by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 24, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
In a thrilling encounter against Madagascar, Mohammed Kudus finally broke his goal drought, delivering on his promise to find the back of the net. The West Ham United star had confidently predicted he would score, and he lived up to his word in the second leg of the clash.
Kudus’ goal not only ended his dry spell but also reignited the hopes of Ghanaian fans who had been eagerly waiting for the midfielder to return to his scoring form. His performance was a reminder of his attacking prowess and determination to lead the Black Stars to victory.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 24, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Thomas Partey’s recent performances have reignited discussions about his importance to Arsenal. After a spell plagued by injuries, the Ghanaian midfielder is once again showcasing the qualities that made him a marquee signing—composure on the ball, tactical intelligence, and a commanding physical presence.
His return to form couldn’t have come at a better time for Mikel Arteta’s side. With the Gunners pushing for silverware, Partey’s experience and ability to control the midfield could be crucial. However, his resurgence poses a significant question for the Arsenal hierarchy: should they offer him a contract extension or start planning for a younger replacement?
At 30, Partey still has plenty to offer when fit, but his injury record and high wages make a long-term commitment a calculated risk. Yet, performances like these remind Arsenal of what they could lose if they let him go. If he maintains this level, the club may find it hard to part ways with a player of his caliber.
As Arsenal weigh their options, one thing is clear—Thomas Partey is far from finished, and his revival has given the club plenty to think about.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 24, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana head coach Otto Addo has made two key changes to his starting lineup as the Black Stars prepare to face Madagascar in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier on Monday.
Defender Jerome Opoku and midfielder Abu Francis have been drafted into the starting XI, replacing Ernest Nuamah and Inaki Williams. Addo has opted for a 3-5-2 formation, with deputy captain Thomas Teye Partey partnering Francis Abu in the heart of midfield.
Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare retains his place between the posts. In defense, Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu, and Jerome Opoku form a three-man backline, while Kingsley Schindler and Gideon Mensah operate as wingbacks, offering width and defensive cover.
In attack, the Black Stars will rely on the strike partnership of Antoine Semenyo and captain Jordan Ayew, with the dynamic Mohammed Kudus positioned just behind them to provide creative spark.
Ghana enters the match riding high after a commanding 5-0 victory over Chad on Friday, a result that propelled them to the top of Group I. With a win against Madagascar, the Black Stars aim to strengthen their grip on the group and take another step toward securing a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
The game is set to kick off at 19:00 local time at the Grande Stade Al Hoceima in Morocco, where Ghana will look to continue their impressive form.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 24, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
In a dazzling debut for the Black Stars, goalkeeper Benjamin Asare has reignited the conversation about the potential of locally-based players. His commanding performance in Ghana’s emphatic 5-0 victory over Chad in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has earned him praise from football stakeholders, including Hearts of Oak board member Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe.
Asare, who stepped in for first-choice goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi, not only held his ground but also kept a clean sheet, showcasing his readiness for the big stage. Speaking to Sportsblog247.com, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe lauded Asare’s performance as a testament to the quality within the Ghanaian domestic league.
“It was a good decision using Benjamin Asare because the coach has tried all the other goalkeepers, and Asare demonstrated clearly that he is fit for the job,” Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe remarked. “He has made a case for local players, but we can never be home and dry in this competition until they are featured prominently.”
Drawing on history, Dr. Nyaho-Tamakloe pointed to Ghana’s past Africa Cup of Nations triumphs, which were largely achieved with home-based talent. He urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to support Coach Otto Addo in expanding his scouting beyond the major football hubs of Accra and Kumasi, emphasizing the need to discover hidden gems across the nation.
As Benjamin Asare’s stellar debut captures national attention, the call for increased reliance on domestic talent grows louder, potentially signaling a shift in how local players are viewed within the Black Stars setup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 24, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s Black Stars have reignited their World Cup dreams with a commanding 5-0 triumph over Chad, and former captain Stephen Appiah has nothing but praise for the team’s dedication and work ethic.
The emphatic victory not only ended a frustrating six-game winless streak but also propelled Ghana to the summit of Group I with 12 points, two clear of their closest rivals, Madagascar. With a crucial showdown against Madagascar looming on Monday night, the Black Stars have regained momentum in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Appiah, now the Deputy Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, has been closely observing the team. Spending three days at the training ground, he was struck by the players’ intensity and commitment.
“What impressed me was the dedication and commitment towards the game that week,” Appiah shared. “I was at the training ground on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, and it was fantastic.”
While celebrating the team’s dominance over Chad, Appiah remains cautious. He knows that Madagascar will present a different and potentially tougher challenge.
“The game we played against Chad will be different from the game we are going to play because they have a different style of play and they will come with a different strength,” he warned.
Appiah, along with fellow former captain Asamoah Gyan, has traveled with the team to Morocco, where the match against Madagascar will take place. Their presence aims to inspire the squad as they push to secure a spot in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
