Remo Stars are set to make a return to continental football as they prepare to host AS FAR of Morocco in the preliminary round of the 2024/25 CAF Champions League this coming weekend.
The fixture marks another significant test for the Ikenne-based side, rekindling memories of past continental encounters.
A look back at previous encounters
The upcoming clash against AS FAR is particularly poignant for Remo Stars, who faced the Moroccan giants during the 2021/22 CAF Confederation Cup.
Under the guidance of coach Gbenga Ogunbote at the time, Remo Stars travelled as underdogs to Rabat, where they put up a spirited performance to secure a 1-1 draw.
Adams Olamilekan was the hero for Remo Stars, equalizing after the hosts had taken the lead.
However, the return leg in Ikenne was a disappointment for the Nigerian side. Despite their valiant effort in Rabat, they fell to a narrow 1-0 defeat at home, ending their hopes of progressing further in the competition.
Last season, Remo Stars faced another disappointment in continental football when they were eliminated by Ghanaian side Medeama SC in the CAF Champions League preliminary round.
After both legs ended 1-0, the tie was decided by penalties, with Remo Stars losing out in the shoot-out.
A chance for redemption for Remo Stars
This time around, Remo Stars are determined to make history by reaching the group stage of the CAF Champions League for the first time. Facing AS FAR once again, the team is eager to learn from their previous experiences and put on a stronger performance.
Head coach Daniel Ogunmodede is optimistic about his team's chances, emphasizing the growth and learning that has taken place since their last encounter with AS FAR.
“We learn from our experiences, and I believe we will do better this time around. The squad has been training, and we will be ready,” Ogunmodede said.
“The first time we met them, we learned a lot because it was our first time on the continent, and we were inexperienced. Now that we're meeting them again, it's our third time, and whether anyone likes it or not, we're more experienced now.
“But the thing is, they're more difficult to play now because they just got a new coach, and it's difficult to know anything about them.”
Squad reinforcements
In preparation for this crucial tie, Ogunmodede has quietly strengthened his squad, adding new players who he believes will enhance the team’s competitiveness both domestically and on the continent.
Among the notable signings is 27-year-old former Giwa FC striker Ibrahim Shuaibu, who brings a wealth of experience from his stints in Norway, Israel, Armenia, and Iraq.
The midfield has also been bolstered with the addition of Alex Oyowah from Rivers United, who is expected to bring more steel and creativity following the departure of veteran Dayo Ojo. Exciting youngster Peter Onuoha, who joins from Jobi Sports Academy, is another promising addition to the squad.
In defence, the experienced centre-back Ifeanyi Anaemena has returned after a loan spell, Chima Nwokeji has joined from relegated Sporting Lagos, and the full-back pairing of Faisal Sani and Ibrahim Abubakar has joined from Kano Pillars.
The team has also added a bit of international flavor with the signings of Beninese midfielder Serge Obasa and Nigerien defender Ismaila Souley.
Coach Ogunmodede is hopeful that these new additions will provide the necessary boost for Remo Stars as they aim to overcome AS FAR.
The first leg of the encounter will take place at the Remo Stars Stadium in Ikenne on 18 August at 6 PM local time.
