By Emmanuel Nelson Nyarko 
Medeama SC will be aiming to overturn a first-leg deficit when they face TP Mazembe in the second leg of their CAF Champions League first preliminary-round tie in Lubumbashi today.
The Ghanaian champions suffered a narrow 1–0 defeat to the Congolese giants in the first leg at the TNA Stadium in Tarkwa, leaving them with a difficult task ahead of the return encounter.
Medeama must now score at least twice without conceding if they are to secure qualification to the next stage of the competition in normal time.
A 1–0 victory for the Ghanaian side would level the aggregate score and send the tie to a penalty shootout, while any victory by two goals or more would see Medeama overturn the deficit and advance.
TP Mazembe, meanwhile, head into the second leg with the advantage and will be looking to protect their lead on home soil.
The five-time African champions will also have the backing of their supporters at the Stade TP Mazembe in Lubumbashi as they seek to complete the job and progress in the competition.
Medeama coach Ibrahim Tanko has insisted that his side are not afraid of their opponents despite the first-leg setback, with the Ghanaian side determined to produce a stronger performance in the return fixture.
The Mauve and Yellow will therefore need to be disciplined defensively while making the most of their opportunities in attack if they are to keep their Champions League campaign alive.
With just one goal separating the two sides, the tie remains open, but Medeama know they have little room for error in Lubumbashi.
Kick-off is scheduled for 2:00 PM local time in Lubumbashi and 1:00 PM GMT For Medeama, it is a test of character, resilience and continental experience as they look to overturn the deficit and continue their CAF Champions League journey.
Comfort Larry