by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 12, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Real Madrid have officially submitted an offer for Granada’s highly-rated centre-back Oscar Naasei, according to fresh reports. The 20-year-old Ghanaian defender has caught the attention of top European clubs with his composed performances and defensive maturity beyond his years.
Los Blancos are reportedly keen to secure Naasei as part of their long-term defensive plans, as they continue to invest in young talent to reinforce the future of the club.
Naasei, who has been a standout for Granada this season, is known for his ball-playing ability, aerial strength, and tactical intelligence—attributes that align well with Madrid’s evolving style under Carlo Ancelotti.
Talks are ongoing, and the deal could be a major step forward in the young defender’s blossoming career.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 12, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Christopher Bonsu Baah has vowed to stay grounded despite earning widespread praise for his eye-catching performances at the Unity Cup in London. The 20-year-old forward, who plies his trade with Belgian side Genk, dazzled fans and pundits alike with a standout debut against Nigeria, followed by another lively showing against Trinidad and Tobago.
His performances have sparked excitement among Ghanaian fans, with many now seeing him as a potential game-changer in the Black Stars’ quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Ghana currently lead their qualification group with 15 points and four games to play, and hopes are high.
Despite the growing expectations, Bonsu Baah is focused on staying humble and committed to his development.
“Being at the World Cup is something special for any country, so qualifying would mean a lot to us,” he told Sportsblog247.com. “We are 100% confident that we are going to qualify. But for now, I return to my club, give everything there, and let’s see what the future holds.”
His mature approach and electric talent make him one to watch as Ghana’s World Cup journey continues.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 12, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Liverpool are making significant progress in their pursuit of highly-rated Senegalese winger Sidy Barhama. The 17-year-old prodigy is on the verge of joining the Premier League giants, with a reported transfer fee of €1 million, according to journalist Nabil Djellit. Known for his explosive pace and technical flair, Barhama is seen as a long-term investment for the Reds, who continue to expand their global scouting network.
If the deal is finalized, Barhama will join the ranks of promising young talents Liverpool have secured in recent years, underlining their commitment to developing future stars.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 9, 2025 | Europe, International, Soccer
Uriah Rennie, the first Black referee in the Premier League and a respected figure both on and off the pitch, has passed away at the age of 65.
Born in Jamaica and raised in Sheffield, Rennie’s journey through football was one of perseverance and purpose. From humble beginnings in grassroots football, he rose to become a pioneering force in the English game. Over an illustrious career spanning from 1997 to 2008, Rennie officiated more than 300 professional matches, including 175 in the Premier League — where his presence shattered long-standing racial barriers.
Renowned for his calm authority, unwavering fairness, and composure under pressure, Rennie commanded the respect of players, coaches, and fans alike. But his impact was never confined to the pitch.
A magistrate since 1996, Rennie dedicated his life to service. He championed equality in sport, advocated for mental health awareness, and worked tirelessly to address social deprivation. In recognition of his contributions, Sheffield Hallam University awarded him an honorary doctorate in 2023 and named him its chancellor in May 2025.
In recent years, Rennie faced personal challenges with characteristic courage. After a rare condition left him paralysed from the waist down, he publicly shared his journey of learning to walk again, inspiring many with his resilience.
Tributes have poured in from across the football community. “Uriah should never be forgotten,” said Leon Mann, co-founder of the Football Black List. Former striker Stan Collymore called him “a pioneer.”
Rennie’s story is one of quiet leadership and unwavering strength. He not only opened doors for others but showed them they belonged in spaces where they were once unseen. His legacy endures — in every official who follows, and in every barrier yet to be broken.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jun 9, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana captain Jordan Ayew has praised the impact of the Black Stars’ new generation of talent after their encouraging showing at the Unity Cup in London.
With several first-team regulars absent, head coach Otto Addo seized the opportunity to introduce fresh faces to the national setup. Among the standout performers were Christopher Bonsu Baah and Caleb Yirenchi, whose impressive debuts have sparked excitement about their future with the team.
“The other players couldn’t make it, but in Ghana we have a lot of talent,” Ayew told Ghana FA media. “The new players showed their quality in the two matches.”
Ghana began the four-nation tournament with a narrow 2-1 defeat to rivals Nigeria but bounced back emphatically, dispatching Trinidad and Tobago 4-0 to secure third place.
Ayew, who led the team through the campaign, commended the newcomers for their composure and adaptability despite having minimal preparation.
“We trained only twice before the first game, but the boys looked ready, sharp and confident,” he noted.
Looking ahead, Ayew expressed optimism that the full-strength squad will be available for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers in September. Ghana are set to face Chad and Mali as they continue their quest to book a spot at the global showpiece.
