by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
Black Stars Coach Shows Support During East Midlands Stop
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo made a meaningful visit to Leicester City to check in on two of Ghana’s key players, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Jordan Ayew, as they continue their respective paths in recovery and competition.
Fatawu, the talented winger, is undergoing rehabilitation after a severe knee injury that has ruled him out for the rest of the season. His absence will be keenly felt during Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in March 2025.
On a brighter note, Jordan Ayew has made a full recovery from the injury he sustained in Ghana’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola last month. The experienced forward has rejoined Leicester City and is back in action, providing a boost to both his club and national team.
Addo’s visit highlights his dedication to supporting Ghanaian players, offering encouragement to Fatawu as he works his way back and celebrating Ayew’s return to fitness. His efforts ensure a strong bond between the national team and its stars, both on and off the pitch.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 20, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Inter Milan’s Rising Star Gets His Moment in Coppa Italia Victory
Inter Milan’s 19-year-old prospect, Mark Aidoo, took his first steps onto the senior stage during their Coppa Italia Round of 16 victory against Udinese on Thursday, December 19, 2024. In the final moments of the match, head coach Simone Inzaghi called upon Aidoo to replace veteran Matteo Darmian in the 88th minute, marking a milestone in the youngster’s career.
The Nerazzurri had already secured their spot in the quarter-finals with goals from Marko Arnautovic and Kristjan Asllani. Aidoo’s debut added a touch of promise to a night of celebrations at the San Siro, as fans witnessed a glimpse of the future.
Born in Italy to Ghanaian parents, Aidoo represents a blend of talent and potential. Having previously featured for Italy’s U17 national team, he’s also eligible to play for Ghana. His promotion to the first team last summer followed an impressive stint with Inter’s primavera squad, where he showcased skill and consistency.
The youngster’s debut arrives with high expectations as Inter prepare to face Lazio in the quarter-finals, and fans will be watching closely to see how Aidoo’s journey unfolds.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 20, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
FIFA agent Oliver Arthur has showered praise on his client, Mark Aidoo, following the teenager’s first-team debut for Inter Milan. The 19-year-old defender featured in Inter’s 2-0 victory over Udinese in the Coppa Italia Round of 16 on Thursday, December 19, 2024.
Taking to X (formerly Twitter), Oliver Arthur expressed pride in Aidoo’s achievement, applauding his determination and perseverance. “Mark Aidoo, you dreamt, worked on it, and it has come true. I’m so proud of you. Congratulations,” Arthur posted.
Aidoo was introduced in the 88th minute, replacing Matteo Darmian to help secure the win for Simone Inzaghi’s side. The youngster had been promoted to Inter Milan’s first team last summer after an impressive spell with the club’s primavera side.
Born in Italy to Ghanaian parents, Aidoo’s rise marks a significant milestone in his budding career and highlights the growing influence of Ghanaian talent in global football.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 20, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kwesi Nyantakyi has vehemently denied allegations linking him to the Black Stars’ recent struggles, dismissing claims of spiritual sabotage as baseless and absurd.
The accusations were made by Prophet Samuel Agyarkwah, popularly known as Akwankyerɛ Papa, who alleged that Ghana football is under spiritual attack. According to the prophet, Nyantakyi purportedly “tied” Ghana football in the Northern Region to block his successors from excelling and to ensure his legacy remains unmatched.
Speaking to Joy Sports, Nyantakyi categorically refuted these claims. “The Black Stars do not belong to me; they belong to Ghanaians. How can I engage in spiritual machinations for the team to fail?” he questioned.
He further clarified that during his tenure, his focus was on the holistic development of Ghanaian football, not just the Black Stars. He highlighted key milestones, including the launch of a football development policy in 2006, and a stakeholders’ summit in 2017 aimed at improving governance, marketing, and grassroots football.
Nyantakyi also criticized individuals exploiting football for personal gain. “Many so-called prophets ride on the popularity of football to seek attention. They peddle falsehoods to capture public interest,” he remarked.
The former CAF 1st Vice President reaffirmed his commitment to Ghanaian football, emphasizing that his role as GFA President was never meant to be indefinite. He urged Ghanaians to focus on solutions rather than conspiracies.
“FIFA moved forward without Sepp Blatter, and CAF is thriving without Issa Hayatou. Ghana football can also progress without me,” he stated.
Nyantakyi concluded by calling on stakeholders to unite for the growth of Ghana football, urging fans to dismiss the baseless allegations against him.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 20, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, Soccer
Ghana’s Black Galaxies coach, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, has unveiled a 26-man squad for their highly anticipated 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) qualifiers against arch-rivals Nigeria.
The team features key defenders Razak Simpson (Nations FC), Nurudeen Abdulai (Medeama SC), Kusi Asante (Vision FC), Isaac Afful (FC Samartex 1996), and Kamaradini Mamudu (Medeama SC). The midfield boasts talents like Emmanuel Antwi (Asante Kotoko), Manuel Mantey (Medeama SC), and Ibrahim Hafiz (Attram de Visser). Up front, forwards Charwatey Faisal (Nations FC), Jerry Afriyie (Thoughts FC), Issah Yakubu (Basake Holy Stars), and Albert Amoah (Asante Kotoko SC) complete the lineup.
The first leg of the CHAN qualifier is set for Sunday, December 22, 2024, at 4 pm GMT, at the Accra Sports Stadium. The return leg will take place in Nigeria on Saturday, December 28, 2024.
As part of their preparation, the Black Galaxies recently secured a 1-0 victory over Togo in a friendly match. Ghana and Nigeria will be meeting in the CHAN qualifiers for the second consecutive time, with Ghana edging out Nigeria on penalties two years ago to book a spot in the previous tournament.
The stakes are high as both teams aim to secure their place in the 2025 CHAN tournament, set to be hosted jointly by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
