Medeama coach sees optimism despite stalemate against Yanga

Kumasi. Medeama coach Augustine Evans Adotey remained upbeat despite his team's 1-1 draw against Young Africans in the CAF Champions League, a result that denied them the chance to climb to second place in Group D.

The Ghanaian side, featuring a youthful squad with some players from the third tier, went ahead through a Jonathan Mensah penalty and looked poised to capitalize on the draw between CS Belouizdad and leaders Al Ahly.

However, a spirited fightback by Young Africans in the second half earned them a share of the spoils, leaving Adotey to ponder what could have been.

"Although we didn't get the win we wanted, I'm not discouraged because football is a game of uncertainties," the coach said after the match. "We have a young team, and some of them are even from the third tier. Considering that, I'm proud of their performance against a team with more experienced players."

Adotey praised his young players for their courage and resilience against a seasoned opponent packed with international experience.

"Yanga has more experienced players, but my boys fought hard and showed their quality," he added.

Despite the setback, Medeama remains in contention for a place in the knockout stages, tied on four points with Belouizdad in third place.

"Our goal was to win here to improve our position," Adotey revealed. "While that didn't happen, we still have a chance when we travel to Tanzania for the next leg. We believe we can beat them there."

Adotey will use the next 12 days to strategize for the crucial match in Dar es Salaam, where his committed and determined squad will travel with the belief that they can overcome their more experienced rivals and continue their journey in the CAF Champions League.