Rwanda’s APR FC will face Gaadiidka FC of Somalia in the CAF Champions League preliminary round with the first leg scheduled to be played on August 19 in a yet to be named venue in Rwanda before a second leg trip to Banadir in Mogadishu on August 25. Despite being one of the oldest clubs in East Africa, little is known about Gaadiidka FC nor their exploits over the years making them look underdogs before the Rwandan champions. Times Sport takes a look at the club’s football history since its inception, their success, style of play and key players among other aspects. ALSO READ: APR paired with Gaadiidka FC in Champions League preliminary round History Gaadiidka FC, previously known as AutoParco, is a Somalian Premier League club based in the Banadir part of Mogadishu. The club is owned by the Transport Department of the Somalian Government and it was established in 1942 to provide recreation in sports for workers at the institution. Football was actually being played in Somalia during the colonial era in the early 1930's but there was no organised league as football was just played for the fun aspect. As a UN trust area, mini football competitions were played and AutoParco now known as Gaadiidka won it in 1954/55, 1955/56 and 1956/57 making them the first team in the country to win the competition three times in a row. It was not until 1958 when the country had a recognized league with Bondere FC winning the first title. Going into oblivion AutoParco, who have now changed their name to Gaadiidka FC, failed to glitter after 1961 when Somalia gained independence as teams such as Lavori Publici, Horseed FC and others took control. Gaadiidka FC struggled for years but after money was pumped into the team, they bounced back, winning the league title in 1990. It was their first trophy in 33 years. They failed to maintain their grip on the league title and went again on another 20-year trophy drought before triumphing again during the 2020/21 season. Gaadiidka in 2022/23 After winning the title in 2021, they again lifted the title in the 2022/23 season. They were trailing Heegan FC in the second round before going on a winning spree to overtake them. Out of 16 games they played, Gaadiidka FC won 10, lost four and drew two. They were an exciting force to watch throughout the season with superb performances. Their best game of the season was against Jazeera on Friday, October 28, 2022, when they thrashed the side 4-0. Stadium The Garoonka Banaadir Stadium in Mogadishu is one of the intimidating venues in the country. The 10,000 capacity edifice in Mogadishu is the home grounds of Gaadiidka and they hardly lose a game there. Key player: Pentecost Obiechina On July 1, 2022, Gaadiidka FC brought in the Nigerian winger Pentecost Obiechina who is by far the best player in the Somalian Premier League history. Obiechina, 25, spent five years playing in Europe for clubs in Czech Republic and Slovakia and he was an established name before coming to Somalia. He played for Senica FC, the biggest Club in Slovakia. A very tricky winger, Obiechina is noted for his pace and ability to create chances. The Nigerian player is more of a provider than a scorer though at times he chips in a couple of goals. Strongest department The wings of Gaadiidka FC are their strongest hold and most of their attacks are launched from that area. Obiechina can operate from both flanks and he is the key man who provides the arsenals for the Somalian champions. Weakest department Gaadiidka FC are very porous at the back as they concede a lot of goals. In the 16 games they played in the 2022/23 season, they let in 15 goals which is almost a goal per every game though they also scored 28. Style of play Gaadiidka mostly uses the wings to great effect. They play the orthodox 4-4-2 formation and the number 7 and 11 are very key as they send in the crosses to be connected by an attacking duo at the front line.
