by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Razak Simpson’s Journey: A Second Chance with the Black Stars
After making his debut for the Black Stars during the final stretch of Ghana’s AFCON 2025 qualifiers, Nations FC defender Razak Simpson is eager for another call-up as the 2026 World Cup qualifiers resume this month.
Simpson’s first taste of international football was a defining moment. Reflecting on the experience, he admitted to feeling the weight of the national jersey but found confidence in the encouragement of coach Otto Addo.
“When I wore the shirt, it became heavy on me, but I reminded myself that this is what I chose to do. So I had to put everything aside and play,” Simpson shared in an interview with Sportsblog247.com.
Now, with Ghana set to face Chad on March 21 at the Accra Sports Stadium before traveling to Morocco for a clash against Madagascar on March 24, the promising center-back is hopeful of making the squad once again.
Ghana currently sits second in Group I with nine points from four games, and every selection decision will be crucial in shaping their path to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Simpson, fueled by his previous experience, is ready to step up if given the opportunity.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has outlined a strategic three-year plan to enhance the standards of coaching and refereeing in the country, aiming to address long-standing concerns about the quality of domestic football.
Neil Armstrong-Mortagbe, the GFA’s Head of Public Relations and Strategy, highlighted that the initiative builds on the football DNA concept introduced during the tenure of GFA President Kurt Okraku. This philosophy, known as Agoro Ball, emphasizes Ghana’s traditional strength in midfield play and is now a key part of coaching education.
“We are ensuring that all coaches trained in Ghana adopt this philosophy,” Armstrong-Mortagbe stated, adding that it has been integrated into the national coaching curriculum.
Refereeing, another critical area of focus, has faced challenges since the fallout from the Number 12 documentary, which exposed corruption in Ghanaian football. Armstrong-Mortagbe acknowledged that the rebuilding process has been gradual, but progress is being made.
“When Kurt assumed office, refereeing and coaching were among his biggest concerns. Now, some of our referees are reaching the FIFA level and officiating in major tournaments. However, we recognize the ongoing criticisms and are committed to improving standards in the next three years to enhance the image of our game,” he added.
With this renewed focus, the GFA hopes to restore confidence in Ghanaian football by fostering a new generation of top-tier coaches and referees.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
On a bright Monday morning, March 3, the halls of the Ministry of Sports and Recreation buzzed with anticipation as Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt E.S. Okraku, paid a courtesy visit to the newly appointed Sports Minister, Mr. Kofi Adams.
With a firm handshake and a warm smile, Okraku introduced the Black Stars’ newly assembled technical team to the Minister. Leading the pack was head coach Otto Addo, accompanied by the experienced technical director Winfried Schäfer and assistant coach Desmond Ofei. This meeting was more than a formality—it was a rallying call for unity and success as Ghana gears up for the crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Expressing his confidence in the team, Okraku sought the Minister’s blessings, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in steering the national team back to the global stage.
Minister Kofi Adams, in turn, welcomed the delegation with open arms, assuring them of his unwavering support. He reiterated his commitment to an open-door policy, urging the technical team to reach out whenever necessary. His words carried a strong message of teamwork and dedication, as he charged them to give their best in securing Ghana’s place in the World Cup.
With a shared vision and a renewed sense of purpose, the meeting set the stage for what promises to be a determined push for qualification. The road ahead may be tough, but with unity, strategy, and passion, the Black Stars aim to shine on the world stage once more.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s quest for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup received a strong boost as Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, rallied the Black Stars’ technical team to work in unity towards qualification.
During a pivotal meeting on March 3, Adams welcomed Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku, head coach Otto Addo, assistant coach Desmond Ofei, and technical director Winfried Schafer. With the crucial qualifiers approaching, the Minister emphasized the need for a collective effort, assuring the team of his unwavering support.
“My doors are always open. Whatever assistance you need, do not hesitate to call on me,” Adams urged, reinforcing his commitment to the national team’s success.
Ghana will face Chad and Madagascar in decisive fixtures this month, knowing that victories in these matches could pave the way for a return to the grandest stage of football. With a united front, the Black Stars are determined to soar once more.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Mar 4, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Winfried Schäfer wasn’t expecting the call. Sitting in a quiet café in Manchester, the seasoned German coach was enjoying a moment of reflection when his phone buzzed. On the other end was Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku, extending an offer that would take Schäfer by surprise—the role of technical advisor for the Black Stars.
Curious about the vision behind the offer, Schäfer agreed to meet Okraku. The conversation that followed left him impressed. “I wanted to understand his plans for Ghanaian football, and after hearing them, I knew this was a project worth joining,” Schäfer recalled.
Despite Ghana’s recent disappointment—failing to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations—Schäfer saw an opportunity to contribute to a football culture rich with history and passion. “Ghana breathes football. It’s a country where the sport means everything, and I’m happy to be part of this journey,” he shared.
With head coach Otto Addo leading the team, Schäfer is confident in the Black Stars’ future. “We have good players, a strong technical team, and if we work together, great things can happen,” he said with conviction.
His first test comes soon: Ghana faces Chad in a crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier on March 17, followed by a battle against Madagascar four days later. For Schäfer, the unexpected call has turned into an exciting challenge—one he’s ready to embrace.
