by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 3, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, Soccer, World Cup
The Ghana FA step up pursuit of Chelsea’s rising star as the Black Stars rebuild for football’s biggest stage.
Accra, Ghana — The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is reportedly making a strong push to secure the international future of Josh Acheampong, Chelsea’s 19-year-old defensive prodigy, as part of a major plan to reinforce the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Born in London to Ghanaian parents, Acheampong has been one of Chelsea’s breakout stars this season. The composed defender, who can also play in midfield, has started crucial Premier League matches against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, earning praise for his poise, physicality, and tactical awareness.
His emergence has not gone unnoticed in Ghana. GFA officials are believed to have opened discussions with Acheampong and his family, emphasizing the opportunity to represent his ancestral homeland on the global stage.
A Battle Between Ghana and England
Although Acheampong has featured for England’s U-21 team, he remains eligible to switch allegiance to Ghana under FIFA rules. The GFA hopes to convince him that the Black Stars offer not only an international platform but also a chance to become a leader in a new-look defensive setup.
Former Sports Minister Nii Lante Vanderpuye has publicly urged the association to move fast.
> “Josh Acheampong is better than all our current defenders,” Vanderpuye said. “We can’t afford to lose another top talent to England like we did with Gerald Asamoah and Danny Welbeck.”
A Young Star with Ghana in His Heart
Despite his English upbringing, Acheampong has never hidden his affection for Ghana. After scoring his first senior goal for Chelsea — a towering header from a set piece — the teenager spoke with emotion about his heritage.
> “We worked on set-pieces the day before and I actually scored a header. It was a special moment,” Acheampong said. “My family back home in Ghana were so proud.”
That connection could be crucial as Ghana rebuilds after missing out on qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. With the World Cup less than two years away, national coach and GFA scouts are identifying young, diaspora-born talents capable of lifting the team to new heights — and Acheampong fits the profile perfectly.
A Key Piece in Ghana’s Future
Ghana’s push to secure Acheampong reflects a wider ambition to blend experience with youthful energy ahead of 2026. His versatility — able to play as a centre-back, right-back, or defensive midfielder — would provide much-needed balance and depth to the squad.
As the GFA intensifies its efforts, fans are hopeful that Acheampong will follow in the footsteps of other European-born stars who chose the Black Stars — players whose pride in Ghana turned into national inspiration.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 3, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
From West Ham to White Hart Lane — how Mohammed Kudus broke barriers, won hearts, and reignited Spurs’ creative spark.
When Tottenham Hotspur unveiled Mohammed Kudus as their new £55 million signing from West Ham United, few expected the Ghanaian to settle so quickly. Fewer still imagined he would break a 14-year transfer taboo — becoming the first player to switch between the London rivals since Scott Parker in 2011.
But Kudus, ever the fearless trailblazer, has not only crossed the divide — he’s transformed North London’s footballing landscape.
Under the guidance of Thomas Frank, the 25-year-old has seamlessly blended flair, aggression, and tactical intelligence to become a driving force in Spurs’ attack. His early performances have made him a fan favourite and one of the Premier League’s most talked-about stars.
From East London to North London Glory
Kudus’ first unforgettable moment in a Spurs shirt came in a dramatic 2–1 victory over Leeds United. His deflected late strike sealed the win, ending Tottenham’s pre-international break jinx and halting Leeds’ impressive home run.
Since then, the Ghanaian dynamo has been unplayable. Operating as an inverted right-winger, Kudus has tormented defenders with his electric dribbling and close control — averaging 3.6 successful take-ons per 90 minutes, the best among Premier League wingers this season.
In just nine league appearances, he has notched five assists, showcasing not just individual brilliance but an eye for unlocking defences.
‘The Closest Thing to Dembélé’
Kudus’ mix of raw power and elegance has drawn intriguing comparisons to Spurs legend Mousa Dembélé.
Speaking to Tottenham Hotspur News, pundit John Wenham described Kudus as “two players in one.”
> “He’s the closest thing we’ve had to Dembélé — strong, composed, and creative in tight spaces,” Wenham said.
And while Kudus operates higher up the pitch than the Belgian maestro once did, his ability to dominate duels and glide through pressure makes the comparison hard to ignore.
Praise from Ghana: A Star for the Next Generation
Back home, the admiration runs just as deep. Veteran Ghanaian football administrator Charles Kwadwo Ntim has hailed Kudus as a beacon for the nation’s next wave of talent.
> “Kudus has shown incredible maturity and confidence at Tottenham,” Ntim told Sportsblog247.com.
“He’s playing with freedom and purpose, and his influence grows every game. For Ghana, this is the kind of example we want our young players to look up to.”
Ntim went on to highlight Kudus’ all-around game — his balance between flair and work rate, artistry and grit.
> “He’s not just about flair; he’s a complete player who creates, defends, and scores important goals. That’s what makes him special.”
A Warm (and Cheeky) Welcome
Earlier, Sportsblog247.com reported on Richarlison’s cheeky social media post welcoming Kudus to the Tottenham family. The Brazilian shared a playful image referencing one of their heated West Ham–Spurs clashes — a light-hearted nod to their newfound partnership in white.
Now, with Kudus dazzling the Premier League and winning hearts in North London, it seems Tottenham’s bold gamble has paid off in spectacular fashion.
As comparisons with Dembélé grow and Ghana beams with pride, one thing is certain:
Mohammed Kudus isn’t just writing a new chapter at Spurs — he’s crafting a legacy of his own.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Oct 23, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Athletic Bilbao forward Iñaki Williams has suffered a setback after sustaining an adductor muscle injury in his right leg. The Spanish-born Ghanaian striker picked up the knock during recent action with his club, and early reports indicate he could be sidelined for a short period depending on the recovery process.
Williams, who has been in fine form this season, will now undergo further tests to determine the extent of the damage — a concern for both Athletic Bilbao and the Ghana national team, who rely heavily on his pace and attacking presence.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Oct 22, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
In a stunning turn of events, Moroccan football icon Hakim Ziyech is officially returning to his roots — joining Wydad Casablanca as a free agent. After weeks of speculation and several approaches from clubs abroad, the 32-year-old playmaker has chosen to begin a new chapter back home, marking an emotional reunion with Moroccan football.
Ziyech, once dazzling fans across Europe with his creativity and flair, now brings his wealth of experience to the Botola Pro, reigniting dreams and pride among Wydad supporters. His arrival isn’t just a transfer — it’s a homecoming story that celebrates legacy, passion, and national pride.
Expectation is sky-high in Casablanca — the prodigal son has returned to inspire a new generation.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Oct 22, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
The stage is set for one of African football’s most prestigious honours — the CAF Club of the Year (Men) award! From North Africa’s dominance to Southern Africa’s rising forces, the continent’s finest clubs are in contention for glory.
Each nominee has written a unique story this season — CR Belouizdad and CS Constantine flying Algeria’s flag high, ASEC Mimosas proving their Ivorian legacy remains unmatched, and Pyramids FC emerging as Egypt’s continental powerhouse. Morocco’s RS Berkane continue to shine on the big stage, while South Africa’s trio — Mamelodi Sundowns, Orlando Pirates, and Stellenbosch FC — represent the new wave of excellence from the PSL. Completing the elite list are Al Hilal SC of Sudan and Tanzania’s Simba SC, both showcasing East Africa’s growing influence.
Who will be crowned Africa’s ultimate club of 2025?
