Medeama face uphill battle against TP Mazembe in CAF Champions League return

Medeama SC must overturn a 1-0 deficit against five-time CAF Champions League winners TP Mazembe if they are to progress from their preliminary-round tie.

The Ghanaian champions travel to Lubumbashi for the second leg after a late goal condemned them to defeat at Tarkwa’s T&A Park, despite enjoying long periods of dominance in front of their home supporters.

Ibrahim Tanko’s side now need to score at the Stade TP Mazembe to keep their hopes alive. A two-goal victory would secure qualification, while a 1-0 win would send the tie to a penalty shootout.

The result in the first leg was particularly painful for Medeama, who were unable to turn their possession and pressure into clear attacking opportunities before conceding late on.

TP Mazembe, by contrast, can complete the job on home soil and will draw confidence from their reputation for being difficult to beat in Lubumbashi. The Congolese club are expected to rely on their experience, physical strength and the altitude at their home ground as they seek to protect their advantage.

Medeama’s attacking threat is likely to centre on the creativity of Emmanuel Annor, with Abdul Salam, Prince Owusu and Kingsley Braye tasked with finding a way through the Mazembe defence.

At the other end, Fatawu Sulemana, Etse Dogli and Ebenezer Adade will need to maintain a disciplined defensive shape and avoid conceding early. A goal for TP Mazembe would make Medeama’s task considerably harder.

The hosts will also look to the atmosphere inside the Stade TP Mazembe to unsettle their Ghanaian opponents as they attempt to secure their place in the next stage of the competition.

For Medeama, the match represents an opportunity to recover from the first-leg setback and demonstrate that they can compete with some of the leading clubs in African football.

The second leg will be played on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Kick-off at the Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi is scheduled for 2:00 PM local time.

Send your news stories to [email protected] and via WhatsApp on +233 546310076.

Read Full Story