Horoya AC of Conakry is setting its sights on the semi-finals of the CAF Champions League, with the first step being a strong performance in the quarter-final first leg against Wydad Casablanca. The Matam-based club will host the Moroccan side this Saturday at the Stade du 28 Septembre in Conakry, aiming to gain a crucial advantage ahead of the return leg.
In a press conference on Friday, Horoya coach Didier Gomes Da Rosa expressed respect for the Moroccan champions but emphasized his belief in his squad’s ability to secure victory. “Against Wydad, it’s a different kind of match. I respect them a lot, but we’ve worked very hard to prepare for this game,” he said.
The coach highlighted the depth and quality of his squad, noting that several players are eager for playing time and ready to contribute on the continental stage. “I’m very positive about the squad I have at my disposal; it’s very deep, and I have many players who need playing time. I’m very committed to merit, but also to hard work in training. There’s quality in this squad. We have what it takes to go far in this Champions League,” Gomes Da Rosa added.
Horoya AC has reached this stage of the competition before, and the coach framed the upcoming match as a continuation of the team’s previous achievements. “Last year, the team was at this stage of the competition; it’s a continuation. The players earned that qualification, and we’re aiming to go even further,” he said.
Looking ahead to Saturday’s match, the coach was clear about his objectives. “For tomorrow, we know what we want: victory at all costs. I have what it takes to achieve that,” Gomes Da Rosa said, underscoring the determination and focus of his team.
Horoya AC will rely on a combination of experience and youth to challenge Wydad Casablanca, aiming to leverage the home advantage and the support of their fans at the Stade du 28 Septembre. The club has consistently demonstrated strong performances in continental competitions, and this quarter-final tie represents a key opportunity to continue their run in Africa’s premier club tournament.
For Wydad Casablanca, accustomed to high-level CAF competition, the encounter will also be challenging. However, Horoya AC’s preparation, squad depth, and tactical discipline provide the club with the tools needed to compete effectively. Gomes Da Rosa’s emphasis on hard work, merit, and quality highlights the team’s readiness and ambition heading into the first leg.
As the quarter-finals begin, Horoya AC aims to take control of the tie early, establishing momentum and confidence for the second leg. Success in this match would not only bring the club closer to the semi-finals but also reinforce its growing reputation as a competitive force in African football.
With the team fully focused and the coach confident in his squad’s capabilities, Saturday’s match promises to be a pivotal moment for Horoya AC. A strong performance against Wydad Casablanca could set the stage for a historic progression in the CAF Champions League, further cementing the club’s status as one of Guinea’s leading football sides.
