by Silas Boahene | Jun 5, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghanaian referee Daniel Nii Ayi Laryea has been selected to officiate the upcoming 2026 World Cup Group E qualifier between Congo and Morocco. He will be assisted by fellow Ghanaians Kwasi Acheampong Brobbey (Assistant Referee I), Roland Nii Dodoo Addy (Assistant Referee II), and Charles Benle Bulu (Fourth Official). The Match Commissioner for the game will be Moussa Abakar Moussa.
The match is scheduled to take place at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa on Tuesday, June 11, 2024.
Other appointed officials include Evehe Divine Raphael from Cameroon, who will act as the Referee Assessor, and Nduoa-Zie Christian, also from Cameroon, who will serve as the Security Officer.
Morocco, having secured three points from one game, are the favourites going into the match, while Congo are still seeking their first win after two games.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 5, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghanaian football legend Mohammed Polo has strongly urged the Black Stars to take decisive action in their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite being four-time African champions, the team has had a shaky start to their qualification campaign, currently sitting in fourth place in Group I with only three points, following a win against Madagascar and a loss to Comoros.
The upcoming fixtures against Mali and the Central African Republic offer the Black Stars an opportunity to improve their standing. They are set to play Mali on June 6 at the Stade du 26 Mars, followed by a home game against the Central African Republic on June 10 at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.
Polo highlighted the importance of these matches, stressing that the players must grasp the gravity of the situation. He reminded them of their responsibility to represent the country and warned that failure to meet expectations would have consequences.
“These players have been assigned to the Black Stars. Even though I fervently hope they succeed and will fully support them, they will hear from us if they don’t,” Polo told Akoma FM.
The team arrived in Bamako on Wednesday evening to finalize their preparations for the game against Mali. With revised qualification rules, Ghana has a chance to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup, which will be held in the USA, Mexico, and Canada, if they top their group.
Polo emphasized the critical nature of qualification, especially after the disappointments of missing the previous World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations. “With five [9] slots available, it’s an opportunity we must seize. Qualification is paramount because Ghanaian fans demand excellence, and this can only be achieved through dedication,” he said.
The pressure is on for the Black Stars to deliver results and keep their World Cup dreams alive.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 5, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
RC Lens are considering offers for Ghanaian midfielder Salis Abdul Samed as part of their strategy to generate approximately €100 million through player transfers to support their operations for the upcoming season. Samed, who is valued at around €8 million, is one of seven players who might be sold this summer.
Samed joined Lens from Clermont Foot in 2022 for a fee of about €5 million and quickly established himself as a vital player. His impressive performances earned him a one-year contract extension, securing his stay at the club until June 2028. He played a crucial role in helping Lens achieve a runners-up finish in Ligue 1 and qualify for the Champions League, raising expectations for his continued contributions.
However, this season has seen Samed struggle with consistency, affecting his confidence and leading to reduced playing time under coach Franck Haise. He has started only 17 games in Ligue 1 this season, with just eight starts in 2024.
Lens’ potential decision to sell Samed is part of a broader plan to meet their significant financial targets. The club aims to capitalize on player sales to fund their operations and maintain their competitiveness in both domestic and European competitions.
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by Silas Boahene | Jun 5, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana coach Otto Addo and captain Thomas Partey are set to address the media on Wednesday, June 5, 2024, ahead of the crucial 2026 World Cup Group I qualifier against Mali.
The pre-match press conference will take place at the Conference Room of Stade Mars 26 in Bamako at 18:30 GMT, building up to the pivotal game scheduled for Thursday.
This match represents Otto Addo’s first competitive task since taking on the permanent role as Ghana’s head coach, following his leadership of the team during the 2022 World Cup. The Black Stars are determined to improve their fortunes, viewing the game against Mali as critical to their World Cup aspirations.
Both teams are competing for a spot in the 2026 World Cup in Mexico, Canada, and the United States. Ghana needs a victory to boost their campaign, having secured one win and one loss in their first two matches.
Ghana currently sits fourth in Group I with three points, just one point behind Mali, who are third with four points.
Upon returning to Ghana, the team will host the Central African Republic (CAR) in Kumasi at the Baba Yara Stadium on June 10, 2024, in another important qualifier.
Ghanaian fans are eagerly anticipating the outcomes of these matches, hopeful that the Black Stars can secure their place in the 2026 World Cup.
by Silas Boahene | Jun 5, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Yaw Moses has bid farewell to Arouca, a prominent club in Portugal’s top-flight league, after an impressive eight-year tenure.
Throughout his time with the club, Moses played a pivotal role in Arouca’s remarkable ascent from the third tier to the top-flight league, consistently demonstrating his skill and dedication.
Despite limited playing time last season, where he featured in only three matches, Moses’ contributions to the club’s success remain significant and unforgettable.
At 25 years old, Moses has accumulated 34 appearances with Arouca, bringing valuable experience and expertise that will be highly sought after by potential suitors.
As a free agent, Moses now has the opportunity to explore new avenues and challenges in his career, likely attracting interest from clubs both within Portugal and internationally.
Moses’ departure marks the end of an era at Arouca, but his legacy will endure. His achievements and unwavering commitment to the club have left a lasting impact, and his future endeavours will be closely watched by fans and scouts alike.
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