‘I Hope This Year Will Be Different’ – Mahama Challenges Nations and Medeama to Excel in Africa

Accra: President John Dramani Mahama has challenged Ghanaian clubs representing the country in Africa to go further in continental competitions this season. Mahama made the remarks when he hosted representatives of Medeama Sporting Club, Nations FC, and Ampem Darkoa at the Jubilee House in Accra on Tuesday, September 8, 2026. The President commended the clubs for winning domestic honors and earning the opportunity to represent Ghana on the continental stage, while expressing hope that this year's representatives will produce better results than their predecessors.

According to Ghana Web, the President stated, 'Let me commend the teams that have won the various championships in our league and are going on the continent. Last year two teams came to me, unfortunately, with all the enthusiasm; they couldn't get far. I hope this year will be different.' Medeama faces the biggest challenge among the Ghanaian representatives, having been drawn against one of Africa's most decorated clubs, TP Mazembe. The Tarkwa-based side will travel to Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of Congo, for the second leg of their CAF Champions League tie against the five-time African champions.

Despite acknowledging the strength of the Congolese giants, Mahama believes Medeama can produce an upset and progress in the competition. 'Even though your opponents are formidable, I think that when the going gets tough, the tough gets going. TP Mazembe is a very well-known team in Africa and it's my hope that you'll be able to overcome them,' he added.

The President also offered financial support to the clubs, with Medeama receiving $30,000, Nations FC $20,000, and Ampem Darkoa $10,000.