by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 23, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
Nigeria holds Ghana in a goalless first leg as Ogunmodede promises triumph in CHAN return leg.
The Home-based Super Eagles of Nigeria put on a spirited display to secure a goalless draw against the Black Galaxies of Ghana in the first leg of their 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifier. Played at the Accra Sports Stadium, the encounter showcased Nigeria’s tactical discipline and defensive resilience against a dominant Ghanaian side.
The Black Galaxies started the match with intensity, controlling possession and probing for weaknesses in Nigeria’s defense. However, the Super Eagles stood firm, repelling waves of attacks with composure and organization. Despite Ghana’s pressure, the Nigerian defense, marshaled by an impressive backline, proved unyielding.
The second half saw Nigeria grow into the game, creating moments of their own. The closest chance came when Sikiru Alimi unleashed a thunderous strike that crashed against the crossbar, leaving the home crowd holding their breath.
After the match, head coach Daniel Ogunmodede lauded his team’s effort and expressed confidence in their chances ahead of the second leg.
“We knew Ghana would be a tough opponent, but we also knew we could get a positive result,” Ogunmodede said. “The boys showed bravery, and that’s what Nigeria is known for. In Uyo, we will go for the win.”
The decisive second leg is set for Saturday at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo. With the aggregate winner booking a ticket to CHAN 2024, co-hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania, all eyes will be on the Super Eagles as they aim to finish the job on home soil.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 23, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Uniting football, music, and culture to inspire future generations.
Accra Academy School’s astroturf will come alive on December 27, 2024, with the inaugural Global Football Festival, a one-of-a-kind event celebrating Ghana’s rich football heritage. Organized by Kick Nation and powered by FulLCircL MGT, this festival promises to blend sports, entertainment, and culture in an unforgettable experience.
The media launch, held on December 20, 2024, set the tone for what is expected to be a monumental occasion. Renowned journalist Gary Al-Smith described the festival as a “fusion of football and entertainment” designed to unite communities while honoring Ghana’s storied football history.
A major highlight of the festival will be a homecoming parade featuring Ghanaian international football stars, including MLS standout Joseph Paintsil. These players will engage in mentorship programs aimed at nurturing the next generation of football talent. Additionally, an 8-team football tournament will showcase young players vying for attention from international scouts.
Baba Sadiq, Founder of FulLCircL MGT, explained the festival’s broader mission of reigniting interest in football through a dynamic mix of sport, music, and lifestyle. Delali Frank Awutey, International Liaison Officer, emphasized the importance of preserving Ghana’s football legacy, noting the display of historic items such as jerseys worn by Black Stars legends.
The celebration will conclude with electrifying performances from top Ghanaian artists, including R2Bees, Pappy Kojo, and Larruso, alongside surprise acts. Felix Romark of Football Impact Africa highlighted the festival’s long-term vision, focusing on sustainability and passion for the sport.
The Global Football Festival is more than an event—it’s a movement aimed at inspiring future generations while honoring Ghana’s place in global football history.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 23, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Sudan’s head coach, Kwesi Appiah, has dismissed the notion that financial incentives would influence his decision should he be offered a return as head coach of Ghana’s Black Stars.
Appiah, who previously managed the Black Stars during two separate tenures, is currently steering Sudan’s national team. Under his guidance, Sudan achieved a remarkable feat by qualifying for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, eliminating Ghana in the process.
In an interview on the BKB Show, Appiah stated emphatically that money is not his motivation. “Is it the $1 million that will be given to me every week? What will that do? At my age, I don’t value money; I do things from my heart,” he said, highlighting his passion for the game.
Appiah further reiterated his commitment to his current role with Sudan, despite the challenges the country faces. He emphasized that his love for football and the desire to leave a positive legacy outweigh any monetary offer.
“I don’t need to worry myself with anything. My decisions are driven by purpose, not money,” he added.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 23, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Over the weekend, former and active Ghanaian football stars came together to support ex-Black Stars striker Prince Tagoe as he bid a heartfelt farewell to his mother, Reverend Joyce Tagoe.
The funeral, held in Accra, saw notable football personalities such as Stephen Appiah, Asamoah Gyan, Kwadwo Asamoah, Richmond Boakye-Yiadom, Anthony Baffoe, and Isaac Vorsah, among others, in attendance. Their presence reflected the strong bond within Ghana’s football fraternity.
Reverend Joyce Tagoe, a respected clergy member of Kairos Chapel, Matuero Assembly in East Legon, passed away in November 2024 at the 37 Military Hospital.
Prince Tagoe, a former Hearts of Oak striker and a celebrated figure in Ghanaian football, retired in 2019 after an illustrious 16-year career. He featured for prominent clubs, including Hoffenheim, Club Africain, and Al Ittihad, and earned 36 caps for the Black Stars, scoring seven goals. Tagoe was also part of the historic Black Stars squad that reached the quarter-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 23, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana’s Black Queens head coach, Nora Hauptle, has decided not to renew her contract with the Ghana Football Association (GFA), citing frustrations over the organization’s inability to fulfill basic obligations. Hauptle, who played a crucial role in revitalizing the team, reportedly turned down the renewal offer after the GFA and Sports Ministry failed to approve $50,000 for two crucial international friendlies.
The Swiss coach has since accepted an offer to lead Zambia’s women’s national team, signaling a new chapter in her coaching career. Hauptle’s departure raises questions about the GFA’s commitment to supporting women’s football, particularly as the Black Queens showed promise under her leadership.
