Kumasi, Ghana (April 29, 2024) – Ghanaian side Dreams FC have expressed gratitude to an “exciting crowd” that came to support them in an incredible Confederations Cup journey that painfully came to an end after a 3-0 home loss to Egyptian giants Zamalek in the second leg of the semi-final tie.
Dreams FC saw their dreams of conquering Africa at the first attempt crushed on Sunday at the Kumasi Baba Yara Stadium, where they hosted the White Knights after an impressive 0-0 away draw a week earlier in Cairo. However, they were soundly defeated 3-0 at home by Zamalek in the second leg, ending their remarkable run in the CAF Confederations Cup semi-finals.
A clinical Zamalek side capitalized on their scoring opportunities to secure a 3-0 away victory over Dreams FC who were just a step away from making big history in 20 years of the competition.
Tunisian defender Hamza Mathlouthi opened the scoring for Zamalek in the 11th minute, followed by Benin’s forward Samson Akinyoola doubling the lead 17 minutes later. Winger Mostafa Shalabi completed the rout on the hour-mark, confirming Zamalek’s qualification to the final.
Despite the painful exit, Dreams FC were appreciative of the fantastic home support they received throughout their continental campaign. In a statement released after the match, the club said:
“Not the way we expected it to be. We bow out of the CAF Confederations Cup at the semi-final stage. An end to an incredible journey with an exciting crowd and support nationwide. Thank you for being part of our DREAM journey.”
Dreams FC may have fallen short this time, but their fairy tale run in Africa has laid the foundation for bigger achievements to come in the future.
While bitterly disappointed, Dreams FC can take pride in their incredible journey to reach this stage and ensure a place in the history books of Ghanaian football. Their performances have further stoked the dreams of local fans hoping for future continental glory.
The fans created a raucous atmosphere in Kumasi, cheering on their heroes from the stands in their bright green home kits. But on the pitch, Dreams FC were outclassed by the more experienced Zamalek side.
And they stayed behind after the final whistle to applaud the Warriors’ valiant efforts throughout the campaign.
The players were emotional but appreciative of the incredible support as they completed a lap of honour around the Baba Yara Stadium.
