by Silas Boahene | Jan 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Defender Dennis Odoi expresses optimism about the Black Stars’ progress in the ongoing TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations Cote DâIvoire 2023.
Despite a 2-1 loss to Cape Verde in the opening game, Ghana showcased improvement with a commendable 2-2 draw against seven-time champions Egypt in the second group match. Speaking to the press ahead of the crucial final group B game against Mozambique, the former Fulham FC player affirms the team’s readiness to deliver a strong performance.
[10:43 a.m., 2024-01-22] Atangason: ââItâs a very important game for us. If you look at the performance from the second game compared to the first game, the performance was better so we only have to look at the game again and analyze, go over it as a team, look at things that were better and things that we can still improve and hopefully we can just keep growing and put on a good performance tomorrowââ Dennis Odoi said.
The game is scheduled for Stade Alassane Ouattarra in Ebimpe on Monday, January 22, 2024.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana’s coach, Chris Hughton, emphasizes the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations final group B clash against Mozambique on Monday, noting that his players are well aware of the match’s importance.
Speaking to the press ahead of the crucial game at Stade Alassane Ouattarra in Ebimpe, the former Newcastle United and Brighton and Hove Albion coach highlighted the must-win situation for Ghana. After securing only one point from their initial two matches against Cape Verde and Egypt, a victory against Mozambique is essential for Ghana’s progression to the knockout stage.
Hughton stated, “We are aware of the magnitude of this game; we know that this is a game that we have to win.” He stressed that the team’s preparation for this game mirrors that of the previous two, aiming to deliver a performance that ensures victory in a challenging match.
Emphasizing the acceptance of pressure in football, Hughton remarked, “There is always pressure if you are a Black Stars head coach, there is always pressure if you are a Black Stars player, and this comes with the game.” He acknowledged the team’s awareness of the challenges and the necessity to be physically and mentally prepared for the encounter with Mozambique.
Despite the pressure, Hughton expressed confidence in the team’s ability, noting improvements in their performance from the first game against Cape Verde to the match against Egypt. He highlighted the competitive nature of the tournament and the shared understanding among players that success requires a determined effort.
The game against Mozambique is set to kick off at 20:00Hrs at Stade Alassane Ouattarra in Ebimpe on Monday, January 22, 2024.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Mutaz Ibrahim, a 33-year-old referee from Libya, has been selected as the center referee for the Africa Cup of Nations group B match between Mozambique and Ghana.
Assisting Mutaz Ibrahim will be Djibril Camara from Senegal (Assistant I), Abbes Akram Zerhouni from Algeria (Assistant II), and Samuel Uwinkunda from Rwanda (Fourth Official).
Additional officials for the game include:
- Dimbiniaina Andriatianarivelo as Assistant Referee from Madagascar
- Yameogo Koudougou David as Match Commissioner from Burkina Faso
- Yahya Hadqa as Referee Assessor from Morocco
- Mustapha Slaoui as General Coordinator from Morocco
- Further officials involved in the match are:
- Jamal Fathi in the Technical Study Group from Morocco
- Belhassen Malouche in the Technical Study Group from Tunisia
- Kenza Baghdadli as Commercial Officer from Morocco
- Ibrahima Tanou Diallo as Media Officer from Guinea
- Abdel Malik Aboubakari Kio Koudize as Media Officer from Niger
- Honorine Emerentienne Eyong Onana as Security Officer from Cameroon
- Mahmoud Taher as Security Officer from Egypt
- Lahlou Benbraham as Video Assistant Referee from Algeria
- Salima Rhadia Mukansanga as Assistant VAR from Rwanda
- Yasser Hosny Ahmed Abdelrahman as Doping Control from Egypt
- Frederick Acheampong as Assistant General Coordinator from Ghana
- Alioune Massa Diarra as Assistant General Coordinator from Mauritania
The final group B clash is set to take place at Stade Alassane Ouattara in Ebimpe at 20:00Hrs on Monday, January 22, 2024.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 22, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
In a striking demonstration of unity, the renowned Ghanaian reggae and dancehall artist, Samini, has embarked on a journey to Abidjan to wholeheartedly support the Ghanaian Black Stars ahead of their upcoming match.
During an interview with Isaac Kofi Dzokpo, Samini expressed his confidence in the team’s abilities and boldly predicted a victory against Mozambique, envisioning a triumph by two goals.
Upon arriving at the Midez H&R Hotel in Abidjan, the artist was met with an outpouring of joy and jubilation from enthusiastic fans and supporters.
Known for his passionate dedication to music and national pride, Samini took the opportunity to make a heartfelt appeal to his fellow Ghanaians, calling for unity and urging everyone to rally behind the Black Stars. He emphasized the pivotal role of collective support in propelling the team to success.
As anticipation builds for the upcoming match, Samini’s presence in Abidjan serves as a symbol of encouragement for the Black Stars and the entire nation, fostering a sense of unity and optimism among fans.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 22, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s national U-20 women’s football team, the Black Princesses, clinched their spot in the upcoming FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Colombia, extending their streak to seven consecutive appearances. The decisive victory came at the Baba Yara Stadium, where they outclassed Senegal with a resounding 5-1 win in the second leg of the qualifiers, securing a commanding 7-1 aggregate triumph over the Teranga Lionesses.
The match unfolded with Senegal taking an early lead due to a defensive lapse in the Ghanaian box. However, Maafia Nyame swiftly equalized for the Black Princesses with a composed finish from a well-timed through pass into the 18-yard box. Beline Nyarko then completed the comeback with a halftime header, propelling Ghana into the lead.
The second half was entirely dominated by Ghana as coach Yusif Basigi’s team sought perfection. Tracey Twum of Amepem Darkoa Ladies converted a penalty, awarded after Salamatu Abdulai was fouled in the box, extending the lead to 3-1. Beline Nyarko secured her brace with a superb strike inside the penalty area, while Salamatu Abdulai sealed the comprehensive victory for Ghana.
With a final aggregate score of 7-1, the Black Princesses affirmed their place in the World Cup, marking their seventh consecutive participation since their debut in 2010. Alongside Ghana, Morocco, Nigeria, and Cameroon are also set to represent Africa in the prestigious tournament.
