In a stunning display of resilience, Ghanaian champions Medeama SC orchestrated a memorable comeback to conquer Algerian side CR Belouizdad in the CAF Champions League clash on Friday.
The football spectacle unfolded at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi, where the Tarkwa-based outfit showcased their prowess by rallying from a goal down to secure a remarkable 2-1 victory, clinching their first three points of the campaign.
Early in the match, Medeama hinted at their offensive capabilities as versatile defender Kamaradini Mamudu’s header from a corner-kick rattled the framework, providing a glimpse of the impending drama.
Despite the hosts’ dominance, it was the Algerians who broke the deadlock after Ishak Talal Boussouf was fouled inside the box. Midfielder Abdelraouf Benguit confidently converted the penalty kick, granting Belouizdad a 39th-minute lead.
Medeama swiftly retaliated on the brink of halftime when a free-kick from Kamaradini Mamudu took an unpredictable deflection off Daniel Lomotey, eluding goalkeeper Alexis Guendouz and leveling the score.
In the 85th minute, the Yellow and Mauves came tantalizingly close to seizing the lead, but Derrick Fordjour’s close-range effort was thwarted by the acrobatics of goalkeeper Alexis Guendouz.
The defining moment arrived in stoppage time, as Kamaradini Mamudu, the linchpin of Medeama’s defensive and attacking maneuvers, headed home a precise cross from Kwadwo Amoako, sealing the 2-1 triumph.
This pivotal win sets the stage for Medeama SC’s next challenge, as they prepare to host Tanzanian champions Young Africans SC at the Baba Yara Stadium next Friday. The resounding victory not only marks a significant milestone for Medeama but also underscores their resilience and determination in the CAF Champions League campaign.