by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In a crucial Serie C clash at the Stadio Angelo Massimino, Ghanaian forward Felix Afena-Gyan played a pivotal role in Juventus U23’s 2-1 victory over Catania Calcio on Sunday, helping his side inch closer to escaping the relegation zone.
The 21-year-old opened the scoring just before halftime with a brilliant finish after linking up with veteran striker Simone Guerra. Afena-Gyan’s composed effort handed Juventus U23 a much-needed advantage as they fought to secure vital points in their survival battle.
The visitors doubled their lead in the 87th minute when substitute Luis Semedo, who had replaced Afena-Gyan in the 72nd minute, found the net. However, Catania pulled one back in stoppage time through midfielder Gabriele Lunetta, but it was too late to deny Juventus U23 the victory.
Italian-born Ghanaian youngster Augusto Owusu also featured in the starting lineup for Juventus U23, playing 46 minutes before being substituted.
Afena-Gyan’s goal marked his fourth of the season in 16 appearances during the 2024-2025 campaign, showcasing his growing influence on the pitch. The win leaves Juventus U23 just one point away from safety as the season unfolds.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Liverpool have reportedly entered the race to sign AFC Bournemouth’s red-hot forward, Antoine Semenyo, as the January transfer window approaches. The 25-year-old Ghanaian international, who has already notched five goals and two assists this season, has caught the attention of top Premier League sides, including Newcastle United.
According to Sportsblog247.com, Liverpool view Semenyo as a cost-effective alternative to Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, whose price tag remains steep. Semenyo’s consistent performances, including eight goals and two assists in 33 appearances last season, have solidified his reputation as one of the league’s most versatile attacking options.
Despite boasting a formidable attacking lineup—featuring Mohamed Salah, Luis Diaz, Cody Gakpo, Diogo Jota, Darwin Nunez, and Federico Chiesa—Liverpool are reportedly open to reshuffling their squad. Speculation surrounds potential exits for Nunez and Chiesa, while Salah’s contract uncertainty has fueled rumours of a departure in 2025.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, are believed to be interested in Liverpool’s 18-year-old rising star, Ben Doak. This has sparked talks of a potential swap deal, with Semenyo valued at approximately £50 million.
Newcastle United are also monitoring the Ghanaian forward, whose physicality and versatility have made him a desirable target for clubs looking to bolster their attacking options.
As of now, no official bids have been made, but the prospect of Semenyo joining Liverpool adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming transfer window. Whether Liverpool will pull off a swap deal or sell one of their stars to make way for the Bournemouth talisman remains to be seen.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Antoine Semenyo has become one of the most sought-after forwards in the Premier League, with Liverpool and Newcastle United reportedly in pursuit of the Bournemouth star. The 25-year-old Ghanaian international has been in scintillating form this season, contributing five goals and two assists.
Semenyo’s rise follows a breakout 2023 campaign, where he tallied eight goals and two assists in 33 appearances. His performances have not gone unnoticed, as Liverpool see him as a more budget-friendly alternative to Napoli’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.
However, the Merseyside club might need to offload players to make room for new arrivals. Speculation suggests Darwin Núñez and Federico Chiesa could be among those departing. Meanwhile, Newcastle is eager to add depth to their attacking options as they continue to bolster their squad for domestic and European campaigns.
Interestingly, Bournemouth has shown interest in Liverpool’s promising winger Ben Doak, sparking rumors of a potential swap deal. Such a move could pave the way for Semenyo’s transfer while aligning with both clubs’ long-term plans.
With Semenyo’s valuation set at £50 million, all eyes will be on the January transfer window as the two Premier League heavyweights look to strengthen their attacking arsenals.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2025 | Africa, International, Soccer
Southampton manager Ivan Juric has showered praise on Ghanaian winger Kamaldeen Sulemana following his outstanding performance in the Saints’ 3-0 victory over Swansea City in the FA Cup third round. Sulemana delivered a goal and an assist, playing a pivotal role in securing Southampton’s progression to the fourth round of the competition.
Speaking after the game, Juric expressed optimism about the 21-year-old’s future, describing the match as a fresh start for the talented winger.
“I am very happy with him,” said Juric. “In these 20 days, he’s worked hard. He wasn’t in good shape when I arrived, but now he’s feeling better. Today he did well—a goal, an assist—and I think this is a new beginning for him.”
Juric also highlighted the potential in other players, mentioning Tyler Adams, who scored twice in the match.
“This is the third goal Tyler has scored since I arrived here. He has great potential, and even though he scored two today, I believe he can do even better,” added the manager.
Sulemana, who joined Southampton in a record-breaking move from Stade Rennais, is looking to rediscover the form that made him one of Europe’s most exciting prospects. He will be aiming to replicate his FA Cup heroics in the upcoming Premier League clash against Manchester United at Old Trafford on Thursday.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 13, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Fortuna Düsseldorf’s sporting director, Christian Weber, has expressed confidence that Ghanaian midfielder Moritz-Broni Kwarteng will quickly adapt to his new environment after joining the Bundesliga 2 side on loan from VfL Bochum. The deal includes an option to make the move permanent at the end of the season.
Kwarteng, 26, has found limited opportunities at Bochum this season, featuring in just seven substitute appearances in the Bundesliga. Despite his struggles for game time, Weber is optimistic about the attacking midfielder’s ability to make a difference at Fortuna Düsseldorf.
“With Momo, we’re getting a goal-scoring attacking player who thrives in the center but can also play across all attacking positions,” Weber said. “He will give us new options with his dynamism and quality in the final third, and I’m confident he won’t need long to adapt.”
The Stuttgart-born midfielder joined Bochum from FC Magdeburg in the summer of 2023 for a reported fee of €1 million. Since then, he has made 18 appearances, providing one assist.
Of Ghanaian descent, Kwarteng has yet to earn a senior international cap for the Black Stars, but his move to Fortuna Düsseldorf could provide the platform he needs to showcase his talents consistently.
