Former Ghana international Joetex Frimpong has opened up about one of the most nerve-racking moments of his career during his time with the Black Stars.

Frimpong, who played a key role in Ghana’s historic qualification for the 2006 FIFA World Cup, revealed how the fear of being dropped haunted him as a young player. The ex-BSC Young Boys striker earned 11 caps and scored two goals for Ghana but missed out on the final squad for the World Cup in Germany.

Speaking in an interview with Sikka Sports, Frimpong recalled how former Black Stars coach Ratomir Dujkovic put intense pressure on the new players in the team.

“It was a scary moment when Ratomir Dujkovic told us the new players that if we didn’t make any impact, we would never be called again,” Frimpong shared.

Determined to impress, Frimpong seized his chance during a crucial match against Burkina Faso. “I came on as a substitute, won a penalty, and assisted the winning goal as we came from a goal down to win 2-1,” he narrated.

Despite his contributions during the qualifiers, Frimpong admitted that missing out on the World Cup remains the most painful moment of his career. “My biggest regret with the Black Stars was my omission from the 2006 World Cup squad. It was very difficult for me to take at the time,” he confessed.

Frimpong’s story is a reflection of the intense competition within the Black Stars and the emotional rollercoaster that comes with representing Ghana at the highest level.