Medeama SC head coach Ibrahim Tanko has expressed satisfaction with his side’s performance after they defeated newly promoted Ivorian Ligue 1 club Yamoussoukro FC 2-1 in their opening pre-season friendly in Côte d’Ivoire.
The victory forms part of the Ghana Premier League champions’ preparations for the 2026/27 season, where they will compete in the domestic league, MTN FA Cup and CAF Champions League.
Reflecting on the game, Tanko described it as a valuable learning experience for his players despite the positive result.
“I think it was the first game, and this is a very good game in Abidjan, and we managed to win 2-1. We have to watch the video, look at the mistakes and the positives that we have done and keep on working,” he told MEDi TV.
The former Ghana international also praised the commitment shown by his squad, insisting every player will have the opportunity to impress before the season begins.
“You could see that all of them are eager to give their best, and those who played did very well. We have four games to play; everyone will have their chances, and then definitely we are going to have a very strong side.”
Tanko has strengthened the Medeama squad with several quality additions as the club prepares for another continental campaign. The Tarkwa-based side, who will face Congolese giants TP Mazembe in the preliminary round of the CAF Champions League, are aiming to build on their impressive debut group-stage appearance in the 2023/24 competition.
The Medeama coach reiterated that the club’s objective is to build a competitive squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts rather than relying on just a starting eleven.
“We are here to prepare for the league and the Champions League, and we are trying to build a formidable team—not only those who are starting but those who will sit on the bench and those who will not get into the squad. So definitely we are working, and they should keep on praying for us.”
Medeama secured their second Ghana Premier League title last season with 62 points, finishing two points ahead of Bibiani Gold Stars, and will be hoping their pre-season preparations translate into another successful campaign both domestically and in Africa.
