by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 25, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
Midfielder Vows to Lead Ghana to Victory in Abuja
Black Galaxies midfielder Hafiz Ibrahim has exuded confidence ahead of Ghana’s decisive second-leg clash against Nigeria in the 2025 CHAN qualifiers. The match, scheduled for December 28 in Abuja, presents a crucial opportunity for Ghana to secure back-to-back CHAN tournament appearances.
Ibrahim dismissed any fears about playing on Nigerian soil, asserting that the team is fully prepared for the challenge. “When we go out there and put our best foot forward, we know victory will be ours, so we are not afraid of anyone,” he stated boldly.
The midfielder’s faith is mirrored by head coach Mas-ud Dramani, who has backed his team’s attack to deliver in the crucial encounter. Echoing his coach’s optimism, Ibrahim added, “Insha Allah, we are going to qualify for Ghana.”
Ghana, a two-time CHAN finalist, is still chasing its first title in the competition. After being eliminated in the quarterfinals of the 2022 edition, the Black Galaxies are determined to secure qualification and aim for glory in the tournament hosted by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania.
The team’s determination to succeed underscores their ambition to restore Ghana’s dominance in African football and etch their name in CHAN history.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 25, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
Ghana’s Quest for CHAN Glory: Coach Dramani Backs His Attack to Deliver
Black Galaxies head coach, Mas-ud Didi Dramani, has expressed confidence in his team’s ability to find the back of the net as they prepare for the decisive second leg of their CHAN qualifier against Nigeria.
After a goalless draw in the first leg at the Accra Sports Stadium, Dramani remains optimistic about his side’s attacking potential in the return fixture. “As much as possible, we will try to keep a clean sheet, but I want to believe that we will surely score,” he stated.
The stakes are high, as the winner of the two-legged tie will earn a spot in the 2025 CHAN tournament, set to be hosted jointly by Uganda, Kenya, and Tanzania. Ghana will look to surpass their 2022 CHAN performance, which ended in a quarterfinal exit.
While Dramani acknowledges the unpredictability of football results, he emphasizes controlling the team’s effort and performance. “I control the energy, the effort, I control the performance of my boys, but the results, we don’t control it,” he added.
The Black Galaxies head into the clash with renewed determination, knowing that a strong performance in Nigeria could secure their place in the continental tournament and restore pride to Ghanaian football.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 25, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Supporting the Stars: A Gesture of Unity and Encouragement
In a heartfelt display of support, Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku, accompanied by Vice President Mark Addo, visited Leicester City’s Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Jordan Ayew. The visit aimed to uplift the spirits of the Black Stars players, both of whom were injured during Ghana’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
The duo missed Ghana’s final group game against Niger at the Accra Sports Stadium, a match that ended in a narrow 2-1 defeat. Issahaku, unfortunately, sustained a season-ending knee injury and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. The setback also rules him out of Ghana’s crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in March next year.
On a brighter note, Jordan Ayew has successfully recovered from his injury, rejoining Leicester City’s first team after a brief absence. Ayew’s return to action marks a significant boost for both club and country ahead of future fixtures.
The GFA leadership’s visit highlights their unwavering commitment to the welfare of national team players, emphasizing the importance of unity and encouragement both on and off the field.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 24, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is on the verge of announcing its decision on the future of Black Stars head coach Otto Addo. Henry Asante Twum, the Communications Director of the GFA, revealed that extensive consultations have been carried out involving various stakeholders, including the government, ministry, sponsors, and coaching staff.
Speaking in an interview with Akoma FM, Asante Twum noted, “The consultations have been done on Otto Addo and his backroom staff. There have been divergent views from the government, ministry, our partners, and the coaching staff. Certain recommendations have been made, and very soon, the FA will make the decision public concerning the future of the coach and his backroom staff.”
This follows widespread criticism after Ghana failed to secure qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. While there are calls for Otto Addo’s dismissal, reports suggest that some members of the GFA executive council still back him.
The nation now awaits the GFA’s final decision on whether the under-fire coach will continue to lead the Black Stars.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 24, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Bilbao, Spain – December 2024
Inaki Williams continues to etch his name into Athletic Bilbao’s history, solidifying his status as one of the club’s all-time greats. The Ghanaian forward, known for his incredible work rate and consistency, is leading the charge this season as both the team’s top scorer and chief creator.
Williams shares the top scorer spot with Oihan Sancet, each boasting eight goals. Beyond finding the back of the net, he also leads the team in assists, with five decisive passes to his name.
His influence was on full display in a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Osasuna at El Sadar. Though he didn’t score, Williams provided a moment of brilliance, delivering an inch-perfect assist to Gorka Guruzeta for the equalizer. His electrifying runs down the right wing left Osasuna’s left-back, Juan Cruz, overwhelmed and chasing shadows.
After an outstanding performance, Williams was named MVP of the match, marking his 445th appearance for Athletic Bilbao—a milestone that places him among the top 10 players in the club’s history for games played. With 108 goals across eleven seasons, Williams now ranks 19th on Bilbao’s all-time scoring chart.
The forward has been a pillar of consistency, featuring in 360 league matches, 45 cup games, 36 Europa League appearances, and four Supercopa de España fixtures.
Williams’ 2024/25 campaign has been nothing short of remarkable, with standout performances in both La Liga and the Europa League. One highlight came in a clash against Las Palmas, where he recorded three assists in a single match, underlining his ability to create as well as score.
As Athletic Bilbao continues to push for success on multiple fronts, Inaki Williams remains their undisputed talisman, a relentless force both on and off the pitch.
