by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 10, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Newly appointed Roberto De Zerbi has acknowledged the importance of Mohammed Kudus to his plans at Tottenham Hotspur, following the midfielder’s latest injury setback.
Kudus, who has been sidelined since January, has reportedly suffered a relapse in his recovery, dealing another major blow to Spurs during a challenging campaign.
The North London club have struggled for consistency this season, undergoing managerial changes before turning to De Zerbi to stabilize their situation. Currently sitting 17th in the league with 30 points, Spurs remain just above the relegation zone.
Speaking ahead of his first match in charge against Sunderland, De Zerbi admitted Kudus would have played a key role in his system but emphasized the need to move forward without him.
He highlighted the quality within the squad’s attacking options, stressing the importance of maximizing their potential in Kudus’ absence.
Tottenham will face Sunderland at the Stadium of Light on Sunday, April 12, as De Zerbi begins his mission to steer the club away from danger.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 10, 2026 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
The Nigeria Football Federation has strengthened the technical setup of the Nigeria U-17 women’s national team with the appointment of new assistant coaches ahead of upcoming international assignments.
Former internationals Joy Jegede-Idakwo and Aighewi Omodiaghe have been named as assistant coaches, while Kola Ige takes up the role of goalkeepers’ trainer.
Jegede-Idakwo, a former Falconets captain, and Omodiaghe—who represented Nigeria at the inaugural FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in 2008—will work alongside head coach Akeem Ishola Busari to guide the team.
The revamped technical team is tasked with preparing the Flamingos for their qualification campaign for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco, with the ambition of surpassing their impressive third-place finish at the 2022 edition.
These appointments reflect the NFF’s renewed commitment to developing youth women’s football and enhancing Nigeria’s competitiveness on the global stage.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 10, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana’s U15 girls team, the Black Damsels, have successfully defended their title at the CAF African Schools Football Championship after a thrilling penalty shootout victory over Burkina Faso in the final.
The fiercely contested encounter ended in a stalemate after regulation time, with both teams unable to find a decisive breakthrough. The match was ultimately decided from the spot, where the young Ghanaian side held their nerve in a dramatic 9-8 shootout win.
Ghana’s composure under pressure proved decisive, as they edged past their opponents to secure back-to-back continental titles—an impressive feat that underscores their dominance at this level.
Throughout the tournament, the Black Damsels showcased resilience, determination, and remarkable mental strength, qualities that have now cemented their status as one of the top emerging teams in African youth football.
This latest triumph not only highlights their consistency but also signals a promising future for women’s football in Ghana.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 10, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Canadian-born Ghanaian youngster Kenneth Osei Bonsu Amankwa has expressed his strong desire to represent Ghana at the upcoming U-17 Africa Cup of Nations, as he pushes for a place in the final Ghana U-17 national football team squad.
After earning a call-up for preparatory matches, the promising defender is eager to make the final selection for the 2026 U-17 AFCON, scheduled to take place in Morocco from May 13 to June 2.
Speaking in an interview with Citi Sports, Amankwa highlighted the pride and emotional significance of representing his roots. He noted that playing for Ghana would not only be personally fulfilling but also a proud moment for his family.
The teenager also emphasized his commitment in training, stating that he is giving his all to prove he deserves a place in the squad. While acknowledging that missing out would be disappointing, he remains focused on learning and improving regardless of the outcome.
Ghana, two-time champions of the tournament, have been drawn in a competitive Group D alongside Senegal U-17 national football team, South Africa U-17 national football team, and Algeria U-17 national football team.
With a rich history in the competition—including titles in 1995 and 1999—the Black Starlets will be aiming to make another strong impression, and Amankwa hopes to be part of that journey.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 10, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, Uncategorized, USA, World Cup
Ghana’s Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has acknowledged that the Ghana national football team are not fully prepared for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, pointing to a major gap in the team’s technical leadership.
Speaking in an interview, the Buem MP highlighted the absence of a substantive head coach following the departure of Otto Addo in March, describing the situation as a significant hurdle in Ghana’s build-up to the tournament.
In response, the Ghana Football Association has stepped up efforts to secure a new manager, with experienced names such as Carlos Queiroz, Paulo Bento, and Fernando Santos reportedly under consideration.
Despite the current uncertainty, Adams remains optimistic that the team will be ready in time for the tournament, expressing confidence in the preparation timeline ahead.
The incoming coach is expected to take charge before crucial pre-tournament friendlies against the Mexico national football team in May and the Wales national football team on June 2—fixtures seen as vital tests before the competition begins.
Drawn in a challenging Group L, Ghana will face the Panama national football team, England national football team, and Croatia national football team. The Black Stars open their campaign against Panama on June 17, before taking on England on June 23 and Croatia on June 27.
Ghana will be aiming to bounce back from disappointing recent World Cup outings, having exited at the group stage in both 2014 and 2022.
