by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Elisha Owusu has revealed that veteran French striker Bafetimbi Gomis played a key role in his improved attacking output in Ligue 1 this season with AJ Auxerre.
Owusu, known for his composure and work rate in midfield, has added a new layer to his game in the ongoing campaign, scoring one goal and providing three assists in 26 Ligue 1 appearances — a notable improvement from his previous season in Ligue 2, where he registered just one goal and two assists across 33 matches during Auxerre’s promotion push.
In an interview with Sportsblog247.com, the 26-year-old opened up about a pre-season conversation with Gomis that transformed his approach on the pitch.
“Before the season, I spoke to Bafetimbi Gomis, who is like a big brother to me,” Owusu said. “He told me, ‘Eli, you need to exhibit more.’ He encouraged me to write down my targets and keep them in mind every time I play. That advice really changed my mindset.”
Owusu noted that this mental shift has helped him push beyond his limits and offer more in attack.
“I told myself I can bring more to the team, so I just kept working and focused on helping however I could. I’m happy I’ve been able to contribute with goals and assists,” he added.
Owusu is expected to feature when Auxerre return to action against FC Nantes at the Stade de l’Abbé Deschamps on Saturday, as they continue their fight for a strong finish in Ligue 1.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
Ghanaian forward Elvis Amoh starred for Indy Eleven in a thrilling US Open Cup Round of 32 clash, scoring a crucial equalizer that forced a resilient 1-1 draw against Major League Soccer side Philadelphia Union at Subaru Park on Wednesday night. Though the USL side eventually bowed out 5-4 in a tense penalty shootout, their performance earned plenty of plaudits.
Philadelphia got off to a quick start, taking the lead in the 6th minute through captain Alejandro Bedoya, who headed home a pinpoint cross from Olivier Mbaizo. Despite conceding early and enjoying just 34% possession, Indy Eleven refused to fold.
Amoh, 33, provided the turning point early in the second half. Latching onto a loose ball in the box, he calmly slotted in a left-footed finish to bring Indy level and spark belief among the traveling support. His relentless pressing and smart link-up play kept the Union defense under pressure throughout.
Philadelphia piled on the pressure with 33 total shots, but Indy’s disciplined defensive setup and gritty determination held firm through extra time.
The drama continued into the shootout, where Indy narrowly missed out after Aodhan Quinn’s penalty was saved, giving the Union a narrow 5-4 win. Despite the heartbreak, Indy Eleven’s valiant effort was a statement of intent as they turn focus to their upcoming USL Championship tie against Sacramento Republic on May 11.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian football legend Sulley Ali Muntari has offered timely advice to rising star Ernest Nuamah, urging the young winger to remain at Olympique Lyonnais despite mounting interest from Premier League clubs.
Nuamah, 20, has been a bright spark for Lyon since his move from FC Nordsjaelland. Before picking up an injury, he featured in 33 matches across all competitions, scoring six goals and providing two assists—cementing his place as a vital component of the Ligue 1 side.
In an interview with Sportsblog247.com, Muntari praised the Right to Dream Academy graduate’s technical brilliance and fearless approach on the ball.
“Ernest is a player of pure talent,” said the former Inter Milan and AC Milan midfielder. “He’s elusive, strong in one-on-one duels, and creates danger at any moment. Even after the injury, he’s still attracting attention, which shows his quality and resilience.”
With Fulham, Everton, and Crystal Palace reportedly monitoring Nuamah’s progress, Muntari cautioned against an early switch to the Premier League, emphasizing that Lyon remains the ideal environment for the youngster’s growth.
“He’s young, already a regular at Lyon, and developing in the right setup. I believe staying another season would help him refine his game before making a step up to a bigger club,” Muntari explained.
As Nuamah continues his recovery, his next career move will be closely watched—especially with voices like Muntari advocating patience and long-term growth.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghana’s rising star Abdul Aziz Issah delivered a statement performance in the Black Satellites’ hard-fought 1-0 win over the Central African Republic (CAR) at the U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, earning the Man of the Match accolade for his efforts on Thursday night.
On loan from Barcelona, the 19-year-old midfielder stepped into the spotlight with a dazzling display that reminded fans and scouts alike of his immense potential. Despite limited game time at his Spanish club, Issah looked every bit the midfield maestro in Ismailia, dictating the tempo and driving Ghana’s attack with flair and confidence.
Operating in an advanced role, Issah tormented the CAR backline with his quick feet, incisive passing, and intelligent movement. He connected fluidly with teammates and played a key role in keeping Ghana on the front foot for most of the match.
Though it was substitute Joseph Opoku who sealed the win with a clinical finish in the 84th minute, it was Issah’s composed and commanding performance that truly stole the show. His display not only fueled Ghana’s dominance but also hinted at bigger things to come for both country and club.
With the quarterfinals on the horizon, Issah’s emergence could be a game-changer for Coach Desmond Ofei as the Black Satellites push forward in their title quest.
by Emmanuel Atanga | May 8, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
At the Suez Canal Stadium in Ismailia, Ghana’s Black Satellites wrapped up their U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group stage campaign in style, edging the Central African Republic 1-0 on Thursday, May 8, 2025, to top Group C with a perfect finish.
Coach Desmond Ofei’s decision to rotate his squad paid off handsomely. Making five changes to the side that triumphed over Senegal earlier in the week, he brought in Ishmael Addo, Andrews Adjabeng, Maxwell Azafokpe, Abdul Sulemana, and Joseph Aidoo, resting key players including Jerry Afriyie, who had returned to Spain to rejoin his club.
From kickoff, Ghana seized control, applying intense pressure and pinning their opponents deep into their half. Despite carving out multiple opportunities, the final touch was often missing, as the CAR defense held firm and Ghana’s attackers failed to convert early chances.
But persistence paid off late in the game. In the 84th minute, Joseph Aidoo delivered a sublime through ball to fellow substitute Joseph Opoku, who calmly slotted past the goalkeeper to break the deadlock. It was a moment of class that crowned a dominant display.
The result sees Ghana finish the group with seven points and no losses, securing a quarterfinal berth and underlining their credentials as title contenders.
