Tom Strand has named a strong attacking minded starting X1 ahead of the CAF Confederation Cup play-off tie against Mamelodi Sundowns, with influential midfield general Malik Akowuah passing a late fitness test to make the squad.

The Swedish trainer has kept faith with the core of his key men ahead of the crucial tie against the newly crowned South African champions.

Samuel Adade, Moses Sarpong, Daniel Amoah and Paul Aidoo form the back-four with Malik Akowuah expected to operate from the heart of attack.

Kwesi Donsu maintains his place behind striker Abass Mohammed.

Donsu will enjoy support from Eric Kwakwa at the heart of midfield.

Kwame Boahene will operate from the left with pocket-size Samuel Bio operating from the right.

Captain Muntari Tagoe maintains his place in post for the crunch tie against the Buccaneers at the Lucas Moripe stadium in Pretoria.

In terms of history, success and prestige, the Brazilians will surely be heavy favorites against a Medeama side that has only been in existence since 2002, the club having never won the league in Ghana but rather qualifying for the Confederation Cup by winning the domestic cup back home.

Two years ago, Medeama missed qualification to the group stage of the same competition by a whisker after losing on penalties to Congolese side ac Leopards.

Medeama starting X1 against Mamelodi Sundowns.

Goalkeeper: Muntari Tagoe, Samuel Adade, Moses Sarpong, Daniel Amoah, Paul Aidoo, Malik Akowuah, Kwesi Donsu, Eric Kwakwa, Kwame Boahene, Samuel Bio and Abass Mohammed