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.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 12, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
Never Give Up: Sage Stephens Reflects on Late-Blooming Success with Bafana Bafana
After years of unwavering commitment, Stellenbosch FC’s captain Sage Stephens has achieved a milestone that proves dreams can come true at any age. At 33, Stephens has been called up for the South African national team, marking a significant high point in a career characterized by resilience and hard work.
Reflecting on this remarkable achievement, Stephens acknowledged the years of dedication and persistence that led to this moment. “To have your first call-up at the age of 33 is an incredible feat,” he shared. “If it can happen to me, it can happen to any young player out there. It’s never over until you decide it’s over. Always keep believing.”
Having guided Stellenbosch to their Carling Knockout Cup win last season and captaining the team to an MTN8 final this year, Stephens has proven his mettle. The national team selection sees him joining established Bafana goalkeepers Ronwen Williams and Sipho Chaine, ready to contribute his experience and inspire others.
Returning to Dobsonville Stadium—where he played his first professional match with Moroka Swallows—Stephens couldn’t help but feel the poetic nature of the call-up. “It’s come full circle,” he said. “To be back at the place where my professional journey began for my first call-up is a privilege I can’t quite put into words.”
Bafana Bafana Squad for AFCON Qualifiers
Goalkeepers: Ronwen Williams, Sage Stephens, Sipho Chaine
Defenders: Nyiko Mobbie, Rushwin Dortley, Nkosinathi Sibisi, Aubrey Modiba, Mothobi Mvala, Khuliso Mudau, Fawaaz Basadien, Siyabonga Ngezana
Midfielders: Teboho Mokoena, Bathusi Aubaas, Thalente Mbatha, Luke Le Roux
Forwards: Evidence Makgopa, Oswin Appollis, Patrick Maswanganyi, Iqraam Rayners, Devin Titus, Elias Mokwana, Relebohile Mofokeng, Thapelo Morena
by Emmanuel Atanga | Nov 12, 2024 | Uncategorized
Kaizer Chiefs had high hopes entering the 2024/25 season under new head coach Nasreddine Nabi. With seven new signings and a renewed sense of ambition, fans and management alike believed in the club’s potential for a strong campaign. However, five games in, those hopes have turned to concern as the Amakhosi sit 8th on the log, a daunting 14 points behind rivals Orlando Pirates.
One of the most talked-about of Chiefs’ new arrivals is Angolan defender Inacio Miguel. Miguel has been a paradox for Chiefs: on one hand, he’s proven a solid presence in the backline, but his aggressive style has caused headaches for the coaching staff. With four yellow cards and a red, Miguel’s suspension history is already mounting, costing the team in key moments.
Veteran David Kannemeyer, who knows the pressure of playing for Chiefs, sees promise in Miguel but acknowledges the need for improvement. “He’s a good defender, but he should learn to stay calm,” Kannemeyer explained to Sportsblog247. “He’s leading well, but his frustration sometimes leads to rash decisions, which can haunt the team. If he cuts down on bookings, there’s no doubt he’ll elevate his game.”
As Chiefs try to climb back up the standings, Miguel’s discipline will be crucial. They face Richards Bay, Royal AM, Polokwane City, TS Galaxy, and Chippa United in their next five matches, and all eyes will be on Miguel as he works to balance his intensity with control.
