Nania confirms participation in 2012 CAF Confederation Cup
Division One campaigners, Nania FC has confirmed their participation in the 2012 Confederation of African Football (CAF) Confederation Cup.
The Super Cup and FA Cup champions formalized their intent to feature in the second-tier continental Club Championship ahead of the December 5 deadline set by the continent’s soccer governing body.
Founder and bank-roller of the Club, Abedi ‘Pele’ Ayew told GNA Sports on Monday that they have registered their desire to make their continental bow in the competition that comes with a prize-money of $660,000 for the winner.
Ayew added that his team is looking forward to the opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the best sides in African football.
“We have confirmed our participation in the CAF Confederation Cup,” the former Black Stars captain said.
The decision will come as a surprise, considering the huge financial burden that comes with playing in the Africa Club Championship, but Ayew explained that they are bracing up for the challenge.
“The issue of funds is a problem for every club in Ghana and Africa as a whole. South African clubs at one point pulled out of Africa to ensure that their finances are in order.
“We are committed to playing in the competition and are working out on sponsorship opportunities to support our campaign.”
The former Black Stars captain described the timing of their decision as perfect, and has ruled out their status as a second-tier club as a hindrance.
“If we have beaten the top sides to qualify, then we are ready. We have sent the message that no team can take us for a ride.
“We will not press the fear button at all. This is an opportunity to showcase what we are made of to the whole of Africa.”
The ‘Soccer Maestro stated that they have no immediate target as they make their debut on the continental stage next year.
“For now our target is to treat all to our wonderful form of football. It will be a nice experience and we are relishing the moment. As first timers, we will approach it normally and will not allow other factors to become an impediment in goal.”
The Division One side will join Berekum Chelsea who are to participate in the much prestigious CAF Champions League.
Nania will be the first Ghanaian Club outside the elite division to feature in the continental Club Championship.
The ‘Pride of Paga’ beat Kumasi Asante Kotoko 1-0 in extra time to win the FA Cup and later beat Premier League champions, Berekum Chelsea in the Super Cup.
Source: GNA