by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 12, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar, who has endured a challenging two seasons at Real Sociedad, could be set for a move back to Spanish second division club Almeria. Umar joined Real Sociedad in 2022 for €20 million but has struggled since, with a major ACL injury sidelining him for his first season and only three goals in 36 appearances the following year. This season, Umar has made six La Liga appearances but has failed to contribute a goal or assist. With limited playing time and competition from Sheraldo Becker and Mikel Oyarzabal for a starting spot, Umar may need to leave to reignite his career. Almeria, where he previously enjoyed success with 43 goals and 19 assists in 84 appearances, are reportedly considering a move for the 27-year-old striker. However, his €6 million valuation may present a challenge for the club.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 12, 2024 | Africa, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
The Nigerian football community is mourning the loss of Gift Atulewa, a former youth international and prolific forward, who has passed away at the age of 38. Atulewa died following complications from high blood pressure, as confirmed by Azuka Chiemeka, spokesperson for the Delta State Football Association.
Atulewa had been struggling with blood pressure issues, which worsened just days before his death. Despite receiving treatment for malaria, his condition deteriorated, and he succumbed to the complications early on Tuesday morning. This tragic event comes just a month after he buried his wife, which may have contributed to his health struggles.
Recently, Atulewa had been involved in an ex-international football tournament in Delta State, where he scored a stunning free-kick just three weeks ago. He had also recently returned from Cote d’Ivoire, where he completed a coaching course that he will now sadly never have the chance to use.
Atulewa began his football career with Bayelsa United, later playing for Ocean Boys and Warri Wolves, where he made significant contributions. He was also a member of Nigeria’s U-20 team at the 2005 FIFA World Youth Championship in the Netherlands. His death marks the third loss from that squad, following the passing of Olufemi Adebayo and Isaac Promise.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 12, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana defender Gideon Mensah is determined to help the Black Stars secure vital victories in their upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Angola and Niger. The two matches, crucial for Ghana’s hopes of qualification, will take place on November 15 in Luanda against Angola and on November 18 at the Accra Sports Stadium against Niger.
After a difficult start to the qualifiers, where Ghana has managed just two points from four matches, Mensah and his teammates know the pressure is on. With two losses and two draws, Ghana is third in their group and needs a perfect finish to keep their dreams of participating in next year’s AFCON in Morocco alive.
“We need to secure all six points from these two games,” Mensah said, acknowledging the challenges ahead. “The journey has been tough, and now we must focus on ourselves and hope that other results work in our favor. We know the road won’t be easy, but our goal is clear: win both matches.”
The Black Stars began their preparations for these crucial games on Monday, with more sessions scheduled before they head to Luanda. Mensah, who plays for French Ligue 1 club Auxerre, emphasized that the team is focused on the task at hand, despite the uncertain nature of the situation.
As Ghana gears up for these decisive fixtures, their chances of qualification hinge not only on their results but also on the outcome of Sudan’s games against Angola and Niger.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 12, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In an ambitious bid to bolster their attack and stay competitive in the Premier League title race, Arsenal are reportedly targeting West Ham’s versatile forward, Mohammed Kudus. The Ghanaian international, currently contracted with the Hammers until 2028, has caught Arsenal’s eye, with reports suggesting the club is prepared to invest a hefty £83 million (€100 million) to bring him to the Emirates.
The 24-year-old’s recent appearance at Arsenal’s Champions League victory over PSG in October hinted at his potential interest, although it remains uncertain if the visit was at the club’s invitation. Kudus has shown his capabilities against Arsenal before, notably scoring in West Ham’s 3-1 Carabao Cup victory over the Gunners last November. Now, with aspirations to consistently compete in European competitions, a move to Arsenal could provide the exposure he seeks on a larger stage.
Kudus’ adaptability—being able to play both centrally and on the wings—would fit well with manager Mikel Arteta’s flexible tactics as Arsenal aim for silverware across multiple fronts. Despite the release clause set at £85 million, Arsenal appears determined to secure the young star for next season, giving Arteta another weapon in their push for Premier League and European success.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 12, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The Black Stars of Ghana have received a significant boost in their preparations for the final 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, as several key players, including Jordan Ayew, arrived to join the squad in camp. This new wave of arrivals has raised the number of players in camp to 22, as the team gears up to face Angola in a must-win match.
The training camp initially started on a lighter note, with only eight players taking part in the first session on Monday. However, by Tuesday, the team saw a surge in reinforcements, including the likes of Abdul Fatawu Issahaku and Alidu Seidu, adding depth and experience to the squad. High-profile players like Mohammed Kudus and Gideon Mensah were already among those who took to the field on the first day, setting the tone for a spirited campaign.
Under the guidance of head coach Chris Hughton, the Black Stars held a second training session on Tuesday evening at the Accra Sports Stadium. They will depart for Luanda on Wednesday to face Angola in a decisive qualifier on Friday, November 15. This match will be followed by another clash, at home, against Niger on Monday, November 18.
The Black Stars find themselves in a precarious position, currently third in Group F with only two points from four games. Their qualification hopes hinge on winning both upcoming matches and hoping that Sudan, with seven points, fails to secure any further points in their remaining games.
Ghana Squad for AFCON Qualifiers:
Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Abdul Manaf, Joseph Wollacott, Terry Yegbe
Defenders: Gideon Mensah, Kingsley Schindler, Nathaniel Adjei, Isaac Afful, Ebenezer Annan
Midfielders: Mohammed Kudus, Elisha Owusu, Ibrahim Sulemana, Michael Baidoo, Razak Simpson, Emmanuel Antwi
Forwards: Jordan Ayew, Osman Bukari, Ransford Yeboah Koningsdoffer, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Alidu Seidu, Ernest Nuamah, Forson Amankwah, Francis Abu
The arrival of Ebenezer Annan is expected later today, adding to the depth of the squad as they make their final preparations.
