Can Aduana make Ghana proud this time?

Ghana lost its double slot for Caf competitions some years ago following repetitive poor performances from representatives of the West African country.

This situation is yet to be remedied as no Ghanaian club has made it to the group stages of any Caf competition since 2012 aside Medeama.

The likes of Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak have long lost their fear factor even in the local topflight not to mention in Africa.

However, new Ghana Premier League champions Aduana Stars appear to be confident to change the poor trend and restore some pride to the country’s representation in continental competitions.

Words might not be enough. Have they the quality and motivation needed to conquer grounds away from home?

Few additions were made to the squad after the end of the previous season. That could come with some advantages and disadvantages.

The core of the team is still very much intact and there are chances they would play with great cohesion and understanding like during their brilliant campaign in the domestic league.

But what corrections were made to the weaknesses of the team ahead of the Caf Champions League? What reinforcements were made especially in defence and midfield?

A number of teams ushering out for continental competitions overhaul their outfit by bringing in a couple of experienced players, mostly foreign imports.

This helps to balance the exposure level of the team.

Ghana FA

How many can Aduana boast off?

We know little about their budget for the competition and what portion has been earmarked for motivation and incentives.

This is very important as it helps in pushing for results. Four-time African champions TP Mazembe of DR Congo is one of the numerous examples. Players get promises of plots of land, vehicles, fat cheques and salary increase.

Aduana’s mission starts with an away trip to North Africa where they will be entertained by Al Tahady of Libya, who are playing their home games in Egypt.

Hosting the return leg in Ghana appears to many a huge advantage but the real task would be how Aduana would manage the first leg to their favour to avoid an uphill battle at home.

North African teams tend to get away with their defensive and counterattack style while on the road. A situation the Ghanaians must endeavour to beat against while in Egypt.

Aduana have just 180 minutes across two games to register a dream start in their continental campaign and set the pace for an improved slot for Ghanaian clubs next year. But the first 90 minutes could prove more determinant and therefore they are the most to be more careful with come Sunday.