by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 8, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
Ghana legend Michael Essien has described the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations as a painful setback, while encouraging the team to shift focus toward future challenges.
Ghana endured a difficult qualifying campaign, finishing bottom of their group without a single win. The Black Stars managed three draws and suffered three defeats, leading to a surprising early exit from the tournament set to be hosted in Morocco.
Reflecting on the outcome, Essien acknowledged the disappointment but emphasized the need for resilience and forward thinking.
“Of course it was a big disappointment, but in football, you have to move on from that,” he said, adding that the beauty of the game lies in always having another opportunity to bounce back.
Despite the AFCON setback, Ghana has responded positively by securing qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in North America. The Black Stars will be making their fifth appearance on football’s biggest stage.
Drawn in a challenging Group L, Ghana will face the England national football team, Croatia national football team, and Panama national football team.
The campaign is set to begin against Panama on June 17, followed by a high-profile clash with England on June 23, before wrapping up the group stage against Croatia on June 27.
Essien’s message is clear: while the AFCON disappointment still lingers, the focus must now be on rebuilding confidence and delivering strong performances on the world stage.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 8, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
Ghana football legend Michael Essien has called for greater care and protection for Mohammed Kudus, emphasizing the midfielder’s importance to the future of the Black Stars.
Essien described Kudus as one of Ghana’s brightest talents, urging fans, coaches, and stakeholders to create the right environment for him to thrive. According to him, the success of the national team depends heavily on how well key players like Kudus are managed and supported.
“Kudus is one of the biggest talents and for Ghana, he’s our star. We have to protect him and give him all the love and confidence he needs,” Essien stated.
Kudus has grown into a central figure for Ghana in recent years, earning admiration for his creativity, technical ability, and match-winning impact. His performances at both club and international level have positioned him as a key player in Ghana’s ambitions on the global stage.
Essien’s remarks come at a crucial time, as expectations build around Kudus’ return from injury. The 24-year-old has been sidelined but is anticipated to make his comeback by the end of April, offering a timely boost ahead of preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The former Chelsea midfielder also stressed that nurturing top talents requires proper management and consistent support, especially as Ghana looks to build a strong and competitive team for the future.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 8, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
Senegalese tactician Aliou Cissé has officially ended his tenure as head coach of the Libya national football team, citing financial challenges after reportedly going eight months without salary.
Cissé, who took charge in March 2025 on a two-year deal, chose to walk away before completing his contract despite making steady progress with the team. His departure highlights ongoing financial difficulties within Libyan football administration.
In a heartfelt message shared on social media, the former Senegal national football team coach reflected on his time in charge, describing it as both professionally and personally rewarding.
He expressed pride in the efforts of his players and technical staff, noting that the team showed resilience despite the challenges faced behind the scenes.
He also extended gratitude to Libyan fans for their unwavering support, expressing confidence that the team—popularly known as the Mediterranean Knights—will continue to grow and succeed in the future.
During his stint, Cissé oversaw 10 matches, recording three wins, five draws, and two defeats. However, persistent delays in salary payments ultimately forced his decision to step aside.
The 50-year-old remains one of Africa’s most respected coaches, having guided Senegal to victory at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations, a historic achievement that cemented his legacy on the continent.
Reports indicate that although part of the outstanding payments had recently been settled, at least one month’s salary remained unpaid at the time of his resignation—bringing an unfortunate end to what many saw as a promising chapter for Libyan football.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 8, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
Former Ghana international Anthony Baffoe has expressed concern over the fitness level of Thomas Partey, emphasizing the need for players to be in top physical shape ahead of Ghana’s World Cup preparations.
Baffoe acknowledged Partey’s importance to the Black Stars but pointed out that the midfielder is currently not at full fitness.
He noted that this situation is understandable, considering the physical strain and emotional pressures players often face at the highest level of the game.
“Thomas Partey is not 100% in shape, which is also fully understandable. They need to be in top form,” Baffoe stated, underlining the high standards required for international football.
Partey has long been a central figure in Ghana’s midfield, known for his calmness on the ball, tactical intelligence, and ability to control the tempo of matches. However, any concerns about his fitness could impact both his performance and selection as the team gears up for crucial fixtures.
Baffoe’s comments highlight a wider focus on conditioning within the national team, as Ghana looks to assemble a fully fit and competitive squad capable of delivering strong performances on the global stage, particularly at the FIFA World Cup 2026.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Apr 8, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
The government of Uganda has unveiled plans to grant visa-free entry to international fans attending the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations, in a move aimed at boosting tourism and making the tournament more accessible.
Uganda will co-host the competition alongside Kenya and Tanzania, with the tournament scheduled to run from June 19 to July 18, 2027.
The announcement was made in Kampala by government spokesperson Dennis K. Mugimba, who explained that the visa waiver will be effective from one month before the tournament begins until one month after it ends. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to promote Uganda as a top travel destination while encouraging football fans from across the world to attend the event.
Ugandan authorities are also working closely with their co-host nations to simplify travel within the region. Plans are underway to introduce a special joint visa arrangement—referred to as the “PAMOJA visa”—to allow smooth cross-border movement for fans, officials, and other stakeholders during the tournament.
The expanded AFCON tournament will feature 28 teams, with host nations Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania already guaranteed qualification. Coming after the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, the 2027 edition is expected to draw global attention as East Africa prepares to showcase its culture, passion, and hospitality.
Despite ongoing infrastructural challenges, the host nations are determined to deliver a successful and memorable tournament that will leave a lasting impression on African football.
