Despite suffering a defeat to Rivers United in Nigeria on Sunday, Dreams FC secured their spot in the quarter-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The Still Believe lads displayed promise in the first half, taking the lead with Abdul Aziz Issah’s strike in the 40th minute. However, Rivers United responded with an equaliser from Deputy Echeta in the 66th minute.
Dreams FC faced adversity as Seth Agyemang received a second yellow card, reducing them to 10 men. In a dramatic turn of events, Kazie Godswill secured a late win for Rivers United in stoppage time.
Despite the loss, Dreams FC’s quarter-final berth was confirmed when Club Africain and Academica played to a 1-1 draw in the other Group C encounter. The surprising result meant that Dreams FC advanced, finishing level on points with Rivers United at 12 each.
Club Africain, with 10 points, found themselves eliminated as Academia finished last in the group with just one point. Dreams FC’s resilience and qualification highlight their determination in the CAF Confederation Cup, setting the stage for an exciting knockout stage campaign.
“Breaking barriers and reaching new heights! Qualified for the next stage of the CAF Confederation Cup, and the journey continues!”#RiversDreams#StillBelieve☝🏾💚 | #IGWT | #DFC4LIFE pic.twitter.com/Gjr5kRAPdW
— DREAMS FC 🏆 22/23 FA CUP CHAMPIONS (@DreamsFootballC) March 3, 2024
Karim Zito’s men have succeeded in making history in the competition despite it being their debut campaign.
After clinching the Ghana FA Cup title last season, Dreams Football Club’s meticulous preparations have proven fruitful, securing victories against Milo FC from Guinea and Kallon FC from Sierra Leone in the preliminary rounds.
Notably, they have become the first Ghanaian team to progress from a CAF Confederation Cup group since 2004, with Hearts of Oak being the last team to accomplish this feat, eventually going on to win the tournament.