TIG Post

Tag: Black Stars

  • Osman Bukari’s goal gives Ghana a point at Angola in the AFCON 2023 qualifying round

    Osman Bukari’s goal gives Ghana a point at Angola in the AFCON 2023 qualifying round

    The Black Stars secured a crucial draw in Luanda to move closer to qualifying for the AFCON. Osman Bukari‘s immediate impact denied Angola all three points.

    After connecting on a cross from fellow substitute Joseph Painstil, the Red Star Belgrade attacker took less than a minute to make his presence known by overturning Lucas Joao’s penalty for Angola.

    Angola got off to a strong start, with Fredy’s long-range shot challenging Lawrence Ati Zigi in goal for Ghana.

    With Helder Costa, Gelson, and Lucas Joao troubling the Black Stars defense, the hosts were able to contain Ghana for the majority of the early exchanges.

    Halfway through the first half, Ghana came close after a swift interplay between Mohammed Kudus and Edmund Addo left the latter with the change of opening the scoring, but his effort went wide.

    Angola threatened few minutes before the break, after Costa broke off from the right only for his strike to go wide.

    Three minutes after the break, Angola were awarded a penalty after Daniel Amartey fouled Gelson inside the box. Lucas Joao made no mistake after sending Ati Zigi the wrong way to open the scoring.

    Few minutes later, Chris Hughton replaced Kamaldeen Sulemana and Antoine Semenyo with Joseph Painstil and Inaki Williams.

    Angola nearly doubled their lead through Ary Papel after taking on Kingsley Schindler before his strike was blocked by Amartey.

    Osman Bukari and Majeed Ashimeru then replaced Mohammed Kudus and Edmund Addo, and just second seconds of his introduction, the Red Star Belgrade man finished off a brilliant move after meeting a cross from Joseph Paintsil.

    Paintsil came close to giving Ghana the lead after his effort hit the cross bar moments later.

    With three minutes remaining, Williams came close after meeting a cross from Abdul Samed Salis before Painstil was sent through by Ashimeru but brilliant defending from Carneiro saved Angola.

    The Black Stars will host the Central African Republic and face Madagascar away in their final two matches in Group E.

  • We will defend and attack well – Chris Hughton on Angola return leg

    We will defend and attack well – Chris Hughton on Angola return leg

    Black Stars head coach, Chris Hughton, has pledged to ensure that his side leaves no stone unturned when it comes to defense and attack in the return leg against Angola.

    Sharing his take ahead of Monday’s game that takes place in Luanda, he said “the approach is that we are up against a good team. I can say something quite obvious, that we will have to defend well and we will have to attack well.  

    For Hughton, it is important that there is a balance.

    “We have to make sure that we are compact as team – this is for sure, because they are a good quality and they a very technical team.  But we are here to win the game and you can’t win the game unless you give yourself an opportunity to attack and to attack well. We have to be careful how we do this.”

    “If the game becomes too open, if it becomes end to end then of course it can be for any team so we have to have a strategy going into the game as we would in any game,” he added.

    According to him, the Palancas Negras will fall on the support from their supporters, however, that would not matter much since “we are a good team.”

    “We managed to get the victory a few days ago and it’s something we want to build on,” he added.

    Ghana beat Angola by a goal when they clashed at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi last Thursday.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Afcon 2023 qualifier: Ghana play Angola today in return leg

    Afcon 2023 qualifier: Ghana play Angola today in return leg

    Ghana Black Stars and Angola face off today in Luanda at 4pm for the Africa Cup of Nations Group E clash.

    The Palancas Negras came up against the Black Stars last Thursday at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium and lost by a goal at the eleventh hour.

    Chris Hughton’s side which arrived in Luanda on Saturday night has recorded some injuries. Andre Ayew couldn’t make the trip as he has been ruled out due to injury.

    Other players who didn’t make the trip include Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu and Denis Odoi.

    The Black Stars head coach travelled with 21 players.

    Meanwhile, Nicholas Opoku has joined the Black Stars in Luanda for today’s game.

    The Amiens defender has been drafted in to provide options for Chris Hughton following the absence of Salisu Mohammed and Alexander Djiku.

    Nicholas made his Black Stars debut in July 2017, and has gone on to play for Ghana 13 times and scored one goal. He is expected to provide competition for Joseph Aidoo and Daniel Amartey who are the only recognized central defenders in the team.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • GFA confirms that Andre Ayew, Djiku, and two other players are out of the Angola match

    GFA confirms that Andre Ayew, Djiku, and two other players are out of the Angola match

    After suffering a knee injury on Thursday, Ghana captain Andre Ayew will not play in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola.

    The results of the MRI scan required Ayew to return to his club for additional treatment, which is why he slipped on his way to the dressing room and injured his knee.

    The 33-year-old will not be travelling to Luanda with the team for the Monday return leg.

    Other players who didn’t make the trip include Alexander Djiku, Mohammed Salisu and Denis Odoi. The trio were left out of the travelling party due to injuries. The Ghana Football Association wishes them a speedy recovery.

    The Black Stars will depart Accra on Saturday afternoon for Luanda ahead of the match on Monday, March 27, 2023.

  • Ghana poised to qualify for AFCON 2023, but Angola will be a stern test

    Ghana poised to qualify for AFCON 2023, but Angola will be a stern test

    On March 27, 2023, Angola and Ghana will play a challenging match as both teams try to advance to the Africa Cup of Nations competition.

    At the Baba Yara Stadium, the Black Stars narrowly defeated the Palancas Negras to move one step closer to AFCON qualification.

    With a close victory over Angola on Thursday, Ghana opened its 2023 account after waiting too long to do so. The Black Stars had not triumphed since losing to Uruguay in the 2022 World Cup final in December.

    Under new coach Chris Hughton, the Black Stars were able to resume winning ways thanks to Antoine Semenyo’s dramatic goal.

    Ghana sit top of Group E with seven points after three games, three points clear off second-place Angola while Central African Republic sit third with four points.

    The Black Stars will secure qualification to the continental showpiece to be hosted by Ivory Coast if they beat Angola in Luanda.

    But the four-time African Champions faces a daunting task against Angola and will have to play above themselves if they are to secure early qualification at away.

    Meanwhile, Ghana will miss the services of captain Andre Ayew, Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku and Denis Odoi due to injuries.

  • Black Stars pay a final tribute to Christian Atsu during training

    Black Stars pay a final tribute to Christian Atsu during training

    Ghana’s senior national team, the Black Stars, gathered to pay their respects to a former teammate, Christian Atsu. Atsu tragically died as a result of an earthquake that struck Turkey and Syria last month.

    The Black Stars will face Angola in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on Thursday, and the players took a moment to remember Atsu during training on Tuesday.

    A huge banner with the inscription ‘RIP Christian Atsu’ was displayed at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, according to a photo posted on social media.

    The late winger appeared in 65 games for the Black Stars, scoring nine goals before deciding to retire from the national team following the 2019 AFCON.

    Black Stars await AFCON challenge Meanwhile, Ghana will host the Palancas Negras of Angola in Kumasi for the first leg of their double-header.

    The team will leave for Luanda four days later for the second leg of the qualifying tie.

    Ghana sit top of Group E after two matches and will seal qualification if they collect all six points on offer.

    Chelsea auction jerseys for Atsu Elsewhere, Sports Brief reported on English giants, Chelsea honouring the late Atsu by helping complete a school building he had started.

    The Ghanaian spent five seasons on the books of the Blues despite failing to make a competitive appearance for the Stamford Bridge outfit.

    On Saturday, Chelsea engaged Everton in an English Premier League game and this game will help complete the work Atsu had started.

    Adebayor pays tribute to Atsu

    Emmanuel Adebayor has paid emotional tribute to Atsu after attending the final burial of the late winger.

    The former Ghana international was laid to rest in his hometown of Ada on March 17 in a sombre memorial.

    Atsu was among the many who tragically died following the earthquake in Turkey and Syria on February 6.

  • Kumasi fans can’t wait to see Kudus and Partey in action

    Kumasi fans can’t wait to see Kudus and Partey in action

    In order to watch the Black Stars play Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, some Kumasi football fans have vowed to throng the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

    Most of the supporters said they planned to show up at the stadium in large numbers to watch the in-form Ghanaian players Mohammed Kudus and Thomas Partey.

    These supporters believe Kudus and Partey have both demonstrated impressive play at the club level and would like to see them repeat that effort on March 23, 2023, at Baba Yara.

    “I have heard the Black Stars are in town. I will come to the stadium to watch the match. I just want to see Mohammed Kudus in action” a taxi driver when GhanaWeb visited Kumasi said.

    “Kudus and Partey are the stars in the team and we have trust in them to deliver victory for us,” a phone seller stated.

    Despite the poor performance of the team at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar most of the fans expressed optimism in the team. They explained that the appointment of coach Chris Hughton has renewed their hope in the Black Stars.

    “God willing we will come to the stadium in our numbers. No matter what when the Black Stars play in Kumasi we will come and cheer them to victory and pray for them,” one of the traders said.

    The Black Stars’ match against Angola would be their first match in 2023 after the World Cup in Qatar.

    The last time the team played in Kumasi back in March 2022, fans filled the Baba Yara Sports Stadium to the rafters and the fans have promised to replicate it once again.

    Fans promise to throng Baba Yara Stadium to watch Black Stars in action.

  • Black Stars exposes fake ‘Salisu Mohammed’ social media accounts

    Black Stars exposes fake ‘Salisu Mohammed’ social media accounts

    The Black Stars has alerted the general public of impersonation against one of its players, Salisu Mohammed.

    In a Twitter post on Thursday, the Black Stars wrote “Our attention has been drawn to these Facebook accounts impersonating Mohammed Salisu’

    According to the national team, Salisu is not on Facebook, and has therefore entreated the public to “kindly disregard and report these accounts.”

    One of fake users sought to fraud unsuspecting Ghanaians.

  • Black Stars’ final training session before Angola match

    Black Stars’ final training session before Angola match

    The Baba Yara Sports Complex in Kumasi was packed when Black Stars coach Chris Hughton conducted his penultimate practice before the match against Angola.

    On Thursday, March 23, the Black Stars will welcome the Angolan Palancas Negras in Kumasi for the opening leg of a doubleheader to qualify for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    Chris Hughton’s house was finished with Abdul Salis Samed’s arrival, who was unable to meet up with his international teammates in Ghana on time due to a delay at the airport in France.

    After having less time to train under the new management, Abdul Salis Samed participated in team training, although it is unclear if he would start the match against Angola.

    Goalkeeper Jojo Wallacott who got injured after the goalpost fell on him during the session on Tuesday, March 21, also took part in the final training after he was cleared by the medical team.

    Mohammed Salisu was the only player who couldn’t complete the final training session after he was escorted to the dressing room over injury concerns.

    The Southampton defender is now a doubt for the game against the Palancas Negras according to head coach, Chris Hughton.

  • Ghana-Angola clash: Kotoko Board Chairman to provide ten buses for supporters

    Ghana-Angola clash: Kotoko Board Chairman to provide ten buses for supporters

    Asante Kotoko Board Chairman Dr. Kwame Kyei has arranged for buses to transport fans in the Garden City to and from the game free of charge in an effort to pack the Kumasi Baba Yara Sports Stadium to capacity on Thursday when the Black Stars of Ghana take on Angola in the 2023 African Cup of Nations match.

    Ten buses will be provided by the business tycoon so that spectators from Pekyi, Bekwai, Ahenama Kokoben, Abrankese, Obuasi, etc. can travel to the Baba Yara Stadium to watch the game.

    Dr. Kwame Kyei has already promised to provide 1000 Ghanaians with free tickets to watch the game on Thursday.

    The Black Stars will hold their final training session at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Wednesday ahead of the game on Thursday.

    Ghana will play Angola on Thursday, March 23, 2023 at Baba Yara Stadium at 1600.

  • Wollacott in good shape after goalpost injury

    Wollacott in good shape after goalpost injury

    The Ghana Football Association has disclosed that goalkeeper Joseph Wollacott is fit and healthy to engage in preparation towards Ghana’s match against Angola come Thursday.

    The goalie hobbled off during training on Tuesday evening after suffering a soft tissue contusion of the right big toe.

    According to the GFA, he was immediately assessed by the medical team and given emergency treatment.

    Wollacott was later reassessed in the medical room at the team hotel and currently, there are no major medical worries since the player is almost pain free.

    “The medical team would like to assure the football public that Wollacott will be available for selection as he has been cleared to train on Wednesday,” the GFA added.

  • Angola team arrives in Kumasi for opening leg against Ghana

    Angola team arrives in Kumasi for opening leg against Ghana

    The national team of Angola has arrived in Kumasi for the opening leg of the two-match qualification series for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations against Ghana.

    The Palancas Negras arrived at the airport in Kumasi directly from their headquarters in Algeria, where they were camped out in preparation for the two games.

    After replacing the trio of Nurio Fortuna, Zito Luvumbo, and Nelson Da Luz with Augusto To Carneiro, Loide Augusto, and Geraldo Costa Bartolomeu, respectively, Pedro Goncalves has the complete complement of players he invited to play against the Black Stars.

    Goncalves has acknowledged that the game against Ghana will be challenging, therefore his team must play well, and they are prepared for that.

    “We know the difficulties we are going to encounter, but we are ready to play a good game in Kumasi,” he told reporters

    “It is obvious that Ghana has changed coach but I believe there won’t be much change in what from their performance at the World Cup.”

    The Black Stars host the Palancas Negras at the Baba Yara Stadium this Thursday, March 23 before the second leg Tuesday, March 27, 2023, at Estadio 11 de Novembro in Luanda.

  • Video: Goalpost falls on Black Stars’ Jojo Wollacott

    Video: Goalpost falls on Black Stars’ Jojo Wollacott

    On Tuesday, March 21, 2023, as the Black Stars were in training, goalie Jojo Wollacott experienced a frightening incident when the goalpost collapsed, injuring his leg.

    The goalkeeper, who had just recovered from a long-term finger injury, was escorted from the field and unable to finish the practice.

    In a statement, the Ghana Football Association stated that Wollacott’s right toe was hurt as a result of the incident.

    The training goalpost, which is smaller than the ones used in real matches, brutally toppled on the goalkeeper in a video seen by GhanaWeb Sports without any sign of a force majeure.

    Although the event seemed to be concerning, the GFA clarified in a release that the injury is not significant; as a result, he will be ready for training on Wednesday before the 2023 Africa Cup qualification match against Angola.

    The match is set for 16:00 GMT kick-off time at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Thursday, March 23, 2023.

  • What we know about Kingsley Schindler

    What we know about Kingsley Schindler

    The Black Stars’ invitation to German-born player Kingsley Schindler for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola has made him a hot issue.

    Tariq Lamptey, a defender for Brighton and Hove Albion, was injured and replaced by Schindler.

    “Kingsley Schindler has been called up to replace the injured Tariq Lamptey for this week’s TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola,” Ghana Football Association (GFA) confirmed in a statement on Tuesday, March 21, 2023.

    Because he is not a well-known name among Ghanaian players born overseas who are closely watched by the GFA, his call-up aroused eyebrows.

    The defender arrived on Monday along with 16 other players who had traveled early for the match against Angola.

    Schindler plays for FC Koln in the German top-flight league. He joined Koln in 2019.

    After a difficult first two years at Koln, which involves a loan move, he has eventually secured a place in the team.

    He played 26 matches in all competitions this season amounting to 1,117 minutes. He scored one goal.

    His goal sealed the Europa Conference League group-stage qualification for FC Koln. Unfortunately, they could not make it out of their group.

    Schindler was born in Hamburg, Germany, and holds German citizenship. He started his youth career at SC Concordia before joining Hannover 96 youth team in 2011.

    He has become the fourth Ghanaian born in Germany to switch nationality to Ghana in one year.

    Schindler started his career as a winger before evolving into a fullback. During his time at Holstein Kiel in Bundesliga 2, he hit scored 12 goals.

    At Koln, he often plays as a full-back and occasionally as a winger. He could also play in the central area, which explains his versatility.

  • Video: Inaki Williams, Dede Ayew and others arrive at Black Stars camp

    Video: Inaki Williams, Dede Ayew and others arrive at Black Stars camp

    In preparation for their two-game series against Angola in the 2023 African Cup of Nations Qualifiers, the Black Stars players on Monday begun reporting to camp.

    About six of the 25 players who were named for the matches as of Monday, March 20, arrived at the teams’ camp.

    Andre Ayew, the captain of the Black Stars, set an example by showing up early to the team’s training.

    Andre Ayew arrived in the nation on a flight from the UK on Saturday night after taking part in Nottingham Forest’s loss to Newcastle.

    Spanish-based Ghanaian striker, Inaki Williams is also among the players who have touched down in Ghana.

    This will be the first time Inaki Williams plays on home soil after switching nationalities from Spain to Ghana. He has so far made 6 appearances for the Black Stars.

    In-form Ghanaian winger, Joseph Paintsil has also touched base in Ghana. Paintsil is making his return to the Black Stars squad after being left out of Ghana’s squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup. The winger has scored 13 goals with 12 assists in 29 appearances at club level.

    Defender Joseph Aidoo also arrived at the Black Stars camp on Monday. The Celta Vigo player is among those who have been named to the squad.

    Bournemouth striker, Antoine Semenyo is also in camp. The player arrived on Monday from the United Kingdom. Semenyo was part of Ghana’s squad at the World Cup and has so far scored once for the Black Stars.

    Goalkeeper, Jojo Wollacott has also arrived in camp. The Charlton Athletic goalkeeper returns to the Black Stars team after an injury ruled him out of the World Cup squad. Wollacott is one of the trusted pair of arms for the national team in recent times.

  • Black Stars’ first training session for Angola match

    Black Stars’ first training session for Angola match

    Chris Hughton, the new head coach of the Black Stars, has begun preparing his players for the Angola match slated for Thursday, March 23, 2023.

    On Monday, nine players who reported to camp for the upcoming AFCON qualifier practiced with the head coach.

    Andrew Ayew, Joojo Wollacott, Inaki Williams, Daniel Amartey, Joseph Aidoo, Antoine Semenyo, Joseph Paintsil, and Ransford-Yeboah were among the nine players at camp.

    These are a few photos from the training session on Monday at the Accra Sports Stadium.

    On Tuesday, the Black Stars will move camp from Accra to Kumasi. In the evening, there will be a training session at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium with more drills.

  • Ghanaians drool over Ransford Yeboah after sighting ‘breathtaking’ photos

    Ghanaians drool over Ransford Yeboah after sighting ‘breathtaking’ photos

    Although Ransford-Yeboah Königsdörffer, a new Black Stars forward, hasn’t yet had a significant impact on the team, his inclusion is undoubtedly having an effect off the field.

    Ransford-Yeboah has only played five minutes of football for Ghana since making the transfer in 2022, but his charm is getting him positive coverage, especially on social media.

    The Hamburger SV forward will debut for the Black Stars in Ghana, and even before he kicks a ball, he has received accolades.

    Nine players, including Ransford-Yeboah, took part in the Black Stars’ first practice at the Accra Sports Stadium, and the team’s official account tweeted some images of him working out.

    The well-built arms and complexion of the 21-year-old got some social media users drooling over his looks.

    Some users compared him to Kevin-Prince Boateng who was the toast of most female fans of the Black Stars during his time with the team.

    Ransford-Yeboah meanwhile is focused on helping coach Chris Hughton start his Black Stars journey on a winning note.

    Chris Hughton’s men will on Thursday, March 23, 2023 take on Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium in a 2023 AFCON qualifier.

    Ahead of the game, Chris Hughton who was announced in February as the replacement for Otto Addo was unveiled to Ghanaians on Monday, March 20, 2023.

    Chris Hughton, during his unveiling, stated that football philosophy is secondary to winning games and his focus is to win games and help the teams.

    It also came to light during the unveiling that Chris Hughton’s first stint with the Black Stars will end in December 2024.

  • Ghana vs Angola: Injured Tariq Lamptey replaced by Kingsley Schindler

    Ghana vs Angola: Injured Tariq Lamptey replaced by Kingsley Schindler

    Tariq Lamptey, who is injured, has been replaced by Kingsley Schindler for this week’s TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola.

    The midfielder, who was born in Germany and has not yet received a cap for Ghana, arrived in Accra on Monday to join the rest of the team in preparation for the two pivotal games scheduled for Kumasi and Luanda, respectively.

    29-year-old Kingsley Shindler plays for FC Köln in the German Bundesliga.

    Due to an injury, Tariq Lamptey, who was a member of the 25-man squad announced for the two games, has been forced to withdraw.

    Tariq Lamptey

    Meanwhile Seventeen (17) players are currently in camp ahead of the trip to Kumasi on Tuesday afternoon. They include Abdul Manaf Nurudeen, Joseph Wollacott, Alexander Djiku, Denis Odoi, Kingsley Schindler, Patrick Kpozo, Daniel Amartey, Joseph Aidoo, Andre Ayew, Joseph Painstil, Ransford Yeboah, Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, Jordan Ayew, Mohammed Salisu, Majeed Ashimeru and Edmund Addo.

    The other players are expected in camp this morning ahead of the trip to Kumasi.

  • Chris Hughton speaks about Thomas Partey’s future in Black Stars

    Chris Hughton speaks about Thomas Partey’s future in Black Stars

    Arsenal midfielder, Thomas Partey, has been identified by Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton as an important player.

    Following a string of disappointing game performances, Thomas Partey’s future with the Black Stars has come into focus.

    Partey has been criticised for his commitment to his club rather than the national team, and there have been calls for Chris Hughton to remove the midfielder from the squad.

    Chris Hughton said Partey is an important team member when asked about the situation on Monday, March 20, 2023, during his unveiling.

    The 29-year-old, according to him, is the link between the midfield and the defence, and he claimed that because he does not consistently score goals and provide assists, people tend to criticise him.

    “Partey’s role in the team is as a continuity player…he is not that guy who is going to dribble past multiple players. His role is important to what the team does even if he doesn’t always standout.”.

    He urged Ghanaians not to compare Partey’s performance for Arsenal and for the country as he plays distinct roles for both entities.

    “Sometimes as football fans, we assume a player must necessarily fit the frame we have of him in an A team in a B team. Partey’s roles are both club and country are different from each other, but key.”

    Chris Hughton also disclosed during his unveiling that he will pay attention to the Ghana Premier League and give selections to players who impress.

    Another issue of concern was his contract and Chris Hughton disclosed that he is impressed with the two-year contract he agreed on with the FA.

    The contract is expected to expire in December 2024 with Chris Hughton billed to win qualify Ghana to the 2023 AFCON and win it.

  • Chris Hughton pledges to watch, attend more Ghana Premier League games to build ‘good national league’

    Chris Hughton pledges to watch, attend more Ghana Premier League games to build ‘good national league’

    During his introduction as the Black Stars coach on Monday in Kumasi, Chris Hughton promised to pay attention to the Ghana Premier League and other local competitions by watching more games.

    Hughton received flak after selecting a 25-man squad for the 2023 doubleheader of the Africa Cup of Nations without any local players.

    Hughton is adamant about dispelling the myth that earlier Black Stars managers ignored the domestic league in favour of players from abroad.

    At his unveiling, he said, , “From the day that I’ve been involved with the association about one year ago I was made aware and stressed upon how important the local game is to the association and to the technical staff. So this time I’m very conscious of the local game.

    And of course in my period of time[as technical advisor] so far we have had some players that made the squad from our local game so I certainly will not underestimate it. Where I think I can add value in my new role is that I will be spending more time in Ghana. I will be watching more games. I will attend more club games to know the league.”

    “I am constantly being made aware of players that are doing well. The colts, the league structure and the teams that are doing well and certainly in my new role as head coach, I will be paying very much attention to not only the players that are doing well but the game here in general because I think it is important that any national team has a good national league. I’ll do my very best to make sure I see as much football here as possible,” he added.

    The former Northern Ireland international has signed a contract until 31 December 2024 and is determined to make the Black Stars great again.

    Hughton’s debut match is set to take place on Thursday, a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

  • Chris Hughton wants to build a ‘winning’ Black Stars team

    Chris Hughton wants to build a ‘winning’ Black Stars team

    Chris Hughton, the coach of the Black Stars, says his goal is to use his expertise throughout the years to create a successful team for Ghana’s Senior National Team.

    On Monday, March 20, the former Brighton manager addressed the media during his official introduction at the SG Mall in Kumasi, in the Ashanti region, saying he would develop the players at his disposal and foster a winning mindset to assist achieve some success.

    “There will be questions, why is this player playing and why is that player playing, but ultimately I want to see a winning team and…using the players to the best of their abilities,” Chris Hughton said.

    The former Newcastle manager also claimed that he was qualified for the Black Stars position because of his standing and credentials at the top level of football management.

    “My standing and credentials at this level I think that is good. I have a lot of experience as a head coach and I will use that experience to pick the team, pick the players and adjust to less training and preparation time for a game.”

    The former Technical Director for the Black Stars also promised to pay more attention to the local league and identify players who fit his footballing philosophy.

    He, however, described Ghana’s campaign at the 2022 World Cup as disappointing. According to him, the biggest disappointment was the defeat to Uruguay which he believes the Black Stars should have won.

    The 64-year-old who replaces Otto Addo has been given a 21-month contract which is subject to renewal based on performance.

  • Chris Hughton’s unveiling: What you need to know

    The specifics of Chris Hughton’s introduction as the Black Stars’ new coach have been made public by the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    Prior to that, the GFA made no mention of Chris Hughton’s contract when announcing his appointment as the Black Stars’ new head coach.

    However, according to a recent update from the GFA, the head coach of the Black Stars would officially be introduced on Monday, March 20, 2023.

    At precisely 10:00 am, the event would start at the SG Mall in Ayigya-Kumasi.

    According to GFA, Chris Hughton’s introduction would be televised.

    Just like the past, the unveiling of the new coach of the Black Stars is to give the media the opportunity to interact with the coach, as well as, get more information on the target set for him.

    The GFA is expected to make known the details pertaining to the duration of the contract and estimated salary of the new head coach.

    With rumours swelling changes in the backroom staff, coach Chris Hughton is expected to outdoor his technical team members.

    Coach Chris Hughton who was previously the Technical Advisor of the Black Stars takes over from Otto Addo who resigned after Ghana exited the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

  • Ghanaian football legend Emmanuel Oblitey dies at age 89

    Ghanaian football legend Emmanuel Oblitey dies at age 89

    Emmanuel Oblitey, a football hero from Ghana, has passed away at the age of 89.

    On Sunday at the Joy Specialist Medical Clinic, Oblitey passed away.

    He took part in all three games while a member of Ghana’s first AFCON winning team in 1963.

    In the men’s football competition in the 1964 Summer Olympics, Oblitey took part.

    At the club level, he spent time with Real Republikans, Olympians, and the 1961 European tour of the Black Stars team.

    He is survived by seven children.

  • Chris Hughton to be unveiled today as Black Stars head coach

    Chris Hughton to be unveiled today as Black Stars head coach

    The Black Stars’ senior national team’s new head coach, Chris Hughton, will be formally unveiled today.

    Around 10:00 am today in Kumasi, the unveiling will take held in the SG Mall, Ayigya.

    The 64-year-old takes Otto Addo’s place as the team’s new head trainer. The talent coach for the German team Borussia Dortmund, Addo, resigned from his position when his nation was eliminated early from the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    According to the Ghana Football Association [GFA], George Boateng and Didi Dramani will be the former Brighton manager’s assistants.

    The nation’s football governing body will announce the terms of the contract and Hughton’s stay length.

    Before his appointment as the head coach of the team, Hughton worked as the technical advisor for the team when Otto Addo was in charge as the head coach of the team ahead of the playoff games against Nigeria.

    Following Ghana’s qualification to the Mundial, Hughton kept his role.

    The former Newcastle United and Tottenham will be aiming to lead the Black Stars to its glory days due to his rich experience in the world of football.

    Hughton’s first game will come up against Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] qualifiers in back-to-back games this month.

    The Black Stars will host the Palancas Negras at the Baba Yara Stadium on March 23 before travelling to Luanda for the return game in four days’ time.

    Ghana are joint top of Group E alongside Angola with both teams with four points after two games.

  • Chris Hughton arrives at Manhyia for Akwasidae

    Chris Hughton arrives at Manhyia for Akwasidae

    Chris Hughton, the coach of the Black Stars, attended the Akwasidae festival just hours after arriving in Kumasi, the capital of the Ashanti region, for his official unveiling and Ghana’s match versus Angola.

    Mark Addo, vice president of the Ghana Football Association, and Akwasi Agyemang, deputy chairman of the Black Stars management committee, accompanied Chris Hughton to the Manhyia Palace in Kumasi for the Akwasidae festival.

    At the gathering where the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II meets his 52 divisional chiefs to make merry and talk about how the kingdom may advance, his first assistant coach, George Boateng, was also present.

    At the SG Mall in Ayigya, Kumasi, on March 20, 2023, Chris Hughton will be formally introduced as the new Black Stars coach.

    Chris Hughton replaces Otto Addo who left the role after the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tournament that took place in November/December last year.

    His two assistant coaches, George Boateng, and Mas-Ud Didi Dramani will also be presented at the same ceremony.

  • Scenes from Christian Atsus’s final funeral rights

    Scenes from Christian Atsus’s final funeral rights

    It is a sorrowful Friday. Many prayed against this day, hoping for a miracle, but that was not the case.

    Ghanaians bid farewell to Christian Atsu, a former player of the Black Stars today

    The Independent Ghana was at the State House in Accra where the remains of the 31-year-old laid in state.

    Family, friends, government officials, and colleagues in the sports industry gathered to mourn one of Africa’s brightest stars.

    The immediate and extended families of Christian Atsu could not hold back their tears as they watched what remained of their beloved lying in the casket draped with a Ghana flag.

    President Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, Former President John Dramani, Staff of the Sports Ministry headed by Hon Mustapha Ussif, Black Stars Head coach, Chris Hughton and international players including Emmanuel Adebayor all took turns to file past the remains of Atsu to pay their last respects.

    The head of the Atsu Twasam family read the former player’s biography, which entailed his journey from birth to death to the hearing of all who gathered.

    The widow, Marie-Claire Rupio, devastated by her husband’s death could not muster courage to finish her tribute. Other tributes came from Atsu’s children, siblings and the Turkish

    community.

  • I could trust you in everything, my everyday guy – Wakaso sends passionate tribute to Christian Atsu

    I could trust you in everything, my everyday guy – Wakaso sends passionate tribute to Christian Atsu

    Mubarak Wakaso, a midfielder for the Black Stars, has acknowledged that it will take him some time to adjust to the loss of his close friend Christian Atsu.

    In a tribute to his deceased friend, Mubarak Wakaso shared the emotional pain he has been going through ever since it was announced that Christian Atsu had passed away.

    He recalled some of their enjoyable times together while acknowledging that he would find it challenging to move on from this experience.

    “It’s so difficult for me to express in words how I am feeling. Since hearing about the earthquake on 6th February, I had hope that you were still alive. I never believed that this hope would turn into sadness. You were my everyday guy, my friend, my brother. We played together, we laughed together we ate together.

    “You were someone who I trusted in everything because in a good or bad situation, you was always there for me. I have been here just looking at our pictures, reading our messages, watching our videos. All I have now is the memories in which I will cherish forever. Rest in perfect peace, Love from your brother Wakaso Mubarak,” he said.

    Wakaso was among a host of former teammates of Christian Atsu present at his funeral held at the forecourt of the State House on Friday, 17 March 2023.

    Wakaso arrived with the likes of Muntari, Sammy Kuffour, Sulley Muntari, John Mensah and a host of others.

    Christian Atsu passed in February after his lifeless body was recovered from the rubble of his collapsed apartment in Hatay following an earthquake that struck Turkey on February 6, 2023.

    The former Ghanaian International in his 7 years international career played at the World Cup and help Ghana finish second in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, in which he won the best player of the tournament.

  • You are never really gone as part of you is within the kids – Widow of Christian Atsu

    You are never really gone as part of you is within the kids – Widow of Christian Atsu

    Marie-Claire Rupio, the late Black Stars player’s wife, has expressed sadness over the death of her husband, Christian Atsu.

    In a tribute, the widow stated that since losing her devoted husband, her life has not been the same.

    Marie-Claire Rupio stated that she would use Christian Atsu’s love as her example and that she would continue to love him even after he passed away.

    “In life, I love you dearly. In death, I do the same. It breaks my heart to lose you. You did not go alone, for part of me went with you.

    “Your love is still my guide, and though I cannot see you are always on my side. You were always so full of life,” she said on Friday.

    The widow further noted that “I see you in our children’s smile. You are never really gone as part of you is within them. You are loved beyond words and missed beyond measure. But as you always say, God win.”

    You didn’t go alone, part of me went with you – Widow of Christian Atsu

    Atsu, 31, was found dead on February 18, 2023, following the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria on February 6, which killed more than 50,000 people in both countries.

    His last club was the Hatayspor club.

  • Christian Atsu’s humility worth emulating – Kwabena Yeboah

    Christian Atsu’s humility worth emulating – Kwabena Yeboah

    Since Christian Atsu’s passing was reported in February, comments about his selflessness have poured in.

    Today, the deceased Hatayspor player’s family, friends, football players, and prominent figures, including President Akufo-Addo, gathered to pay their respects.

    Veteran commentator Kwabena Yeboah was one of them. He walked past the body this morning as the funeral for the former Black Stars player was taking place on the grounds of the State House in Accra.

    Mr. Yeboah praised Christian’s humility in his interview , noting that he was at the height of his success.

    For him, the late footballer’s humility is worth emulating.

    “He never allowed his fame and well to get into his head. Often times when footballers get very famous, they tend to be a bit haughty and they tend to be a bit super zealous. He never ever got to that point. He never forgot his roots,” he added.

    Atsu, 31, was found dead on February 18, 2023, following the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria on February 6, which killed more than 50,000 people in both countries.

    His last club was Hatayspor club.

  • Dreams FC’s Ameenu Shadow reacts to proposed Black Stars team manager appointment

    Dreams FC’s Ameenu Shadow reacts to proposed Black Stars team manager appointment

    General manager of Dreams FC, Ameenu Shadow, has acknowledged that he is currently in discussions with the Ghana Football Association about taking over as the Black Stars’ next team manager.

    Prior to the 2023 AFCON qualifiers, Ameenu Shadow was reportedly named the national team’s squad manager, according to earlier local media sources.

    In an interview with Kumasi-based Oyerepa FM, Shadow stated that although the appointment has not yet been announced, conversations are still ongoing.

    “The truth of the matter is that there have been talks, we have had discussions. There is no confirmation now but the truth of the matter is that there’s been discussions with respect to that position. “he said.

    Meanwhile, the Black Stars will host Angola on March 23, 2023 at the Baba Yara Stadium before the reverse fixture in Luanda four days later.

    The Black Stars lead Group E of the qualifiers with four points, followed by Angola who are also on four points before Central African Republic and Madagascar follow in that order.

  • Christian Atsu was ‘uniquely’ consistent with his tithe – George Afriyie

    Christian Atsu was ‘uniquely’ consistent with his tithe – George Afriyie

    Former GFA vice president George Afriyie has revealed that late Black Stars forward Christian Atsu was a man who never made light of his tithing while he was alive.

    Atsu perished in the deadly earthquake that struck Turkey, which claimed many lives. It took 12 days for his dead body to be found after the Ghanaian international was buried beneath the debris.

    Speaking on Friday, March 17, at the player’s final funeral rites, Afriyie recalled his favourite moment with the 31-year-old while he was still alive.

    “There is always one thing that I will always not forget. Tony [Appiah] will tell me that ‘George, Atsu and his tithe, he doesn’t miss them.’, he said.

    “As for his calculations, he doesn’t miss and he will make sure that the 10% is paid per what the Christian faith believes. This is so unique.”

    In his final match as a player, Atsu helped Hatayspor defeat Kasimpasa 1-0. The Ghanaian scored the game’s only goal with a beautiful free kick.

  • AFCON: Annor Walker blames snub of local players in Black Stars squad to CHAN failure

    AFCON: Annor Walker blames snub of local players in Black Stars squad to CHAN failure

    The absence of local players in the Black Stars lineup for the upcoming matches against Angola has been attributed by Annor Walker to the Black Galaxies’ dismal performance  at the 2022 African Nations Championships (CHAN).

    People are talking about the Black Stars head coach Chris Hughton’s decision to name a 25-man roster without any home-based players for the doubleheader against Angola later this month.

    The Black Galaxies of Ghana competed in the CHAN tournament earlier this year in Algeria, where they lost to Niger 2-0 in the quarterfinal stage after needing just one win in the group stage to advance.

    Speaking to Peace FM, Walker asserts that Hughton’s decision to omit any domestic player can be explained by the disappointing performance in Algeria.

    “It could be so, if we had won the trophy, definitely he would have asked or would have contacted the technical team so we recommend one or two players to the senior national team,” he said.

    “The coach did the call-ups, maybe he doesn’t know much about the locally-based players, especially with the CHAN team.”

    The decision to also leave out the home-based players is a step back for the league as there were two players called up for the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    Ghana will host Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium on March 24 before travelling away for the return leg four days later.

  • Adam Kwarasey likely to become next Black Stars goalkeeper’s trainer

    Adam Kwarasey likely to become next Black Stars goalkeeper’s trainer

    Adam Larsen Kwarasey, a former goalkeeper for the Black Stars, may take on the role of senior national team goalkeeper’s trainer, according to reports,

    The 35-year-old, who announced his retirement from professional football in 2020 after finishing a three-year stint with Vlerenga, is slated to succeed Richard Kingson as the next goalkeeper’s trainer.

    The new Black Stars coach, Chris Hughton, is rumoured to have made a few changes to the technical staff, which could result in the hiring of a new goalkeepers’ trainer and video analyst, as reported by GhanaWeb on Monday, March 13, 2023.

    An unnamed source claims that the new manager is open to hiring both a new video analyst and a goalkeeper’s trainer.

    This could see Richard Kingson, the current goalkeepers’ trainer, and Awal Kamin, the video analyst, lose their jobs.

    The Norwegian-based goalkeeper was Ghana’s first choice at the 2012 AFCON, as the Black Stars finished 4th in the tournament.

    The goalkeepers were later chosen to be Ghana’s safest pair for the 2014 World Cup.

    Kwarasey won two trophies each with Stromsgodset, Portland Timbers, and Rosenborg. He was awarded the Best Goalkeeper at Tippeligaen in 2013 and also earned the MLS Save of the Year in 2015.

    Adam Larsen Kwarasey is currently the co-founder and sporting director of FC Oslo, a team based in Norway.

    Ghana will face Angola in a doubleheader later this month in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers.

  • Newcastle United honour Christian Atsu again, feature him on magazine cover

    Newcastle United honour Christian Atsu again, feature him on magazine cover

    On Sunday, March 12, 2023, before playing Wolves in Premier League week 27, Newcastle United paid another homage to the late Christian Atsu.

    The magazine for their gameday programme featured Atsu on the cover. An article about the former Black Stars player was published in the magazine.

    In the heartfelt article, the club praised Atsu’s humility and his generosity of spirit.

    “There wasn’t a day went by that he didn’t say ‘good morning ‘ or ‘goodbye’,” part of the article read.

    Atsu spent the most time in a club at Newcastle, where he played for four seasons at the St. James Park.

    He had a special connection with the fans who composed a chant for the Ghanaian to appreciate his talent and dedication.

    Christian Atsu passed away n February 2023 after he was trapped to death in rubble following an earthquake in Turkey.

  • Black Stars coach justifies leaving out local players for the match against Angola

    Black Stars coach justifies leaving out local players for the match against Angola

    Didi Dramani, Ghana’s assistant coach, has provided an explanation for the exclusion of local players from the Black Stars squad to face Angola in the upcoming AFCON qualifiers.

    The following are the results of a survey conducted by the American Psychological Association.

    Didi Dramani claims that their choice has been based on consistency.

    “I think it goes with consistency and closeness of games. It is very important not to overstate that he (Chris Hughton) releases his squad and then no local player is in there. I think when we start doing that then I think we are pre-emptying on the negativities and I think that we are paying much attention to the local league as you can see me coming out to watch lot of the games,” he said in an interview with Citi Sports.

    “When you look at the team, It is made of a consistent squad and we want to remain consistent when the decision not to invite any local player.

    “The Black Stars is a team in progress and so the team will continuously be consistent in their approach. The team is a work in progress and so what you find is actually what is needed at the shortest possible time. In the longest possible time, in this era, you need to look out for things that will give you immediate team structure, you don’t have time.

    “The team is playing on Thursday and then on Monday so there’s no time for you to be thinking about processes where you need players to have the chance to have strong integration and then adaptation.

    “This is the time to be thinking about who to bring and then immediately you are able to get what you need, there’s no time in this period. These periods are very short-lived so we need to acknowledge the importance of the timelines.”

    The four-time African champions will play host to Angola on March 23 at the Baba Yara Stadium before the reverse fixture in Luanda on March 27.

    The Black Stars lead Group E of the qualifiers with four points, followed by Angola who are also on four points before Central African Republic and Madagascar follow in that order.

  • AFCON 2023: Kudus maintains fineness ahead of Ghana – Angola clash

    AFCON 2023: Kudus maintains fineness ahead of Ghana – Angola clash

    When Ajax defeated Heerenveen in the Dutch Eredivisie over the weekend, Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus was in fine form.

    The gifted young player made his team’s Sunday debut and maintained his excellent form from earlier in the year as his squad easily defeated the opposition 4-2 at the Abe Lenstra Stadium.

    After just 10 minutes of the eagerly anticipated match, the visitors took the lead through Mohammed Kudus.

    After connecting off a Kudus assist, Edson lvarez doubled Ajax’s lead four minutes later.

    Steven Bergwijn scored Ajax’s third goal of the match in the 19th minute, but Pelle van Amersfoort scored the final goal of the first half for the home team.

    After the break, Kenneth Taylor scored to extend Ajax’s lead in the encounter but Sydney van Hooijdonk find the back of the net in the 79th minute for the home team to make it 4-2 at the end of the game.

    The form of Mohammed Kudus is good for the Black Stars especially as Ghana will face off with Angola in the qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament next week.

    This season, the forward has 18 goals in all competitions for Ajax and has also provided six assists.

  • Most Black Stars players expected to miss Christian Atsu’s funeral

    Most Black Stars players expected to miss Christian Atsu’s funeral

    The Black Stars players who represent their country in Europe and other parts of the world will not have the chance to say goodbye to their late teammate, Christian Atsu.

    The burial and funeral service for Christian Atsu have been scheduled for Friday, March 17, 2023.

    Due to the date, players who compete in European leagues will be unable to attend the ceremony because they will be engaged in club activities.

    The last weekend before the international break is March 17; during this time, clubs will release any players Chris Hughton has called up.

    This means that the likes of Thomas Partey, Mohammed Kudus, Andre Ayew, and all members of the 25-man squad announced Chris Hughton will miss the chance to say a final goodbye to their fallen mate.

    When asked about the development by Graphic Sports, the local manager of Christian Atsu, Abdul Haye Yartey disclosed that the decision on the date was taken by the family, in agreement with the government.

    “The preparation for the funeral has not factored in a role by the Black Stars as it stands despite the GFA playing a significant role in the arrangement,” Mr Yartey told Graphic Sports.

    “Preparations are at an advanced stage and I can tell you that the government is playing a major role with the family to ensure Atsu gets a befitting burial.”

    Five days after the funeral, the Black Stars will take on Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

    It is expected that the players and the Ghana Football Association will pay some form of respect to Christian Atsu before and during the game.

    Henry Asante Twum of the FA is quoted to have said “we are in constant communication with the family of Atsu and the government in the preparation for the funeral to ensure we send him off in a befitting way.”

  • Richard Kingson reportedly to be sacked from Black Stars technical team

    Richard Kingson reportedly to be sacked from Black Stars technical team

    Former Ghana international, Richard Kingson, could be fired from his position as the Black Stars’ goalkeepers’ trainer according to reports.

    A new goalkeepers’ trainer and video analyst could be hired by Chris Hughton, the new Black Stars coach, as a result of some technical team changes.

    Chris Hughton and the Ghana Football Association hierarchy reportedly met to finalise the changes that could result in Kingson and the video analyst Awal Kamin losing their jobs, according to an unnamed source.

    The GFA source told Graphic Sports, “Maybe, having been with the team for almost a year as technical advisor, I suspect Chris Hughton may have analysed the technical team and, therefore, knows its inadequacies which may have informed his recommendations to strengthen the technical department as he takes over.”

    The source also mentioned that Ameenu Shadow, General Manager of Dreams FC, is likely to replace Henry Mantey as the new Team Manager of the Black Stars.

    GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum confirmed that Hughton has made recommendations but refused to comment further on the reported changes to the technical team.

    Twum said, “I’m aware he has made some recommendations in his technical department but I can’t say anything until he is unveiled. I believe every concern would be addressed at his unveiling so I think we must wait for that day to know everything about the team.”

    Chris Hughton is set to be unveiled on March 20 in Kumasi ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola.

    The game will take place at the Baba Yara Stadium on March 23, with the return leg in Luanda four days later.

  • Chris Hughton is a capable coach for the Black Stars, I believe in him – George Afriyie

    Chris Hughton is a capable coach for the Black Stars, I believe in him – George Afriyie

    George Afriyie, a former vice president of the Ghana Football Association, has expressed his belief in Chris Hughton’s ability to lead the Black Stars.

    After serving as the Technical Advisor for the Black Stars, Chris Hughton was named head coach by the GFA.

    George Afriyie thinks Ghana’s Irish-born coach can lead Ghana to better results in games because of his extensive experience.

    “Chris, for me, should have taken us to the World Cup. Because you have a manager who has managed a top English football club. You and I know that there is no argument about this, that the English league, the Spanish and German leagues are the best three in the world,” he told 3 Sports.

    “So if you have a coach who has managed in the top three leagues in the world coming into your country as the national team coach, if he can’t do it, trust me nobody can do it. For me I have enough confidence in Chris Hughton,” he added.

    According to George Afriyie, there is a possibility that Hughton might endure a difficult spell just like many other top coaches.

    ” Yes, coaches can come and fail but let us do our part, appoint the right personnel and say we did our best. I have confidence in the coach,” Mr Afriyie said.

  • Dreams FC’s Ameenu Shardow now Black Stars new manager – reports

    Dreams FC’s Ameenu Shardow now Black Stars new manager – reports

    Mohamed Ameenu Shardow, the administrative manager at Dreams FC, has reportedly been named the new Black Stars team manager.

    The report states that Shadow will begin the aforementioned position with immediate effect as Ghana gets ready for the upcoming 2023 AFCON qualifiers against Angola later this month.

    In a pair of games this month, Ghana and Angola will compete for a spot in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, which will take place in Cote D’Ivoire in January of that year.

    The Black Stars of Ghana will play Palancras Negras on March 23, 2023, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium, and then travel to Luanda for the rematch on March 27, 2023.

    Ghana is joint top of Group E with four points from two games, having won 3-0 over Madagascar and drawn 1-1 with Central African Republic in June of last year.

    New Black Stars coach Chris Hughton will be officially unveiled in Kumasi on Monody March 20th ahead of the game.

  • NSA to reward fans who purchase ticket ahead of Ghana vs Angola game

    NSA to reward fans who purchase ticket ahead of Ghana vs Angola game

    The National Sports Authority’s Director General, Prof. Peter Twumasi, has stated that supporters will receive rewards for buying tickets ahead of the Black Stars‘ match against Angola later this month.

    Ahead of the game, NSA has introduced what it calls ‘Early Bird Buyers’ in Ghana’s game against Angola in Kumasi to reduce the pressure on networks and demand for online tickets on the matchday.

    “We are introducing some reforms such that, the people can really have advanced ticket purchasing and that’s something that had not been done,” Prof Twumasi told Kumasi-based LUV FM.

    “Probably we need to motivate those who want to buy the tickets far in advance. Now, we are bringing out variations in pricing so people who will buy the tickets before the match will have discounts, very huge.”

    “So those who will be buying the tickets before the matchday will have a huge discount and then on the match day, the price will go up a little bit. So we are encouraging more people to take advantage of this and buy their tickets before the game. The problem comes when they are there buying and we are also using the system for scanning so we want to reduce that,’’ he said.

    The third matchday of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] qualifications will include matches between Ghana and Angola at the Baba Yara Stadium on March 23.

    The NSA also introduced the electronic ticketing system. Initial difficulties existed, but they have been resolved.

    Following a 3-0 victory over Madagascar and a 1-1 draw with the Central African Republic in June of last year, Ghana and Angola are tied for first place in Group E with 4 points each.

    In four days in Luanda, the Black Stars will honor the reverse match.

  • Jordan Ayew, Zaha are outstanding players, says Pep Guardiola

    Jordan Ayew, Zaha are outstanding players, says Pep Guardiola

    Despite Crystal Palace’s loss on Saturday, Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola has heaped praise on Jordan Ayew.

    The reigning champions were welcomed to Selhurst Pack by the Eagles.

    Up until the Citizens were given a penalty for Michael Olise’s late challenge on Ilkay Gundogan, Jordan kept up his impressive play for the home team.

    The 28th goal of the year for Erling Haaland came from the penalty spot.

    After the game, Guardiola praised Palace’s tenacity and praised Ayew and Zaha for their contributions despite the team’s loss at home.

    “It is always tricky playing here [Selhurst Park],” told Sky Sports.

    “We are always confident playing at home but I always have this belief that it is always tricky here.

    “The way they play and run is just incredible. Jordan Ayew and Zaha are incredible players.

    “They are always running and creating spaces for the team,” he added.

    With the loss, Palace’s worrisome 10-match losing streak in league play is now the longest in the division, and Patrick Vieira’s team is now only four points above the relegation zone.

    Jordan Ayew has been selected for the Black Stars team to play Angola in a doubleheader at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] later this month.

  • More is forthcoming – Mohammed Kudus

    More is forthcoming – Mohammed Kudus

    Mohammed Kudus, an Ajax star, thinks he still has more to offer despite his stellar performance this year.

    For the Dutch giants, the 22-year-old has been in phenomenal form.

    When asked about his goals for the year, Kudus stated that he wants to help Ajax win the league and cup double, claiming he hasn’t accomplished anything yet.

    “I haven’t done anything yet since my goal is to win the league and the cup.
    Well, more is on the way.
    There is still more to do, he told Ajax TV.

    Kudus is currently enjoying his most productive spell in front of goal after finally overcoming injury and settling at Ajax.

    The young playmaker is on a rich vein of form that has seen him contribute 17 goals and four assists in all competitions this season.

    He also scored two times and provided one assist for Ghana at the World Cup despite the Black Stars’ group-stage exit.

    Meanwhile, Kudus’ stunning free-kick goal against Sparta Rotterdam, which he celebrated by paying tribute to the late Christian Atsu, has been adjudged as the Goal of the Month of February.

    The Ghana international netted an 84th-minute free-kick to round off a comfortable 4-0 victory for Ajax against Sparta Rotterdam last month.

    That stunning free-kick goal has now been adjudged as the goal of the month, with Kudus receiving his award on Tuesday.

    Meanwhile, Kudus, who was Ghana best player at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar has been named in Black Stars squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] qualifiers against Angola later this month.

  • No GFA employee ever forces players on a Black Stars coach – Prosper Harrison Addo

    No GFA employee ever forces players on a Black Stars coach – Prosper Harrison Addo

    Prosper Harrison Addo, general secretary of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has remarked that it is absurd to claim that Black Stars player selections are made by president Kurt Okraku.

    He claims there is no basis for that accusation.

    “It’s funny to say Kurt Okraku makes the selection for the Black Stars,” Prosper Harrison Addo said during a discussion on Citi FM on Friday, March 10.

    “These are all  kinds of accusations without facts,” the general secretary of the Ghana FA continued. There is a method. No one person, not even the head coach, makes the team. The management committee is presented with it after he and his team have discussed it. It will surface if it is good.

    “Nobody imposes a player on a coach.”

    He further advised that if anyone does not like a certain player they should not expect that a coach will not invite that player.

  • All about Black Stars ‘newbee’, Patrick Kpozo

    All about Black Stars ‘newbee’, Patrick Kpozo

    The only rookie in Ghana’s 25-man roster to face Angola in the 2023 AFCON Qualifiers is Patrick Kpozo.

    Ghana’s Accra is where Patrick Kpozo, a player for FC Sheriff Tiraspol in the Moldovan league, was born and raised.

    The 25-year-old began his professional career with Inter Allies of Division 2 and made seven appearances before receiving a breakthrough transfer abroad to Swedish club AIK.

    The player made two appearances for the national team in 2015 after receiving a call-up to Ghana’s under-20 team, the Black Satellites, before moving abroad.

    The left-back made 11 club appearances before spending the next two seasons on loan in Tromso.

    After a torrid spell at AIK, the Ghanaian player moved to Ostersunds FK also in the Swedish league. Kpozo was able to find his footing at Ostersunds and played in 48 matches scoring 3 goals.

    In between his five-year spell at Ostersunds, Kpozo was sent on loan to IFK Lulea and managed to score 6 goals in 28 appearances for the club.
    After spending seven years in the Swedish league, Kpozo decided to join Moldova’s top side, FC Sheriff Tiraspol.

    Since joining the club at the start of the season, Kpozo has played 25 matches which have seen him record 1966 minutes under his sleeves.
    The Ghanaian left-back was instrumental in FC Sheriff Tiraspol’s campaign in the Europa League where they faced the likes of Manchester United and Real Sociedad.

    Patrick Kpozo first earned Black Stars call-up in the provisional squad for the 2022 FIFA World Cup but was dropped after the squad was pruned to a 26.

    Patrick Kpozo’s addition to the Black Stars is expected to bring more competition to the left-back department of the team.

  • 2023 AFCON: Chris Hughton dropped these seven 2022 World Cup players

    2023 AFCON: Chris Hughton dropped these seven 2022 World Cup players

    For this month’s AFCON qualifiers against Angola, Ghana coach Chris Hughton has left seven players off the national team roster.

    The seven players were not included in the current squad for the AFCON qualifiers even though they were a part of the group that qualified Ghana for the Qatar-hosted 2022 World Cup.

    The seven players who were cut from the team consist of: Elisha Owusu (Auxerre), Daniel-Kofi Kyereh (Freiburg), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Baba Rahman (Reading), Daniel Afriyie Barnieh (FC Zurich), Ibrabim Danlad (Asante Kotoko) and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Sporting Lisbon).

    While Elisha Owusu, Daniel-Kofi Kyereh, Alidu Seidu and Baba Rahman have been dropped due to various injuries suffered while representing their respective clubs, Daniel Afriyie Barnieh, Ibrabim Danlad and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku have been left out of the squad due to poor form.

    The Black Stars are scheduled to play Angola in a doubleheader this month, with the first leg set to be played on March 23 in Kumasi while the reverse fixture comes off in Luanda four days later.

  • Arsenal supporters upset with Thomas Partey’s selection to the Black Stars

    Arsenal supporters upset with Thomas Partey’s selection to the Black Stars

    Thomas Partey’s call-up to the Black Stars for the upcoming international break has some Arsenal supporters upset.

    The said incensed fans advised Partey to decline the invitation and focus on improving his fitness instead because he had just recovered from an injury.

    Since he recovered from a muscle injury he sustained in February 2023, the Ghanaian has played 160 minutes in four games.

    Thomas Partey was selected for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations team by Ghana, which will consist of 25 players.

    The Black Stars will play Angola over two legs. They will host the Black Antelopes in the first leg on March 23, 2023, before the second leg on March 27, 2023.

    The Black Stars are tied at the top of Group E with Angola on four points each.

    Ghana began their campaign with a 3-0 win over Madagascar before being held to a one-all draw against Central African Republic.

    Unlike Ghana, Angola beat the Central African Republic and drew against Madagascar in their second fixture.

  • Ghana’s 25-man squad to face Angola

    Ghana’s 25-man squad to face Angola

    Chris Hughton, the Black Stars’ newly appointed head coach, has selected his 25-man squad for this month’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola.

    The Black Stars will play Palancras Negras on March 23 at the Baba Yara Sports stadium before traveling to Luanda for the rematch on March 27.

    Players who were a part of Ghana’s World Cup squad in Qatar last year predominate the 25-man roster.

    Meanwhile, Baba Rahman has been dropped due to an injury problem, and Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, who has been a regular in the squad, was not invited.

    Goalkeepers: Lawrence Ati Zigi (FC St. Gallen), Abdul Manaf Nurudeen (Eupen), Joseph Wollacott (Charlton Athletic)

    Defenders: Tariq Lamptey (Brighton and Hove Albion), Denis Odoi (Club Brugge), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Patrick Kpozo (Sheriff Tiraspol), Daniel Amartey (Leicester City), Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo), Mohammed Salisu (Southampton FC), Alexander Djiku (Strasbourg)

    Midfielders: Thomas Partey (Arsenal FC), Majeed Ashimeru (RSC Anderlecht), Abdul Salis Samed (Lens), Edmund Addo (Spartak Subotica)

    Wingers: Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Osman Bukari (Red Star Belgrade), Joseph Painstil (Genk), Kamal Deen Sulemana (Southampton FC), Ransford Yeboah Königsdörffer (Hamburger SV)

    Forwards: Mohammed Kudus (Ajax Amsterdam), Andre Ayew (Nottingham Forest), Kamal Sowah (Club Brugge), Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Antoine Semenyo (AFC Bournemouth)

  • New Black Stars coach, Chris Hughton’s outdooring to be held in Kumasi

    New Black Stars coach, Chris Hughton’s outdooring to be held in Kumasi

    On Monday, March 20, 2023, Chris Hughton will be introduced as the Black Stars coach, according to the Ghana Football Association (GFA).

    Chris Hughton was elevated to head coach of the Black Stars on February 12, 2023, from his position as technical adviser.

    There have been complaints about the delay in his formal introduction, but the Ghana Football Association (GFA) announced that Chris Hughton will be introduced three days prior to Ghana’s match against Angola on March 23, 2023, after releasing the Black Stars squad for the AFCON qualifiers.

    Chris Hughton’s unveiling ceremony will take place at Kumasi’s Baba Yara Sports Stadium, according to a statement from the GFA.

    “Black Stars Coach Chris Hughton will be unveiled in Kumasi on Monday, March 20, 2023, as part of the build-up to the match against Angola.

    The former Brighton and Hove Albion and Tottenham Hotspur manager will be presented to the media to share his vision, ideology, and expectations with the public.

    The first engagement between the coach and the media in Kumasi will be a platform for the Football Association to also make public the targets, terms of engagement, and other relevant information pertaining to the manager’s work.

    The time and venue will be officially communicated in the coming days,” the statement read.

  • Baba Rahman missing in Chris Houghton’s squad, social media users are excited

    Baba Rahman missing in Chris Houghton’s squad, social media users are excited

    Social media users are ecstatic about Chris Hughton’s bold decision to leave Baba Rahman out of the most recent Black Stars squad, which was unveiled by the coach.

    Regarding their belief that Reading left-back has outstayed his welcome with the Black Stars, social media users appear to be in agreement.

    Some people think Chris Hughton’s action is a sign of the kind of fair and firm decision-making he will employ when choosing players for the Black Stars.

    One of the six players who made the World Cup roster but were not included in Chris Hughton’s first selection as Black Stars coach is Baba Rahman.

    The returnees in the team include Jojo Wollacott Joseph Paintsil, Majeed Ashimeru, Ransford Yeboah Konigsdorfer, and Edmund Addo.

    There was however no place for Felix Afena-Gyan, Ibrahim Danlad, Afriyie Barnieh, and a host of stars.

    The 25-man is dominated by players who ply their trade in Europe with no local player making the cut.

    The Black Stars will take on Angola at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on March 23 in a game that will be Chris Hughton’s first as substantive manager of the Black Stars.

    Four days later, the team will play Angola in their country.