In a strong display of perseverance and determination, Dreams FC and Medeama SC have etched their names into the annals of Ghanaian football history after reaching their impressive outings in the CAF Confederations Cup and Champions League respectively.
As they reflect on their remarkable journeys, the clubs and their supporters have extended their heartfelt appreciation to the stakeholders whose unwavering support propelled them to their impressive showing in the competitions.
For Dreams FC, their journey to the semi-finals of the CAF Confederation Cup marked a significant milestone in their relatively young existence since their establishment in 2009. It was a testament to the club's ambition and dedication to making a mark in African football.
In the case of Medeama SC, despite falling short at the group stage in the CAF Champions League, their qualification to the group stage marked the first time two Ghanaian clubs (together with Dreams FC) have simultaneously qualified to the that stage in the CAF club competitions in a single in so many years.
Dreams FC's achievement carried broader significance for Ghanaian football, as it marked the first time since 2004 that a Ghanaian side had reached this stage of the competition.
Despite falling short in the semi-final second leg against Egyptian giants Zamalek, Dreams FC's journey was celebrated as a triumph of spirit and commitment.
On Tuesday, the club extended their gratitude to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for their invaluable support throughout the campaign.
President Simeon-Okraku responded with humility and gratitude, expressing his appreciation to all stakeholders involved in Dreams FC's historic journey as well as Medeama SC's group stage feat in the Champions League.
“Ghana showed up. Our friends in Kumasi showed up. Our media friends in the Ashanti Region, the Brong Ahafo Region and throughout the country showed up and supported a good cause,” he said.
He commended the club for their remarkable achievement and underscored the significance of their performance in inspiring other Ghanaian clubs to aim for excellence in continental competitions.
Simeon-Okraku also extended his thanks to the Sports Ministry, the National Sports Authority, the passionate fans, and the media, with a special mention to the Kumasi media for their unwavering support and coverage of the Medeama SC and Dreams FC campaign.
“Again, a statement that I have always called for was re-affirmed: When we stay together, we win together! Over the last weekend, Ghana stood for hard work, for good football and the passion to excel by a Ghanaian club."
“I will say thank you to our friends in the media and all those who, in diverse ways, supported the campaigns of our two clubs; Medeama SC and Dreams FC,” he added.
“On behalf of the FA, we extend our gratitude to the Sports Ministry, the NSA and all stakeholders for the amazing support for all our representatives in African inter-club football competitions this year.”
As Dreams FC basks in the glow of their achievement, their journey serves as a reminder of the potential and talent within Ghanaian football. With the continued support and collaboration of stakeholders of Ghana football, the future looks bright for Ghanaian clubs on the continental stage.
GFA COMMUNICATIONS