by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 14, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer, World Cup
In the wake of Ghana’s struggles at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), former Ghana international Frimpong Manso has issued a strong call to action for Black Stars’ head coach Otto Addo. Manso believes the team must leave out any players who lack commitment as they prepare for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Ghana’s disappointing AFCON campaign, which has seen them earn just two points in four games, has drawn heavy criticism. With the Black Stars now facing long odds of advancing in the tournament, Manso, who is currently coaching Bibiani GoldStars, voiced his concerns in an interview on Asempa FM. He emphasized that the players’ mentality and dedication need to shift if they are to make a successful run in the World Cup qualifiers.
“The Black Stars need a change of attitude,” Manso stated. “As it stands, their chances of qualifying for the AFCON are over. But they must change their mindset ahead of the World Cup qualifiers.”
Manso specifically pointed out that while some players remain fully committed, others seem to lack the same drive, noting that they appear to prioritize their club responsibilities over national duties. He urged the technical team to take a firm stance by excluding any “lackadaisical” players, a move he believes is critical for success.
With World Cup qualifiers approaching in March 2025, the Black Stars will face Chad and Madagascar, hoping to reset and show greater resolve. As the team looks to bounce back, Manso’s words underscore the importance of assembling a squad that values the national team as much as their clubs.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Robert Pires, an Arsenal legend, leaned back, his gaze distant yet intense. Talking to MBC MASR 2, he reflected on the game’s overlooked talents, players who deserved more recognition.
“Mo Salah missing out on the Ballon d’Or shortlist? It just shows that some journalists don’t really understand the game,” he remarked, shaking his head. “He’s the best player in the Premier League right now, no question. And it’s not just him. Greats like Thierry Henry, Xavi, and Iniesta were also overlooked for the award.”
Pires’ words resonated with a sense of frustration and admiration for players who give their all yet remain unacknowledged. It was a reminder of the game’s often unforgiving nature, where talent and impact sometimes go unseen.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Mohamed Salah sat on the bench, gazing out at the empty stadium as the echoes of the game lingered in the cool night air. His eyes held a familiar spark of determination but were shadowed by something deeper.
Turning to his teammates, he finally voiced what had weighed on his mind for years.
“Why can’t we win it?” he asked, his voice a mixture of frustration and yearning.
His question hung in the air, resonating with everyone around him, reminding them of past attempts and near-misses. It wasn’t just about skill or tactics; it was about conquering the intangible barriers that had haunted them season after season. In Salah’s question, they saw their own silent doubts and hopes for glory.
Would they ever find the answer? Or would this question linger, a reminder of a dream deferred?
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 13, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Neil Armstrong-Mortagbe, Ghana FA’s Head of Public Relations and Strategy, has set the record straight on rumors that FA President Kurt Okraku may seek a third term. In a recent interview on Connect 97.1 FM, Armstrong-Mortagbe stressed that any talk of Okraku running again after his current term ends is unfounded and speculative.
Okraku, who won his first term in 2019 after a tight race and was re-elected unopposed in 2023, has been vocal about having three years left to deliver on his vision for Ghanaian football. Armstrong-Mortagbe affirmed, “This three-term conversation is purely speculative and a rumour at this point. Until there is an official statement or tangible evidence supporting such claims, I advise everyone to treat it as a mere rumour.”
He further emphasized that Okraku frequently reminds his team of his remaining time in office to fulfill his commitments. Under current regulations, the GFA president is limited to two terms, meaning any possibility of a third would require amendments to the 2019 statutes.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 13, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying clash, Angola’s head coach, Pedro Goncalves, has acknowledged Ghana’s rich football history but expressed doubts about the Black Stars’ path to qualification. Set to meet on Friday, November 15, at the Estádio 11 de Novembro, Angola and Ghana will compete in a pivotal Group F match with high stakes for the visitors.
Ghana, currently third in Group F, is winless after four matches, holding just two points, while Angola and Sudan occupy the top two spots. Goncalves praised Ghana’s strength, particularly in the midfield and attack, while pointing out the uphill task they face to reach the 2025 tournament in Morocco.
“For us, playing against Ghana is always special,” Goncalves shared with Sportsblog247.com. “They have exceptional players and are one of the most respected teams in African football. But right now, Ghana’s qualification chances are slim. They must win, and on top of that, rely on Sudan, who only need one point from their two remaining games.”
Ghana’s Black Stars, determined to keep their AFCON hopes alive, wrapped up their last training session on Tuesday before traveling to Luanda. With every point now crucial, the match promises a high-stakes battle as Ghana fights for a place in the tournament.
