by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 31, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
As Ghana prepares for the resumption of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a cloud of uncertainty looms over the Black Stars. The source of concern? Head coach Otto Addo.
Incoming Sports Minister Kofi Adams has expressed deep concern over the growing skepticism surrounding Addo’s leadership. The frustration among Ghanaian fans is no secret, especially after the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. Many supporters believe that under his guidance, the Black Stars have lacked consistency and a winning mentality, leading to questions about his long-term future.
However, the doubts are not just limited to the fans. According to Adams, concerns about Addo’s tenure extend beyond the stands, with players and even members of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) voicing their reservations.
“The future of Otto Addo is a matter of concern to me,” Adams admitted. “It’s not only the fans; the feedback I’ve received extends beyond that, including from players and some current and former GFA members.”
Despite the criticism, Adams has called for patience, urging Ghanaians to rally behind the team. He believes that unwavering support from the fans is crucial for the Black Stars to regain their confidence and form.
With World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar on the horizon in March 2025, Otto Addo faces a defining moment in his coaching career. Can he silence the doubters and lead Ghana to victory, or will the pressure prove too much? The next few months will determine his fate.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 31, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
A Young Star’s Lesson in Humility
When John Obi Mikel first arrived at Chelsea, young and eager, his first paycheck felt like a dream come true. Without hesitation, he bought himself a sleek Range Rover, a symbol of success. But when José Mourinho saw it, he wasn’t impressed.
“Take it back,” Mourinho told him. “Get a Mini Cooper.”
Mikel was stunned, but he listened. Over time, he realized Mourinho wasn’t just coaching him on the pitch—he was shaping his mentality, teaching him discipline and humility. Mikel would later credit Mourinho for molding him into the player and person he became.
Drogba’s Big Game Switch
In the Chelsea dressing room, everyone knew when a massive fixture was coming up—it was a “Didier Drogba week.”
If the opponent was a mid-table side like Hull City or Stoke, Drogba would take it easy. He knew Chelsea would get the job done without him having to push himself to the limit. But when a big game loomed? That’s when the real preparation began.
The medical staff would be on high alert, massaging him, making sure he was in perfect condition. “Do you need anything, Didier? Anything at all?” they’d ask.
His teammates would smile knowingly—Drogba was about to switch into warrior mode. And when the big night arrived, he never disappointed.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
Bilbao, Spain – Under the bright lights of San Mamés Barria, Nico Williams delivered a stellar performance, guiding Athletic Bilbao to a convincing 3-1 victory over Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League.
From the first whistle, the Basque side dictated the tempo, and in the 25th minute, the Williams brothers combined to unlock Plzen’s defense. Iñaki Williams found his younger sibling with a perfectly weighted pass, and Nico, showing his trademark composure, curled a left-footed shot into the top corner, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Bilbao’s relentless pressure paid off again in the second half. In the 64th minute, Alex Berenguer floated in a pinpoint cross, and Yeray Álvarez rose highest to nod home, doubling the lead. However, Viktoria Plzen refused to go down without a fight. Milan Havel capitalized on a rare defensive lapse in the 71st minute, briefly igniting hopes of a comeback.
As tensions rose, Plzen’s fate was sealed when Daniel Vasulin saw red for a reckless challenge in the 89th minute. With the visitors down to ten men, Athletic struck once more in stoppage time. Oihan Sancet split the defense with a brilliant through ball, and substitute Javier Martón applied the finishing touch to secure the 3-1 win.
With this triumph, Ernesto Valverde’s men remain firmly in the hunt for Europa League glory. Now, their attention shifts to a crucial La Liga showdown against Real Betis on February 2nd.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 30, 2025 | Uncategorized
GFA Resists Pressure to Sack Otto Addo, Strengthens Black Stars’ Technical Team
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has made it clear that head coach Otto Addo will remain in charge of the Black Stars despite mounting public pressure for his dismissal. This decision comes in the wake of Ghana’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking the first time in two decades that the team will miss the prestigious tournament.
Reappointed on a three-year contract with an option for a two-year extension, Addo faced intense scrutiny after the Black Stars finished bottom of Group F with just three points, recording three draws and three defeats. Fans and pundits alike called for his removal, but the GFA’s Executive Council remains resolute.
“We will not allow anybody to put pressure on us to sack Otto Addo,” Nana Oduro Sarfo, a member of the GFA Executive Council, stated in an interview with Guide Radio.
Rather than parting ways with Addo, the GFA has opted to reinforce the Black Stars’ technical bench ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, which resume in March.
Key Changes to the Technical Team:
Winfried Schaffer (Germany): Appointed as the team’s technical advisor.
Desmond Offei: Promoted from Ghana’s U20 head coach to Black Stars assistant coach, replacing German Joseph Laumann.
John Paintsil & Fatawu Dauda: Retained as assistant coaches.
Kris Perquy: Appointed as team psychologist.
Gregory De Grauwe: Takes on the role of video analyst.
With these adjustments, the GFA hopes to revitalize the Black Stars and mount a strong challenge for World Cup qualification. While skepticism lingers, Otto Addo now has the backing of an enhanced technical team as he attempts to turn Ghana’s fortunes around.
Will this gamble pay off, or will the pressure from fans and poor results eventually force the GFA to reconsider? Only time will tell.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 30, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In the heart of London, where football rivalries run deep, a young star is earning the admiration of even his competitors. Mohammed Kudus, West Ham United’s dynamic forward, has left an indelible mark on the Premier League, catching the attention of Chelsea’s Cole Palmer.
During a recent interview with Sky Sports, Palmer—himself one of the league’s most exciting young talents—didn’t hesitate when asked about the most skilful players in England’s top flight. Alongside Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze and Manchester City’s Phil Foden, the Chelsea forward reserved special praise for Kudus.
“Kudus is very good, like very, very good,” Palmer emphasized. “Just on skills, I’ll put Kudus third. (But) I like everything about Kudus’ game. He’s fast, strong, technically good. Yea, I think he’s a very, very, very good player.”
For Kudus, this kind of recognition is yet another milestone in his rapid rise. Since swapping Ajax for West Ham last summer, the Ghanaian international has proven to be a game-changer. His blistering pace, intricate dribbling, and eye for goal have made him a nightmare for defenders and a crucial asset for the Hammers in both domestic and European competitions.
Although this season began with challenges, Palmer’s words serve as a testament to Kudus’ growing reputation. In a league filled with world-class talent, earning the respect of fellow stars is no small feat. With each dazzling display, Kudus is proving that he belongs among the very best in the Premier League.
