by Eliezer Ahorlu | Oct 11, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Ghana international Prince Tagoe has criticized the decision to appoint Mohammed Kudus as captain in the Black Stars’ goalless draw against Sudan in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. With Andre Ayew and Thomas Partey unavailable, Kudus was handed the captain’s armband, but Tagoe believes it was too early for the West Ham star to take on the leadership role.
Speaking on Bryt FM, Tagoe expressed concern that Kudus should be allowed to grow without the burden of captaincy, suggesting Jordan Ayew would have been a more suitable leader for the match.
“We don’t have to rush him. He is one of our future stars, and captaincy should be given systematically,” Tagoe noted, adding that improper captaincy decisions have caused issues in the Black Stars in the past.
Ghana, currently fighting to qualify for AFCON 2025, will look to improve their performance in the return leg against Sudan in Libya, with their chances of securing a spot in the tournament at stake.
by Eliezer Ahorlu | Oct 10, 2024 | International, Soccer
In a dramatic USL Championship match at Protective Stadium, Birmingham Legion FC fell 3-2 to North Carolina FC. Despite the defeat, Ghanaian defender Moses Mensah made a significant contribution, providing a late assist for Birmingham’s second goal after coming on in the 64th minute.
North Carolina took the lead early through Ezra Armstrong in the 8th minute, but Birmingham equalized in the 32nd minute thanks to Enzo Martínez, assisted by Tyler Pasher.
Oalex Anderson restored North Carolina’s advantage in the 59th minute, and Armstrong added a third shortly after, putting Birmingham on the back foot.
Mensah made his mark in the closing moments, setting up Rida Zouhir for a powerful strike from outside the box in the 89th minute to reduce the deficit. Despite the late surge, Birmingham couldn’t find an equalizer, with North Carolina holding on for the win.
Birmingham Legion will look to bounce back in their next match against Las Vegas Lights FC on October 13th.
by Eliezer Ahorlu | Oct 10, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Following Medeama SC’s withdrawal from the planned joint squad with Asante Kotoko SC for their upcoming match against DC United in the Capital City Africa Cup, Kotoko has turned to a new strategy. The club is now focusing on recruiting US-based Ghanaian players to bolster their team for the highly anticipated fixture.
The original plan for Medeama to provide players with valid US visas was abandoned after backlash from Kotoko fans. As a result, Kotoko is seeking reinforcements to address their logistical challenges, particularly around visa issues.
While some fans and critics have expressed disapproval of Kotoko’s decision to field what they term “mercenaries,” the club is determined to ensure they remain competitive against the MLS side, DC United. The match is a highlight of the 2024 Ghana Week DC celebrations, showcasing Ghanaian culture and football talent.
Kotoko’s ability to swiftly adapt and strengthen their squad will be crucial as they represent Ghanaian football on an international stage despite these setbacks.
by Eliezer Ahorlu | Oct 10, 2024 | Europe, Ghana, International
Liverpool is reportedly monitoring Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus as a potential replacement for Mohamed Salah, whose contract situation remains unresolved. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Reds are considering alternatives in case they fail to reach an agreement with Salah, a key figure at Anfield.
Kudus, currently playing for West Ham United, has caught Liverpool’s attention due to his impressive performances in both the Premier League and European competitions. Known for his versatility and goal-scoring prowess, the 24-year-old has become a top target for the Merseyside club as they prepare for the possibility of losing Salah.
Liverpool’s interest in Kudus reflects their desire to maintain depth and quality in attack, ensuring competitiveness should Salah depart. The January transfer window could see developments on this front, depending on how the contract talks unfold.
Meanwhile, Kudus is focused on international duty, leading the Black Stars against Sudan in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers after being named captain for the crucial match.
by Eliezer Ahorlu | Oct 10, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Sudan striker John Manu insists that his team is under no pressure as they prepare to face Ghana in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The Falcons are set to play the Black Stars today at the Accra Sports Stadium in the first leg of the doubleheader.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Manu, who currently plays for Al-Ahli Benghazi, highlighted that Sudan has a strong history in the tournament and remains confident despite the quality of their opponents.
“Sudan is not new to this kind of competition. We have won the AFCON before and have beaten Ghana previously to qualify, so we are not feeling any pressure. The team is calm and ready for the challenge,” he remarked.
Manu also expressed admiration for Ghanaian legend Asamoah Gyan, stating his excitement to play in front of Gyan’s family.
When asked about coach Kwesi Appiah’s impact, Manu praised the tactical adjustments and experience he brings to the Sudanese team.
The match kicks off at 16:00 GMT, with the return leg set for Monday, October 14, at the Martyrs of February Stadium in Libya. Currently, Sudan is second in Group F with three points, while Ghana sits third with one point.
