by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Arsenal legend Ian Wright has expressed his disappointment in Thomas Partey’s defensive lapse during the Gunners’ 2-2 draw against Aston Villa at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday.
The Ghanaian midfielder, deployed as a right-back by Mikel Arteta, failed to track Ollie Watkins during a crucial moment, allowing the English striker to equalize and secure a point for Unai Emery’s side.
Reacting to the incident on Premier League Productions, Wright criticized Partey for not recognizing the danger. “He [Partey] is not a natural right-back, and that is understandable. However, as a professional, he should have sensed the threat and stayed with Watkins,” Wright stated. “At this level, mistakes like this are unforgivable. His decision to move away cost Arsenal a win.”
Arsenal had taken the lead through goals from Gabriel Martinelli and Kai Havertz, but Villa’s Youri Tielemans pulled one back before Watkins capitalized on Partey’s mistake to level the game.
The Gunners will look to bounce back in their upcoming Champions League clash against Dinamo Zagreb before facing Wolves in the Premier League.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Ghanaian football star Augustine Ahinful has called on the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to provide more clarity on Stephen Appiah’s responsibilities in his newly assigned role on the Black Stars Management Committee.
The GFA, on Saturday, January 18, unveiled a new Management Committee for the senior national team following the disbandment of the Mark Addo-led committee after the Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Among the appointees, Stephen Appiah, revered for captaining Ghana to its first-ever World Cup in Germany, was named Vice Chairman of the committee. His portfolio also includes player relations, a role Ahinful believes needs further elaboration.
In an interview with Sporty FM, Ahinful expressed the importance of clear communication about Appiah’s duties. “I think that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) must explain further what they mean by player relations because the best relations are when the coach interacts with the players daily to know how they are doing,” he said.
He suggested that Appiah’s inclusion signals the GFA’s intent to address internal team dynamics. “I believe they have noticed something within the team, so they need somebody like Stephen Appiah to come on board to have that interaction with the players in a brotherly way to align them with the GFA’s vision,” Ahinful added.
The committee is chaired by Dr. Randy Abbey, tasked with leading engagements with government and stakeholders. Other members include Samuel Aboabire, Moses Armah, and Richard Nsenkyire, each assigned operational and strategic duties.
The GFA’s decision to overhaul its management structure reflects a broader strategy to improve the Black Stars’ performance and unity following recent setbacks.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Moses Simon continues to prove why he’s indispensable to FC Nantes as the Nigerian forward scored his fifth league goal of the season in a thrilling 1-1 draw against Saint-Étienne on Sunday night.
The Super Eagles winger displayed his trademark versatility at the Geoffroy-Guichard Stadium, playing a pivotal role in the attack. In the 14th minute, Simon capitalized on a poorly defended header from Saint-Étienne’s Appiah, expertly intercepting it before unleashing a thunderous left-footed strike to give Nantes an early lead.
Despite the momentum, Nantes were unable to hold onto their advantage as Saint-Étienne’s Augustine Boakye responded with a stunning long-range equalizer that left goalkeeper Lopes helpless.
In his post-match comments, Nantes’ coach Antoine Kombouaré lavished praise on Simon, calling him the team’s most versatile weapon. “On the left, there’s Simon. He played the game we expected of him. He’s capable of playing anywhere,” Kombouaré remarked, emphasizing the Nigerian’s ability to adapt to multiple roles, from winger to center forward, second striker, and even wingback.
Simon’s contributions have been vital for Nantes this season, as the club fights to pull clear of the relegation zone. With five goals and five assists in just 16 league appearances, Simon has directly been involved in ten goals, a statistic that highlights his immense influence.
Sitting 15th on the Ligue 1 table with 17 points from 18 matches, Nantes will hope to capitalize on Simon’s fine form as they aim to secure their top-flight status in the second half of the campaign.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Victor Osimhen’s future remains one of the most intriguing narratives in European football, but for now, the Nigerian striker has his sights firmly set on his current chapter at Galatasaray. Despite numerous rumors linking him to Europe’s elite clubs, recent revelations from close associate and journalist Buchi Laba suggest that the striker won’t be considering any transfer until the season’s end.
Osimhen’s tumultuous summer was marked by Napoli’s staunch resistance to bids from several suitors. According to Laba, Napoli frustrated every club vying for the striker’s signature during the summer transfer window—except for Chelsea. However, the Premier League giants reportedly mishandled negotiations, ultimately leaving the 24-year-old to secure a loan move to Turkish champions Galatasaray.
Since joining the Istanbul-based club, Osimhen has been in scintillating form, scoring 14 goals in 18 appearances across all competitions. This prolific start has bolstered Galatasaray’s aspirations, with the striker’s focus solely on contributing to his team’s success this season.
Meanwhile, Napoli’s stance on Osimhen’s future remains firm. The Italian club is reportedly open to selling the former African Footballer of the Year but only for a hefty transfer fee, with a €75 million termination clause included in his contract. As the summer approaches, the transfer market could see a renewed bidding war for the Nigerian star, with Chelsea and other top European clubs expected to re-enter the fray.
For now, though, Osimhen is fully committed to his Turkish adventure, leaving the next chapter of his career open to speculation. Whether it’s a return to Serie A, a Premier League debut, or a move to another top destination, the Nigerian striker will undoubtedly remain a hot commodity in the football world.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 19, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
From Greenville to Stardom: The Rise of a Promising Nigerian-American Talent
In the heart of Greenville, South Carolina, a young girl with a passion for soccer began a journey that could soon take her to the pinnacle of African women’s football. Chidubem “Dubem” Dike, the dynamic forward currently playing for the University of South Carolina Gamecocks, is emerging as a future star for the Super Falcons.
Born to Nigerian parents, Jude and Uchenna Dike, Dubem grew up in the Palmetto State, where her love for the beautiful game was nurtured. Her journey began at Greenville Technical Charter High School, where she scored an astonishing 55 goals, earning her regional Player of the Year honors. Her exceptional talent also shone at the club level, playing for CESA ECNL under coach Andrew Hyslop.
During the 2020-21 ECNL season, Dubem’s performances earned her a spot on the First Team All-Conference, and she left her mark by scoring the opening goal at the prestigious ECNL National Selection Game in Greer, South Carolina. By 2018-19, she was ranked among the top 50 players in the U.S. for her graduating class of 2022, solidifying her status as a top prospect.
Her collegiate career began at Wake Forest University, where she logged valuable minutes as a freshman. However, it was her transfer to the University of South Carolina that marked a turning point. As a Gamecock, Dubem had a breakout season, appearing in 18 games, scoring her first career goal in a dominant 6-0 victory over Jacksonville, and finishing the season with 12 shots, six on target.
Her sophomore season showcased her growth. Dubem recorded a career-high 41 minutes in a 5-0 win over Coastal Carolina and played in all three postseason matches, proving her readiness for bigger challenges.
Despite her rising profile, Dubem remains uncapped by U.S. national teams, leaving her eligible to represent Nigeria without a nationality switch. With her Nigerian roots, raw talent, and dedication, she’s poised to become a key figure for the Super Falcons, who are always in search of fresh attacking firepower.
Currently pursuing a major in criminal justice, Dubem Dike’s story is one of perseverance, potential, and pride. As she continues to grow on the field, the dream of wearing the iconic green and white jersey of the record African champions edges closer to reality.
