by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 20, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The tension in the air was palpable at the Accra Sports Stadium as the Black Stars wrapped up their final training session ahead of their crucial World Cup qualifiers. The team had endured a tough 2024 campaign, winning only two of their last ten matches, and morale was low.
However, a surprise visit from former President John Mahama changed the mood. The statesman, known for his passion for Ghanaian football, took time to encourage the players, reminding them of the nation’s unwavering support despite recent setbacks.
Stepping forward as a leader, captain Jordan Ayew met Mahama’s gaze with determination. “It’s a big sign that you’re here supporting us,” Ayew said. “We know we’re in a tough situation, but we’re not afraid. We will turn things around on Friday, so you can relax. We’ll do the job for the nation.”
His words carried the weight of a squad desperate for redemption. Having failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations—a bitter disappointment for a nation with such rich football history—the Black Stars now had one mission: secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup.
With their first test against Chad at home, followed by a decisive encounter with Madagascar in Morocco, the stage is set. The question remains—can Ghana rise from the ashes and reclaim its glory? The nation watches, hopeful.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 20, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Despite the heartbreak of missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), former President John Dramani Mahama has assured the Black Stars that the nation still believes in them.
During a surprise visit to the team’s camp on Wednesday, Mahama acknowledged their struggles but encouraged them to rediscover their winning mentality ahead of the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar.
“We didn’t qualify for AFCON. But even when we did the last time, we crashed out very early. That doesn’t mean we’ve given up on you,” he told the players and technical team. “We still believe that the Black Stars can find its glory again, and that depends on you, the technical team, and the management committee.”
He reminded the squad that while Ghanaian fans will always support them, their success ultimately lies in their dedication and sacrifice.
“The goals will come from these feet right here,” Mahama said, pointing to the players. “It takes strength, commitment, and sacrifice. We all love watching you play for your clubs, and we expect you to bring that same passion to the national team.”
With two vital games ahead, Otto Addo and his men are determined to bounce back from a tough 2024, where they won just two of their 10 matches. Ghana faces Chad on March 21 in Accra before traveling to Morocco to take on Madagascar three days later.
As the team prepares for these must-win encounters, Mahama’s words serve as a powerful reminder that the Black Stars still have a nation behind them—waiting for their resurgence.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 20, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
A special guest will be in the stands when Ghana takes on Chad in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday. Former President John Dramani Mahama has confirmed his attendance, promising to support the Black Stars as they push for a much-needed victory.
Mahama made this pledge during his visit to the team’s training session on Wednesday, where he delivered words of encouragement.
“I’ll take time off and watch the game myself. Even though my heart is not very good at watching soccer, I will brave it. They say I should eat before I go and sit down,” he said with a smile. “My hope is that you will justify my sitting and watching you. The whole of Ghana is behind you, and I’m sure you can make it.”
With the Black Stars sitting third in Group I with nine points, their qualification hopes hinge on securing maximum points against Chad and Madagascar. Missing out on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) was a major setback, but the team is determined to bounce back and book their place at the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Mahama also extended his support to Ghanaian football beyond just the senior national team. “We’ll work closely with the GFA and management committee to create the right atmosphere for not only the Black Stars but all our junior teams to perform.”
As Ghana prepares for battle, the presence of a former president in the crowd serves as a reminder that the entire nation is rallying behind them in their quest for another World Cup appearance.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 20, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Michael Essien, a legend of Ghanaian football, had a choice to make—a choice that could have seen him return to the Black Stars, not as a player, but as a guiding force from the dugout. When the Ghana Football Association (GFA) sought an assistant coach for Otto Addo following Chris Hughton’s departure, Essien’s name was at the forefront.
However, the former Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder declined the offer, a decision that left many wondering why he turned down the chance to contribute to the national team in a new capacity.
“I wouldn’t say I refused, but I was just not ready for that job,” Essien revealed in an interview with Sporty FM. “I was approached by Otto Addo and the president [Kurt Okraku], but I felt I was not ready.”
His choice paved the way for John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann to step into the assistant coaching roles. However, following Ghana’s disappointing failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Laumann was replaced by Desmond Ofei.
Despite missing out on lifting a trophy during his illustrious playing career with the Black Stars, Essien remains hopeful for Ghanaian football. “It’s sad I couldn’t win any trophy during my time with the Black Stars, but I am convinced the team will win a trophy soon.”
For now, Essien continues his coaching journey with FC Nordsjaelland, preparing for the day he feels ready to take on a bigger role with Ghana’s national team.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
In a heartwarming celebration of love and heritage, Franco-Malian football star N’Golo Kanté officially married his Malian bride in Bamako, Mali. The humble and widely respected footballer, known for his quiet demeanor and tireless work ethic on the pitch, chose to honor his roots by holding his wedding in the West African nation.
Surrounded by family, close friends, and well-wishers, the event was a beautiful blend of tradition and joy, marking a special chapter in Kanté’s life beyond football. Fans across the world have showered him with congratulations, celebrating not just his career but also this personal milestone.
