by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2026 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Black Stars Technical Advisor Winfried Schäfer has lavished praise on goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, describing him as the best player he has watched in the Ghana Premier League and backing him as his first-choice option for the national team.
The experienced German tactician revealed that he has spent the past two months closely following domestic competitions, attending matches, speaking with coaches, and evaluating players as part of efforts to strengthen the Black Stars squad.
“Over the past two months, I have been visiting league venues and speaking with coaches and players. The best player I have seen is Benjamin Asare, and he is the Black Stars’ first-choice goalkeeper,” Schäfer said in an interview with Medeama FM.
Schäfer emphasized that Ghana’s football foundation remains firmly rooted in the local league, encouraging players to maximize opportunities at home rather than focusing solely on moves abroad.
“The heart of football in Ghana is in the local league, not only with players in Europe,” he stated.
He also urged home-based players to elevate their standards if they aspire to represent the national team.
“I urge all players to work hard if they want to earn a call-up into the Black Stars,” he added.
Schäfer’s comments signal a renewed commitment to domestic talent identification as Ghana prepares for upcoming international assignments, reinforcing that consistent performances in the Ghana Premier League will not go unnoticed.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Former Nigerian international Friday Ekpo has cautioned that the Super Eagles would suffer a major setback if head coach Eric Chelle departs for French Ligue 1 side Marseille.
Chelle, who guided Nigeria to a bronze medal finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, is reportedly among the candidates being considered by Marseille. He is said to be on a shortlist that also includes former club captain Habib Beye, who recently managed Stade Rennais following the dismissal of Roberto De Zerbi.
Reacting to the reports, Ekpo urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to move swiftly and secure Chelle’s future with an improved contract.
“There is a need for the NFF to extend Chelle’s contract before he joins Marseille,” Ekpo told Sportsblog247.com.
“He has done a good job with the Super Eagles, especially after the team’s impressive performance at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where Nigeria won bronze.
“It will be a big loss if Chelle is allowed to join Marseille because it would have been ideal for him to continue the work he has started with the team.”
Ekpo’s comments come amid growing speculation about Chelle’s future, as Nigeria look to build on their recent continental success and maintain stability within the national team setup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2026 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has delivered an inspiring message to players of Beyond Limits Football Academy, urging them to prioritise education alongside football while backing his words with a ₦10 million donation to support their development.
Beyond Limits, based in Ikenne, Ogun State, serves as the youth team of Nigeria Professional Football League champions Remo Stars. The academy has earned international recognition in recent years, reaching the semi-finals of both the Gothia Cup in Sweden and the Viareggio Tournament in Italy.
Osimhen Shares Journey and Life Lessons
Speaking on The Side of Football Nobody Talks About with Smallie, Osimhen reflected on his humble beginnings and the challenges he overcame on his path to stardom.
“I know how tough it is to make it from the trenches, especially in football,” he said. “Many of you are just like me, and those who made it passed through the same struggles you’re facing today.”
The former Napoli forward outlined three key principles that shaped his rise: faith in God, relentless hard work with resilience in the face of setbacks, and the importance of education.
Emphasis on Schooling and Character
Osimhen strongly advised the young players not to neglect their academic growth.
“In anything you do, make sure you go to school,” he stressed. “Make sure you’re educated, that you can read and write, and make sure you have the right people around you.”
He also highlighted the importance of humility, discipline, and strong character, reminding the youngsters that talent alone is not enough to reach the top.
“There are places your talent can never take you to that grace will,” added the 2023 CAF Player of the Year.
Generous Support for Future Stars
At the end of his visit, Osimhen donated ₦10 million to the academy’s players as encouragement and practical support for their football journeys, wishing them success as they pursue professional careers.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Matai Akinmboni, the nephew of former Ghana defender Samuel Osei Kuffuor, is steadily carving out a name for himself at English Premier League side Bournemouth.
The young defender, who has been tipped as one of the club’s exciting prospects, continues to attract attention with his composure, athleticism, and maturity beyond his years.
Coming from a family with strong football roots, Akinmboni carries the legacy of his uncle Kuffuor — a Bayern Munich legend and one of Ghana’s most decorated defenders — but is determined to forge his own path in the game.
His performances within Bournemouth’s setup have highlighted his defensive awareness, ball-playing ability, and leadership qualities, marking him out as a talent to watch for both club and potentially country in the near future.
With steady development and exposure at a high level, Akinmboni looks poised to build a promising career in English football while proudly carrying Ghanaian heritage.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian teenage striker Yassin Mohammed has joined Swedish side BK Olympic on loan from Malmö FF as he continues his progression in European football.
The 18-year-old will spend the 2025 campaign with BK Olympic, who compete in Ettan Södra — Sweden’s third division — in a move aimed at giving him consistent senior-level experience.
Mohammed made the switch to Malmö last year from Ghana’s renowned WAFA Academy and is widely regarded as one of the club’s promising young attacking talents.
Malmö maintain a strong partnership with BK Olympic and regularly loan out emerging prospects to the club to gain competitive minutes and adapt to the physical and tactical demands of senior football.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Mohammed shared his excitement about the opportunity.
“Being loaned to BK Olympic feels like a good step for me, and I hope we can have a successful season together,” he said.
The forward impressed at youth level last season, netting seven goals in 11 appearances in the P19 Allsvenskan. His movement, finishing instinct, and physical presence have made him one of the players to watch.
The loan spell is expected to further refine his development and potentially pave the way for a future breakthrough into Malmö’s first team as he continues to represent Ghana abroad.
