by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Fred Pappoe, former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has highlighted the critical role of a well-functioning Management Committee in the success of national teams. His remarks come in the wake of the GFA’s decision to appoint a new Management Committee for the Black Stars, following their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The newly formed committee replaces the previous one led by Mark Addo. Despite skepticism from some quarters, Pappoe remains confident that effective committees are vital to the smooth operation of football at the national level.
“A well-functioning Management Committee is relevant for the running of our football or national teams, but if the members are not committed, they will be there only in name,” he stated in an interview with Sporty FM.
He also detailed the committee’s key responsibilities, which include organization, planning, camping, accommodation, counselling, and supporting the technical team.
The new Management Committee for the Black Stars is chaired by Dr. Randy Abbey, an Executive Council member of the GFA, who will lead engagements with the government and other stakeholders. Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah takes on the role of Vice-Chairman, focusing on player relations while assisting Dr. Abbey.
Other members include Samuel Aboabire, Greater Accra Regional Football Association Chairman; Moses Armah, Medeama SC President; and Richard Nsenkyire, FC Samartex 1996 President. Together, they will oversee matchday operations, sponsor relations, and special assignments to ensure the Black Stars’ resurgence.
As the Black Stars look to rebuild, the emphasis on management and coordination could prove instrumental in steering the team back to continental prominence.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghanaian football veteran Andre Ayew has expressed his thoughts following Le Havre’s hard-fought 1-1 draw against Stade Reims in the French Ligue 1.
The 35-year-old Black Stars captain started the game at the Stade Auguste-Delaune and played 64 minutes before being substituted. Reims took the lead in the 26th minute through Marshall Munetsi, but Le Havre’s Arouna Sangante equalized in the 67th minute to secure a vital point for the visitors.
Ayew, who has been instrumental for Le Havre since joining the club in October 2024, took to Instagram to share his optimism, writing, “Plus one point. We keep going.” The forward has made 11 appearances for the French side, netting two goals and providing leadership on the pitch.
The seasoned forward’s resurgence has sparked speculation about his imminent return to the Black Stars for Ghana’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in March 2025. With his recent performances overshadowing Le Havre’s struggles in Ligue 1, Ayew seems to have rediscovered his form at a critical moment.
Should he make the squad, Ayew’s experience and leadership will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to Ghana’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has reaffirmed Arsenal’s determination to end their 21-year Premier League title drought despite a disappointing 2-2 draw against Aston Villa on Saturday.
Deployed as a right-back, Partey was part of a Gunners side that squandered a two-goal advantage at the Emirates, leaving them six points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, who still have a game in hand.
Despite the setback, Partey remains optimistic about Arsenal’s chances, emphasizing the team’s unwavering focus and belief in their ability to challenge for the title.
“You want to be at the top, so you continue to look at those ahead, but the main focus is always to believe in ourselves, improve, and win our games,” Partey stated after the match.
He also highlighted the collective determination within the club, saying, “The mentality from our fans, to the players, to the coach is very clear. We want to be the best, chase the best teams, and aim to be the best team. Our focus is on doing our best and winning games.”
Partey acknowledged the competitiveness of the league but insisted that Arsenal’s priority is maintaining focus and fighting until the end of the season.
The Gunners will now look to bounce back as they prepare for their midweek UEFA Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has dismissed suggestions that Thomas Partey’s deployment as a right-back is responsible for the Gunners’ recent struggles in the Premier League. Despite managing just one win in their last six matches, Arteta defended the Ghanaian midfielder’s versatility following a 2-2 draw against Aston Villa, where both goals conceded originated from his flank.
Partey, who is traditionally more impactful in midfield, has faced scrutiny for his performances in defense. Yet Arteta was quick to shield the player from blame. “I cannot judge just because one player plays in one position,” the Spaniard remarked when quizzed about Partey’s positional shift.
It appears Arteta has no plans to restore Partey to his natural midfield role, favoring the partnership of Declan Rice and Mikel Merino at the heart of Arsenal’s setup. Since joining Arsenal from Atletico Madrid in 2020, Partey has been a pivotal figure in midfield, a role fans feel he should reclaim.
The Gunners, currently seeking consistency, face Dinamo Zagreb in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, where a win could secure their place in the knockout stage.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Brandon Thomas-Asante’s hard work and dedication have earned him praise from Coventry City manager Frank Lampard after his match-winning performance against Bristol City in the English Championship. The Ghana forward was instrumental in Coventry’s narrow 1-0 victory at the Coventry Building Society Arena, scoring the only goal of the match in the 62nd minute.
After receiving a precise pass from Jack Rudoni, Thomas-Asante demonstrated excellent movement and composure in the penalty box, rifling a shot into the top left corner to seal the three points for his team. Lampard commended Thomas-Asante for his improved work ethic, noting that the 26-year-old had not always been a regular starter but had shown significant development in his all-around game.
Since joining Coventry, the former West Bromwich Albion player has made 26 appearances, scoring two goals and providing one assist, with his hard work finally paying off with a crucial goal in this latest fixture.
