by Silas Boahene | Jul 13, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian striker Prince Osei Owusu found the back of the net for Toronto FC in their 2-1 loss to Forge FC during the Canadian Championship semi-final on Wednesday at Tim Hortons Field.
Owusu, who was subbed in at the beginning of the second half for Aime Mabika, scored a late goal in the 88th minute, providing a glimmer of hope for Toronto FC. However, the team was unable to overcome Forge FC’s lead.
Forge FC, with Ghanaian winger Nana Ampomah, took an early lead thanks to BĂ©ni Badibanga’s impressive long-range strike in the 11th minute. Just three minutes later, Canadian-born Ghanaian defender Kwasi Poku extended Forge FC’s lead, scoring from the center of the box.
Despite dominating possession and having more shots on goal, Toronto FC struggled to convert their chances. Owusu’s late goal, assisted by Derrick Etienne Jr. from a corner, was a rare highlight in what has been a challenging period for the team.
This defeat extends Toronto FC’s winless streak to ten games. With their Canadian Championship campaign over, Toronto FC will now shift their focus to Major League Soccer (MLS), where they face Philadelphia Union on July 13th.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 13, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Ghana International Augustine Arhinful has shared his journey through grief following the devastating loss of his ex-wife, Barbara, who passed away six months after giving birth, while he was deeply committed to his Christian faith.
Barbara’s death profoundly saddened Arhinful, leading him to wrestle with questions and emotions, particularly concerning the well-being of their newborn after her passing.
In a conversation with sports journalist Dan Kwaku Yeboah, Arhinful revealed how the tragic event challenged his faith and brought him to a place of questioning.
“At that moment, my faith was strong, but the loss was immense. I found myself asking God many questions,” Arhinful shared. “Why would you take away someone who had just given birth six months ago? These thoughts weighed heavily on my mind.”
The passing of Barbara Arhinful in 2009 at the age of 32, following a brief illness at the 37 Military Hospital in Accra, left a lasting impact on Augustine Arhinful. Despite the challenges, his faith journey continues to shape his perspective on life and loss.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 13, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghana’s Sports Minister, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, has expressed confidence in the Black Stars’ ability to lead their group in the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, despite a challenging draw.
The qualifiers, scheduled to begin in September, follow the draw ceremony held on July 4, 2024, in Johannesburg, South Africa, placing Ghana in Group F alongside Sudan, Niger, and Angola.
As four-time AFCON champions, Ghana faces stiff competition and must perform at their peak to secure qualification.
Reflecting on the draw, Ussif acknowledged the rising competitiveness in global football, citing the impressive performances of smaller nations in Euro 2024.
“There are no small teams in world football anymore. The ongoing Euro 2024 demonstrates how even smaller countries are excelling,” he remarked in an interview with Peace FM. “I have full confidence in our technical team under coach Otto Addo.”
“Coach Otto Addo is well-acquainted with these nations. Angola, Niger, and Sudan are all strong footballing nations, but I am highly optimistic that we will top our group,” he affirmed.
Ghana will lean on Coach Otto Addo’s experience and the determination of the Black Stars to navigate the qualifiers successfully and secure their place in the 2025 AFCON.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 13, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Congolese defender Gilbani Ndongani Samba has revealed his eagerness to sign with Asante Kotoko when the Ghanaian club expressed interest in him. The Ghana Premier League giants officially announced the acquisition of the highly-regarded center-back on Thursday, July 11.
Reflecting on his move, Ndongani shared his excitement: “Kotoko is a big club, and I’m thrilled to be here,” he remarked. “When my manager informed me of Kotoko’s interest, I immediately instructed him to halt any discussions with other clubs so I could focus on coming here.”
The defender emphasized his commitment to the club: “I am committed to proving my quality on the pitch and helping the team win the league,” he stated in his first interview.
Ndongani becomes the fourth signing of Asante Kotoko in the off-season, joining new recruits Emmanuel Antwi, Esmat Hassabalbagi, and Youssef Yagoub. His determination to join Kotoko highlights his enthusiasm and dedication to contributing to the team’s success.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 13, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
A contract dispute has emerged between FC Samartex and Singida Black Stars FC over the transfer of midfielder Emmanuel Keyekeh.
In a statement released on Wednesday, Samartex asserted that they still have a valid contract with Keyekeh, despite Singida Black Stars announcing his signing on a three-year deal. The Ghanaian club claims they were unaware of any transfer negotiations and were shocked by Keyekeh’s debut for Black Stars in the CECAFA Kagame Cup on Tuesday against APR FC.
Samartex is seeking legal advice to resolve the matter, insisting they have not released Keyekeh from his contract. The player’s agent has been accused of negotiating the transfer without Samartex’s knowledge or consent.
On the other hand, Singida Black Stars maintain they have followed proper procedures and are confident in their signing. The dispute threatens to disrupt Black Stars’ preparations for the upcoming season, as Keyekeh’s availability hangs in the balance. The Tanzanian club hopes for a swift resolution, allowing them to focus on their title challenge.
Meanwhile, Samartex is determined to protect their interests and prevent the loss of their star midfielder without due compensation. The details of this ongoing dispute were outlined in the statement released by Samartex on Wednesday.
