by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 14, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
In a tense Serie B encounter between Sampdoria and Brescia, 20-year-old Nigerian midfielder Ebenezer Akinsanmiro became the target of vile racist abuse from sections of the home fans. However, the incident has sparked an outpouring of support for the young star, with clubs like Juventus and his parent side Inter Milan standing firmly by his side.
The match started as a routine fixture, but tensions escalated when Sampdoria took the lead through Massimo Coda. As the game progressed, Brescia fans began directing monkey chants at Akinsanmiro, whose exceptional performance on the pitch had clearly irked them. Refusing to let the abuse go unnoticed, Akinsanmiro responded with ironic monkey gestures aimed at his abusers, a defiant act that drew both criticism and admiration.
Sampdoria coach Leonardo Semplici quickly substituted the Nigerian midfielder to prevent further escalation. Brescia coach Pierpaolo Bisoli accused Akinsanmiro of “provoking” the crowd, a claim that was widely condemned by football fans and pundits alike.
Despite the controversy, Akinsanmiro’s response has drawn praise from his agent, Crescenzo Cecere, who described it as a “provocative but beautiful” way to stand against racism. “He took it with a smile, and that’s what matters. He was the best player on the pitch, and unfortunately, this made him a target for verbal attacks,” Cecere stated.
Inter Milan and Juventus wasted no time in expressing their solidarity with the young player. Inter Milan posted on Twitter, saying, “We’re all brothers of the world,” while Juventus responded to Sampdoria’s post with the message: “Never again. Juventus against racism.”
Akinsanmiro, a product of Beyond Limits Football Academy in Nigeria, has been a standout performer for Sampdoria this season, making 21 appearances and scoring once. His move to Italy began when he joined Inter Milan in January 2023, where he shone in their U-19 squad before earning his senior debut.
Now on loan at Sampdoria, Akinsanmiro is proving himself on the pitch, but the ugly incident in Brescia highlights the challenges that talented young African players continue to face abroad.
While the incident is a sobering reminder of the persistence of racism in football, the overwhelming support Akinsanmiro has received is a testament to the growing unity within the sport against discrimination. As his agent aptly put it, “Racism must be completely condemned.”
For Akinsanmiro, the focus now will be to keep shining on the pitch, where his talent speaks louder than any insult ever could.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 14, 2025 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
Abuja, Nigeria – January 13, 2025
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) yesterday unveiled Éric Sékou Chelle as the new Head Coach of the Super Eagles, ushering in what many hope will be a new era of success for the national team. The unveiling ceremony took place at the Media Conference Room of the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abuja, with the 47-year-old pledging to deliver results with an attacking style of football.
For Chelle, the appointment is more than a professional milestone—it’s the fulfillment of a childhood dream. “Coaching the Super Eagles is an amazing job,” Chelle said. “Growing up, this team was my favorite. I’m elated and grateful to the NFF, the National Sports Commission (NSC), my agent, and indeed all Nigerians for this opportunity. I do not take it for granted.”
Chelle emphasized his philosophy of attacking football, underscoring its importance in achieving success. “Football is about scoring goals, and I favour an attacking style. Nigerians have high expectations, and I am ready to meet them. My focus is to ensure we qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup by working diligently with my assistants and instilling commitment in the players.”
With six World Cup qualifying matches remaining, Chelle’s immediate focus will be guiding the Super Eagles B team at the African Nations Championship in East Africa next month. The campaign to secure a World Cup spot begins in March with games against Rwanda (away) and Zimbabwe (home).
A Strategic Appointment
NFF President Ibrahim Gusau expressed confidence in Chelle’s ability to succeed, citing his deep understanding of African football and culture. “We wanted a coach who understands the mentality of African players. Éric is that man. By the grace of God, he will deliver results. We urge all football stakeholders to support him wholeheartedly,” Gusau stated.
The NFF, alongside the National Sports Commission, has pledged to provide Chelle with the necessary tools to succeed. NSC Chairman Shehu Dikko praised the transparency of Chelle’s recruitment and highlighted the government’s unwavering support for the NFF.
“Football unites Nigerians like nothing else. We are satisfied with the process that led to Coach Chelle’s appointment and will provide the NFF with all the resources they need to ensure he succeeds,” Dikko remarked.
As the Super Eagles prepare for critical matches ahead, Chelle has promised to channel his passion and expertise into delivering joy to millions of fans.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 14, 2025 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Nottingham Forest has reportedly rejected any intentions of parting ways with Nigerian striker Taiwo Awoniyi, despite growing interest from West Ham United. The Super Eagles star, who has struggled for game time this season, remains a valued asset for the Premier League side.
Awoniyi’s reduced role at Forest is largely due to Chris Wood’s exceptional form. The 33-year-old striker has been a revelation, notching 12 goals and providing one assist in just 20 Premier League appearances. In contrast, Awoniyi has found it challenging to capitalize on limited opportunities, sparking speculation of an imminent exit.
West Ham United, seeking to bolster their attacking options, has been linked to the 27-year-old forward. However, Nottingham Forest appears reluctant to part ways with Awoniyi unless a significant fee is offered. With two years remaining on his current contract, the club is in no hurry to sell and is mindful of the striker’s potential when fully fit and firing.
Forest’s decision to hold on to Awoniyi could also be influenced by the risk of Chris Wood’s form dipping. Awoniyi’s ability to deliver quality performances may become critical as the season progresses, making his retention a calculated move.
For now, the Tricky Trees seem determined to resist any advances for their Nigerian star. Time will tell if West Ham—or any other suitor—is willing to meet the price to change their stance.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
This weekend, Ghanaian footballers dazzled across the globe, delivering impressive performances for their respective clubs. From Ayew’s resilience in France to Semenyo’s brilliance in England, here’s a detailed wrap-up of their exploits:
The Goal-Getters
Andre Ayew showcased his prowess for Le Havre, scoring their only goal in a narrow 2-1 defeat to Lens. Kamaldeen Sulemana also found the back of the net, helping Southampton secure a commanding 3-0 victory over Swansea City in the Championship.
Mohammed Salisu, returning to full form, scored his first goal of the season in Monaco’s 2-2 draw against Nantes, while Antoine Semenyo shone bright for Bournemouth, scoring and assisting in their emphatic 5-1 victory over West Brom.
Highlights Across England
Thomas Partey featured in Arsenal’s FA Cup clash against Manchester United, which ended in a dramatic 5-3 penalty shootout loss after a 1-1 draw.
Jeffrey Schlupp contributed to Crystal Palace’s 1-0 win over Stockport County in the FA Cup.
Salis Abdul Samed made his much-anticipated injury comeback, debuting for Sunderland in their 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Stoke City.
Jordan Ayew played a supporting role in Leicester City’s 6-2 triumph over QPR.
Forson Amankwah and Brandon Thomas-Asante also made appearances for Norwich and Coventry City, respectively.
Impressive Performances in France
Andre Ayew’s strike stood out for Le Havre, while Mohammed Salisu’s goal was vital for Monaco’s 2-2 draw. Ghanaian duo Elisha Owusu and Gideon Mensah helped Auxerre secure a point in their stalemate against Lille.
In Ligue II, Koffi Kouao featured prominently in Metz’s game against Lorient, which ended in a draw.
Elsewhere in Europe
Spain: Abdul Mumin played the full 90 minutes as Rayo Vallecano defeated Celta Vigo 2-1 in La Liga.
Belgium: Christopher Bonsu Baah contributed to Genk’s 2-0 win, while Denis Odoi and Francis Abu put in solid performances for Antwerp and Cercle Brugge.
Cyprus: Ghanaian players like Clinton Doudou and David Abagna helped their teams secure important victories.
Turkey and Greece: Joseph Attamah and Abdul Baba Rahman were in action for their respective clubs, despite suffering narrow losses.
Salis Abdul Samed’s Long-Awaited Return
A standout story from the weekend was Salis Abdul Samed’s return after 244 days on the sidelines due to injury. His debut for Sunderland, although ending in a 2-1 defeat, marked a promising comeback for the talented midfielder.
Looking Ahead
With such strong performances, Ghanaian players continue to leave their mark across various leagues, boosting their profiles and representing their nation proudly.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2025 | Uncategorized
US-born Ghanaian defender Prince Amponsah has joined New York City FC ahead of the new Major League Soccer campaign.
The 21-year-old signed a deal for the 2025 season with options through to the 2028 campaign.
Amponsah joins the MLS side from Wake Forest, where he had his college education. The talented defender started his career at New York City and becomes the 16th homegrown player to sign for the club.
“I’m absolutely thrilled to sign with New York City FC, it’s a surreal moment for me,” he said after completing the move.
“This is something I’ve been working toward my entire life, and to achieve it with my boyhood club makes it even more special. Growing up in the shadows of Yankee Stadium, I’ve always dreamed of representing not just myself and my family, but my city,” he added.
Amponsah served as team captain and earned 2024 ACC Tournament Most Valuable Player and United Soccer Coaches Second-Team All-South Region honours during his time with Wake Forest.
He continued: “Wearing these colors and this badge means everything to me. I can’t wait to play in front of New York City’s incredible fans and work toward lifting a trophy together. The journey here has been challenging, but it’s the grind every single day that makes this moment so rewarding. This is just the beginning, and I’m ready to keep pushing forward.”
