Liberia’s representative in the Confederation of African Football (CAF) cup competition, the CAF Cup, Watanga FC, is gearing up for a crucial match against Mali’s Stade Malien on Sunday, August 20, 2023. Head Coach Cooper Sannah emphasized that his team is fully prepared both technically and mentally for this significant encounter, set to take place at the Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex in Liberia.
BY: Christopher C. Walker 0777898224/0886723075 [email protected]
Sannah expressed his team’s commitment to putting on an impressive performance that will pose a significant challenge for Stade Malien. Watanga FC secured their place in the CAF Cup following a loss to LISCR FC in the Orange Cup Final, where LISCR claimed the double title. Eager to make an impact in their second continental tournament, the Liberian team has dedicated three weeks to intense preparation, even incorporating new players into the squad.
Speaking from the team’s training ground, Sannah stated his optimism about achieving a favorable outcome in front of their home crowd. He acknowledged the strong capabilities of the visitors but emphasized that Watanga FC would not hold back. Sannah’s previous encounter with Stade Malien dates back to 2017 when, as the head coach of the Liberian Champions Barrack Young Controllers (BYC), his team secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory at home, eliminating Stade Malien from the CAF Champions League.
Reflecting on the team’s progress, Sannah expressed his satisfaction with the seamless integration of the new players. He affirmed, “I am pleased that all the new players have settled in well, quickly understanding the culture of football at Watanga FC. Together, we will strive for the betterment of Watanga.”
Sannah’s primary focus lies in guiding his team to create history by advancing to the group stage of the competition—a feat no Liberian team has accomplished in the past two decades. Motivated by a hunger for success, Watanga FC aims to replicate their victory against Nigeria’s River United in the Champions League, securing a win on home soil.
While acknowledging the stature of Stade Malien, Sannah exuded confidence, assuring that his players are prepared to deliver. The team has introduced seven new players, including Theo Nimely, Natus Swen, Daniel Nyemah, Emmanuel Sieh, Hassan Fadiga, Emmanuel Fully, and Joseph Bontee, to bolster their lineup.
Watanga FC’s journey to the CAF Cup followed a defeat to LISCR FC in the Orange Cup Final, a setback that fueled their determination to make a lasting impression in their second continental tournament. In 2022, the team represented Liberia in the CAF Champions League, displaying resilience in the face of adversity. Despite a challenging 3-0 loss in the first leg against Nigerian champions River United FC, they rallied and triumphed with a 1-0 victory in the second leg on home turf.
As the match against Stade Malien approaches, all eyes are on Watanga FC as they strive to create history and advance further in the CAF Cup. Coach Sannah and his players are poised to give their best, fueled by the unwavering support of their administration. Their goal remains clear: a strong performance, with a two-goal victory and a clean sheet, to secure a triumphant outcome for the Liberian side. While respecting the stature of Stade Malien, Watanga FC is confident in their abilities and prepared to overcome any challenge that comes their way.