by Silas Boahene | Jul 21, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana
Coach Ebenezer Adjei, head trainer at the Black Panthers Gym, shared how boxing has significantly shaped his life. During an interview on the “Big Fight Night” program on Omashi TV last Friday, he credited boxing for his fame and the opportunities it has provided him to travel and contribute to Ghana’s boxing scene.
Reflecting on the Black Bombers’ failure to qualify for Paris 2024, Coach Adjei attributed the setback to the lack of support from the sports authorities, including the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ghana Olympic Committee. He emphasized that after the national team won seven medals at the 13th African Games, they should have been properly camped and prepared for the world qualifier. However, the authorities did not provide the necessary motivation and resources for the boxers.
Coach Adjei suggested that the team should have been camped away from Accra and provided with allowances and inspiration, as training at the Accra Sports Stadium without these resources was inadequate. This lack of support drives him to encourage his boxers to turn professional at a younger age, ensuring they experience the demands of professional training and competition.
He believes that Ghana has the potential to excel in boxing if the sport receives the attention, investment, and sponsorship it needs. He expressed gratitude to those he has worked with, including coaches Carl Lokko, Dr. Ofori Asare, Charles Quartey, Ben Odametey, Solomon Otoo, the Ghana Boxing Authority (GBA), and the United Boxing Coaches Association, where he serves as the Organizer.
Coach Adjei stressed the importance of discovering and nurturing young talent in sports, ensuring they have the opportunity to compete at a high level before they age out. He also advised young boxers to be cautious of distractions, particularly relationships, which can hinder their progress.
He acknowledged the media’s role in promoting boxers, particularly Nii Adjor, Atukpai Mantse, CEO of The Gym/Omashie Media, and boxingghana.com. Known as ‘Killer,’ Coach Adjei has discovered talented boxers like SWAG Professional Boxer of the Year, Alfred Lamptey, who holds five international belts, and Michael Abban, the current National Super Lightweight Champion.
“I believe in education and sports, so I make sure I give opportunities to all boxers who want to further their education. We’ve learned a lot and aim to avoid mistakes,” he added.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 19, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is gearing up for the inaugural Elite U15 Boys Championship, which will be held at the GFA’s Technical Centre, Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
The championship will showcase Under-15 talent from all ten Regional Football Associations, with specific dates to be announced soon.
This initiative follows the successful ongoing Elite U15 Girls Championship at the same venue. The new tournament aims to identify and develop young football talent as part of FIFA’s Talent Development Scheme (TDS), reinforcing the GFA’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of football stars.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 19, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghanaian winger Joseph Paintsil was instrumental in LA Galaxy’s thrilling 3-2 victory over Colorado Rapids at Dignity Health Sports Park on Thursday.
Paintsil, who played 85 minutes, was a key figure throughout the match. The Galaxy took the lead early with Diego FagĂşndez’s goal in the 12th minute, assisted by Gabriel Pec. Colorado Rapids equalized with KĂ©vin Cabral’s strike in the 32nd minute, but Paintsil quickly restored Galaxy’s advantage with a close-range finish following a rapid counter-attack.
Just before halftime, Paintsil provided another crucial assist, setting up Riqui Puig’s goal to extend Galaxy’s lead. Despite Cole Bassett’s attempt to bring Rapids back into the game, Galaxy held on for the win.
Paintsil’s performance has been a highlight of the 2024 MLS season, with seven goals and five assists in 21 games. His contributions were pivotal in securing this important victory, helping Galaxy climb the MLS standings.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 19, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Former Ghana international Phil Ofosu-Ayeh has joined Indonesian side PSS Sleman on a free transfer, as confirmed by GHANAsoccernet.com.
The 32-year-old right-back, who previously played for Halmstads BK in Sweden, brings with him experience from international and club football. Ofosu-Ayeh, who has one cap for Ghana, expressed his enthusiasm about his new move, praising the warm reception from his new team and the vibrant football culture in Indonesia.
Ofosu-Ayeh is eager to contribute to PSS Sleman’s success and experience Indonesian football. The club has welcomed him as a valuable addition to their wing-back position.
Having switched allegiance to Ghana in 2015, the German-born defender has also played for English side Wolves, Eintracht Braunschweig, Hansa Rostock, and WĂĽrzburger Kickers in Germany. This transfer marks an exciting new chapter in Ofosu-Ayeh’s career.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 19, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
IF Elfsborg triumphed over Pafos FC with a commanding 5-2 win in the Europa League Qualification Round 1, thanks in part to outstanding performances by Ghanaian players Michael Baidoo and Jalal Abdullai.
Baidoo started the match and played for 62 minutes, while Abdullai made a significant impact after being subbed on in the 57th minute.
The game took a dramatic turn early on when Pafos defender JoĂŁo Correia received a red card in the 16th minute. Despite this setback, Pafos managed to equalize through an own goal and a strike from Vlad Dragomir.
In the second half, Elfsborg regained control with Baidoo scoring in the 48th minute, quickly followed by a goal from Andri Baldursson in the 49th minute. Abdullai extended Elfsborg’s lead in the 59th minute, assisted by Baidoo. Arber Zeneli sealed the victory with a goal in the 86th minute.
Elfsborg advances to the next round with an aggregate score of 8-2 and will now focus on their upcoming Allsvenskan game against Mjallby.
Additionally, compatriot Terry Yegbe played the full match for Elfsborg, while Patrick Twumasi represented Pafos, coming on in the 76th minute.
