by Silas Boahene | Aug 27, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
FC Samartex defender Isaac Afful has expressed his elation after scoring the decisive goal in his team’s 1-0 victory over Victoria United, securing their progression to the next stage of the 2024/25 CAF Champions League. The win at the Accra Sports Stadium completed a 2-0 aggregate triumph, with Afful’s crucial strike ensuring Samartex’s advancement. Reflecting on the moment, Afful shared his overwhelming joy, emphasizing the significance of the goal in his career. FC Samartex now prepares for a challenging playoff round against Moroccan giants Raja Club Athletic next month.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 27, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Black Stars head coach Otto Addo may have to contend with the absence of rising star Ernest Nuamah for Ghana’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger. Nuamah, who has been impressive at Olympique Lyonnais, was forced off the field with a thigh injury just 17 minutes into Lyon’s 2-0 victory over AS Monaco, casting doubt on his availability for the national team’s crucial fixtures.
The 20-year-old’s injury comes as a blow to Addo’s plans, as Nuamah has been a key player in the coach’s rebuilding strategy, featuring prominently in recent matches, including Ghana’s 2-1 win over Mali in a World Cup qualifier.
While Nuamah’s status remains uncertain, midfielder Majeed Ashimeru is set to return after recovering from a calf injury, providing some relief for the team.
In other news, veteran forward Jordan Ayew is eager for a fresh start at Leicester City after making his debut in the Foxes’ 1-2 loss to Fulham. Ayew, who recently joined from Crystal Palace, is determined to make an impact and help his new club achieve their goals in the Premier League. He also expressed his support for fellow Ghanaian Abdul-Fatawu Issahaku, who played a key role in Leicester’s promotion and has a bright future ahead.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 27, 2024 | Africa, Boxing, Ghana, International
Ghana’s first world boxing champion, David Kotei, popularly known as D.K. Poison, has voiced his concerns about the current state of boxing in the country, warning that the sport is in decline due to ineffective leadership. In an interview with Graphic Sports in Accra, the former featherweight champion criticized the current administration, suggesting that many leaders are either pursuing personal interests or lack the necessary knowledge and passion for the sport.
D.K. Poison emphasized the importance of appointing competent, passionate, and knowledgeable individuals dedicated to advancing boxing and developing world champions. He expressed disappointment in the lack of commitment from leaders, aside from Azumah Nelson’s promotions, and called for a united effort to nurture the next generation of champions.
Reflecting on his own experiences, D.K. Poison highlighted the rigorous training and structure that helped shape him into a world champion, contrasting it with the current situation, which he believes is lacking in dedication and proper development tools. He urged stakeholders to devise a clear plan to ensure boxing remains a vital part of Ghana’s sports landscape and a source of employment for the country’s youth.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 27, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Medeama SC have set their sights on winning the 2024/25 Premier League title, with aspirations of representing Ghana in continental competitions once again. Dr. Toni Aubynn, the club’s board chairman, expressed confidence in the team’s ability to achieve this goal, citing their past successes in both the Premier League and FA Cup.
In an interview with Graphic Sports, Dr. Aubynn highlighted the club’s preparations, including new signings, to bolster their chances of securing the league title. He emphasized the team’s maturity and readiness to compete at the highest level, while also acknowledging the significance of their recent preseason victory over Asante Kotoko.
While optimistic, Dr. Aubynn cautioned against overconfidence, stressing the importance of consistent performance throughout the season. Reflecting on Medeama’s recent experience in the continental club competition, he underscored the valuable lessons learned, particularly from their match against Egyptian giants Al Ahly.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 27, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
Kelvin Yeboah, the nephew of football legend Tony Yeboah, made an impressive Major League Soccer (MLS) debut by scoring twice for Minnesota United in a 3-2 defeat to Seattle Sounders. The 24-year-old found the net in the 24th minute with a penalty and added a second in the 56th minute with a skillful chip after being put through on goal.
Despite his goals, Yeboah described the experience as “bittersweet” due to Minnesota’s loss, expressing satisfaction with his performance while acknowledging the disappointment of the team’s result. Yeboah, eligible to play for both Ghana and Italy, previously scored six goals in 14 appearances for Standard Liege during a loan spell from Genoa.
