Medeama Sporting Club says it is not intimidated by its CAF Champions League preliminary-round clash against DR Congo giants TP Mazembe.
Medeama Communications Director Benjamin Wille Graham said the club remains focused on reaching the group stage as it begins its journey to win the CAF Champions League for the first time.
Medeama were drawn against five-time CAF Champions League winners TP Mazembe in the preliminary round. The first leg will be played at the TnA Stadium between September 4 and 6, 2026.
Speaking to Luv FM after the draw in Cairo on Thursday, Benjamin said the strength of the opposition has not changed the club’s target.
“If you’ve listened to my president, Mr Moses Parker, he has told you several times in the media that his dream is to win the competition this year. His hope is that we are going to go to the group stages. That is the current strategy. That is the current target for us,” he said.
He added that Medeama must prepare well regardless of the opponent standing in their way.
“No matter the obstacle we face or the position we find ourselves in, our main target is to get to the group stages. So we just have to prepare adequately and meet the target that we have set for ourselves,” Benjamin added.
Medeama, who are ranked 54th in Africa, will face TP Mazembe, who are ranked 20th in the latest CAF rankings.
Asked whether the draw was unlucky for Medeama, Benjamin said he would not describe it as a matter of luck.
“I wouldn’t use the word luck. TP Mazembe was not ranked, same as Medeama,” he said.
He explained that the club would eventually have to face a strong opponent if it progresses to the next stage.
“Even if he had qualified, or perhaps we beat TP Mazembe, the next stage is also going to be a tough side. So, however you look at it, you’re still going to meet, and that’s why it is a Champions League – there are surprises,” he said.
According to Benjamin, good preparation will be key to Medeama’s chances of progressing.
“It depends on your preparation. If you prepare well, you are able to meet any obstacle that you face. If we beat it, Mazembe, I’m sure it’s not going to be a big surprise,” he added.
If Medeama eliminate TP Mazembe, they will face either Tunisia’s Club Africain or Mali’s Djoliba AC in the second preliminary round.
