by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Leicester City Star on the Path to Recovery After Angola Setback
Ghanaian international Abdul Fatawu Issahaku is on the road to recovery after undergoing successful surgery to treat an injury sustained during Ghana’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Angola.
The Leicester City winger was forced off the pitch in the first half of the intense match last Thursday, leaving fans concerned about his condition. His absence was felt in Ghana’s final Group F game against Niger, as he returned to England for medical evaluation and subsequent surgery.
In the aftermath of the Angola match, the Ghana Football Association provided an update on the situation, revealing that Issahaku and teammate Jordan Ayew both sustained injuries. While Ayew managed to complete the game, MRI scans revealed significant issues with his knee. Issahaku’s injury, however, necessitated an early substitution.
On Instagram, the 19-year-old winger reassured his supporters, confirming the success of his surgery and expressing gratitude for their unwavering support.
“All glory be to Almighty Allah. My surgery was successful, and I just want to tell you that I am okay. I want to thank everyone for your best wishes,” Issahaku shared.
Fans across the globe have rallied behind him, sending messages of encouragement as he begins his recovery journey. The talented winger’s swift return to action will undoubtedly boost Ghana’s ambitions in the AFCON tournament and Leicester City’s campaign in club competitions.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Genoa has officially appointed Patrick Vieira as their new manager, with a contract running until 2026. The French legend steps into the Serie A spotlight once again, this time reigniting a familiar rivalry. Fans can’t help but draw parallels to his history with Mario Balotelli, as both iconic figures find themselves back in Italy. Balotelli, known for his unpredictable flair, might cross paths with Vieira’s disciplined managerial style, promising drama and entertainment.
Will this be another chapter in their storied history? Only time will tell, but the stage is set for a compelling narrative.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
In the aftermath of Ghana’s failure to secure a spot at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) Communications Director, Henry Asante Twum, has come forward to defend Black Stars head coach Otto Addo. Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM, Asante Twum expressed unwavering confidence in Addo’s leadership and the capabilities of his revamped technical team to guide Ghana to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Reflecting on the changes in the technical setup, Asante Twum acknowledged the absence of key figures from the team that helped Ghana secure qualification for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. “At that time, we had Chris Hughton, George Boateng, and Didi Dramani,” he remarked. “This time, the composition is different, but I firmly believe in Otto Addo and his team.”
The current coaching staff features former Black Stars players John Paintsil as an assistant coach and Fatau Dauda as a goalkeeper trainer, alongside Joseph Laumann. Asante Twum highlighted their expertise and potential to deliver, despite the challenges.
Ghana is currently second in Group I of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers with nine points. The Black Stars will need strong performances in their upcoming matches against Chad and Madagascar to secure one of the coveted qualification spots for the tournament, which will be hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer, World Cup
In a raucous Cape Town Stadium, Bafana Bafana showcased their evolution under head coach Hugo Broos with a commanding 3-0 victory over South Sudan, securing top spot in AFCON qualifying Group K. The win, coming on the heels of a 2-0 triumph against Uganda in Kampala, underscored South Africa’s resurgence as a competitive force in African football.
Bafana’s form, which includes an impressive third-place finish in the 2023 Nations Cup in Ivory Coast, has sparked optimism for both the upcoming AFCON 2025 in Morocco and the expanded 48-team FIFA World Cup in 2026. Broos, who previously led Cameroon to AFCON glory in 2017, believes his team is building a winning mentality.
“From the first minute, we played good football,” said Broos, reflecting on the South Sudan game. “It was a high tempo, with chances throughout. This team showed hunger and responsibility, and they didn’t disappoint the big crowd. When you see a performance like that, it’s clear we’ve progressed.”
Broos highlighted his players’ focus and discipline, comparing their consistency to other qualified teams like Tunisia, Nigeria, and Burkina Faso, who faltered in their final games.
“We didn’t spoil the party,” he said with pride. “The mentality in this team is what we need to challenge for bigger goals. If South Africa can qualify for the World Cup, it’s now. We have quality, a good team, and the belief to make it happen.”
The coach also praised his players for their tactical execution. “There was always movement, high tempo, and good passing. Everything I asked for, I saw on the field. This makes it difficult for opponents and gives us confidence for the challenges ahead.”
With 14 points, Bafana topped Group K ahead of Uganda (13 points). Now sharing the lead in World Cup qualifying Group C with Rwanda and Benin, the team looks poised for even greater achievements.
Broos, however, remains grounded. “We’re not where we want to be yet, but little by little, we’re becoming a very good team. Qualifying for the World Cup and competing at AFCON are our next big goals, and I’m confident we can do it.”
As Bafana Bafana continues to win hearts and fill stadiums, the dream of returning to the global stage and achieving continental glory feels more tangible than ever.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
It was a chilly evening on January 9, 2004, in the bustling city of Kumasi. The Baba Yara Stadium was packed to capacity, with fans from every corner of Ghana eager to witness history. Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko, two of Ghana’s fiercest football rivals, were set to battle for the inaugural CAF Confederation Cup title. The air was electric, and the stakes could not have been higher.
For Prince Tagoe, a rising star in the Hearts of Oak setup, this was more than just a game; it was a chance to etch his name in history. Having spearheaded his club’s domestic dominance with 18 league goals that season, Tagoe was determined to shine on the continental stage.
The final whistle after 90 minutes left the scores tied at 1-1, setting up a nerve-wracking penalty shootout. The tension was palpable as each kick brought fans closer to euphoria or despair. In the end, it was Hearts of Oak who triumphed, edging their rivals 9-8 in one of the most dramatic penalty shootouts in African club football history.
Reflecting on that fateful day, Tagoe described the victory as a monumental achievement. “Hearts and Kotoko have always been rivals, and making sure we brought the cup back from Kumasi was a massive achievement,” he shared in an interview. “It was the first time, and I believe it will remain in the history books for a long time.”
For Tagoe, the triumph was not just about the trophy. It symbolized the culmination of a season filled with hard work and sacrifice, as well as the joy of outclassing their biggest rivals on their home turf. The victory not only cemented Hearts of Oak’s place in African football history but also propelled Tagoe’s career to new heights. By the end of 2004, the young striker was on his way to Europe, embarking on a journey that would take him to Germany, Serbia, and Turkey.
Twenty years later, the memory of that iconic victory still brings a smile to Tagoe’s face. “Those are some of the most joyful moments I’ve had with Hearts,” he reminisced. The CAF Confederation Cup win remains one of the club’s most cherished achievements, a testament to their resilience and unyielding spirit.
