by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Elisha Owusu’s dream of representing Ghana in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers has been put on hold due to an untimely injury. The AJ Auxerre midfielder, who was originally named in the Black Stars’ squad for the crucial matches against Chad and Madagascar, had to withdraw after sustaining an injury over the weekend.
In his absence, Cercle Brugge’s Lawrence Agyekum has been called up to fill the gap. Despite his disappointment, Owusu took to social media to express his unwavering support for his teammates.
“Unfortunately, I won’t be able to join the squad for our FIFA World Cup qualifiers due to injury, but I have full confidence in my teammates to get the job done,” he wrote.
Acknowledging the pain of missing out, the 27-year-old emphasized his belief that everything happens for a reason and that his primary focus is now on recovery. Owusu urged fans to keep supporting the team, assuring them that the Black Stars are ready for battle.
Ghana is set to face Chad on Friday, March 21, before locking horns with Madagascar in Morocco on March 24. With or without Owusu, the Black Stars’ mission remains the same—securing vital points on the road to the 2026 World Cup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Soccer
In a moment of joy off the pitch, Senegalese football star Sadio Mane has embraced fatherhood, welcoming his first child with his wife, Aisha Tamba. The Al Nassr forward, 32, and his 19-year-old wife have stepped into a new phase of their lives, celebrating the arrival of their baby just over a year after their intimate wedding.
Mane and Tamba tied the knot in a private ceremony in Keur Massar, Senegal, just days before the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations. Their love story, which began while Tamba was still a student, blossomed into marriage, with Mane reportedly making a promise early on to build a future with her.
Now, 14 months later, that future includes their first child, a moment confirmed by Mane’s club, Al Nassr, following their 3-1 victory over Al-Kholood. As Mane continues to shine on the field, he now carries a new role beyond football—fatherhood.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
In the heart of Accra, a renewed sense of determination fills the air as the Black Stars set their sights on the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Assistant coach John Paintsil passionately appeals to every Ghanaian to rally behind the team. With the spotlight on the upcoming clash against Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on March 21, 2025, the message is clear: the team’s journey to glory depends on the unwavering support of the nation.
The road to the World Cup has seen its share of triumphs and setbacks. After a promising start with a win over Madagascar, the Black Stars experienced a challenging defeat against Comoros before bouncing back with commanding victories over Mali and the Central African Republic. Currently, they share the top spot in Group I with Comoros, each boasting nine points from four hard-fought matches.
Paintsil’s heartfelt call echoes throughout the stadium: “Where we have reached, we need the support of Ghanaians now more than ever.” His words underscore the crucial role that home support plays in transforming a good performance into a memorable win, especially as the team faces Chad—a side languishing at the bottom of the group with just one point.
The journey continues beyond Accra. On March 24, the Black Stars will travel to Morocco to take on Madagascar. The match, relocated to Al Hoceima due to the unapproved status of Madagascar’s home stadium, is another vital step towards securing all six points needed to boost their World Cup qualification hopes.
The call to arms is more than a tactical request; it is a heartfelt invitation for every Ghanaian to unite in support of their national heroes on this critical campaign.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
With the dream of a 2026 FIFA World Cup berth on the line, Black Stars assistant coach John Paintsil has declared Ghana’s upcoming qualifier against Chad a must-win encounter.
The crucial fixture is set for Friday, March 21, 2025, at 19:00 GMT at the Accra Sports Stadium. Ghana, currently tied at the top of Group I with Comoros on nine points, is determined to maintain their lead before heading to Morocco to face Madagascar on March 24.
Having started their campaign with a victory over Madagascar, the Black Stars stumbled against Comoros but bounced back strongly with wins over Mali and the Central African Republic. Now, they are focused on taking all three points against a Chad side languishing at the bottom of the table with just one point.
“The Chad game is a must-win, and with the support of the fans, I know it will go well for us,” Paintsil told Happy Sports. “We all understand what qualifying for the World Cup will mean—new opportunities, investment, and global recognition.”
With Madagascar unable to host games at their national stadium, Ghana’s away fixture will take place in Al Hoceima, Morocco. The Black Stars are targeting six points from these two matches to solidify their qualification hopes and take another step toward the grand stage in North America.
As the nation holds its breath, all eyes will be on Accra, where Ghana looks to turn ambition into reality.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 18, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
As the Black Stars prepare for their crucial World Cup qualifiers, assistant coach John Paintsil is urging Ghanaians to rally behind the team, emphasizing that their journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is about more than just football—it’s about unlocking opportunities.
With Ghana currently tied at the top of Group I alongside Comoros, the stakes are high. Their next challenge comes on March 21, 2025, against Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium, followed by a tough away fixture against Madagascar in Morocco three days later. These matches will be pivotal in determining their path to North America.
Beyond the sporting glory, Paintsil highlights the potential ripple effects of qualification. “A World Cup spot will not only bring pride but also create avenues for travel, business, and investment. It’s an opportunity for Ghanaians to explore new possibilities,” he told Happy Sports.
For many Ghanaians, a successful qualification means the chance to experience the grand event firsthand, with the USA, Mexico, and Canada set to host the global tournament. Meanwhile, investors and stakeholders see a gateway to economic and sporting growth.
As the Black Stars prepare for battle, the nation watches with hope, knowing that a victory on the pitch could open doors far beyond the stadium.
