Bibiani GoldStars face a stern test in their CAF Champions League debut when they host Algeria’s JS Kabylie on Saturday afternoon at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Ghanaian champions would have preferred to welcome the Algerians in Bibiani, where their home support has often proven decisive, but the tie will be played in the capital. That shift robs GoldStars of the familiar advantage, though coach Frimpong Manso believes preparation and confidence will be key.

"It [home advantage] helps a lot, you know. If you are used to a certain home ground, like in Bibiani, we’ve been playing there week in, week out," Manso told Joy Sports. "But at the Accra Sports Stadium, we only come when we are playing against Hearts of Oak or one of the Accra teams. We’ll have the opportunity to train twice before the match, and that will help us understand the pitch and give us confidence for Saturday."

GoldStars are determined to reach the group stage in their first attempt on the continental stage, but Kabylie represent formidable opposition. The Algerians are two-time winners of the competition and are featuring in their 18th CAF Champions League campaign. In total, they boast 30 seasons of continental football experience, underlining their pedigree.