Infrastructure Woes Push Dekedaha SC to Play Both CAF Champions League Legs in Tunisia

The decision to host both fixtures in Tunisia—home to one of Africa’s most fervent football fanbases—paints a stark picture of the challenges plaguing Somali football. Limited by financial woes and subpar facilities, teams like Dekedaha look outward for venues, with their historic win over AS Arta coming at Tanzania’s Azam Sports Complex—a neutral ground. This inability to host matches on home turf due to inadequate stadiums underscores the obstacles that must be tackled for Somali football to flourish at a higher level.

Despite the apparent drawbacks, this situation presents a tactical opportunity. Skipping a second long-haul journey, Dekedaha reduces travel-induced fatigue, allowing them to concentrate fully. Known for their defensive strength and tactical discipline, staying put could work in their favor. However, they miss out on home-field comfort—a double-edged sword against Esperance, backed by die-hard supporters. The real test lies in sustaining focus and composure against the backdrop of a team who’ve bagged multiple CAF Champions League titles, in an arena sure to be charged with hostility.

For Dekedaha, reaching this phase itself is a monumental feat—it marks nearly four decades since a Somali team has come this far in the CAF Champions League. Their 4-1 rout of Horseed FC, clinching the Somali Premier League crown, highlights their ambition to join the continental elites. Yet, translating domestic triumphs to international success will demand grit, flexibility, and an unwavering belief in toppling one of Africa’s legendary clubs. These defining moments shape a club’s legacy.

Dekedaha’s saga continues on September 15, facing Esperance in the first leg at 12:00 p.m. local time, with the return leg set for September 21 at 2:00 p.m., both in Tunisia. For Dekedaha, it presents a chance to craft another chapter in their extraordinary journey and, possibly, etch their names in history once more.