by Silas Boahene | May 19, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Rangers midfielder Mohamed Diomande has shed light on his choice to represent Cote d’Ivoire instead of Ghana in international football, citing his strong familial ties to his parents’ homeland.
Although born in Cote d’Ivoire, Diomande was raised in Ghana, where he developed his footballing skills at the renowned Right to Dream Academy. His journey in the sport led him to FC Nordsjaelland before making a move to Scottish side Rangers last summer.
Despite receiving an invitation from Ghana’s national team coach, Otto Addo, to join the Black Stars for the March friendlies against Nigeria and Uganda, the 22-year-old declined the opportunity, opting instead to pledge his allegiance to Cote d’Ivoire.
In an interview with Nostafoot, as reported by Ivorian journalist Malick Traore, Diomande affirmed his long-held dream of representing Ivory Coast, expressing his readiness to contribute to the Elephants, whether at the senior level or with the U23 team.
Diomande’s impactful performances this season with Rangers have highlighted his potential, with the midfielder featuring prominently in the Scottish Premiership, boasting 10 starts and two goals to his name.
by Silas Boahene | May 19, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian forward Antoine Semenyo recently shared his perspective on being nominated for the English Premier League Player of the Month Award, emphasizing that it underscores his unwavering dedication and perseverance.
Despite ultimately missing out on the award, with Fulham’s Rodrigo Muniz clinching the honor for March, Semenyo, 24, views the nomination as a significant milestone in his career journey. Speaking in a detailed interview with Premier League TV, he delved into his progression from non-league football to competing at the highest level in England.
Expressing his gratitude for the recognition, Semenyo remarked, “Being nominated for player of the month was a moment of realization for me. It’s a testament to the hard work I’ve been putting in. Even if I didn’t win, the nomination itself is an achievement and motivates me to keep pushing forward.”
Semenyo’s standout performances have been pivotal for Bournemouth throughout the season, establishing him as a key contributor to the team’s success. As the season approaches its climax, Semenyo is poised to feature in Bournemouth’s final match against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Looking ahead, Semenyo’s form and commitment are expected to earn him a place in Ghana’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic in June. His contributions both on and off the field underscore his importance to both club and country.
by Silas Boahene | May 19, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
AFC Bournemouth’s forward, Antoine Semenyo, credits the influence of football icon Didier Drogba for shaping his development as a player. The Black Stars striker, who has been instrumental for Bournemouth this season with eight goals in 32 appearances, acknowledges Drogba’s impact on his playing style.
In a recent interview with Premier League TV ahead of Bournemouth’s final fixture against Chelsea, Semenyo reflected on his journey, highlighting how he studied players like Drogba during his injury spells. He emphasized observing their movements, particularly in making runs behind defenses, and aimed to incorporate similar tactics into his own game.
Semenyo’s dedication to learning from the likes of Drogba, along with other players such as Michail Antonio and Breel Embolo, has proven fruitful, contributing to his success in the Premier League. His versatility as a forward, blending various playing styles, has made him a valuable asset for Bournemouth.
As Semenyo continues to impress with his work ethic and adaptability, he remains a strong candidate for inclusion in Ghana’s squad for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic in June. His stellar performances at club level, coupled with his international experience, are poised to benefit the Black Stars as they aim for World Cup qualification.
by Silas Boahene | May 19, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian football talents Gideon Mensah and Elisha Owusu concluded a remarkable season with Auxerre, clinching the Ligue 2 championship and securing promotion back to Ligue 1 in France.
Throughout the season, the duo played integral roles in Auxerre’s success, culminating in a stellar performance in their final match, a resounding 4-1 victory over Concarneau.
Having sealed promotion the previous week, Auxerre’s triumph was officially confirmed in front of their jubilant supporters on Friday. Mensah and Owusu were awarded medals for their contributions to the league triumph and are already eagerly anticipating the challenges of the upcoming campaign.
Mensah brings invaluable experience to the team, having previously enjoyed two seasons in Ligue 1 before experiencing relegation with Auxerre last season. On the other hand, Owusu returned to France in January 2023 after a stint with KAA Gent in Belgium.
With their impressive form, Mensah and Owusu are strong contenders to feature in Otto Addo’s squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers against Mali and the Central African Republic next week. Their stellar performances for Auxerre underscore their readiness to represent Ghana on the international stage.
by Silas Boahene | May 19, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
After a narrow defeat to Nations FC on matchday 30, Accra Lions’ coach, Ibrahim Tanko, is already looking ahead to their upcoming encounter against Bechem United next week.
Despite dominating much of the game, Accra Lions fell short to Nations FC at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Complex, with Barimah Baah’s first-half goal proving decisive. Tanko, however, remains optimistic about his team’s prospects against Bechem United in Accra.
Reflecting on the loss, Tanko acknowledged his team’s efforts but stressed the importance of focusing on the next challenge. “We played our usual game and controlled possession, especially in the first half, but unfortunately, we didn’t secure the win. Our attention now shifts to the next match,” he commented post-game.
Tanko emphasized the need for continued improvement, particularly in goal-scoring opportunities, as Accra Lions strive to maintain their momentum in the Premier League.
Currently occupying the third position in the league table with four games remaining in the campaign, Accra Lions are determined to bounce back stronger in their upcoming fixture against Bechem United.
