by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghanaian winger Joseph Paintsil remains confident in Black Stars’ quest for 2026 World Cup qualification despite recent setbacks.
After failing to secure a spot in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghana’s senior national team has shifted its focus to the upcoming FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to resume in March. Joseph Paintsil, who plies his trade with LA Galaxy, has expressed optimism about Ghana’s chances and the personal significance of reaching the global stage.
In an interview with GHOne TV, Paintsil underscored his determination to help the Black Stars secure qualification for the tournament.
“I’m positive that the Black Stars will qualify for the World Cup because it’s something that’s really dear to me. I’ve never had the opportunity to play in the World Cup, so being able to qualify and represent myself, my family, and my friends means a lot,” Paintsil shared.
Reflecting on his mindset heading into the crucial qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar, the winger emphasized a unified team effort.
“For me, stepping onto the field means giving everything. That’s the most important thing, and I believe every player in the team is prepared to do the same,” he added.
Despite the team’s struggles, Paintsil’s words highlight a spirit of resilience and hope as Ghana aims to reclaim its place on football’s grandest stage.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Ghanaian football star Augustine Ahinful has passionately appealed to the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to integrate more former players into the management of the Black Stars.
His plea follows the unveiling of the new Management Committee for the senior national team, which features Stephen Appiah, the iconic ex-Black Stars captain, as Vice Chairman and head of player relations. Despite this, Ahinful believes the inclusion of more ex-players can help rejuvenate the national team and foster stronger connections with current players.
Speaking on Accra-based Sporty FM, Ahinful reflected on the proactive steps taken by former Sports Minister Elvis Afriyie-Ankrah to involve ex-players during his tenure. He recounted how the minister, after consulting with the Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG), mandated the inclusion of former stars like himself, Appiah, Osei Kuffour, and CK Akonnor in the Black Stars’ activities.
Ahinful shared his personal experience as part of the technical committee during that period, tasked with advising on strategies to elevate the national team’s performance.
“When Elvis Afriyie Ankrah became Sports Minister, he met with us and the PFAG. Following those discussions, he instructed that myself, Stephen Appiah, Osei Kuffour, and CK Akonnor should be actively involved in Black Stars matches,” Ahinful recalled. “I was part of the technical committee and contributed by advising on how to advance the fortunes of the national teams and by engaging with the players directly.”
With Ghana’s recent struggles on the international stage, Ahinful emphasized that former players’ insights and experience could serve as a valuable resource in rebuilding the Black Stars.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Fred Pappoe, former Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has highlighted the critical role of a well-functioning Management Committee in the success of national teams. His remarks come in the wake of the GFA’s decision to appoint a new Management Committee for the Black Stars, following their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The newly formed committee replaces the previous one led by Mark Addo. Despite skepticism from some quarters, Pappoe remains confident that effective committees are vital to the smooth operation of football at the national level.
“A well-functioning Management Committee is relevant for the running of our football or national teams, but if the members are not committed, they will be there only in name,” he stated in an interview with Sporty FM.
He also detailed the committee’s key responsibilities, which include organization, planning, camping, accommodation, counselling, and supporting the technical team.
The new Management Committee for the Black Stars is chaired by Dr. Randy Abbey, an Executive Council member of the GFA, who will lead engagements with the government and other stakeholders. Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah takes on the role of Vice-Chairman, focusing on player relations while assisting Dr. Abbey.
Other members include Samuel Aboabire, Greater Accra Regional Football Association Chairman; Moses Armah, Medeama SC President; and Richard Nsenkyire, FC Samartex 1996 President. Together, they will oversee matchday operations, sponsor relations, and special assignments to ensure the Black Stars’ resurgence.
As the Black Stars look to rebuild, the emphasis on management and coordination could prove instrumental in steering the team back to continental prominence.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghanaian football veteran Andre Ayew has expressed his thoughts following Le Havre’s hard-fought 1-1 draw against Stade Reims in the French Ligue 1.
The 35-year-old Black Stars captain started the game at the Stade Auguste-Delaune and played 64 minutes before being substituted. Reims took the lead in the 26th minute through Marshall Munetsi, but Le Havre’s Arouna Sangante equalized in the 67th minute to secure a vital point for the visitors.
Ayew, who has been instrumental for Le Havre since joining the club in October 2024, took to Instagram to share his optimism, writing, “Plus one point. We keep going.” The forward has made 11 appearances for the French side, netting two goals and providing leadership on the pitch.
The seasoned forward’s resurgence has sparked speculation about his imminent return to the Black Stars for Ghana’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in March 2025. With his recent performances overshadowing Le Havre’s struggles in Ligue 1, Ayew seems to have rediscovered his form at a critical moment.
Should he make the squad, Ayew’s experience and leadership will undoubtedly provide a significant boost to Ghana’s World Cup qualifying campaign.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 21, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Thomas Partey has reaffirmed Arsenal’s determination to end their 21-year Premier League title drought despite a disappointing 2-2 draw against Aston Villa on Saturday.
Deployed as a right-back, Partey was part of a Gunners side that squandered a two-goal advantage at the Emirates, leaving them six points adrift of league leaders Liverpool, who still have a game in hand.
Despite the setback, Partey remains optimistic about Arsenal’s chances, emphasizing the team’s unwavering focus and belief in their ability to challenge for the title.
“You want to be at the top, so you continue to look at those ahead, but the main focus is always to believe in ourselves, improve, and win our games,” Partey stated after the match.
He also highlighted the collective determination within the club, saying, “The mentality from our fans, to the players, to the coach is very clear. We want to be the best, chase the best teams, and aim to be the best team. Our focus is on doing our best and winning games.”
Partey acknowledged the competitiveness of the league but insisted that Arsenal’s priority is maintaining focus and fighting until the end of the season.
The Gunners will now look to bounce back as they prepare for their midweek UEFA Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb.
