by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 25, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Rising Star Daniel Daga Completes Move to Norwegian Giants Molde
Daniel Daga’s football journey continues to rise as the Nigerian midfield prodigy seals a move from Enyimba to Norwegian champions Molde FK. The 18-year-old’s remarkable ascent in football over the past two years highlights his growing potential.
Daga first gained global recognition at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup, where he was pivotal in helping Nigeria’s Flying Eagles reach the quarterfinals before falling to South Korea in a penalty shootout. Following the tournament, he joined Nigeria Premier Football League champions Enyimba, where he quickly became a key figure, making 27 league appearances last season.
Though he featured nine times for Enyimba this season, rumors of a potential transfer emerged after the young star was spotted at Molde’s training facilities late last year. Those rumors have now been put to rest, with Molde officially announcing his permanent signing.
Known for his combative style and strong defensive midfield presence, Daga is expected to immediately integrate into Molde’s first team. With the Norwegian Eliteserien on a break, Molde remains active in the UEFA Conference League and is preparing with friendly matches. Their next game, a clash with Traeff on January 28, could serve as Daga’s debut.
Norway has often been a springboard for Nigerian talents such as Victor Boniface, Akor Adams, and Gift Orban, and Daga will look to follow in their footsteps.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 25, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
At just 18 years old, Jerry Afriyie’s meteoric rise from Ghana’s lower divisions to international stardom has captured the hearts of many. The highly-rated striker has officially signed a three-and-a-half-year deal with Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah FC, marking a significant milestone in his young career.
Afriyie’s journey began with Thoughts FC, a lower-division side in Ghana, where his exceptional talent caught the attention of scouts and fans alike. His breakout moment came in 2024, a year that saw him dominate multiple tournaments. He emerged as the top scorer at the WAFU Zone B Championship and played a starring role in Ghana’s triumph at the African Games, securing a gold medal and the tournament’s Golden Boot.
This success continued into the international arena. Afriyie scored on his debut for the Black Stars during a 2-1 loss to Niger in the final round of the 2025 AFCON qualifiers at the Accra Sports Stadium. Despite the result, his performance cemented his reputation as one of Ghana’s brightest young prospects.
Afriyie also led the U20 team to qualification for the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, claiming both the Best Player and Goal King awards during the WAFU Zone B Championship in Togo. While the Black Galaxies fell to Nigeria in the CHAN qualifiers, Afriyie’s contributions didn’t go unnoticed.
Now, with a lucrative move to Al-Qadsiah FC, Afriyie is set to embark on a new chapter in his career. His story is a testament to perseverance, talent, and an unrelenting desire to reach the top.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 25, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
From Local Hero to International Prospect: The Journey of a Promising Talent
Jerry Afriyie, one of Ghana’s brightest football prospects, is set to continue his meteoric rise in Spain after joining CD Lugo on loan. This comes shortly after sealing a major three-year deal with Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadisiyah FC on January 23, 2025.
The 20-year-old forward, known for his clinical finishing and electric pace, will spend the remainder of the season with CD Lugo in the Primera Federación, gaining vital experience and honing his craft. Afriyie is expected to arrive in Spain next week to officially begin his new chapter.
His story is nothing short of inspirational. Rising through the ranks of lower-division club Thoughts FC, Afriyie’s remarkable talent saw him blossom into a key figure for the Ghana U20 side. His standout performances at the 2023 WAFU Zone B Tournament in Togo, where he claimed the Golden Boot, propelled Ghana to U20 AFCON qualification.
Afriyie’s trajectory continued upward as he helped Ghana’s U20 squad clinch gold at the 2024 African Games on home soil, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer. His exploits caught the attention of national selectors, earning him a senior debut for the Black Stars in a 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Niger. Despite Ghana’s 1-2 loss, Afriyie marked the occasion with a goal, solidifying his status as a future star.
The loan move to CD Lugo provides Afriyie with a unique opportunity to further his development in a competitive European league. His journey from a local standout to a global talent is a testament to his dedication and potential to become a poster boy for Ghanaian football.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 25, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Rashid Abubakar takes another bold step in his career, signing for reigning Kazakhstani champions FC Ordabasy.
Rashid Abubakar, a 24-year-old Ghanaian midfielder, has completed a permanent move to FC Ordabasy after a standout spell with Moldovan club CSF Spartanii Sportul Selemet. Despite only joining Spartanii in September last year, Abubakar’s impact was undeniable. In just eight league appearances, he netted twice, catching the eye of Ordabasy, the 2023 Kazakhstani champions.
Abubakar’s football journey has been nothing short of remarkable. Starting his career with Accra Lions FC in Ghana, he ventured beyond his homeland to make his mark on the international stage. His journey has taken him through Libya with Al Suqoor, Oman with Bahla Club, Serbia with FK Loznica, and Bosnia with FK Sarajevo.
In 2021, Abubakar had a brief stint in China, playing for Heilongjiang Ice City on loan, before returning to the Middle East. After leaving Bahla Club, he joined Spartanii on a free transfer and quickly became a key player for the Moldovan side.
Now, with a move to Ordabasy, Abubakar steps onto a bigger stage, joining a club with championship pedigree. His versatility and experience will be crucial as he looks to contribute to Ordabasy’s ambitions in both domestic and international competitions.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 25, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In a gripping encounter at the Emirates, Thomas Partey emerged as the orchestrator of Arsenal’s hard-fought 1-0 triumph over Wolves, keeping the Gunners firmly in the title race.
Arsenal’s clash with Wolves had all the drama of a season-defining match. Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey stole the show, delivering a commanding performance in midfield after being freed from his recent defensive duties.
The game took a dramatic twist when Arsenal’s young talent Myles Lewis-Skelly saw red just before halftime, leaving Mikel Arteta’s side with ten men. Yet, the Gunners showed their grit and resilience, carving out opportunities despite the numerical disadvantage.
Wolves seemed poised to take control until their fortunes shifted in the 70th minute. Joao Gomes, already on a yellow, received his marching orders for a reckless challenge, leveling the playing field. Arsenal seized the moment four minutes later, as Ricardo Calafiori found the back of the net to seal the victory.
The win keeps Arsenal second in the Premier League table with 47 points from 23 games, six points behind Liverpool, who have a game in hand. With defending champions Manchester City visiting the Emirates next, the Gunners face a stern test in their pursuit of the title.
Partey’s masterful display will undoubtedly be a focal point for Arsenal as they prepare for their biggest challenge yet.
