by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 10, 2025 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Eric Chelle sat quietly in the stands of a packed NPFL stadium, his eyes scanning the pitch like a man on a mission. The Super Eagles’ new head coach had spent weeks traveling across Europe, meeting established Nigerian internationals, but now, he had turned his attention homeward. Nigeria’s 2026 World Cup dream was hanging by a thread, and he was determined to find fresh talent to reignite the team’s campaign.
After an underwhelming start to the qualifiers, with disappointing draws against Lesotho, Zimbabwe, and South Africa, followed by a shocking loss to Benin Republic, Nigeria found itself languishing in fifth place in Group C. The pressure was immense. The next two matches in March—against Rwanda in Kigali and Zimbabwe in Uyo—were must-win encounters.
Having spoken with key players like Alex Iwobi, Wilfred Ndidi, and Moses Simon during his European tour, Chelle knew he needed more than just experience. He needed hunger, passion, and players willing to fight for the green and white jersey. That’s why he was back in Nigeria, watching the NPFL’s finest in action.
Names like Remo Stars’ Sikiru Alimi, Nasarawa United’s Victor Collins, and Niger Tornadoes’ midfield engine Papa Daniel had already been floated for selection. Anas Yusuf, the league’s top scorer with 13 goals, was knocking hard on the national team’s door. Shooting Stars’ defensive trio of Tijani Kabiru, Godwin Odibo, and goalkeeper Mustapha Lawal had also caught his eye.
Chelle and his backroom staff were set to meet with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to finalize their plans. The task ahead was clear: rebuild, reinforce, and rally the Super Eagles back into contention. Failure was not an option.
As the final whistle blew, Chelle took a deep breath. The players had given their all, and soon, he would make his decision. Nigeria’s World Cup hopes rested on his choices, and in a few weeks, the nation would know if the gamble on NPFL talents could turn the tide.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 10, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
“I’ve Never Disrespected Anyone” – Ghanaian Winger Rejects ‘Bad Boy’ Label
Kamaldeen Sulemana is pushing back against claims that he has a bad attitude at Southampton, insisting that he has always been professional despite criticism over his playing time.
The 22-year-old Ghanaian winger, who returned from injury to play 86 minutes in Southampton’s FA Cup loss to Burnley, has been at the center of debate, with some questioning his decision-making and mentality. However, Sulemana remains adamant that he has done nothing wrong.
“I felt like sometimes I was alone in a battle. I get a lot of stick, I get a lot of bad comments, and some people question my character,” he shared. “There are so many things I’ve seen out there—people think I’ve got an attitude problem, and that’s why I wasn’t playing. But I’ve never, ever disrespected anybody in the club. I’m always on time, and when I’m on the pitch, I work as hard as I can.”
Despite limited minutes this season, Sulemana has made 16 appearances across all competitions, contributing one goal and two assists. As he fights for more opportunities, the Ghanaian international remains determined to prove his worth on and off the pitch.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 10, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Brighton and Hove Albion’s FA Cup victory over Chelsea was more than just another win—it was a statement. The Seagulls secured a 2-1 triumph, with Ghanaian full-back Tariq Lamptey delivering a standout performance and Japanese winger Kaoru Mitoma sealing the victory with a moment of brilliance.
Despite heavy transfer speculation, both Lamptey and Mitoma remain committed to Brighton. Mitoma, who was the subject of a $64 million bid from Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr, showcased exactly why Brighton refused to let him go. Late in the game, he expertly controlled a difficult ball on his chest and calmly slotted it past Chelsea’s Robert Sanchez to seal the win.
Speaking after the match, Lamptey, who was named Man of the Match for his dominant display from left-back, expressed his joy at having Mitoma as a teammate.
“It was a fantastic goal. We know what qualities he has as a player, and he is a great person as well, so yeah, we are really happy to have him,” Lamptey said.
The Ghanaian defender also attracted interest in the transfer window, with Ajax reportedly keen on signing him. However, just like Mitoma, he remains a key part of Brighton’s ambitions this season.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 10, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
As the countdown begins for the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Ghana’s Black Satellites are set to compete among Africa’s best, aiming to reclaim the title they last won in 2021.
CAF has officially unveiled the draw procedure for the tournament, which will take place from April 26 to May 18, bringing together 13 nations, including powerhouses like Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, and defending champions Senegal.
Tournament Format & Draw Process
The teams will be divided into three groups—one group of five (Group A) and two groups of four (Groups B and C). The top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage.
Host nation Ivory Coast will take the A1 slot, while 2023 winners Senegal and third-place finishers Nigeria will be placed in C1 and B1, respectively. The rest of the teams will be drawn into groups based on their ranking and performance in the previous edition.
Ghana’s Challenge
With history on their side, Ghana will look to make a strong impact, hoping to add another U-20 AFCON title to their collection. The Black Satellites last triumphed in 2021, defeating Uganda 2-0 in Mauritania, and will be eager to replicate that success in Ivory Coast.
Will Ghana rise again on the continental stage? The road to glory begins soon!
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 10, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Porto Alegre Welcomes Belgian-Ghanaian Winger in Ambitious Transfer Move
In a bold move to reinforce their attacking options, Brazilian Serie A side Grêmio have officially secured the services of Francis Amuzu, bringing the dynamic winger to Porto Alegre on a permanent transfer from Anderlecht.
Amuzu, a product of Anderlecht’s esteemed youth academy, has spent his entire professional career with the Belgian Pro League giants. Over the years, he carved a reputation as a relentless attacker, racking up 250 appearances, 28 goals, and 24 assists since making his senior debut. His pace, versatility across forward positions, and physical presence made him a mainstay in Belgium’s top flight.
Having represented Belgium at youth levels, including a standout performance in the 2019 UEFA U-21 European Championship, Amuzu arrives in Brazil with a wealth of experience and a hunger for success. His contract with Grêmio extends until December 2026, and fans eagerly anticipate his impact in the highly competitive South American football scene.
Following a successful medical, Grêmio plan to unveil their newest signing in the coming days, marking another strategic addition to their squad as they push for domestic glory.
