MC El Eulma Eyes Historic Qualification in CAF Champions League Despite Tough Challenge
MC El Eulma’s journey in the CAF Champions League continues this Sunday as they travel to Kumasi to face Ghana’s Ashanti Kotoko in the second leg of the round of 16. After a 1-1 draw at home in the first leg, the Algerian side is now tasked with overcoming one of Africa’s most formidable teams on their own turf—a challenging proposition given Kotoko’s continental pedigree.
The stakes are high for MC El Eulma, who face a daunting task in Kumasi. Despite the challenge, the team is determined to advance to the next round of Africa’s premier club competition. “We will do everything to qualify,” said Tarek Zaâboub, the general manager of MC El Eulma. However, he acknowledged that the club is still in the process of learning and adapting to the rigors of continental football.
Zaâboub highlighted the importance of the tie, not only for the club’s African aspirations but also for the team’s morale. “We need an exploit to continue our African adventure and honor Algeria. But this is also crucial to lift the spirits of the squad, which is currently in a relegation position in Ligue 1,” he said. The Algerian club is caught in a battle for survival in their domestic league, with the specter of relegation hanging over them as they prepare for their biggest challenge on the continent.
For MC El Eulma to advance, Zaâboub believes a significant mental fortitude is required. “We must be very strong mentally and finish the championship with a bang to avoid relegation to Ligue 2,” he added. The general manager is hopeful that a positive result in Ghana could provide the necessary boost for the team’s domestic campaign.
“I remain convinced that if the guys return from Ghana with qualification in their pocket, the stimulating effect could be decisive for the remainder of the season,” Zaâboub remarked, emphasizing the importance of confidence and momentum. Despite the immense pressure, he remains optimistic, stressing that “impossible is not Eulmi.”
As MC El Eulma prepares for what could be a historic qualification, they will need to summon all their resilience and determination to overcome Ashanti Kotoko’s home advantage and continue their CAF Champions League journey. The road ahead is undeniably tough, but the belief within the squad remains strong as they strive to write their own African success story.
