Nations FC bow out of CAF Confederation Cup after aggregate 2-1 loss to FC Diarra

Nations FC's maiden CAF Confederation Cup campaign came to an end after they were held to a 1-1 draw by Mali's FC Diarra in the second leg of their preliminary-round tie at the Accra Sports Stadium on Sunday.

The Ghana FA Cup holders entered the return fixture needing to overturn a 1-0 first-leg deficit suffered in Bamako on 5 September, but were unable to find the goals required to keep their continental hopes alive.

Nations FC dominated much of the contest and created a number of clear-cut chances, only to be frustrated by an inspired display from FC Diarra goalkeeper Yakouba Diallo, who produced several important saves to preserve his side's aggregate advantage.

After persistent pressure, the hosts finally broke the deadlock in the 80th minute when Ouedraogo Fatahou found the back of the net, raising hopes of a late comeback.

However, FC Diarra responded to ensure the match finished 1-1, a result that saw the Malian side progress 2-1 on aggregate and secure a place in the next round.

The elimination means Ghana will have no representative in the group stages of either the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup or the CAF Champions League following Medeama SC's earlier exit from Africa's premier club competition.

Nations FC will now shift their focus to domestic football as they prepare for life in the Division One League after suffering relegation from the Ghana Premier League last season.