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Tag: Black Stars

  • Photos: Black Stars players arrive at camp ahead of Ghana-Madagascar showdown

    Photos: Black Stars players arrive at camp ahead of Ghana-Madagascar showdown

    The Black Stars players have reported for their training camp in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar.

    Pictures shared on social media by the official Black Stars handle depict the players arriving at the team hotel, dressed in casual attire.

    As of now, the Ghana Football Association has not confirmed the exact number of players who have arrived out of the 24-man squad that was announced for the national team.

    However, from the images posted on social media, skipper Andre Ayew, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Salis Samed, Kasim Nuhu, Majeed Ashimeru, Osman Buakri, Hafiz Konkoni, and Joseph Aidoo, Gideon Mensah, Joseph Paintsil have all arrived.

    The team is currently lodging at the Alisa Hotel and will train at the Accra Sports Stadium before they depart Ghana for Madagascar.

    The game is scheduled for June 18, 2023.

    Players in photos:

    Black Stars Capt.Andre Dede Ayew arrives at camp
    Ate Zigi is here

    Jordan Ayew steps out of car
    Saliz abdul Samed
    Joseph Paintsil
    Hafiz Konkoni
  • Thomas Partey missing at Black Stars camp as Dede Ayew, Jordan, others report on first day

    Thomas Partey missing at Black Stars camp as Dede Ayew, Jordan, others report on first day

    The only member of Chris Hughton’s 24-man squad who has not yet reported to the Black Stars camp as they get ready for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar is Arsenal star and deputy captain Thomas Teye Partey.

    With the exception of Partey, who is anticipated to arrive on Tuesday, June 13, following a fantastic season with the Gunners, all players who were invited have dutifully reported to the team’s camp at the Alisa Hotel in Accra as of Monday, June 12.

    The former Tema Youth player played an integral role for Mikel Arteta’s side in the just-ended 2022–23 English Premier League. He made a total of 39 appearances in all competitions and scored three goals.

    The team led by skipper Andre Ayew will open their first training sessions at the Accra Sports Stadium later on Monday, June 11, and will continue for the next four days before they jet off to Madagascar.

    The match will take place on Sunday, June 18, at the Mahamasina Municipal Stadium in Antananarivo, Madagascar’s capital city.

    The Black Stars lead Group E with eight points, having won two and drawn two.

  • Chris Hughton pledges to scout for Black Stars players from local league

    Chris Hughton pledges to scout for Black Stars players from local league

    The Black Stars’ head coach, Chris Hughton, has expressed his admiration for the caliber of players competing in the regional leagues.

    After watching a number of Ghana Premier League games in the last few months, the gaffer says he is determined to continue monitoring players to select the ones that can play for the Black Stars.

    “It is my role to access and find out those who can have the opportunity. That opportunity might come because it’s a starting opportunity or maybe that opportunity will come because somebody who is starting is not available,” the former Brighton & Hove Albion manager said in an interview with Asempa FM.

    He continued, “I will continue to pay attention to the league here and yes there are quality players here. This is for sure.”

    Coach Chris Hughton will on Monday, June 12, start training with the Black Stars as part of preparations for the clash against Madagascar in the qualifiers for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

    The game is scheduled to be played on June 18.

  • 2023 AFCONQ: Kasim Adams replaces injured Alexander Djiku ahead of Madagascar clash

    2023 AFCONQ: Kasim Adams replaces injured Alexander Djiku ahead of Madagascar clash

    In preparation for this month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Madagascar, Chris Hughton, the head coach of the Black Stars, has made a substitution in the squad due to an injury.

    Kasim Adams has been called up to replace Alexander Djiku, who had initially been named in the Ghana squad but had to withdraw due to an ankle injury.

    The Hoffenheim center-back, who had a great campaign on loan at Swiss side, FC Basel, in the just-ended season comes in with loads of experience.

    The 27-year-old has 11 appearances for Ghana since his debut in 2017.

    Adams has featured 28 times for Basel in the Swiss Super League, scoring a goal and provided one assist.

    He has also played 11 times in the UEFA Europa Conference League, scoring an extra-time winner against Nice that sent them to the semifinal. Overall, he has 46 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals, with one assist.

    The Black Stars will begin camping in Accra on Monday, June 12 to commence preparations for the Madagascar qualifier scheduled to be played in Antananarivo on Sunday, July 18, 2023.

  • Black Stars to play a friendly against USA on October 17

    Black Stars to play a friendly against USA on October 17

    On October 17, 2023, the national teams of Ghana, Black Stars and the United States of America (USA) are set to compete in an international friendly match.

    As part of their preparations for the upcoming Concacaf Nations League quarterfinal matches, the U.S. Men’s National Team has organized two notable friendly encounters.

    First, they will face the four-time World champions, Germany, on Saturday, October 14, in Hartford, Connecticut.

    Following that, just three days later, the USA will welcome the Black Stars of Ghana to GEODIS Park in Nashville, Tennessee.

    The match will be televised by TNT and Universo, with streaming available on Max and Peacock, starting at 8 p.m. ET. The kickoff is scheduled for 8:30 p.m. ET.

    Ghana to face off USA in friendlies

    Ghana has twice knocked the United States out of World Cups (2006, 2010) and will be seeking their first win on U.S. soil in the all-time series.

    “We have always been looking for these kinds of opportunities to continue our team-building exercise so playing against the United States of America has come in handy” President Simeon-Okraku told ghanafa.

    ‘’We have two more matches to end the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and would need matches of this nature to prepare for future assignments i.e. the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.

    “The game presents to us a very good platform to test our strength against one of the best teams in the World,’’ Simeon-Okraku added.

    The imminent task ahead for the Black Stars is the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar next month.

  • Chris Hughton selects these players for Black Stars-Madagascar clash

    Chris Hughton selects these players for Black Stars-Madagascar clash

    Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, will be led by head coach Chris Hughton in their upcoming 2023 African Cup of Nations Qualifier against Madagascar.

    Hughton has announced a 24-man squad comprising 3 goalkeepers, 8 defenders, 5 midfielders, 4 wingers, and 4 strikers.

    The squad sees the return of defender Alidu Seidu and forward Kwasi Okyere Wreidt, while Ernest Nuamah has received his first-ever call-up to the national team, marking his debut in the squad.

    Injured players, Antoine Semenyo, Mohammed Salisu, Tariq Lamptey and Daniel Kofi Kyereh were left out of the squad.

    No local player was named in the squad by coach Chris Hughton.

    Black Stars coach, Chris Hughton and Ghanaian player, Edmund Addo

    The Black Stars of Ghana will take on Madagascar on June 18, 2023, at 17:00 GMT. The game will take place at the Stade Kianja Barea in Antananarivo.

    Below is the squad list;

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

    Defenders: Denis Odoi (Club Brugge), Alidu Seidu (Clermont Foot), Gideon Mensah (Auxerre), Patrick Kpozo (Sheriff Tiraspol), Daniel Amartey (Leicester City), Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo), Alexander Djiku (Strasbourg), Nicholas Opoku (Amiens)

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

    Wingers: Joseph Painstil (Genk), Osman Bukari (Red Star Belgrade), KamalDeen Sulemana (Southampton), Ernest Nuamah (FC Nordsjaelland)

    Attackers: Andre Ayew (Nottingham Forest), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Inaki Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Kwasi Okyere Wriedt (Holstein Kiel).

  • Essien not interested in ever coaching Black Stars

    Essien not interested in ever coaching Black Stars

    The former Chelsea player was asked by Nigerian journalist Lolade Adewuyi whether he would consider coaching the Black Stars in the future, but he declined.

    Adewuyi said in a tweet that he spoke with Essien during a layover in Denmark.

    Essien, a holder of two UEFA coaching certifications, is now the head coach of FC Nordsjaelland in the Danish Superliga.

    “On my way to Naples, had a long layover in Denmark where I met a legend of the game, Michael Essien.

    He’s now a coach at FC Nordsjaelland in the Danish Superliga. He recently got his UEFA A and UEFA Elite Youth Coach licenses.

    Future Black Stars coach? He said not interested,” Adewuyi’s tweet accompanied by a photo of himself and Essien read.

    Essien belongs to a Golden Generation of Black Stars players that qualified Ghana to her first World Cup in 2006 in Germany.

    One of his contemporaries Laryea Kingston is into coaching (currently with the U-17) along with his big brother Richard who is currently a goalkeeper’s trainer for the Black Stars.

    The skipper during Essien’s time with the team, Stephen Appiah recently commented on former players having to aspire to management of the sports.

  • Utd’s Alex Fergusson warned Danny Welbeck against playing for Black Stars – Dan Kwaku Yeboah alleges

    Utd’s Alex Fergusson warned Danny Welbeck against playing for Black Stars – Dan Kwaku Yeboah alleges

    Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Fergusson allegedly prevented Danny Welbeck from changing his nationality from England to Ghana, according to Ghanaian sports presenter Dan Kwaku Yeboah.

    Danny Welbeck, a graduate of the Manchester United academy, made his Three Lions debut in a friendly match against the Black Stars in March 2011. The Ghana Football Association began pursuing Welbeck when he was 18 years old, but they were unsuccessful.

    According to Dan Kwaku Yeboah, Danny Welbeck had agreed to play for the Black Stars after he was convinced by the legendary Asamoah Gyan who at the time was playing in the Premier League for Sunderland.

    However, the move was blocked after former Manchester United manager, Sir Alex Fergusson threatened Danny Welbeck who was a teenager at the time.

    Dan Kwaku Yeboah alleged that Sir Alex Fergusson told Welbeck that switching allegiance to play for Ghana will end his Manchester United career.

    “Look, Asamoah Gyan singlehandedly was able to convince Danny Welbeck to come and play for Ghana. Danny Welbeck agreed to play for Ghana.”

    “Asamoah said a day before the boy decided officially, Sir Alex Fergusson heard about it and threatened him not to play for Ghana because that would be the end of his Manchester United career,” Dan Kwaku Yeboah said while discussing how the GFA can use legends to attract Ghanaian players born abroad.

    Meanwhile, Danny Welbeck in December 2022 said there was no official proposal from the Ghana Football Association for him to switch nationality to play for the Black Stars.

    “There wasn’t like an official approach from Ghana to come and play for them or anything like that, so it wasn’t as hard as a decision like people would have thought,” Welbeck said in an interview with UK-based Ghanaian musician, Michael Dapaah.

  • George Afriyie reticent on second coming in next GFA Presidential race

    George Afriyie reticent on second coming in next GFA Presidential race

    George Afriyie, president of Susubiribi Sporting Club, is reluctant to disclose any plans of a comeback in the contest for the Ghana Football Association presidency.

    In the 2019 elections, the previous FA vice president ran but was defeated by Mr. Kurt Okraku.

    Numerous football administrators are anticipated to run for president since Mr. Okraku’s term ends in October of this year.

    When asked if he would run for president of the GFA in the upcoming elections, Mr. Afriyie declined to say yes or no.

    “As to whether I will contest or not, I cannot confirm but I know that our league is ongoing, the Black Queens are also preparing for their qualifiers and by June, the football season will end,” the former Black Stars Management Committee chairman told Kumasi based Sompa FM.

    “By October 2023, Kurt Okraku must hand over power to himself or to somebody and that is what is in our status.

    “Definitely, there would be timelines for elections but as we speak, there is none and as to whether I am preparing or not, time will tell,” he added.

  • Ex-Kotoko captain tells Nana Oduro Sarfo to apologise to Stephen Appiah

    Ex-Kotoko captain tells Nana Oduro Sarfo to apologise to Stephen Appiah

    Former captain of Asante Kotoko, Yussif Chibsah, has requested an apology from Nana Oduro Sarfo, a member of the Ghana Football Association‘s Executive Council, for denigrating Stephen Appiah, a former captain of the Black Stars.

    In response to Stephen Appiah’s statement that past players are frequently overlooked by the GFA, Nana Oduro Sarfo urged the former Black Stars captain to get formal education before pursuing a position of prominence in Ghanaian football.

    Yussif Chibsah responded to this statement by asking Oduro Sarfo to apologise to the renowned Stephen Appiah, feeling that he had disrespected the man.

    “I don’t know the qualifications of Nana Oduro Sarfo even though I know he started this football business a long time ago.”

    “But he needs to come out and tell his qualifications since he is making his arguments on someone going to educate himself in football administration.”

    “Oduro Sarfo needs to apologize to Stephen Appiah because some of his colleagues including my own Alhaji Grusah, have no academic qualifications but they serve on the GFA Executive Council,” Chibsah said on Angel TV.

    Stephen Appiah led Ghana to two FIFA World Cup tournaments in 2006 and 2010 as the captain of the Black Stars.

  • Stephen Appiah recommends long-term contracts for Black Stars coaches

    Stephen Appiah recommends long-term contracts for Black Stars coaches

    Stephen Appiah, a former Ghanaian international, has suggested that the Black Stars’ head coaches be given long-term contracts.

    The former Black Stars captain contends that, unlike club football, where coaches train with their players frequently, it takes national team coaches a significant amount of time to get to know their players.

    He claimed that giving coaches one- or two-year contracts puts pressure on the management to produce results quickly.

    “It (a short-term contract) brings pressure on the coaches. Some coaches get one year, not even up to a year. Sometimes they get two years…When a coach is employed, he needs to get used to the players and study them.

    It is not like club football where you get to train with them every day. You get to play probably every six months, so it is true.

    Sometimes the contracts they(Ghana Football Association) give to the coaches are too short,” he told Sompa FM.

    The Ghana Football Association, in February 2023, appointed Chris Hughton as the new Black Stars manager, taking over from Otto Addo who was in charge for less than a year.

    The former Tottenham Hotspur manager penned an 18 months contract with GFA.

  • Black Stars will get good results because I believe in the players – Chris Hughton

    Black Stars will get good results because I believe in the players – Chris Hughton

    Black Stars head coach, Chris Hughton, says he has confidence in the crop of players that comprise the senior national football team.

    Speaking to SuperSport, the 64-year-old stated that he believes in the potential of his players, and therefore certain of getting good results.

    “Getting results is about believing in the players and with what we have, I believe we have a talented group of players.”

    “It is also about getting the right dynamics in the team and ultimately, it is about choosing the right materials to get the results,” he added.

    Chris Hughton also spoke about the relevance of preparation. According to him, a “good team spirit, good team organization, togetherness and desire from the team to win a football match” are also needed.

    “At the international level, I have learned that you would need real desire from the players because they represent the team,” he added.

    Hughton will wrap up the qualifying game against Madagascar and the Central African Republic in June later this year.

    The former Premier League will be hoping to lead the Black Stars to end the country’s 41 years trophy drought in Ivory Coast next in the 2024 Afcon.

    Chris Hughton signed a 21-month deal as the head coach of the Black Stars, replacing Otto Addo.

    Source: The Independent Ghana

  • Black Stars have enough talent, quality to hit targets – Chris Hughton

    Black Stars have enough talent, quality to hit targets – Chris Hughton

    Chris Hughton, the coach of the Black Stars, is amazed by the extraordinary talent of Ghanaian players and thinks it would help the squad significantly in reaching its targets.

    In the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifications, Chris Hughton, who was chosen to succeed Otto Addo in March, has presided over two games against Angola.


    In a four-person technical staff that guided the team to the 2022 World Cup prior to his appointment, he was the Technical Advisor.

    Hughton says his presence with the team has allowed him to spot great talents which he believes will be a key factor in the team’s success.

    “Getting results is about believing in the players. I think we have a talented group of players and a talented squad,” he said,” he told SuperSports

    “It is trying to get that we get the right dynamics in the team and of course ultimately picking the right team to get results.

    “You have to rely on good team spirits, good team organisation, togetherness, and desire from the team to win a football match.”

    The Black Stars will be back in action in June to play in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers. They currently lead Group E with eight points after four matches and will need just one more win to secure a place in Ivory Coast for next year’s AFCON tournament.

  • We’ve been struggling – Jordan Ayew on Crystal Palace’s form this season

    We’ve been struggling – Jordan Ayew on Crystal Palace’s form this season

    The 2022–23 English Premier League season for Crystal Palace has been discussed openly by Ghanaian forward Jordan Ayew.

    He claimed that the club’s circumstances have been extremely difficult.

    The Eagles’ situation will improve, according to Jordan Ayew, who is optimistic about the team’s growing confidence under manager Roy Hodgson.

    “It’s not been easy – we’ve been struggling [earlier this season] – but since the manager came in, he’s done a good job giving us back the confidence to express ourselves, and that’s what we’re doing,” the Black Stars forward told Crystal Palace TV.

    He continued, “I’m pleased with our performance. We stuck to our game plan. It wasn’t easy at the beginning, but this is the Premier League: you’re playing against good sides and sometimes it’s going to be difficult. You just need to get through it and when you have your moments, you punish them.”

    Following the return of Roy Hodgson, Crystal Palace have won two games on the bounce.

    Over the weekend when the team beat Leeds United 5-1, Jordan Ayew starred and scored two goals.

  • Ghana secures place in the 2023 U-23 AFCON group stage draw

    Ghana secures place in the 2023 U-23 AFCON group stage draw

    The pots for Morocco’s hosting of the 2023 U-23 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) have been determined.

    Eight countries will compete in the quadrennial football competition for players under the age of 23, including Ghana, Morocco, the host country, and defending champion Egypt.

    For the group stage draw, Ghana and Mali have been confirmed to be in Pot 1, while Gabon, Congo, Guinea, and Niger will be in Pot 2.

    Ghana will be placed in a group with two of Gabon, Congo, Guinea, and Niger, one of Morocco, and Egypt, according to the draw.

    The Black Meteors secured their place at the competition after beating Mozambique 4-1 on aggregate in the second round of qualifiers and Algeria 2-1 in the third and final round.

    This will be Ghana’s second appearance at the tournament, and they will be looking to make an impact on the continental stage and qualify for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris.

    The date for the draw of the competition is yet to be announced by the Confederation of African Football (CAF).

  • Stephen Appiah ‘regrets’ wasting money to enliven Black Stars

    Stephen Appiah ‘regrets’ wasting money to enliven Black Stars

    Stephen Appiah, a former Black Stars captain, claimed that occasionally he second-guesses himself for having previously invested his money in the unimpressive Black Stars.

    In an interview with Sompa Sports, Appiah admitted that at one point, he had to cover the players’ plane tickets since they didn’t find the Black Stars to be thrilling.

    The former Juventus player, who is anxious to help the Black Stars restore their competitive status but has been hesitant for unidentified reasons, mentioned that he once gave winning bonuses to players after games.

    “One thing that is painful is that, some of us we are very humble. But when you know your value, you don’t want to do certain things or mingle with certain people. We all want to help because we have helped before even if it wasn’t enough,” he said

    “There was a time everybody(players) had no interest in playing for Black Stars. There was a time I had to pay for players’ plane tickets to Ghana and there was a time I paid winning bonuses,” he added.

    The 42-year-old, who is not impressed with how the team is run currently, implied that he regrets spending his money on the team, but hopes things will get better.

    “So today if I see how things are been done, I ask myself why did I waste my money? But we hope that one day it will be well.”

    Stephen Appiah led Ghana to their first World Cup in 2006. The Black Stars finished the tournament as the only African country to advance from their group.

    After missing two Africa Cup of Nations, Appiah returned to the team for the 2010 World Cup and helped them make history by reaching the quarter-finals, becoming the third African team to do so. 

    He announced his retirement after the tournament.

    Ghana is now ranked eleventh in Africa and fifty-third in the world, having previously been ranked second in Africa and twenty-third in the world before Stephen Appiah’s retirement.

    The Black Stars have failed to advance from the group stage in both of their last two World Cup appearances, and their best finish in the last two AFCON tournaments was a round-16 finish in 2019.

  • Ghanaian actor boasts of UEFA B coaching license; says he can coach Black Stars

    Ghanaian actor boasts of UEFA B coaching license; says he can coach Black Stars

    Veteran actor and broadcaster, Mikki Osei Berko, popularly known as Master Richard, has claimed that he holds a UEFA B coaching licence.

    According to him, he also learned about coaching under the English Football Association and is, therefore, qualified to manage the Black Stars.

    Master Richard made his name through acting before branching into the media industry, where he currently hosts programmes on television and radio.

    “I had the opportunity to do some football coaching, and I can proudly say that I am a UEFA B Licence holder in football coaching,” he said on Accra-based Asaase Radio.

    “And I know there’s a coach who has come to coach the Black Stars who has the same certification. And I am a member of the English Football Association.”

    “I am more than qualified to coach any team, even the Black Stars. For our football to transform we need to get back to our grassroots, that is why our football is failing.”

    Hughton has signed a 21-month deal as the head coach of the Black Stars, replacing Otto Addo.

    The former Newcastle United and Brighton boss has since been unbeaten in his opening two matches in charge of the Black Stars.

    Ghana defeated Angola 1-0 in Kumasi before drawing with the Black Antelopes in Luanda in a double-header 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier.

  • Carefully manage Dede Ayew’s captaincy transition – Dan Kwaku Yeboah advises

    Carefully manage Dede Ayew’s captaincy transition – Dan Kwaku Yeboah advises

    The Black Stars captaincy transition from Andre Ayew to the next player should be managed carefully to prevent a dispute, according to sports broadcaster Dan Kwaku Yeboah.

    Kwaku Yeboah gave advise based on earlier Black Stars skipper changes that went poorly and caused player breakdown and the emergence of factions.

    He cautioned that if the changeover of the present Black Stars captaincy is not handled properly, it could cause a significant breach on Peace FM.

    “Let’s be careful so that Dede’s captaincy transition doesn’t bring us problems,” he said.

    While giving historical background to Black Stars captaincy issues he narrated: “Since 1992, every Black Stars transition brings problems. From Kwesi Appiah to Abedi Pele to CK Akonnor because Sammy Kuffour said he doesn’t like it.

    “From him, we came to Stephen Appiah from there it came to John Mensah to Asamoah Gyan and it became a whole issue. From Asamoah Gyan to Dede was another controversy.”

    Black Stars skipper Andre Ayew, 33, is at the twilight of his career and could end his international career soon.

    His obvious successor is current deputy skipper, Thomas Partey who led the team to their 1-0 win over Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Kumasi.

    Dede Ayew who was exempted from the matchday squad for the Angola game surprisingly joined the team for warm-up and was an unused substitute.

    He later pulled out from the squad ahead of the second leg due to an injury. The Ghana Football Association confirmed that Ayew hurt his knee after the Angola game following a slip down the tunnel.

    Ayew, however, took part in the team’s recovery session a day after the win before pulling out of the squad ahead of the trip to Angola for the second leg.

  • Ajax star Mohammed Kudus injury to cost him three games

    Ajax star Mohammed Kudus injury to cost him three games

    Mohamed Kudus, a Ghanaian international, is anticipated to miss two to three weeks of activity owing to an injury setback.

    As Ajax overcame Feyenoord in the Dutch Cup semifinals to win a spot in the finals, the 22-year-old sustained a hamstring injury in the middle of the previous week.

    In the eagerly anticipated match on Wednesday, the former FC Nordjaelland star had to be replaced.

    He will miss the games against Fortuna Sittard, FC Emmen and PSV Eindhoven in the league but could return before the Cup final against PSV Eindhoven on April 30, 2023.

    The Black Stars midfielder absence will be huge blow for Ajax who are keen to defend the league title. Feyenoord lead the champions with eight points.

    Kudus has been in a rich vein of form for the Dutch giants this season, scoring 18 goals and providing 5 assists in all competitions.

    He has become a subject of interest for several clubs including, Manchester United, Real Madrid and others.

  • Semenyo says he wants to be like Asamoah Gyan

    Semenyo says he wants to be like Asamoah Gyan

    A forward with a promising future, Antoine Semenyo, has voiced his appreciation for renowned Ghanaian attacker Asamoah Gyan.

    Semenyo, a forward for Bournemouth in the English Premier League, talked about his desire to emulate Gyan and succeed as a football player.

    His remarks clarified the significance of having motivating role models to look up to as well as the effect role models may have on young football players.

    “I used to watch him when he came to AFCON competitions and the World Cup. He was such a big player and I dream to be exactly like him,” he told GhanaWeb.

    Antoine Semenyo scored Ghana’s only goal against Angola in the first leg of the Afcon 2023 qualifiers doubleheader last month at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

    Born in England, Semenyo is of Ghanaian descent. He debuted with the Ghana national team in a 3–0 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualification win over Madagascar on 1 June 2022.

  • FIFA Ranking: Ghana drops to 60th place despite Angola victory

    FIFA Ranking: Ghana drops to 60th place despite Angola victory

    The Black Stars of Ghana have fallen to 60th on the most recent FIFA Ranking despite defeating Angola 1-0 on March 23, 2023.

    In the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, the team started the year off on a victorious note with a late 1-0 triumph over Angola.

    The Black Stars pulled off a spirited 1-1 draw with Angola in Luanda four days after their dramatic victory at the Baba Yara Stadium.

    The team moved backwards in the FIFA rankings, therefore the win and draw had minimal effect on their position.

    The Black Stars used to lie 59th in the World but have now slumped to 60 in the global rankings.

    In Africa, Ghana maintained its 11th position while Morocco continue as the number one footballing nation on the continent.

    In the world, Morocco are 11th, with Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt and Nigeria placing 28th, 34th, 35th, and 40th respectively as the top five African countries.

  • Inaki Williams excited after ending goalless run in Osasuna-Athletico clash

    Inaki Williams excited after ending goalless run in Osasuna-Athletico clash

    Inaki Williams, a Ghanaian international, has expressed his joy at scoring after a goalless streak of more than five months.

    When his Athletic Bilbao team played Osasuna on Tuesday night in the Spanish Copa del Rey, the Black Stars forward striker finally scored.

    Prior to the match against Osasuna, Williams had not scored in 23 games for club or country, with his most recent goal coming against Villarreal in October 2022.

    However, the Ghanaian striker seized an opportunity during the game against Osasuna. Taking advantage of a loose ball after a corner kick, Williams managed to score and give Bilbao a crucial lead in the first leg of the semi-final clash, which was played at home.

    The first leg had ended in a 1-0 defeat for Bilbao, making Williams’ goal all the more crucial.

    Despite Williams’ efforts, fate was not on Bilbao’s side as Osasuna managed to score in extra-time, emerging victorious and securing their spot in this season’s Copa del Rey final.

    After the game, the former Spain international has taken to social media to express his excitement after ending his goal drought.

    “Never forget that we are living what one day we dream of. THANK YOU ALL FOR WHAT YOU MADE US LIVE 🙏🏿♥️” he tweeted.

  • Let Chris Hughton be, give him freedom to run the team – Ex-Fulham midfielder warns GFA against interference

    Let Chris Hughton be, give him freedom to run the team – Ex-Fulham midfielder warns GFA against interference

    A member of the 2006 Black Stars squad that helped Ghana become the first African nation to qualify for the World Cup, Derek Boateng, has issued a warning against interfering with Chris Hughton’s coaching duties.

    As the nation hopes to end a 42-year wait for the AFCON title, Boateng is rallying support for the former Brighton & Hove Albion manager.

    Hughton signed a 21 month contract to be coach of the Black Stars and supervised his first two games against Angola during the international break.

    After an impressive two-legged game, where Ghana picked four points, Boateng believes Hughton has showed signs of succeeding as the Black Stars gaffer.

    “He needs support because he is not too experienced on the African terrain. He needs support from the media, and the GFA should not interfere with his job.

    He should be left to work independently and be allowed to call his choice of players because you can see that he is a very genuine coach so he needs to get that freedom to work so we can see how it goes,” Boateng told Asempa FM, as quoted by footballghana.com. “Chris Hughton has coached in the Premier League on several occasions, and we are all aware of his capabilities.

    His profile is really good, but since this is his first national team job, he needs our support,” he added.

    Boateng enjoyed a stellar career, playing for several clubs including Fulham in the English Premier League and Getafe in La Liga.

  • Kudus is the reason why Ajax fans buy ticket – Ajax coach

    Kudus is the reason why Ajax fans buy ticket – Ajax coach

    Ajax head coach, John Heitinga, has described Mohammed Kudus as a player that will always have fans paying to watch him play.

    The Ghana international has been instrumental for club and country this season and overcame an early season struggle for game time to become one of Ajax’s first names on the team sheet.

    In the 2022/23 season, the 22-year-old has been directly involved in 25 goals across all competitions for club and country, scoring 20 times and providing five assists.

    Since returning from the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Kudus has scored seven goals under Heitinga, who believes the player is one that everyone enjoys watching.

    “Mohammed Kudus is a player that fans buy a ticket for.

    He is the player who entertains the fans. He is a proud human being and someone that wants to get the most out of his career,” he told the Ajax media team.

    Kudus failed to add to his tally during the international break where he featured in the Black Stars’ doubleheader against Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.

    However, with the club football returning this weekend, the attacking midfielder will be seeking a return to the scoresheet.

  • Sammy Kuffuor allegedly part ways with Black Stars management committee

    Sammy Kuffuor allegedly part ways with Black Stars management committee

    According to reports in the media space, Samuel Osei-Kuffuor has resigned from the Black Stars management committee.

    On February 20, 2022, the former Ghanaian international was named to the senior national team’s management committee.

    But, the 46-year-old has reportedly submitted to the Ghana Football Association [GFA] his letter of resignation.

    The reason for the said resignation is also unknown.

    Following the unveiling of Chris Hughton as the new head coach of the Black Stars in Kumasi last week, Kuffour was not found at the SG Mall and was not in attendance at the Baba Yara Stadium when the Black Stars defeat Angola in the first leg of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] qualifiers.

    The former Bayern Munich centre-back was a member of the Black Stars squad that featured at the 2006 World Cup in Germany.

    Sammy Osei-Kuffuor was a Ghana international for 13 years and won his first cap as a 17-year-old in a game against Sierra Leone on 28 November 1993.

    He had previously been part of every national team – junior, youth and Olympic level – and became the full squad’s captain at the age of 23.

  • Dede Ayew exit from Black Stars camp not due to injury, but because he was benched – Charles Taylor alleges

    Dede Ayew exit from Black Stars camp not due to injury, but because he was benched – Charles Taylor alleges

    Andre Dede Ayew’s refusal to accompany the Black Stars to Angola, according to former Ghanaian international Charles Taylor, was not due to an injury.

    On March 25, 2023, the Ghana Football Association announced that four players would be unable to accompany the team to Luanda for the second leg of the ongoing 2023 AFCON qualifiers against Angola.

    Mohammed Salisu, Alexander Djiku, Dennis Odoi, and Dede Ayew were the players mentioned, along with Andre Ayew, who was mentioned among the injured players, raising concerns about the captain’s unexpected injury.

    Charles Taylor has joined the people who believe that there is more to Andre Ayew’s story as he claimed that the Nottingham Forest player was upset for not playing in the first leg at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium hence his decision not to travel for the second leg.

    “The injured players who have left the team is good but not entirely because we know what they can do for the team but I’m struggling to believe the excuse for Dede that he is injured because he didn’t even play the game.

    I believe there is something there and is not that he is injured.”

    “Maybe he was an angle that they didn’t allow him to play the first leg and that is why he has dropped out of the squad.

    The medical team has said he is injured but I don’t believe that.

    He is angry that he didn’t play and that is why he is not going to Angola,” Charles Taylor said on Angel TV.

    He added that Andre Dede Ayew was added to the list of injured players because the technical handlers of the Black Stars wanted to manage the situation.

    “Yes, the medical team have said that he is injured but we are in Ghana. They said that because they didn’t want him to receive the backlash from the public.”

  • Arsenal is concerned about Partey’s fitness after he missed Ghana game

    Arsenal is concerned about Partey’s fitness after he missed Ghana game

    Following his absence from Ghana’s match against Angola, Thomas Partey‘s fitness is a question heading into Arsenal’s return to Premier League action the following weekend.

    The 29-year-old was fully involved in Tuesday’s 1-0 victory over the same opponents in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifying match, but he was not needed for Monday’s 1-1 draw in Talatona.

    Partey missed two Arsenal games in February due to a back injury; Ghana head coach Chris Hughton later explained that Partey was not risked because of a minor issue.

    “Thomas has some small issues,” Hughton said at his post-match press conference. “We felt it was too big of a risk to start him.”

    Partey, who was accompanied on Ghana duty by Arsenal physio Simon Murphy, has played in 30 of the Gunners’ 39 games this season.

    Premier League leaders Arsenal are back in action on Saturday with a home match against Leeds United, before travelling to Liverpool eight days later.

  • 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.