Yakubu Haqq Emphasizes Preparation as GoldStars Eye CAF Champions League Debut
Captain of Bibiani GoldStars, Yakubu Haqq, believes thorough preparation will be key to the club’s success as they brace for their historic debut in the CAF Champions League.
GoldStars will represent Ghana in Africa’s premier club competition after winning the Ghana Premier League for the first time in their history during the 2024/25 season.
Speaking to Joy Sports, the 30-year-old centre-back highlighted the importance of getting ready to face top-tier opponents from across the continent.
“It’s a tough task, which you need to prepare very well for, because we, being champions in Ghana, are going to face champions elsewhere,” Haqq said.
He also noted that this year’s pre-season intensity has been significantly higher than previous years at the club.
“So each game you’re in, you need to tell yourself you’re playing against a champion, which I think is why this time our preparation is ahead of the previous seasons I know of GoldStars,” he added.
GoldStars have embarked on an ambitious recruitment drive, bringing in at least ten new players to strengthen their squad, with more signings expected before the start of the continental campaign.
“This season’s signings cover all departments, so you can see the new guys are also responding very well, which I think has made things very competitive, which I think is good,” Haqq explained.
“Because if everyone is competing, that means if you don’t compete very well, it will be very hard for you to even get playing time. So those who are around are competing very well.”
The CAF Champions League draw for the preliminary round will be held on August 12, where GoldStars will discover their first opponents in what promises to be a defining journey for the club.
