by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Victor Ikpeba, a former AS Monaco star and 1994 AFCON winner, has sparked a heated debate in Nigerian football circles with his bold claims about the current generation of Super Eagles players. Speaking on Bet9ja Home Turf, the ex-CAF Player of the Year argued that today’s squad would have struggled to compete during his playing days.
“In my era, not everyone could play football. You needed talent, passion, and quality. Now, most parents push their kids into football because of the money. That has changed,” Ikpeba remarked.
Reflecting on the highly competitive leagues of the ‘80s and ‘90s, the former Monaco forward highlighted how difficult it was to earn a place in the national team. He believes the football culture back then demanded a higher level of skill, discipline, and determination compared to today.
“The league back then was very strong, and to get into the national team, you had to be exceptional,” he explained. “Can these guys even play in Lagos? I don’t think so.”
His comments have divided opinions among Nigerian football fans. While some agree that the golden generation of the ‘90s had unparalleled talent, others point out that the current Super Eagles squad has produced back-to-back African Player of the Year winners and Ballon d’Or nominees—achievements that suggest a different kind of quality in modern football.
With football evolving over the years, the debate remains open: Was the past truly better, or is today’s Super Eagles just a different breed of talent?
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
San Diego, CA – It was a night of history and star-studded moments as Black Queens and Bay FC forward Princess Marfo attended San Diego FC’s inaugural home game against St. Louis City SC. The 21-year-old Ghanaian winger not only witnessed the club’s first-ever home match but also had the privilege of meeting Grammy-winning artist and San Diego FC co-owner, Tems.
Returning to the United States after international duty with Ghana’s Black Queens, Marfo made it a priority to be part of the electrifying atmosphere at Snapdragon Stadium. Though the game ended in a goalless draw, the occasion was nothing short of memorable.
Marfo took to social media to express her excitement, sharing:
“I am privileged to have met Tems. 1st March at San Diego inaugural home opener.”
The young forward, who previously honed her skills at FC Nordsjaelland, is a product of the renowned Right to Dream Academy, which also holds part ownership in San Diego FC.
Meanwhile, the match featured three other Ghanaian players—Willy Kumado, Ema Boateng, and Joshua Yaro—all representing their teams on the historic night.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
A Renewed Mission: Schäfer’s Determination to Restore Ghana’s Glory
Winfried Schäfer, the newly appointed Technical Advisor for the Black Stars, has pledged his unwavering commitment to helping Otto Addo and his squad reclaim their place among Africa’s elite.
Speaking to the Ghana Football Association’s media team, the experienced German tactician assured fans that he is fully invested in improving the national team’s performances. He emphasized his desire to work closely with the players and coaching staff to rebuild a team capable of competing at the highest level.
“I know we are not very happy because the team didn’t make it to the Africa Cup of Nations, but please give us your support,” Schäfer urged. “I want to talk to the players, I want to help the staff, and I want to assist the coach so that we come back stronger. But for this to happen, we must work very hard. The players must feel proud playing for Ghana.”
Schäfer also stressed the importance of hunger and passion in earning a place in the Black Stars squad, whether for local talents or foreign-based players.
“Players from Ghana or abroad must be eager for a call-up. Ghana is a football nation, the best land in Africa for football. We have to come back. Please stand behind us. You are our 12th man, and we can do it,” he added.
With crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar later this month, Otto Addo and his team will be looking to capitalize on the momentum and secure vital victories in their quest for redemption.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
A Timeless Striker: Welbeck’s Extra-Time Magic
At 34, Danny Welbeck continues to defy time, delivering match-winning performances when it matters most. The Brighton & Hove Albion forward was the hero of the night as his extra-time lob secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over Newcastle United in the FA Cup fifth round at St. Mary’s.
In a game filled with twists and turns, Alexander Isak opened the scoring from the penalty spot for the Magpies before Gambia’s Yankuba Minteh equalized, forcing the match into extra time. But as the clock ticked down, it was Welbeck’s moment of brilliance that sealed the win, lifting the ball over Martin Dubravka with the composure of a seasoned finisher.
“It is great to get the winning goal. It was a solid team performance. There was a lot going on in the game, lots of ups and downs, but we stuck with it. I’m so proud of the lads,” Welbeck said after the match.
Reflecting on his enduring form, the former Manchester United and Arsenal striker credited his parents for his longevity in the game. “I’m feeling very good, feeling fit and feeling strong—thanks to my mum and dad for giving me good genes,” he added with a smile.
With Brighton continuing their FA Cup journey under Fabian Hürzeler, Welbeck’s experience and instinct remain invaluable. His story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a touch of family fortune that keeps him thriving at the highest level.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghana’s U-16 Women’s National Team has landed in Malta, ready to embark on an exciting journey at the UEFA International Development Tournament. From March 3-9, 2025, these young talents will compete against Latvia, Malta, and Ireland at the Centenary Stadium in Ta’ Qali – Attard.
With 20 determined players and a dedicated technical team led by Coach Joe Nana Adarkwa, the squad set off from Ghana on Sunday evening and arrived in Malta on Monday morning, eager to showcase their skills on an international stage.
The journey begins on March 4 against host nation Malta, followed by a showdown with Ireland on March 6, before concluding their campaign against Latvia on March 9. Beyond competition, this tournament offers invaluable exposure, helping these young players transition smoothly into the Black Maidens (U-17 team).
For Ghana, this is more than just a tournament—it’s a commitment to the future of women’s football. The Ghana Football Association (GFA) views this as a crucial step in nurturing the next generation of female football stars, providing them with international experience and the confidence to compete at the highest level.
As the young Ghanaian players step onto European soil, they carry the dreams of a nation, ready to make their mark and build a legacy for women’s football in Ghana.
