by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana U-20 head coach Desmond Ofei has made it clear that the Black Satellites are aiming for nothing less than a place in the final at the ongoing 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The young Ghanaian side has enjoyed an impressive campaign so far, remaining unbeaten after a 1-1 draw with DR Congo and a hard-fought 1-0 victory over reigning champions Senegal. They now prepare to wrap up their Group C journey with a clash against the Central African Republic.
Speaking ahead of the final group match, Ofei emphasized that while qualifying for the semifinals — and by extension, the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile — is within reach, Ghana’s sights are firmly set on the championship match.
“Reaching the final is the ultimate goal and the reason we’re here,” he stated. “We have incredible players who are still growing into the tournament. Every opponent is a threat, but we believe in our ability to achieve our objective.”
Thanks to favorable results elsewhere in the group, Ghana has already secured a quarterfinal berth. Their next aim is to finish top of the group and build momentum heading into the knockout rounds.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana U-20 head coach Desmond Ofei has hailed the resilience and composure of his players following their 1-0 victory over the Central African Republic in their final Group C match at the 2025 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Black Satellites dominated the encounter at the Suez Canal Stadium but found it difficult to break down a determined CAR defense. Despite their control and attacking intent, the breakthrough didn’t come until the 84th minute, when substitute Joseph Opoku calmly slotted home to seal a hard-fought win.
Speaking after the match, Coach Ofei commended his team’s tactical discipline and mental strength.
“It was a tough match, but we didn’t panic,” he told the Ghana FA. “The boys controlled the game, stayed patient, and worked the ball well. I’m really happy for them — they earned this win.”
Ofei emphasized the importance of maintaining composure even when goals don’t come early, praising his players’ commitment throughout the group stage campaign.
With the win, Ghana topped Group C and booked their spot in the quarterfinals, keeping their AFCON title hopes firmly on track.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Arsenal and Ghana star Thomas Partey has shared a little-known fact about his early life — revealing that if football hadn’t worked out, he might have pursued a career as a painter.
Speaking during a rapid-fire Q&A with The Sportsblog248.com, the 31-year-old midfielder reflected on his childhood and how close he came to taking a different path entirely.
“Maybe I would be a painter,” Partey admitted. “I used to be good at it, but now I don’t know.”
According to Partey, his father once enrolled him at a local painting workshop, hoping he would build a career out of his artistic talent. However, his love for football proved stronger.
“I remember one day my father took me to a painting shop to start painting,” he recalled. “But I went there once — and the rest of it was on the field.”
Though he no longer practices the craft, Partey spoke with fondness about his brief experience in the world of art. Still, he made it clear he has no plans to return to painting.
Partey has been a key figure for Arsenal this season, but his campaign took a hit after the Gunners were knocked out of the UEFA Champions League semi-finals by Paris Saint-Germain.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Arsenal and Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has revealed that Colombian striker Radamel Falcao stands out as the best player he has ever played alongside in his professional career.
Partey, who has shared the pitch with some of football’s top talents — including Asamoah Gyan with the Black Stars and current Ballon d’Or holder Rodri during his time at Atlético Madrid — made the declaration during a candid interview.
“Falcao, without hesitation,” Partey said, reflecting on their time together at Atlético Madrid. The duo were teammates during a golden period at the Spanish club, where they helped secure titles including the UEFA Europa League.
Falcao’s incredible goal-scoring ability and leadership clearly left a lasting impression on Partey, who has since gone on to become a key figure at Arsenal, making over 40 appearances across all competitions this season.
Partey also opened up about the toughest opponents he has faced in his career. He named legendary Barcelona midfielders Xavi and Andres Iniesta, as well as Real Madrid’s midfield maestro Toni Kroos, citing their intelligence, technique, and control as unmatched.
With Arsenal enjoying a strong season and Partey continuing to shine in midfield, the Ghanaian’s reflections highlight the elite company he’s kept — and the lasting impact of players like Falcao on his journey.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Ghana and Arsenal midfielder Thomas Partey has revealed his admiration for former Black Stars legend Michael Essien, stating that he would have loved the chance to play alongside the iconic midfielder at either club or international level.
Partey, who has been enjoying a solid campaign with Arsenal, helped guide the Gunners to the semi-finals of the 2024/25 UEFA Champions League. Although he missed the first leg against Paris Saint-Germain, he returned for the second but couldn’t prevent Arsenal’s exit from the competition.
In a recent Q&A session with The Footy Culture, Partey didn’t hesitate when asked which retired player he would have most liked to partner with on the field.
“Michael Essien,” Partey responded. “I spoke to him a few times ago to come back to the Black Stars, but it is too late now.”
Essien, known for his powerful displays for Chelsea and Ghana, retired from international football in 2021 after years of stellar service. Partey, now one of Ghana’s senior players, clearly holds Essien in high regard and once attempted to convince him to return to national team duty.
As Partey’s contract with Arsenal approaches its June expiration, reports suggest he is likely to extend his stay at the London club, continuing his role as a midfield anchor and leader.
