by Silas Boahene | Jun 14, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
The Malian Football Federation (FEMAFOOT) has announced the immediate termination of Eric Sekou Chelle’s contract as the coach of the national team.
The decision was made by mutual agreement, according to a press release signed by FEMAFOOT vice-president on Thursday.
Chelle’s departure follows a series of disappointing results, including a quarterfinal exit at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and a recent draw against a ten-man Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifications.
The final blow came after a 1-2 loss to Ghana at home last week at the Stade du Mars in Bamako, leading to calls for his resignation.
The Malian Eagles now face a challenging battle to qualify for the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, having accumulated just five points from four matches.
Despite Chelle’s motivation to continue, the Football Federation decided to end his tenure.
FEMAFOOT thanked Chelle for his efforts and extended gratitude to the highest authorities for their support.
Chelle’s dismissal marks the end of an era, and Mali will begin searching for a new coach to lead the team forward.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 14, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana coach Otto Addo remains optimistic about the future of the Black Stars following recent victories against Mali and the Central African Republic (CAR), despite highlighting ongoing defensive concerns that need addressing.
In an interview with 3Sports, Addo reflected on the team’s recent performances and acknowledged both the positives and areas for improvement.
“So first of all, even though we won, we still know that there’s a lot of things we can learn from. But also for the players to see and to believe in themselves, everything is possible,” Addo emphasized.
“We had a bad AFCON [in Ivory Coast], so it was difficult to bring the belief back into the squad. And like I said, it’s always easy if we win and if things work out, so it was good how fast they adapted. I think it gives also the Ghanaians hope in the way we played, the way we fought, that we can win against every opponent.”
Following his return as Ghana coach after the disappointing 2023 AFCON campaign, the Black Stars have made progress with back-to-back wins this month to revive hopes of qualifying for another World Cup.
While acknowledging Ghana’s progress under his leadership, Addo stressed the need to bridge the gap with top teams and address weaknesses.
“There’s a lot of potential and the gap to the top is still there, and if we can progress, and work on our weaknesses, then I think we have a bright future,” he stated.
Addo also emphasized the importance of a collective defensive effort after conceding four goals in two games against Mali and CAR.
“Everybody might talk about how it ended, but we have to start talking about the beginning. How was our counter-pressing? Did we stop them from putting balls behind our defensive line? So this is the consciousness I want to bring into the players, especially, but also into the spectators.”
Otto Addo, whose first spell saw him qualify Ghana to the World Cup in Qatar, has signed a 34-month contract in his second stint with an option for a further 24 months.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 14, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Brighton & Hove Albion defender Tariq Lamptey has expressed his profound connection to Ghana, highlighting the joy he feels each time he returns to the country.
Lamptey, who was born in London, officially committed to playing for the Black Stars in 2022 after representing England at youth levels.
The former Chelsea defender recently participated in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic, contributing to Ghana’s crucial victories to enhance their World Cup aspirations.
The match against the Central African Republic at Kumasi’s Baba Yara Stadium marked Lamptey’s first appearance on Ghanaian soil, a momentous occasion for him.
“I feel great, always want to come back. I’m really happy, good to see the people, good to see some family and friends, and obviously, the two games were really good, so I’m really happy,” Lamptey told 3Sports.
Beyond football, Lamptey discussed his philanthropic efforts through his foundation, which focuses on supporting the education of underprivileged yet talented children.
He emphasized the importance of giving back, acknowledging the support of his family and foundation team in making a positive impact.
“Helping especially the kids and going to schools and stuff is really something that I’m proud of. Doing training sessions with them, seeing them smile, and the joy on their faces makes everything worth it and motivates me to continue to do more,” Lamptey shared passionately.
Reflecting on the progress of his foundation, Lamptey expressed pride, noting the positive impact and growth achieved so far.
He credited his aunt and the dedicated team behind the foundation for their invaluable contributions and hoped to expand their support further.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 14, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, World Cup
Ghana defender Tariq Lamptey has expressed strong confidence in the Black Stars’ ability to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
In an interview with 3Sports, Lamptey emphasized the importance of focusing on each game and diligently pursuing their goals.
The Black Stars had a mixed start to their qualifying campaign, securing a victory over Madagascar but suffering a defeat against Comoros.
However, they bounced back with impressive performances this month, clinching crucial wins with a 2-1 victory against Mali in Bamako and a thrilling 4-3 triumph over the Central African Republic.
These victories have propelled Ghana to second place in their group, tied on nine points with leaders Comoros. Lamptey believes in the team’s potential to secure qualification: “I think we definitely believe in ourselves [to qualify for the World Cup]; we have the talent as we know. We have to focus on what the coach has to say to us. Take it game by game, work as hard as possible and hopefully the results will show.”
Reflecting on their recent successes, Lamptey highlighted the team’s dedication and preparation leading up to these games.
“We worked hard in the week, the build-up to the last two games, and we got the results we deserved, so hopefully we can keep pushing and qualify,” he added.
Despite facing challenges with injuries, Lamptey remains committed to Ghana’s national team, having made his debut against Brazil in France.
He has so far made eight appearances, including two at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Born in Hillingdon, United Kingdom to Ghanaian parents, Lamptey switched his allegiance to Ghana in 2022 after representing England’s youth teams.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 14, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghanaian musician Stonebwoy is set to headline a performance at the Samreboi Police Station Roundabout as part of FC Samartex’s coronation celebration.
The 2024 Telecel Ghana Music Artiste of the Year will be joined by other artists to honor the club’s historic achievement in the Ghanaian top-flight league.
FC Samartex clinched the Ghana Premier League title for the 2023/24 season after securing a 1-0 victory over Great Olympics in week 32.
The Samreboi-based club won the league with 58 points, marking their first major trophy in the domestic league.
Coach Nurudeen Amadu will be remembered as the first manager to lead the team to the top-flight league.
Stonebwoy’s performance, along with other activities organized by the club, aims to reward the fans and celebrate a successful season.
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