by Silas Boahene | Aug 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
AZ Alkmaar manager Maarten Martens has praised Ghanaian winger Ibrahim Sadiq for his decisive performance in the Dutch Eredivisie opener, where he scored the match-winner in a 1-0 victory over Almere City. Sadiq found the back of the net just four minutes into the game, continuing his strong form from the end of last season. Martens described Sadiq’s goal as “a nice reward” for his efforts since joining the club in September 2023. The Right to Dream Academy graduate is poised for a standout season. The match was fiercely contested, with three red cards issued, including one to an AZ player. Sadiq was substituted in the second half by Dutch-born Ghanaian winger Ernest Poku.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghana Defender Alexander Djiku Expresses Joy Over Fenerbahce’s Winning Start in Turkish Super Lig
Ghanaian defender Alexander Djiku has expressed his delight after Fenerbahce secured a 1-0 victory against Adana Demirspor in their Turkish Super Lig season opener. The win followed a midweek defeat to Lille in the UEFA Champions League qualifiers. Former Manchester City striker Edin Dzeko scored the decisive goal, assisted by Allan Saint-Maximin. Djiku, who played the full match, took to social media to celebrate the victory, saying, “Three points. We keep going. Thank you for all supporters. Fenerbahce.” The 30-year-old defender has been a key player for Fenerbahce since joining from Racing Club Strasbourg last summer. Fenerbahce will face Lille again on Wednesday in the second leg of their UCL qualifier, aiming for a spot in the group stage.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Black Stars forward Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer is delighted with his strong start to the season in the German Bundesliga II. The 22-year-old scored his third goal of the campaign in Hamburger’s 1-1 draw against Hertha Berlin. Despite giving his team an early lead, Hamburger couldn’t hold on as Jonjoe Kenny equalized late in the game. Reflecting on the match, Königsdörffer noted, “We dominated the game in the first half but became too passive in the second. We’ve learned a lesson and need to improve.” He also credited his manager’s trust for his impressive form, saying, “I’m pleased with the faith the gaffer has put in me and want to repay it with my performances. It’s great that I’m developing as a player through gaining more experience.”
by Silas Boahene | Aug 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
European champion Nico Williams has been handed the prestigious number 10 jersey at Athletic Bilbao for the upcoming season. Despite being linked with a move to Barcelona, the young winger appears set to remain at Bilbao. Williams, the younger brother of Ghana forward Inaki Williams, recently returned to training after his participation in the European Championship in Germany. On Monday, he was presented with the number 10 jersey, previously worn by club legend Iker Muniain, marking a switch from his former number 11 shirt. Expressing his pride, Williams said, “I’m proud to get the shirt number 10 from Muniain and to make history as he did.” Meanwhile, Barcelona’s pursuit of the forward may be waning as the transfer window draws to a close. Since making his senior debut, Williams has been instrumental in Bilbao’s success, including their first Copa del Rey title in 40 years. He also scored in Spain’s 2-1 victory over England, securing their fourth European Championship title.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 13, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian youngster Fatawu Ganiwu featured for Chelsea’s U18 team on Saturday in a match against Manchester United U18s as part of his ongoing trial with the club. The 16-year-old midfielder has been training with Chelsea’s youth squad, having previously impressed in trials with RC Lens and RB Leipzig.
Ganiwu caught the attention of Chelsea’s coaching staff with a strong performance in a recent friendly against Sheffield United, which ended in a 1-1 draw. Following his involvement with the U18 team, Ganiwu had the chance to watch Chelsea’s first team in action against Inter Milan on Sunday.
Chelsea is considering a potential move for Ganiwu, with co-director of recruitment and talent Joe Shields overseeing the trial process. If successful, the young midfielder could earn a deal with the Premier League club. Another Ghanaian prospect, Vincent Mobilla, is also on trial with Chelsea, as both players aim to secure a move to the English giants and advance their budding careers.
