by Silas Boahene | Jul 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Black Queens coach Nora HĂ€uptle has emphasized that the team will utilize every FIFA International Window to prepare thoroughly for the Womenâs Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco next year.
Following their elimination from the 2024 Paris Olympic Games despite a strong performance against Zambia, the team is regrouping for future challenges. They are set to play an international friendly against Japan on Saturday, July 13, at the Tokyo Kanazawa Go Go Curry Stadium.
Before their departure, HĂ€uptle expressed confidence in leveraging every available FIFA International Window to ensure the team’s readiness for WAFCON. âWith the WAFCON postponed to July in Morocco next year, we had to reschedule our planning,â she explained.
âPlaying against Japan, ranked top 7 in the world, is crucial. Besides Spain, they are perhaps the best possession-based team. We want to measure ourselves against the top teams to gauge our level,â HĂ€uptle stated.
She outlined plans for numerous friendly matches in October and December, emphasizing the importance of using all FIFA International Windows for optimal preparation. âThis period is also ideal for integrating some U-20 players and those from the FIFA eligibility program, allowing us to refine our squad and select the best players for the tournament,â HĂ€uptle added.
The coach is optimistic about the growing interest in “Mission Volta,” noting that the increased desire to join the mission is beneficial for the teamâs development and success.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Despite interest from Zambian fans for her to become Zambia’s Head Coach, Nora HĂ€uptle, the coach of Ghana’s Black Queens, remains dedicated to her current role. This follows Ghana’s impressive 3-3 draw in their final 2024 Olympic qualifier in Ndola, though they missed out on the Olympics after a 1-0 first-leg loss in Accra.
The strong performance against a top African team earned admiration, including from Zambian fans. However, HĂ€uptle emphasized her commitment to the Black Queens ahead of their friendly against Japan on Saturday, July 13.
âIâm the Ghana national team coach. Of course, itâs an honour when other countries are asking for me, but I know where I belong. I started a mission here. I have a fantastic squad and a very good relationship with my players, so Iâm committed here,â HĂ€uptle stated.
She highlighted her focus on the team’s goals, particularly succeeding in the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). The Black Queens will leave Ghana on Sunday to play a friendly match against Japan at the Kanazawa Go Go Curry Stadium on Saturday, July 13, 2024.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Mohammed Kudus, the 2024 Ghana Footballer of the Year, and Dr. Prince Kofi Pambo, the Black Stars’ team doctor, visited St. Nicholas Charity Preparatory School in Tema Newtown to inspire students with messages about the importance of education and perseverance.
St. Nicholas Charity Preparatory School, founded in 2012 by the St. Nicholas Charity Foundation, serves the Bankuman area, providing free education, uniforms, school supplies, and meals to 208 students. Kudus, who also comes from a disadvantaged community, encouraged students to stay focused on their education, sharing his own journey and struggles.
The visit, organized by Dr. Pambo, featured basketball and football activities, allowing Kudus to interact with the children and deliver motivational speeches. Ivan Quashigah, a trustee of the school, expressed gratitude for Kudus’ visit, emphasizing its positive impact on the students.
Since its inception, the school has maintained a 100 percent pass rate in the Basic Education Certificate Examination (BECE), with graduates continuing their education through the free Senior High School (SHS) program. The school’s success is supported by donations from various individuals and organizations, including significant contributions from the Maria Tsakos Foundation and the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
St. Nicholas Charity Preparatory School stands as a beacon of hope in the community, proving that with the right support, every child can achieve their dreams.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has praised the Parliament of Ghana for initiating the “Democracy Cup” competition as part of the activities commemorating 30 years of parliamentary democracy in Ghana.
“I am excited about this special and excellent initiative because it will deepen and entrench the culture of democracy in the country,” the President remarked on Thursday, July 4, when the Speaker of Parliament, Mr. Alban S.K. Bagbin, presented the special trophy to him at the Jubilee House.
“I fully support this initiative and hope it remains on the schedule for years to come. A football match to celebrate 30 years of parliamentary democracy is a great opportunity to bring the youth closer to the workings of parliament and instill in them the tenets of democracy,” he added.
The President noted that the fourth republic has proven to be the most enduring and successful, thus warranting a celebration of its achievements.
Mr. Bagbin explained that the purpose of the Democracy Cup match is to use football to engage the youth in the celebration. He emphasized that it serves as a platform to promote peace and unity ahead of the 2024 elections and to foster a democratic culture in Ghana.
Mr. Bagbin also called on the President to lead the campaign to make democracy relevant to the citizens and invited him to attend the match.
The maiden edition of the Democracy Cup match will see Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko competing at the Accra Sports Stadium on Wednesday, July 17. There will also be a special curtain-raiser between former Black Stars players and Members of Parliament.
by Silas Boahene | Jul 7, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International
Stanley Nyantakyi, affectionately known as the Ashanti Warrior, dominated Isaac âMessiahâ Nettey, flooring him in rounds one and two before securing a third-round knockout to claim the UBO Africa featherweight title on Friday night at the SG-Mall in Kumasi, Ashanti region.
John Zile, also known as âThe Monster,â won the UBO Intercontinental Super Bantamweight title after his opponent, Emmanuel âAkufo-Addoâ Quartey, failed to answer the bell for round three, in an event featuring other notable boxers.
In other bouts:
- Daniel Gorsh, the Boxing Emperor, triumphed over Odarlia Lamptey with powerful left jabs, maintaining his undefeated record.
- Emmanuel âCornerstoneâ Quartey defeated Emmanuel Odoi with a TKO stoppage in round two of their Super Lightweight clash.
- Jacob Dickson knocked out David Okai in round two, continuing his winning streak as the former Ghana cruiserweight champion.
- John Mbanugu, aka Jon Power, fought George Akoto to a split draw with scores of 78-76, 76-78, and 77-77.
- Army officer Thomas Laryea defeated Kwesi Tutu in a super middleweight bout.
- Daniel Lartey stopped Kofi Raymond Ansah in round two of their Super Welterweight contest.
- Okasha Tamimu lost to Samuel Adjei, aka Landguard, in his debut Light Heavyweight bout.
Matchmaker Mubarak Yusif Nanor expressed gratitude to the fans and Osibor for another successful event in the Garden City.
