances to qualify for the knockout stage were more likely compared to their opponent, who needed a win to earn a spot in the knockout stage of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The boys “still believe boys” took the lead in the 40th minute with a goal from young prospect Abdul Aziz Issah, who slotted in a wonderful goal following a brilliant display of skills on the ball. The young talent’s goal gave Dreams a huge advantage on the away goal rule.
Rivers United crawled back into the game with an equaliser in the 60th minute, which grew their confidence to score a second goal in order to make their chances of advancing to the quarterfinals easy. The Nigerian side eventually got their second goal in stoppage time to grab a 2-1 victory.
