by Silas Boahene | Jan 17, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Abdul Karim Zito, a gold medalist at the 2021 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations and a veteran with a career spanning two and a half decades, is set to lead the national male U-15 team. With a playing history that includes GIHOC Stars, Juantex FC, Asante Kotoko, and Kumapim Stars, Zito has also coached prominent clubs such as Asante Kotoko, Accra Hearts of Oak, Feyenoord Academy (WAFA), King Faisal, and Kwaebibirem FC.
Recognized as one of Ghana’s top talent developers, Zito’s coaching expertise was honed at the renowned Feyenoord Academy. This experience positions him as a key figure in the development of young talents for Ghana’s football future.
Supporting Zito in his coaching role will be former Ghana winger Yaw Preko and FIFA U-17 World Cup winner Awudu. The appointment of this coaching trio reflects a strategic move to nurture and groom emerging talents within the U-15 category, contributing to the long-term success of Ghanaian football.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 17, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Following Ghana’s unexpected defeat to Cape Verde in their first Group B match at the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON), Ghanaian fans in Abidjan remain hopeful for a strong comeback against Egypt. Despite Cape Verde leading the group, some fans believe the Black Stars can secure three points against Egypt and potentially beat Mozambique to qualify for the next stage.
Expressing optimism, one supporter stated, “We can get three points against Egypt and probably beat Mozambique to qualify. The team must just get things right this time.” Joseph Langabel, the Chief Drummer for the Black Stars, criticized the players’ performance but emphasized that there is room for improvement.
The fans, while disappointed with the team’s initial loss, are determined to trust the players to deliver victories in subsequent games. Afua Serwaa, anticipating celebration in the streets of Abidjan, emphasized the need for a win in the next match led by Dede Ayew and his team.
Despite the setback, fans gathered at a local restaurant, Maquis Du Val, to celebrate ahead of Thursday’s game against Egypt. The spirit of Ghanaian supporters remains unbroken, and rather than being disheartened by the defeat, they are embracing the challenges with heightened enthusiasm and anticipation. The fans are gearing up to rally behind their team, demonstrating an enduring commitment to support them throughout the competition.
Injecting energy into this commitment, Maquis Du Val Hotel hosted a special live band performance featuring the Select Singers from Ivory Coast. The live band delivered a mesmerizing musical experience, combining Ivorian and Ghanaian songs, reinforcing the fans’ determination to stand by their team and infusing the atmosphere with infectious energy and excitement.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 17, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The Executive Council has approved Frederick Acheampong as the Chairman of the Black Starlets Management Committee. Acheampong, a former CEO of AshantiGold SC, brings a wealth of experience in club and national team football and has been serving as a General Coordinator for CAF/FIFA since 2019.
Acheampong’s extensive experience includes managing various CAF-organized competitions, such as the 2021 CAF Super Cup, the 2019 WAFU Cup of Nations, the 2021 Beach Soccer Cup of Nations, CAF Interclub competitions, and the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire. Linford Asamoah Boadu, Chairman of the Eastern Regional Football Association, will serve as the vice chairman of the committee.
The committee’s primary mandate is to ensure Ghana’s qualification for the upcoming U-17 Africa Cup of Nations and the U-17 FIFA World Cup.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 17, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer, World Cup
The Black Princesses intensify preparations at Adako Jachie ahead of the second leg against Senegal in the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers. Head coach Yussif Basigi oversaw the training session with twenty-two players, as Ghana holds a two-goal advantage from the first leg, winning 2-0.
With aspirations for their seventh consecutive appearance at the biennial tournament in Colombia later this year, the Black Princesses aim to secure victory in the return fixture against Senegal. The match is set to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday, January 21, 2024.
by Silas Boahene | Jan 17, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Nigeria, Soccer
Super Eagles coach Jose Peseiro has provided updates on the fitness of key players, Victor Osimhen and Alhassan Yusuf, as Nigeria prepares for the crucial match against Cote d’Ivoire in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Osimhen, who missed the first training session after the opening clash against Equatorial Guinea, expressed concerns about a slight pain in the area of a previous injury. Peseiro, considering Osimhen’s recent injury history, emphasized caution, stating, “I think I prefer him not to do anything than end up going for an operation.” The Napoli forward’s availability for the upcoming match remains uncertain.
In contrast, Yusuf, the Royale Antwerp defensive midfielder, picked up a knock in the opening game but underwent a scan to assess the extent of his injury. Peseiro, optimistic about Yusuf’s condition, mentioned, “I hope nothing bad has happened,” while confirming that the CAF 2023 Best Player Of The Year would be available to play against CĂ´te d’Ivoire.
The Super Eagles face a challenging situation as they navigate the fitness concerns of key players in preparation for the crucial clash in the AFCON 2023 tournament.
