by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 28, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana’s Black Queens wrapped up their 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign on a high, and two names stood tallest among the heroes—Grace Asantewaa and Portia Boakye. The dynamic duo have been named in the official WAFCON 2024 Team of the Tournament, a fitting reward for their exceptional performances on the continental stage.
The road wasn’t easy for Ghana, who had a shaky start to the competition, but their resilience saw them through to a memorable bronze medal finish. In a thrilling third-place playoff against South Africa, the Black Queens held their nerve to win 4-3 on penalties, sending fans into jubilant celebration.
In the heart of the midfield, Asantewaa dazzled with her vision, creativity, and tireless drive—dictating the tempo and unlocking defenses with flair. Meanwhile, veteran defender Portia Boakye anchored the backline with calm authority, using her experience and tactical acumen to neutralize opposition threats.
Their standout displays earned them spots in the tournament’s Best XI, joining elite African stars like Nigeria’s Rashidat Ajibade, Morocco’s Ghizlane Chebbak, and South Africa’s Refiloe Jane.
The triumphant Queens returned to Ghana to a hero’s welcome at Kotoka International Airport on Monday morning, greeted by jubilant fans and proud officials who hailed their historic podium finish.
Asantewaa and Boakye’s inclusion in the Team of the Tournament is more than individual recognition—it’s a symbol of Ghana’s rise in women’s football, and a statement that the Black Queens are once again a force to be reckoned with on the continent.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 28, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
After nearly nine agonizing months on the sidelines, Ghana international Iddrisu Baba is finally beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel. The UD Almeria midfielder, who suffered a devastating anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear in November 2024, has rejoined his teammates for pre-season training — a huge step toward his long-awaited return to competitive football.
In an emotional interview with Almeria’s media team, the 29-year-old opened up about the psychological and physical battle he endured during his recovery.
“The first two months were horrible,” Baba confessed. “I was in so much pain. Sometimes I still get flashes of the injury, but I forget them quicker now. I’m fine. I’ve left those bad memories behind and I’m focused only on the day-to-day.”
Despite missing the majority of the 2024/25 campaign, Baba has remained determined and resilient — choosing not to dwell on the past but to keep pushing forward. His recent return to group training marks a major milestone, and the Ghanaian is eagerly anticipating the moment he steps back onto the pitch.
“I don’t care if it’s in an official match or a friendly,” he said. “But I don’t know how I’ll react when the gaffer tells me I’m playing. That moment will be special. I’m working hard for that surprise to come.”
As the new season approaches, both Almeria fans and Ghanaian supporters will be hoping for Baba’s full return — not just to the squad, but to his commanding best in midfield. If there’s one thing clear, it’s that Baba’s comeback will be more than just a return — it will be a triumph over adversity.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 28, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo is setting his sights on a standout campaign as he gears up for the 2025/26 Premier League season with AFC Bournemouth.
Following an impressive run last season, where he netted 11 goals and contributed five assists, the 25-year-old is brimming with confidence and ambition. Now, with pre-season preparations in full swing, Semenyo is determined to raise his performance even higher.
> “I want to take my game to the next level. And I feel like this coming season, I’ll be able to do that with the team that we have. So I’m looking forward to it,” he told the club’s media.
The Ghana international has already shown glimpses of his readiness, shining brightly in Bournemouth’s commanding 3-0 win over Everton in the Premier League Summer Series in the U.S.
Semenyo, who recently extended his contract with the Cherries until 2030, believes the groundwork laid in pre-season is key to a big year ahead.
> “Preparations have been good,” he added, hinting at a focused and determined Bournemouth squad.
Next up, Semenyo and his teammates will take on Manchester United in another pre-season test on Thursday morning before their Premier League opener against Liverpool at Anfield on August 19.
With growing confidence and long-term commitment to Bournemouth, Semenyo looks ready to elevate his game and become a real force in the Premier League.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 28, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
Ghanaian winger Osman Bukari continued his impressive form in Major League Soccer by finding the net in Austin FC’s thrilling 4-2 away win over DC United on Saturday night at Audi Field.
Austin FC came out firing, taking the lead in the 22nd minute when Myrto Uzuni coolly slotted home after a slick pass from Brendan Hines-Ike. The Verdes doubled their lead just before the break following a dazzling interplay involving Bukari and Mikkel Desler, which set up young midfielder Owen Wolff for a tidy finish.
DC United came out with renewed energy after the restart, pulling one back through Brazilian forward João Peglow. But Osman Bukari quickly silenced the home crowd, pouncing in the 60th minute to restore Austin’s two-goal cushion with a confident strike.
Bukari’s influence on the match was clear before he was substituted in the 77th minute. Robert Taylor added a fourth for Austin deep into stoppage time, before veteran striker Christian Benteke converted a late penalty for DC United, adding a dramatic finish to an entertaining encounter.
Bukari’s goal was his second for Austin FC since joining the club and signals his growing influence in their playoff push.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 28, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Accra Lions FC has every reason to beam with pride as their rising star, Felix Amofa, returns from an unforgettable three-week adventure in Germany, where he featured prominently in FC Bayern Munich’s prestigious World Squad project.
This elite initiative, created by the Bundesliga giants, scouts and assembles top U19 talents from across the globe—offering them a golden opportunity to train under elite coaches, gain exposure, and test themselves against strong European opposition.
Amofa, a dynamic and intelligent right-back, made a strong impression from day one. Selected among thousands of hopefuls, his inclusion alone was a huge endorsement of his talent and work ethic. But the 19-year-old didn’t just show up—he stood out.
Under the guidance of Bayern legend and current World Squad coach Roy Makaay, Amofa played in all three of the team’s friendly matches. His calm presence, sharp decision-making, and attacking flair helped the side remain unbeaten:
✅ A commanding 3-0 win over Viktoria Plzen U19s
A 2-2 draw against Rapid Vienna U19s
A solid 3-1 triumph over Bayern Munich’s own U19 team
While the results were impressive, it was Amofa’s individual brilliance that truly caught the eye. Coaches and fans alike praised his composure on the ball, positional awareness, and explosive agility. Each game was a statement—this is a young man ready for the next level.
Back home, Accra Lions celebrates his journey as a proud moment—not just for the club, but for Ghanaian football. Amofa’s experience is a beacon of hope for many young talents dreaming of Europe, proving that with dedication, discipline, and heart, the doors to global football can open.
Felix Amofa’s journey with the Bayern World Squad may have concluded, but his footballing story is only just beginning.
