by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Athletics, Boxing, Ghana, Other Sports, Soccer
Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Member of Parliament for Old Tafo, has cast doubt on the credibility of the Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) committee’s investigation into alleged corruption surrounding the 13th African Games hosted in Ghana.
During an interview on JoyNews, Assafuah criticized the committee, led by Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, for what he described as a rushed and weak investigation. He specifically questioned the evidence presented, arguing that a sponsorship request to BOST was being misrepresented as proof of corruption.
“They are supposed to investigate corrupt practices, including the 13th African Games. I took my time to read what they meant by alleged corruption and only saw one document—a sponsorship request to BOST. How does that qualify as corruption?” he questioned.
The MP also warned that the committee could face multiple defamation lawsuits due to its findings.
The 13th African Games, held in March 2024, cost Ghana over $245 million, with $195 million allocated to infrastructure, $15 million to feeding athletes, and $48 million to operational costs. Allegations of mismanagement have fueled public debate, though the Local Organizing Committee has defended the expenditures.
The ORAL committee has since submitted its report to President John Dramani Mahama, who has forwarded it to the Attorney General for further action.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder recalls his time at Portsmouth and the legendary 2008 FA Cup triumph
Former Ghanaian international Sulley Muntari has spoken fondly about his time at Portsmouth under renowned English manager Harry Redknapp, describing the experience as a privilege.
Muntari joined Pompey from Udinese in 2007 for a reported £7.1 million, signing a five-year deal. The dynamic midfielder quickly became a key player, making a lasting impact on the team’s historic FA Cup-winning campaign.
One of his most memorable moments came in the sixth round of the FA Cup, where he scored the decisive penalty in a 1–0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford. That crucial win paved the way for Portsmouth’s journey to the final, where they defeated Cardiff City to lift the trophy at Wembley.
Reflecting on Redknapp’s influence, Muntari told Sportsblog247.com:
“Everybody loved him. He gave us freedom on the pitch but also made it clear when we weren’t performing. He was experienced, calm, and had an amazing eye for talent.”
Redknapp’s recruitment strategy brought together an impressive squad, and Muntari was proud to be part of a team featuring top players like Sylvain Distin, Sol Campbell, Nwankwo Kanu, Lassana Diarra, Niko Kranjčar, and David James.
“He was not just a coach but also a businessman. He knew how to build a strong team,” Muntari added.
After just one season at Portsmouth, where he made 29 appearances and scored four goals, Muntari secured a move to Italian giants Inter Milan, continuing his successful career at the highest level.
His time at Fratton Park remains a special chapter in his football journey, highlighted by a historic FA Cup triumph and the guidance of a manager he still holds in high regard.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Former Ghanaian midfielder reflects on past experiences and offers advice to players
Former Ghana international Sulley Muntari has opened up about his painful experiences with racism in football, expressing hope that the issue will one day be eradicated from the sport.
Muntari, who played in top European leagues, notably faced racial abuse during his time in Italy’s Serie A with Pescara. One of the most distressing incidents occurred in a match against Cagliari, where, instead of receiving support from officials after reporting the abuse, he was shown a yellow card. Frustrated, he walked off the pitch in protest.
Reflecting on the challenges of tackling racism in football, the 40-year-old shared his perspective in an interview with Sportsblog247.com:
“They can’t deal with racism in Italy. It’s going to be like this for a long time unless they act in a very strict way. In England, you can be suspended or jailed for racism, but even with that, it still exists. It’s human nature; it’s how some people feel about us.”
Despite his difficult experiences, Muntari encouraged current players to stay focused on their careers:
“As a player, I think you don’t have to pay attention to it. If you’re playing football, you go on to do just that. If you’re working, you go on to do just that. Wherever you are, just focus on what you do and don’t let someone get to you. Sometimes, people bring their frustration to you.”
Now looking back with a different perspective, he admitted, “If I knew at that time, I would have handled things differently. I was young, so I would fight back. That being said, I’m hoping one day racism will stop.”
Muntari made history as the African player with the most Serie A appearances (270 games) until fellow Ghanaian Kwadwo Asamoah broke the record in 2021. He also represented Ghana in three consecutive World Cups—2006 (Germany), 2010 (South Africa), and 2014 (Brazil).
Despite retiring from professional football, Muntari remains a voice for change, using his platform to highlight the ongoing fight against racism in the sport.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Super Falcons star commits future to Saudi club after impressive spell
In a significant boost for Al-Ittihad Ladies, Nigerian international Ashleigh Plumptre has signed a two-year contract extension with the Saudi Arabian club.
The 26-year-old defender, who initially joined Al-Ittihad in the summer of 2023 after leaving Leicester City Women, has become a key figure in the squad. Her leadership and defensive prowess have earned her a longer stay in Jeddah, with the club eager to build on her impact.
Announcing the deal on social media, Al-Ittihad praised Plumptre’s contributions, emphasizing their commitment to retaining top talent. “The club’s CEO, Mr. Domingos Oliveira, confirmed that renewing the player’s contract comes within the club’s strategy to retain distinguished players who have the desire to develop and serve the team better in the future,” the club posted.
Plumptre has also been a crucial figure for the Nigerian national team, playing all four matches at the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup and helping the Super Falcons secure an Olympic ticket for the first time in 16 years. Unfortunately, she missed the final tournament due to surgery but remains a vital part of the squad’s future plans.
With this extension, Plumptre is set to continue making history in Saudi Arabia, inspiring a new generation of African and women’s footballers.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Aribo, Uche, and Olawoyin Could Boost Nigeria’s World Cup Hopes
With Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification hopes hanging by a thread, Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle faces tough decisions ahead of the crucial March qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe.
Sitting fifth in Group C with just three points from four matches, the Super Eagles must secure victories to keep their dreams alive. A midfield revamp seems inevitable, and three players—Joe Aribo, Christantus Uche, and Ibrahim Olawoyin—have emerged as strong contenders for a call-up.
Joe Aribo: Back in Form for Southampton
Once a regular in the Super Eagles setup, Joe Aribo’s inconsistent club form saw him fade from the national team picture. However, the 28-year-old has rediscovered his rhythm at Southampton, playing a key role in their push for Premier League promotion.
With three goals in 23 league appearances, Aribo’s confidence is growing, making him a valuable midfield option for Nigeria’s must-win fixtures.
Christantus Uche: Getafe’s Midfield Engine
A rising star in La Liga, Christantus Uche has been a consistent performer for Getafe, excelling in multiple midfield roles.
The Nigerian midfielder has contributed two goals and two assists in 23 matches, proving his ability to influence games. His energy and tactical awareness could provide much-needed balance to the Super Eagles’ midfield.
Ibrahim Olawoyin: The Creative Spark from Turkey
Ibrahim Olawoyin has been making waves in the Turkish Super Lig with Rizespor, bringing creativity and intelligence to the heart of midfield.
The 27-year-old has delivered two goals and six assists in 21 matches across all competitions this season. His technical ability and vision could be the missing link Nigeria needs to break down stubborn defenses.
Will Chelle Give Them a Chance?
With Aribo’s resurgence, Uche’s dynamism, and Olawoyin’s creativity, these three midfielders could be the spark Nigeria needs to turn their World Cup qualification campaign around.
The big question remains: Will Chelle take the bold step and call them up for the decisive March qualifiers?
