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Tag: Black Stars

  • We have a plan to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup – Sports Minister

    The Minister of Youth and Sports, Mustapha Ussif has disclosed that key stakeholders in the football industry have a plan for Black Stars to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    He stated that Ghana will prove itself as a powerhouse in African football by attempting to win the World Cup once again in Qatar.

    Speaking at a press briefing after the arrival of the World Cup trophy in Accra last Saturday, the sports minister noted with optimism that the plan will work out for the Black Stars to shine at the tournament.

     

    “As a football powerhouse of Africa, Ghana is hopeful and believing that Insha Allah, come to November-December, we will be bringing the trophy back here to Ghana as the champions of the football family,” he said.

    “We are very hopeful and we have a plan with the key stakeholders of the sports industry to put our plans together, so we have the belief that Insha Alla in December, the Stars will shine in Qatar”.

    The Black Stars will play at their 4th World Cup in history Qatar after missing the 2018 edition in Russia

    Ghana has been pitted in Group H at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and would face Portugal on November 24, South Korea (November 28) and Uruguay (December 2) when the tournament commences.

    Source; Ghanaweb

  • Fans overwhelm Asamoah Gyan with love at Eswatini

    Ghanaian football star Asamoah Gyan was surrounded by football fans in Eswatini after playing a ceremonial match on Saturday, September 3, 2022.

    Fans who came to watch the match took turns taking pictures with the Ghanaian football star.

    Asamoah Gyan played on the side of African Legends as they lost 4-2 to Eswatini legends.


    The Black Stars captain came on as a substitute in the match and was able to make a difference despite playing a few minutes in the match. Asamoah Gyan scored a penalty in the match for the African legends to get their second consolation.

    Former Eswatini player Siza Dlamini scored a hat-trick, with Sibusiso ‘Spoko’ Dlamini also adding his name to the scoring sheet.

    The ex-Sunderland player who has been working on getting in shape after declaring his desire to play for the Black Stars at the World Cup appeared to have shredded some weight.

    Watch video below

     


     

     

  • I have no doubts Black Stars will win the World Cup – Sports Minister

    Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif says he is confident the Black Stars will emerge as the champions of the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    Ghana, having missed out on the 2018 Mundial in Russia have made a return to the global showpiece.

    The Black Stars after a 0-0 game at the Baba Yara Stadium in the first leg of the playoffs secured a 1-1 drawn game at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja to propel them to play at the World Cup.

    With the country’s best performance coming in 2010 in South Africa where the Black Stars played in the quarterfinals and exiting the group phase in Brazil in 2014, Mustapha Ussif reiterated that he is adamant that the Black Stars will win the ultimate.

    “As football powerhouse in Africa, I know the Black Stars will bring the World Cup trophy back to Ghana by winning it Qatar,” he said at the World Cup trophy tour in Accra.

    Ghana, who are in Group H will open their campaign against Portugal on November 24 at Stadium 974 in Doha.

    Four days later, the Black Stars return to action with a clash with South Korea at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan.

    Ghana will wrap up its group stage adventure with its much-anticipated encounter with Uruguay at Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah.

    The World Cup is scheduled to kick off from November 20 to December 18.

    Source: Ghanaweb

     

  • Why Daniel Amartey missed Leicester City’s 1-0 to Manchester United

    Black Stars defender Daniel Amartey sustained a late injury as such, he was unable to play against Manchester United at Leicester City’s stadium.

    As a result of Amartey’s absence, Wilfried Ndidi, took Amartey‘s spot in the starting lineup, and Lewis Brunt moved to the bench of substitutes.

    The 27-year-old has played consistently for the Foxes this season, earning four English Premier League.

    Leicester is yet to disclose the extent of the defender’s injury but it looks like he might be out for some few days.

    The player will undergo a scan in the coming days to determine the problem.

    Daniel Amartey has been a key member of the Ghana national team, playing a pivotal role in the Black Stars return to the World Cup.

    He is expected to make coach Otto Addo’s team for the World Cup in Qatar later this year.

  • Athletic Club provide updates on Inaki Williams’ injury

    Athletic Club has provided an update on Black Stars striker Inaki Williams injury.

    The club stated in a release on Tuesday, August 30, 2022, that Inaki has suffered a “sprained ligament in his right ankle” after the initial test.

    However, the statement did not specify the length of the injury, citing that the striker will be evaluated further to determine other details about his injury.


    “Athletic Club striker Iñaki Williams has sprained a ligament in his right ankle. He will undergo further evaluations and his progress will be monitored over the coming days,” reads the club’s statement.

    Inaki Williams scored for the club in their 4-0 win over Cadiz, but was forced to leave the game after 54 minutes due to an injury.

    This is the first injury he’s had in the last six years.

    Source; Ghanaweb

  • Stephen Appiah responds to speculations of coming out of retirement

    Former captain of the Black Stars, Stephen Appiah, has denied rumors that he may leave retirement to represent Ghana at the World Cup.

    The former Juventus player fueled speculation that he would play for the Black Stars again at the 2022 World Cup after posting a photo of himself working out recently at a stadium.

    While football fans have reacted to the post with some perceiving Appiah was working his way from retirement, the ex-player has disclosed that the video is a scene from a commercial he shot years ago.

    In a post on social media, Stephen Appiah said there was no way he was going to come out of retirement after 10 years of walking away from the game.

    “This was an advert I shot in Thailand for Vitamilk oooo… Retired 10 years ago and I am not turning back… Just ignore any such news,” Appiah tweeted.

    Stephen Appiah was part of Ghana’s team that qualified for the 2006 World Cup in Germany and scored against the USA to help Ghana qualify to the round of 16 where they were eliminated by Brazil.

    He also played at the 2010 World Cup where Ghana reached the quarter-finals but retired after the tournament.

  • 2022 World Cup: PUMA unveils new away jerseys for Black Stars

    Ghana Black Stars‘ novel away kits have been unveiled ahead of the much anticipated 2022 World Cup.

    The jerseys were revealed by the official kits sponsor of the Ghana Black Stars, PUMA, in a Twitter post on Monday.

    Red dominates the colours used for the kit, which has the Ghana flag symbol on the chest.

    Ghana will open their campaign against Portugal on November 24 at Stadium 974 in Doha, and are expected to don this jersey.

    The Black Stars will return to action when they face South Korea at the Education City Stadium in Al Rayyan four days after the opener.

    Ghana will wrap up their group stage adventure with their much-anticipated encounter with Uruguay at Al Janoub Stadium in Al Wakrah.

    See photos below:

  • 2022 World Cup: It isn’t about history but current performance – Charles Taylor on Asamoah Gyan joining Black Stars

    Former Hearts of Oak attacker Charles Taylor has said it is impracticable for Asamoah Gyan to play with the Black Stars at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    Speaking on Angel FM, Mr Taylor explained that the former Black Stars captain would not be fit enough to join the club after not being active for a while after leaving Legon Cities.

    He noted that although Gyan has a remarkable history with the senior national football team, much cannot be said about his recent performance with local clubs.

    “We have regular fitness and match fitness. Even those who get injured and return struggle to hit the ground running. We are not talking about history, we’re looking at current performance. He has done his bit for the country,” he said.

    Charles Taylor added that “A fit and firing Gyan will have a free ride to the World Cup but let’s ask what he is training for?”

    Asamoah Gyan has said he wishes rejoin the Black Stars and feature in the 2022 World Cup which will be held in Qatar.

    He made the disclosure during an  interview with the BBC.

    Also, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu, a former colleague of Asamoah Gyan has said Gyan would not be able to present a suitable physique when the tournament in Qatar commences.

    On the matter, Qatar Legacy Ambassador, Samuel Etoo, has said though Asamoah Gyan is passionate about playing for Ghana, his ability to do so will be determined by head coach Otto Addo.

    For Charles Taylor, he believes no competent coach would take back Asamoah to play for the Black Stars.

    “I don’t think any competent coach will entertain this. We can’t take someone who is not playing for any club,” he said.

  • Ghana considering defender Jeffery Schlupp return for Qatar

    Crystal Palace defender Jeffery Schlupp is an option for the Black Stars ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup tournament in Qatar.

    Ghana is returning to the global showpiece after missing out in the 2018 edition in Russia.

    The West African powerhouse will hope to make impact at the World Cup in the Asian country and has been exploring all means to deliver.

    On Saturday, Black Stars assistant coach George Boateng was at the was at Selhurst Park to watch Ghanaian duo of and Jeffery Schlupp as they starred in Crystal Palace 3-1 win over Aston Villa.

    Boateng was pleased with the Black Stars duo’s performances in the Eagles’ first win of the season against Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa.

    This means Schlupp can be considered for the upcoming World Cup tournament in Qatar.

    The Aston Villa youth coach has been scouting Ghanaian players in the United Kingdom ahead of the World Cup.

    Black Stars technical team, headed by Otto Addo, is doing everything possible to assemble a competitive squad that can represent Ghana proudly in Qatar later this year.

    Ghana has been paired against Portugal, Uruguay and South Korea in Group at the World Cup.

    Source:football.com

  • Sam Johnson ready to campaign for Asamoah Gyan if he starts playing regularly

    Sam Johnson says he will support Asamoah Gyan’s desire to play in the Black Stars’ 2022 FIFA World Cup squad if he starts playing regularly.

    Gyan in an interview with the BBC said he is keen on playing for the Black Stars at the World Cup in Qatar.

    The 37-year-old last appearance for Ghana was during the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations [AFCON] in Egypt where the team exited at the Round of 16 against Tunisia.

    “All of us will start campaigning for Gyan to be part of the Black stars team if we see him playing active football before the start of the World Cup because we know what he can do,” Johnson told Otec FM.

    Gyan is the all-time leading goalscorer of the Black Stars, with 51 goals. He represented Ghana at the 2006, 2010, and 2014 FIFA World Cups.

    Source:footballghana.com

  • The intriguing tale of Ghana’s black jersey

    Despite being known as the “Black Stars,” Ghana’s senior national team has only ever won a match wearing a black jersey.

    It appears that the first time the Black Stars donned the black jersey was the last time the national team ever wore one.

    Fans believed that the Black Stars’ wearing a black jersey gave them ill luck, and many found various reasons why Ghana should never wear a dark jersey.


    AFCON 2006: GHANA vs ZIMBABWE: The real story

    The Black Stars lost their first game to Nigeria by 1-0. Taye Taiwo struck a powerful shot to score the only goal in the match for the Super Eagles. Ghana managed to earn a 1-0 win over Senegal in their second game thanks to a goal by Matthew Amoah.

    Ghana was on the verge of exiting the tournament, needing a win or draw to progress should in case Senegal lose Nigeria since both teams were tied on points.

    Ghana came up against Zimbabwe in their final match in Group D. The Warriors had lost two games and needed a miracle to make it to the knockout phase.

    Ghana wore their popular white jersey for the two matches but decided to use the black jersey for the first time. The Black Stars had a tough time playing the Zimbabweans who had nothing to lose in the game.

    After a barren first 45 minutes of action, the Warriors came into the second half with all guns blazing.

    Zimbabwe managed to find the back of the net in the 59th minute goal after Ghana defender Issah Ahmed scored an own-goal. It was a heart-breaking moment for Ghanaians watching the match.

    Ghana’s woes later compounded in the 69th minute when Benjani ran on to a loose ball on the edge of the area and calmly slotted the ball into the net to put Zimbabwe 2-0 up.

    At this point, the frustration was buzzing in and Ghana was faced with being knocked out of the AFCON at the group stages.

    Ghana’s first serious attack in the Zimbabwe goal was squandered by Stephen Appiah, who was in the right place to latch on to a bouncing ball into the net but the skipper blasted the ball wide.

    Ghana eventually scored through substitute Baba Adamu ‘Amando’s’ spectacular strike which gave hope to the Black Stars but soon after the ball returned to the center, the referee blasted the whistle to end the match to the disappointment of Ghanaians.

    Ghana played the match without key players like Laryea Kingston Asamoah Gyan, Sulley Muntari and Michael Essien.

    After the match, fans phoned in on radio airwaves to register their frustration and describe the black jersey as cursed.

    Later when Ghana played at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, the black jersey rather used a stripped red jersey as the away kit and abandoned the black jersey.

    Since the sad 2-1 defeat to Zimbabwe on Tuesday January 31, 2006, Ghana has never worn a black jersey.

  • Felix Afena Gyan set for Salernitana loan move – Italian transfer expert report

    Black Stars striker, Felix Ohene Afena-Gyan could join Serie A side, Salernitana on loan, according to Italian transfer journalist Nicolò Schira.

    Schira has reported that Salernitana have opened talks with Roma as they seek to acquire the service of Gyan for the new Italian Serie A season.

    The negotiations are said to be in the early stages.

    “#Salernitana have opened talks with #ASRoma to try to sign Felix #AfenaGyan on loan. #transfers,” Schira tweeted.

    The Salerno-based club becomes the third club to propose a loan move for Afena-Gyan after Sassuolo and Crystal Palace.

    It appears that Crystal Palace’s move has fallen through unlike Sassuolo who are hopeful of signing the Ghanaian to replace their outgone main-man Gianluca Scamacca.

    Afena-Gyan could have limited playing time at Roma this season due to the signing of Argentine forward Paolo Dybala, who is hoping to form a dangerous attacking trio with Nicola Zaniolo and Tammy Abraham. Whereas, Eldor Shomurodov, Stephan El Shaarawy, Nicola Zalewski and Gyan serve as back-up.

     

     

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Kwame Opoku joins Saudi side Najran SC

    Saudi Arabian side Najran SC have received former Asante Kotoko player, Kwame Opoku, on a free transfer.

    Kwame Opoku leaves USM Alger to Najran SC.

    On Tuesday, he underwent medical tests, which he completed successfully.

    During his stay with his Algerian side, the 23-year-old scored just one goal and assisted two goals last season in the Algerian Premiership where he was featured in 17 matches.

    http://backend.theindependentghana.com/2021/03/kwame-opoku-signs-four-year-deal-with-algerian-side-usm-alger-reports/

    Should Kwame Opoku succeed at his new club, he is likely to make a return to the national team to play for the Black Stars.

  • Tariq Lamptey responds to Brighton defeating Man United by a score of 2-1 at Old Trafford

    Tariq Lamptey of the Black Stars played defense as Brighton & Hove Albion defeated Manchester United 2-1 to open the 2022/2023 English Premier League season.

    A first-half brace from Pascal Gross gave Brighton their first ever win at Old Trafford as the game ended 2-1 in favour of Graham Potter’s team.

    Ten Hag introduced Cristiano Ronaldo from the bench shortly after the break, and though United pulled one back through an Alexis Mac Allister own goal, they could not battle back to earn a point.

    Tariq Lamptey, who only enjoyed some minutes in the game at Old Trafford after being introduced in the 75th minute to replace Leandro Trossard, took to Twitter to congratulate his teammates for the historic victory.

    “Great way to start the season, we keep working ????????. Thank you for the support, get home safe,” Tariq Lamptey wrote on his page.

    Brighton and Hove Albion’s next game will be at Amex Stadium on Saturday, August 13, 2022, against Newcastle United.

  • 2022 World Cup: Otto Addo opts for Abu Dhabi training camp before competition

    Ghana coach Otto Addo has chosen Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates, to host the Black Stars‘ training camp before the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.

    There were rumours that the team would travel to Doha, but Addo has opted for Abu Dhabi, which has been approved by the Black Stars management committee and the Ghana Football Association.

    Addo believes that the facilities in Abu Dhabi are first-rate, and that the conditions are ideal for the Black Stars to prepare for the tournament.

     

    The Black Stars are expected to stay in Abu Dhabi for two weeks before travelling to Qatar.

    Black Stars will lodge at the Double Tree by Hulton Doha-Al Sadd Hotel and train at the Aspire Zone training facilities 1 during their stay in Qatar for the tournament.

    Black Stars secured qualification to the World Cup following a victory over neighbours Nigeria on away goals rule.

    They have been drawn in Group H alongside 2016 Euro winners Portugal, Uruguay and Korea Republic.

    Only one pre-World Cup friendly match has been confirmed so far, with the Black Stars facing Switzerland seven days before their opening match against Portugal on November 24.

    Source; Ghanasoccernet

  • Ghanaians celebrate Mohammed Kudus on his 22nd birthday

    Tuesday, August 2, 2022, is the birthday of Black Stars and Ajax midfielder, Mohammed Kudus.

    The midfielder has become the favorite of most Ghanaian football fans after playing an integral role in Ghana’s qualification to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

    Born in Nima, a town in Ghana’s capital city Accra on August 2, 2002, the 2021 Golden Ball Award nominee has turned 22 today, August 2, 2022.

    Mohammed Kudus has made 16 appearances and has scored 5 goals since making his debut at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium under coach Kwasi Appiah in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against South Africa.

    Some fans have taken to social media to celebrate the midfielder expected to play a huge role in Ghana’s upcoming World Cup campaign as he turns 22 years today.

     

    Below as some of the tweets celebrating Mohammed Kudus on his 22nd birthday compiled for you by GhanaWeb in the post below:

    Happy 22nd birthday to the young magician, Mohammed Kudus. Enjoy your day @KudusMohammedGH ???????? pic.twitter.com/X3hZxLCkIC— *Mr. Joel Eshun* (@JOELESHUN4) August 2, 2022

    — All About Ajax (@AllAboutAjax) August 2, 2022

    Happy birthday to Mohammed Kudus who celebrates his 22nd birthday today!

    Let’s hope his gift will be a starting spot in the first league game of the season this weekend! ???????????? pic.twitter.com/VstpX0VEvn

    — BRIGHT KEKELI (@brightkekeli95) August 2, 2022

    It’s Mohammed kudus bithday today ????. Happy birthday Mo kuku pic.twitter.com/w2cVzkiQBy

    — ???????????????????? ???????? ???????????? (@_____oscarderio) August 2, 2022

    — Sports Brief (@sportsbriefcom) August 2, 2022

    Happy birthday to Mohammed kudus .????????@KudusMohammedGH @AFCAjax @TheEuropeanLad pic.twitter.com/Lf9JfRgU88

    — ???????????????????? ???????? ???????????? (@_____oscarderio) August 2, 2022

    Happy Birthday Mohammed Kudus pic.twitter.com/Gd9yRW4GZH

    — Quame 233???????????????? (@Kwame_UTD) August 2, 2022

    Happen birthday to one of the best Ghanaian midfielders.
    Mohammed Kudus ⚽️???? pic.twitter.com/lgx0mCR3ZR

    — Kyei Bernardo (@KyeiBernardo) August 2, 2022

    Happy birthday to Mohammed Kudus who celebrates his 22nd birthday today!

    Let’s hope his gift will be a starting spot in the first league game of the season this weekend! ???????????? pic.twitter.com/JOXx2s2Fai

    — ???????????? ???????????????? ???? (@TheEuropeanLad) August 2, 2022

    — Lawrence Baidoo (@kweku_lawrence) August 2, 2022

    Happy 22nd birthday to ???????? Mohammed Kudus who has been in blistering form for Ajax so far ???? pic.twitter.com/ZaIS59i6OD

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Felix Afena-Gyan to stay at AS Roma ahead of new season

     

    Ghana international Felix Afena-Gyan will stay at AS Roma ahead of the new season, Footballghana.com can report.

    The Black Stars striker was linked with a move away from the Giallorossi this summer due to lack of playing time.

    But it is said Roma have decided to keep the Ghanaian attacker ahead of the 2022/23 season.

     

    Reacting to his stay, Afena-Gyan indicated he still has a lot to learn under Jose Mourinho whom he sees as a father.

    “I’m still young, I still have many years of career ahead, I still have a lot to learn, especially from the coach. it’s not a problem for me, I’m sure my time will come and I’ll have to take the opportunity. Mourinho? For me he’s like a father and parents have to be obeyed. Dybala? Surely it’s a great pleasure for me to share the locker room with a big player like Dybala, it’s a pleasure to be able to talk to him and train with him”.

    The 18-year-old burst onto the scene after making his AS Roma senior debut in a game against Cagliari in November. He followed up with a man of the match display, after netting a brace against Genoa.

    The young striker scored two goals in 17 Serie A appearances last season and won the UEFA Conference League title with AS Roma.

    Afena-Gyan made his Black Stars debut in the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoffs against Nigeria at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.

    He scored his first-ever Ghana goal last week in the 2023 AFCON qualifiers against Madagascar.

    Source: FootballGhana.com

  • CAF postpone Ghana’s September doubleheader against Angola

    The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has postponed the September 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying doubleheader between Ghana and Angola.

    The matches will now be played in March 2023.

    “The postponement of the Cup of Nations offered an opportunity to reschedule the remaining qualifying matches,” a document addressed to the members of the executive committee of the CAF read.

    “It also makes it possible to open the dates in September to international friendly matches for preparation for the World Cup.”

    CAF has already postponed the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations to January 2024.

    The decision was made by the CAF due to unfavourable weather conditions in Cote d’Ivoire during the summer.

    The biennial competition was originally set to take place in June 2023.

    The latest decision means Black Stars will now use the September international window to engage in friendlies ahead of the 2022 World Cup to be staged in Qatar from November 21-December 18.

    Ghana have already scheduled a friendly against Switzerland seven days before their first match in Qatar.

    Black Stars will play Portugal, and South Korea and then wrap up their group stage campaign against Uruguay in a repeat of the 2010 World Cup quarter-final clash.

    For the AFCON qualifiers, Ghana lead their group with four points after beating Madagascar 3-0 and sharing the spoils 1-1 with the Central African Republic, both games taking place in June.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Out of contract Sulley Muntari joins Hearts of Oak for pre-season training

    Former Black Stars midfielder, Sulley Muntari has returned to the camp of Accra Hearts of Oak for pre-season training ahead of the 2022/2023 season.

    Accra Hearts of Oak who signed Sulley Muntari on a short-time deal before the second round in the just-ended 2021/2022 Ghana Premier League are yet to announce a contract extension for the 37-year-old midfielder.

    However, Sulley Muntari showed up for preseason together with his teammates and was taken through the compulsory medication examination before the registration of players begins.

    Sulley Muntari won the President’s Cup and the MTN FA Cup in his first season with Accra Hearts of Oak and will be looking forward to playing in the CAF Confederation Cup.

    Below are the full list of players who are currently in the camp of Accra Hearts of Oak for pre-season training.

    1. RICHARD ATTAH 2. RICHMOND AYI 3. RICHARD BAIDOO

    4. BENJAMIN NANA YEBOAH 5. FATAWU MOHAMMED 6. SAMUEL INKOOM 7. RASHID OKAI 8. KWABENA ADJEI 9. MOHAMMED ALHASSAN 10. ROBERT ADDO SOWAH 11. JAMES SEWORNU 12. CALEB AMANKWAH.

    13. KUDOS MOHAMMED 14. SALIFU IBRAHIM 15. MICHELLE SARPONG 16. GLADSON AWAKO 17. SULLEY MUNTRRI 18. SEIDU SURAJ 19. DANIEL AFRIYIE 20. ISAAC MENSAH.

    21. KOJO OBENG JUNIOR 22. BENJAMIN YORK 23.KONADU YIADOM 24.ARAFAT MOHAMMED 25.LAWALI MAMANE 26.AMANKWAH BAAFI 27.YASSIN OUATCHING 28.DANIEL KORDIE 29.DENNIS KORSAH.

    30.ENOCK ASUBONTENG 31.USHAU ABU 32.RUDOLF BLAGOGEE 33.WILLIAM OPOKU 34.BEN MENSAH.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Black Stars face Switzerland in pre-World Cup friendly in November

    Ghana’s Black Stars will face Switzerland in an International friendly game before their opening match at the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tournament.

    On November 17, the game would be held at the Baniyas Club Stadium in Abu Dhabi -United Arab Emirates.

    This would be the first time the two teams would face off per reports.

    The match will give coach Otto Addo a perfect opponent for the Group H opener against Portugal at the 974 stadium.

    The Black Stars will later take on South Korea (November 28) and Uruguay (December 2) while Switzerland face Cameroon (24 November), Brazil (28 November) and Serbia (December 2) on the same days as the “Black Stars” in Group G.

    The international friendly match against the Swiss national team will complete the calendar of the Black Stars going into the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tournament.

  • 2022 World Cup: Ghana to play in four-nation preparatory tournament in Austria

    The Black Stars of Ghana will play a four-nation tournament next month in Austria.

    The tournament will be held at the Ernst-Happel-Stadion in Austria.

    World Cup hosts Qatar, North Africans Morocco and the Raggae Boyz of Jamaica will participate in the preparatory games next month.

    The Black Stars will engage Jamaica first before playing Qatar and Morocco.


    The games will serve as preparations ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with September’s AFCON qualifiers expected to be postponed.

    The West African giants are returning to the World Cup after edging out Nigeria to qualify for the tournament in Qatar this November.

    The Ghana Football Association recently announced the nationality switches of six players as part of boosting the team with quality before November’s World Cup.

    Inaki Williams of Athletic Club and English Premier League duo Mohammed Salisu and Tariq Lamptey have all confirmed their availability ahead of the next international break.

    The tournament is expected to give coach Otto Addo an insight into the new players joining the team.

    Ghana have been drawn in Group H of the 2022 FIFA World Cup alongside Portugal, South Korea and Uruguay.

    Source: GhanaSoccernet

  • Meet the 6 Ghanaian players who have scored in the World Cup

    Ghana is part of the only three African countries whose names have been carved in the history books of the FIFA World Cup for being the only teams to have played in the quarter-final phase of the competition.

    Black Stars in 2010 lifted the flag of Ghana high after beating the USA to reach the quarter-finals of the competition, thus joining Cameroon and Senegal, who first achieved that feat.

    Amongst all the three aforementioned African countries, Senegal has the least World Cup appearances with 2, while Ghana and Cameroon have 3 and 7 appearances respectively.

    Black Stars striker, Asamoah Gyan, is also Africa’s top scorer at the World Cup, thus making the story of Ghana an enviable one on the continent.

    Asamoah Gyan’s equalizer against Portugal in Brazil 2014 took his goal tally to five, thus breaking the record of Cameroon’s Roger Milla.

    As we remember the history of Ghana and Asamoah Gyan in the World Cup, GhanaWeb puts the spotlight on all the Ghanaian players who have scored in the competition.

    Here are the six players who have scored for Ghana in the World Cup:

    Asamoah Gyan

    The former Sunderland striker has scored 6 goals in three World Cup appearances (2006, 2010, 2014). He has scored against the Czech Republic, Serbia, Australia, Germany, USA, and Portugal.

    Sulley Muntari

    The Accra Hearts of Oak midfielder first got his name on the scoresheet in the Mundial in Ghana’s second group game against the Czech Republic. Sulley Muntari scored his second at the quarter-final stage against Uruguay in 2010.

    Andre Dede Ayew

    The current Black Stars captain shares the second spot jointly with Sulley Muntari. Unlike Sulley Muntari and Asamoah Gyan, Andre Ayew didn’t score in his maiden World Cup appearance in the 2010 edition but scored twice in 2014 against USA and Germany.

    Stephen Appiah

    He led the team to Ghana’s first World Cup appearance in 2006 and scored the Black Stars’ last goal in the competition. Stephen Appiah scored a penalty against USA to qualify Ghana for the knockout phaser.

    Haminu Dramani

    The midfielder scored Ghana’s third FIFA World Cup goal. Dramani scored the opener in the Black Stars’ second group game in the 2006 edition against the USA.

    Kevin-Prince Boateng

    He played twice in the World Cup after completing his switch from Germany to play for the Black Stars. Kevin scored Ghana’s first goal in the Round-16 clash against the USA in the 2010 World Cup.

    Source:ghanaweb.com

  • Why ex-Black Stars captain Acquaye warned his family from putting Ghana flag on his coffin

    The last interview of former Black Stars player, Isaac Acquaye, became a talking point on Saturday, June 25, 2022, when he was buried.

    The former Black Stars captain, in his last interview, stated that he had instructed his family members and children about the use of the Ghana flag at his funeral.

    Isaac Acquaye, who won the 1978 Africa Cup of Nations as a key player, was hurt by how the country neglected them after they served the nation.

    Hence, he told his children not to entertain any GFA representative at his funeral because all they would do is to lay a Ghana flag on his coffin.

    “I’ve told my children that if I die, they shouldn’t entertain any Black Stars (representatives) at my funeral. They will come and put the flag on your coffin, then what?” he told Prince Asiedu Dankwa in an interview with Beyond The Pitch.

    He insisted on not having the gesture at his funeral, saying, “Because they did not take care of us after all the great work we did for Ghana by winning the AFCON.”

    Isaac Acquaye died in Accra after battling an illness that was not disclosed by the family.

    Nicknamed the Barrier in his playing days, Acquaye played in three Africa Cup of Nations tournaments (1978, 1980, and 1982) and won one gold medal.

    He chose a career path in coaching after hanging up his boots. He managed clubs like Sekondi Hasacaas, Bechem United, Accra Great Olympics, and Union Sportive Ouagadougou (USO) in Burkina Faso.

    Acquaye died at the age of 68 and was buried at the Mamponse Cemetery in Agege, Accra.

    Watch Isaac Acquaye’s interview in the post below:

    Source:ghanaweb.com

  • Meet the top 10 most capped Black Stars players of all time

    Hundreds of players have worn the Ghana national team jersey since the team played their first official game against the Super Eagles of Nigeria on May 28, 1950.

    Having produced some of the finest footballers in Africa and the World has ever, Ghana has always been a beacon of African football and has many trophies in football.

    Osei Kofi Ibrahim Sunday, Abdul Razak, Abedi Pele, Anthony Yeboah, Samuel Osei Kuffour, Michael Essien, Stephen Appiah, Asamoah Gyan, and a host of other top players have all worn the Black Stars jersey in the past seven decades.

    Today we look at the top ten most capped Black Stars players as captain Andre Dede Ayew inches closer to making history

    Asamoah Gyan

    The former Black Stars captain and Africa’s top scorer at the FIFA World Cup is the most capped player with 109 appearances since making his debut for the Ghana national team in 2003.

    Asamoah Gyan spent close to two decades in the Black Stars, played in three FIFA World Cups, and featured eight times in the Africa Cup of Nations.

    Andre Dede Ayew

    Ayew made his debut in 2007 and featured in the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations which was hosted in Ghana and is the longest-serving member of the current Black Stars team.

    Captain Andre Dede Ayew is the second on our list with 107 appearances and is three games away from overtaking Asamoah Gyan as the all-time most capped Black Stars player.

    Richard Kingston

    The legendary goalkeeper who kept the post for the Black Stars in Ghana’s maiden appearance at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany is the next with 90 appearances.

    Richard Kingston was also instrumental in the Black Stars team who made history at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa by becoming the third team from the continent to reach the quarter-final stage in the Mundial.

    John Paintsil

     

    Made his Black Stars debut in 2001 at the age of 20 and established himself as one of the greatest right-backs Ghana has ever seen.

    John Paintsil made 89 appearances for the Black Stars, played in five Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, and appeared twice in the FIFA World Cup (2006 and 2010) before hanging his boots in 2013.

    John Mensah

    ‘In John Mensah, we trust’ was the popular mantra during his playing days as the former Ashantigold player carved a niche as being an unbreakable war in the Ghanaian defence.

    The former Black Stars captain made his debut in 2001 and scored three goals in 86 appearances. The former Sunderland defender retired from the team after the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations hosted by Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.

    Harrison Afful

    The former Asante Kotoko defender is the 6th most capped player for the Black Stars.

    However, he shares the position with Sulley Muntari but has a chance to feature more for the Black Stars as he is yet to retire from the team.

    Sulley Muntari

    Currently playing in the Ghana Premier League for giants Accra Hearts of Oak, Sulley Muntari is the joint 6th most capped Black Stars player with 84 appearances.

    Sulley Muntari hasn’t been part of the Black Stars squad after being sacked from the team’s camp during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.

    The long ranger has scored 20 goals for Ghana in a career that spanned close to two decades. He made his Black Stars debut in 2002 and played in three FIFA World Cup tournaments (2006, 2010, and 2014).

    Jordan Ayew

    The son of the legendary Abedi Ayew Pele is the second active player in this list after his brother Andre Dede Ayew.

    The 30-year-old Crystal Palace striker has made 81 appearances and per all indications, he might end his national team career as the most capped Black Stars player.

    Jordan Ayew has scored 19 goals for the Black Stars since making his debut in 2010.

    Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu

    Retired from the Black Stars officially in 2021 after a period of inactivity, Badu is fondly remembered for his long strikes.

    Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu made his debut for the Black Stars in 2008 but became a regular team player after his stellar performance in the 2009 U-20 FIFA World Cup in Egypt. He made 78 appearances and scored 11 goals for Ghana after spending a decade in the team.

    Abedi Pele

    Considered one of the greatest players Africa has ever produced, the 1982 Africa Cup of Nations winner completes the list with 73 appearances for the Black Stars.

    Abedi Pele made 73 appearances in the Black Stars jersey and scored 19 goals from 1982 before hanging his boots after the 1998 Africa Cup of Nations in Burkina Faso.

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Black Stars earn $700,000 for participating in Kirin Cup

    The Black Stars have earned $700,000 for featuring in the four-nation tournament dubbed Kirin Cup in Kobe, Japan.

    Ghana, Tunisia, Chile and host nation Japan were the four countries that took part in the 2022 edition of the Kirin Cup.

    Ghana received an amount of $650,000 in appearance fee before receiving an additional $50,000 for finishing third in the tournament.

    The Black Stars beat Chile 3-1 on penalties to claim the third position on Tuesday, June 14, 2022.

    The Black Stars’ missed out on $250,000 as prize money for the winner after losing 4-1 to Japan in their first game.

    Tunisia who emerged as the winners walked away with the trophy as well as the big cheque after beating host nation Japan in the final on Tuesday.

    The North Africans began the competition with a 2-0 win over Chile before getting the job done against the Blue Samarai.

    On behalf of the Black Stars, Kudus Mohammed and Fatawu Issahaku received the third-place prize, a $50,000 cheque during the presentation at the Suita City Stadium.

    The Black Stars have now drawn the curtains on the first part of their preparations for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    They are expected to be back in action in September when they will face Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations before the World Cup kick start in November.

    Ghana are in Group H of the World Cup alongside Portugal, Uruguay, and South Korea.

     

    Source: Ghanaweb

  • Denis Odoi’s quality and impact in Black Stars is praised by John Paintsil

    Former Fulham defender John Paintsil has lauded Black Stars right back Denis Odoi for his recent senior national team performance.

    He switched to represent Ghana in 2022 and played his first game in a 0-0 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification match with Nigeria on 25 March 2022.

    Paintsil praised the 34-year-old defender for adding his wealth of experience and leadership to the team’s back four in an interview with Graphic Sports.

    ”He is a good player; I knew him four years ago when he played for Fulham and I must say he is a good player with a good character,” he said.

    ”I am happy we have found a player like that because he is a great guy, a quality player and a good addition to the national team,” Paintsil added.

    Odoi did not play in Ghana’s 1-1 draw against Central African Republic in Angola yesterday; he will play against Japan in the Kirin Cup on Friday at the Misaki Park Stadium.

    Source: Football Ghana

  • Chris Hughton keen to get players to naturalise for Ghana in future

    Black Stars Technical Advisor, Chris Hughton is keen on getting Ghanaian players abroad to play for the Black Stars in the near future.

    Several players abroad have popped up recently in Europe including Brighton Hove Albion right back, Triq Lamptey, Chelsea winger Callum Hudson-Odoi, Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah and many others.

    Bristol City striker Antoine Semenyo was handed a maiden Black Stars call-up by coach Otto Addo ahead of the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Madagascar on Wendesday and is is expected to make his debut.

    “It’s something that I’ll certainly get involved in the dialogue with,” Hughton told BBC Sport Africa.

    “This is something the Ghanaian Football Association have been involved in for a while. So on the conversations that I might have, as regards a player that has Ghanaian parentage, the Association are fully aware and also Otto’s somebody who is very much on the pulse.

    Source: Football Ghana

  • What do I need again after coaching at the World Cup? – Coach Kwesi Appiah

    Former Black Stars coach, Kwesi Appiah believes that he has seen it all when it comes to managing a football team at the highest level.

    Speaking on Untold Stories TV, Kwesi Appiah questioned why he has to return to active football when he has already led the Black Stars at the 2014 World Cup.

    According to him, having been a coach and a footballer has taught him a lot and he now wants to impart knowledge to the young ones.

    “I have been a player and I have been a coach, for me to coach at the World Cup level what do I need again,” the former Black Stars coach said.

    He explained that he enjoys his current work at Kenpong Academy more because there is no pressure on him and has taken him away from verbal abuse by football fans.

    “It’s good to impact knowledge and for me being at Kenpong Academy, I love it more than up there.

    “Because up there you do the best that you can, those who are coming to compete against you are also coming to do their best,” he stated.

    Coach Kwesi Appiah managed the Black Stars at the 2014 World Cup where Ghana crashed out at the group stages for the first time.

    He returned to the scene again for the 2019 AFCON where the Black Stars were knocked out at the Quarter-final stages.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • ‘Be resolute today’ – John Mahama’s message to Black Stars ahead of Nigeria game

    Former President, John Dramani Mahama is backing the Black Stars to block Nigeria’s bid to qualify for the FIFA World Cup for the seventh time. 

    The Super Eagles will host the Black Stars at the Moshood Abiola Sports Stadium in Abuja for the return of the FIFA World Cup playoff after drawing goalless in Ghana on Friday, 25, 2022. 

    Despite the belief among many that the tie will be difficult for the Black Stars because Ghana doesn’t fare well on Nigerian soil, the former President is optimistic about qualification for Qatar World Cup. 

    “Ghana vs Nigeria… the friendship is strong, and the history is rich. I urge the @GhanaBlackstars to be resolute today to qualify Ghana for the FIFA 2022 World Cup tournament in Qatar. Go Black Stars Go!,” John Dramani Mahama wrote on his Twitter page. 

    The Super Eagles will host the Black Stars of Ghana at the Moshood Abiola Sports Stadium in Abuja on Tuesday, March 29, 2022, in a bid to qualify for their 7th FIFA World Cup tournament. 

    The first leg in Kumasi ended goalless and Ghana will have to avoid a defeat in Abuja as any scoring draw will see them qualify ahead of Nigeria for the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar because of the away goal rule.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff

    The Black Stars of Ghana have arrived in Abuja, Nigeria for the second leg of the FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff.

    On Tuesday, Ghana and Nigeria will settle the matter of who gets to qualify and whose dream gets squashed. The match is slated for 5pm tomorrow.

    Last week Friday, both teams drew- 0-0 as none was able to score at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

    Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff

    Taking to Twitter today, the Black Stars shared photos of their departure.

    Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff

    For some Ghanaians, they were much concerned about how the senior national team will be welcomed upon arrival in Abuja.

    Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff

    This stems from the uncomfortable manner in which the Super Eagles of Nigeria were welcomed at the Kumasi Airport.

    In a video shared by Nigerian journalist Colin Udoh, the players were left with no other option but to jump off their plane because there was no Passenger Boarding Bridge (PBB).

    Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff
    Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff
    Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff
    Black Stars arrive in Nigeria for second leg of FIFA World Cup qualifier playoff

    Source: MyJoyOnline.com

  • Willem defender Leeroy Owusu to be included in Black Stars squad for Nigeria clash

    Dutch-born Ghanaian defender, Leeroy Owusu could reportedly earn his debut Black Stars call-up to play for Ghana in the 2022 FIFA World Cup playoff against Nigeria.

    According to ghanasoccernet.com, the full back has had successful talks with Black Stars head coach, Otto Addo and therefore will be included in the soon to be announced squad.

    Owusu is eligible to play for Ghana despite appearing for the Netherlands at youth level.  

    The 25-year-old has been consistent for Willem II and could be the main competitor for Black Stars first choice, Andy Yiadom at the right-back position.

    The former Ajax youth team player has missed only three games this season for in the Eredivisie, playing 90 minutes in all 21 matches he has featured. 

    The Black Stars will host the first leg of the Nigeria tie in Cape Coast on Friday, March 25. Whereas the return encounter in Nigeria is slated for Tuesday, March 29.

    The winner of the doubleheader will join four other African nations who will represent the continent in the soccer showpiece in December in Qatar.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • FIFA World Cup: Time, venue, and where to watch Ghana-Nigeria clash

    Five slots are up for grabs in terms of countries to represent Africa at the 2022 FIFA World Cup and Ghana and Nigeria will battle for one of the five slots in what is expected to be a grueling West African battle. 

    There is plenty to be played other than just qualifying for the World Cup as the two have a long-standing rivalry. 

    Ghana missed the last edition in Russia and would want to make their return in Qatar. However, Nigeria are aiming at a fourth consecutive appearance, and achieving the feat at the expense of their rival will be everything they would have wished for. 

    Both teams head into the clash with an interim technical team. 

    The Black Stars will be led by a four-member technical team, Otto Addo as the head coach, Ghanaian-born former Dutch international, George Boateng, former Asante Kotoko coach, Mas-Ud Didi Dramini as the assistant coaches, and former Brighton and Hove Albion manager, Chris Hughton as technical director. 

    For Nigeria, Austin Eguavoen, former international and a part of the famed golden generation is backed by another player of the clan, Emmanuel Amuneke.

    Ghana will host the opening phase of the tie, before visiting Nigeria few days later for the return encounter.

    Venue

    Ghana will host the first leg. The Ghana Football Association settle on the Cape Coast Stadium to host the first leg after the Baba Yara Stadium was rejected by FIFA. 


    With the second leg coming up in Nigeria, the Nigeria Football Federation chose the Moshood Abiola National Stadium in Abuja. 

    Live telecast

    Ghana’s leading broadcaster GTV or GTVSport+ are expected to telecast the match.

    Also, SuperSport is to air the event as well as the official site of FIFA. 

    Date and time for the match

    The first phase of the tie is scheduled for Friday, March 25, at 19:30 GMT in Ghana but at 19:30 GMT in Nigeria.  

    The second leg will come off on Tuesday, 29 March 2019 at 18:00 GMT in Nigeria but at 17:00 GMT in Ghana.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Five new players who could be named in Black Stars squad for Nigeria game

    GhanaWeb features

    Black Stars coach, Otto Addo is expected to announce Ghana’s squad to face Nigeria in the FIFA World Cup play-off.  

    Addo is said to be preparing to present his list to the Black Stars management committee on Thursday, March 3, 2022.  

    The committee as part of their meeting on the aforementioned date will review the list.  

    The squad could see some faces as Ghana look to qualify for the World Cup in Qatar to make up for a poor performance at the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON).  

    Here are five new faces to expect in the squad 

    Salis Abdul Samed 

    The Clearmont foot’s defensive midfielder earned his debut call up to the Black Stars for the 2021 AFCON. However, due to an injury, he sustained after the call-up, he failed to join the team for the tournament in Cameroon.  

    The 21-year-old has already made his injury return and has started in 7 of Clearmont Foot’s 8 Ligue 1 games, playing 90 minutes in 5 of those.  

    His regular game time could see him earn a second call up and hopefully honour it this time. 

    Salisu Mohammed 

    Mohammed Salisu is rated among the best center backs in the English Premier League currently.  

    He has an incredible number to match his performances for the Saints. He could be a key figure in Ghana’s quest to qualify for the World Cup. 

    The defensive stalwart is yet to appear for the Black Stars, having rejected two call-ups to focus on club football. 

    However, his uncle Yakubu Ahmed confirmed in an interview with Sikka FM that the 22-year-old has finally agreed to play for the Black Stars. 

    “He will be playing for Ghana soon. He has assured us that he will play in the World Cup qualifiers. He cleared the air about his absence in the AFCON but assured of availability for the World Cup qualifiers,” he told Kumasi-based Sikka FM. 

    Antoine Semenyo

    Antoine Serlom Semenyo is a Ghanaian striker who plays for Bristol City in the English Football League Championship.  

    The young striker has been in fine form this season for Bristol City. He has 14 goals involvement for the second-tier side in 22 matches(6 goals 8 assists).  

    The British-born Ghanaian won the player of the month February in 2022.  

    He could be one of the new faces to pop up in Otto Addo‘s list to face Nigeria.  

    Seidu Alidu

    Alidu Seidu plays for Clearmont Foot in the French Ligue 1. After spending most of the first round on the bench, Seidu earned a regular place in the starting eleven during the second round of the league. He has started 6 out of 7 games since January. 

    The center back has kept two clean sheets in the process. Following his good run and regular playing time, Siedu could be called up to the National Team for the first time ever. 

    Hudson-Odoi

    The Chelsea winger is still undecided regarding his international career. He has played for the English national team on three occasions but is still available to switch nationality to play for Ghana.  

    The father and agent of the British-born Ghanaian, Bismark Odoi has met with Blak Stars technical advisor, Chris Hughton.  

    Odoi could be a surprise name in Otto Addo‘s squad after the meeting held between Hughton and Bismark turn to be a success.

    Author: Emmanuel Enin

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Sulley Muntari gets standing ovation in Hearts of Oak vs RTU draw

    Former Black Stars midfielder Sulley Muntri received applause from both Hearts of Oak and RTU supporters when he came off the pitch after playing 78 minutes for the Phobians in his first start after signing for the defending league champions.

    Muntari has been hogging the headlines after joining Hearts of Oak for the remainder of the league campaign.

    The former AC Milan star came off the bench in his first game for the Phobians last week but his presence was not enough as Hearts of Oak lost to Great Olympics in Accra in the Ga Mashie derby.

    On Sunday, the Champions League winner started his first game for the league champions and was impressive in the 78 minutes that he was on the pitch.

    At 37 years old, not many expect him to play a lot of minutes but he brought his experience to bear and tried to help his side beat RTU in Tamale.

    The game, however, ended goalless with Hearts winless in their last two games.

    While being substituted, both sets of supporters were on their feet to applaud him off and he wave right back in appreciation of the love and respect he was getting.

    Hearts will next meet league leaders Asante Kotoko at the Accra sports stadium in what is expected to be a cracking game.

    It waits to be seen if Muntari will start in that game come next Sunday.

    Source: ghanasoccernet.com

  • Meet members of the new Black Stars management committee



    The Ghana Football Association (GFA) have named new members for the Black Stars management committee.  

    The GFA’s new appointment follows the government order to restructure the committee after Ghana’s terrible performance at the just ended Africa Cup of Nations.  

    The new body sees GFA vice president, Mark Addo as chairman with former Black Stars players, Samuel Osei Kuffour and Stephen Appiah as well as veteran football administrator, Alhaji Grusah all earning an appointment. 

    The FA in a statement on their website announced the new appointees.  

    “The Executive Council of the Ghana Football Association has appointed Vice President Mark Addo as Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee. 

    Other Members of the Committee include Kwasi Agyemang Vice Chairman, Samuel Osei Kuffour, Kwame Ofosu Bamfo, former Ghana Captain Stephen Appiah, Colonel Kwadwo Damoah (Rtd.) and Alhaji Karim Grusah. 

    ”The Management Committee has ultimate responsibility of directing the activities of the team, ensuring it is well run and delivering the outcomes, monitoring the activities of the Technical team, the Medical team and the Playing body to ensure they are keeping with the founding principles, objectives and values of the team.”

    Mark Addo- Chairman

    Mark Addo is the vice president of the Ghana Football Association. He also serves on the ExCo as one of three representatives for the Division One League clubs.  

    Mark Addo also owns Division One League side, Nzema Kotoko Football Club.

    Kwasi Agyemang- vice chairman

    Kwesi Agyeman is the current Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Ghana Tourism Authority(GTA). He is a known member of the New Patriotic Party and a member of Division League board.  

    Samuel Osei Kuffour

    Osei Kuffour is a retired Ghanaian footballer who made 54 appearances for the Black Stars, serving the from 1993 to 2006.  

    He is regarded as one of Ghana’s biggest export in regards to football. He won the UEFA Champions League, 6 Bundesliga titles, 4 DFB Pokal trophies among others during his 12 years stay with Bayern Munich.  

    Kuffour played for AS Roma, Livorno, Ajax and Nuremberg before announcing his retirement in 2009.  

    Kwame Ofosu Bamfo

    Kwame Bamfo popularly known as Sikkens, is a Ghanaian entrepreneur who established Bamson Company Limited in 1980. 

    One of his numerous companies imports cars and refinishing paints from AkzoNobel, a Dutch multinational that manufactures a brand of paints called Sikkens. 

    Stephen Appiah

    The former Black Stars captain, made his international debut in 1995. He drew the curtain on his international career in 2010 after leading Ghana to a second successive World Cup appearance. He made 67 appearances for the Black Stars, scoring 14 goals.  

    In his club career that started from Hearts of Oak, he played for some European giants like Juventus and Fenerbahce.  

    Colonel Kwadwo Damoah (Rtd.)

    Col K Damoah (Rtd) is currently the Commissioner of the Customs Division of the Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA).  

    He is a former Board Member of the Ghana Revenue-May 2017 to May 2019 and Technical Advisor to the Commissioner General- October 2017 to June 2019.

    He was a lecturer at the Faculty of Law and Business Department of the Zenith University College in Accra between 2010 and 2018. 

    Alhaji Karim Grusah

    Alhaji Grusah is the owner of Ghana Premier League side, King Faisal. He is an experience football administrator who has contributed greatly to the growth of Ghana football, which include producing of talented players for the various national teams. 

    He discovered Samuel Osei Kuffour, and a host of other big names like, Yussif Chibsah and Illiasu Shilla .

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Present a report of Black Stars’ poor performance by February Bagbin

    The Speaker of Parliament, Alban Bagbin has directed the committee on Youth and Sports to present a report on the poor performance of the Blacks Stars during the AFCON by the end of February.

    According to him, this will allow the house correct the mistakes that the team committed in the 2021 AFCO and prevent reoccurrence of same in their World Cup play-off match against Nigeria in March.

    Speaking on the floor of parliament he said “I proceed to direct that the committee on Youth and Sports should present to this house, a report on the results of their investigation on the poor performance of the Black Stars by the end of February. We are expecting that the report will be before this house before the end of February so we can deal with it and try to right the wrongs before the; if necessary engage Nigeria for the qualifying match. If we deem it not necessary we will say so.”

    Ghana Black Stars were knocked out in the AFCON tournament after an abysmal performance.

    Coach Milovan Rajevac who led the team has been sacked by the Ghana Football Association, GFA.

    Ghana’s senior national team, the Black Stars, are currently without a coach.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Here are four unforgettable goals Asamoah Gyan scored for the Black Stars

    Ghana’s all-time top scorer and African football great, Asamoah Gyan, celebrate his 36th birthday today, November 22.

    Just as his day of birth is difficult to forget, he scored four goals that will also live with Ghanaians until the end of time.

    In total, Gyan scored 51 goals for the Blacks Stars in 109 appearances, an enviable achievement that puts him 6th on the list of most goals scored for an African country and 39th in the world.

    Scored Ghana’s first-ever goal at the World Cup

    Black Stars made their first-ever World Cup appearance in Germany in 2006 and would not want to end it with an embarrassing exit of two straight defeats.

    In a must-win game against the Czech Republic after losing 2-0 to Italy in the opening group match, it was 20-year-old Gyan who gave Ghana a bright start.

    He controlled Stephen Appiah’s sublime pass beautifully with his chest before drilling a left-footed shot to hand Ghana the lead in 2 minutes. The goal would go on to become the tournament’s fastest goal.

    The equaliser against England

    Prior to the 2010 World Cup in which Ghana had qualified for the second successive time, Milovan Rajevac’s men engaged England in a friendly at Wembley.

    A night the Ghanaian diaspora who were present will never forget. At 1-0 down and about 3 minutes to end proceedings, Gyan produced one of the best goals in his career. Danced his way through the defence before placing it into the left bottom corner with his weaker foot.

    The winner against the USA at the 2010 World Cup

    Ghana secured a maiden qualification to the quarter-finals with a memorable 2-1 win over the USA.

    The match ended one-all in regulation time and thus travelled into extra time. The then Sunderland striker scored the winner in the 92nd minute with a lovely volley and followed up with a trademark dance that later became popular in the country.

    The winner against Algeria at the AFCON 2015

    TWI NEWS

    At the AFCON 2015, Ghana had lost 2-1 to Senegal in the opening group game and thus needed a win in the second match against an Algeria side that had beaten South Africa 3-1.

    Ghana were on the urge of an early exit, 0-0 after 90 minutes and the referee had added 3 minutes. A long ball from Wakaso put Gyan on the chase with an Algerian defender. Gyan managed to get the first touch with the defender on him, sending him into the box but at a difficult angle and the defender still closing in. Sixty seconds left on the clock, that was the only moment to change the game, and he did it spectacularly by firing into the far post.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Black Stars coach Milovan Rejevac names strong line up for Ethiopia game

    Milovan Rjevac has named his starting eleven for the must-win game against Ethiopia at the Orlando Stadium.

    Beitar Jerusalem striker, Richmond Boakye-Yiadom has been named in the Black Stars lineup to face Ethiopia.

    In the defence, goalkeeper Jojo Wollacot will be in the post with Andy Yiadoma and Baba Rahaman occupying the full-back positions. Daniel Amartey pairs Joseph Aidoo in the heart of the defence.

    Whereas in midfield, Iddrisu Baba, Andre Ayew, and Kudus Mohammed form a three-man midfield in a 4-3-3 system.

    Kamaldeen Sulemana is on the left wing, Jordan Ayew on the right wing with Boakye-Yiadom as the main man upfront.

    Ghana needs to win the match that is set at 1:00 PM kickoff to hold on to their chances of qualifying for the play-offs.

    Line-up below

    Jojo Wallocott; Andy Yiadom, Daniel Amartey, Joseph Aidoo, Baba Abdul Rahman; Idrissu Baba, Andre Dede Ayew(C), Kudus Mohammed, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Jordan Ayew; Richmond Boakye-Yiadom.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • Danlad Ibrahim, three others lose place in Black Stars squad

    Asante Kotoko goalkeeper, Danlad Ibrahim has been dropped from the latest Black Stars squad as Ghana gears up for the clash against Ethiopia and South Africa.

    On Thursday afternoon, Ghana head coach Milovan Rajevac named his squad for the upcoming games in the qualifiers to the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

    In the 28-man squad, there are four players from the last call-up that have been dropped.

    They include;

    Danlad Ibrahim Kotoko

    Emmanuel Lomotey Amiens

    Majeed Ashimeru Anderlecht

    Yaw Yeboah Wisla Krakow

    Below is the latest Black Stars squad in full:

    Goalkeepers:

    Joseph Wollacott (Swindon Town), Lawrence Ati-Zigi (St.Gallen), Manaf Nurudeen (Eupen), Richard Attah (Hearts of Oak)

    Defenders:

    Andy Yiadom (Reading FC), Philemon Baffour (Dreams FC), Baba Abdul Rahman (Reading FC), Gideon Mensah (Girondins Bordeaux), Daniel Amartey (Leicester City), Alexander Djiku (Strasbourg), Joseph Aidoo (Celta Vigo), Jonathan Mensah (Columbus Crew), Ismail Abdul Ganiyu (Asante Kotoko)

    Midfielders:

    Baba Idrissu (Real Mallorca), Thomas Partey (Arsenal FC), Mubarak Wakaso (Shenzhen F.C), Edmund Addo (Sheriff Tiraspol), Mohammed Kudus (Ajax Amsterdam), Daniel Kofi Kyere (FC St. Pauli)

    Wingers:

    Andre Ayew (Al Sadd), Jordan Ayew (Crystal Palace), Abdul Fatawu Issahaku (Dreams FC), Kamal Deen Sulemana (Rennes), Samuel Owusu (Al Fayha)

    Strikers:

    Richmond Boakye-Yiadom (Beitar Jerusalem), Benjamin Tetteh (Yeni Malatyaspor), Felix Afena Gyan (AS Roma), Caleb Ekuban (Genoa)

    Source: footballghana.com

  • Agyemang-Badu debunks rumours of Black Star players sleeping with girls in camp

    Ex-Ghanaian International, Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has debunked rumours that during team camping, for the Senior National team, some players go out from camp to seek sexual pleasure.

    Speaking in an interview with Sammy Kay on the ‘Go online show’, the player with over 70 games for the Black Stars said these rumours that sometimes make rounds in the media are false and can authoritatively state that during his days as a Black Stars player, he never saw or witness something like that.

    The midfielder stated that the game of football thrives on luck sometimes, hence players are cautious at all times in their actions not to bring any form of bad luck that will affect the entire team.

    Source: sammykaymedia.com

  • Crystal Palace is interested in Black Stars captain Andre Ayew

    English Premier League side Crystal Palace are keen to reunite Black Stars captain Andre Ayew with his younger brother Jordan Ayew at Selhurst Park.

    The Black Stars captain is a free agent after leaving Championship side Swansea City in the summer after the expiration of his contract with the team.

    According reports emanating from England the Eagles who have a new coach in Patrick Viera is keen to snap the free agent as he seeks to build a strong formidable squad.

    The Eagles have reportedly opened talks with the representative of the 31 year old forward who has in the past played in the Premier League for West Ham.

    Ayew played an integral role in helping Swansea reach the Championship play-off final in 2020/21 where the lost to winners Brentford 2-0.

    He scored 17 goals the entire  season, and with one coming in the se promotion play-off semi-final win over Barnsley.

    Andre  Ayew could link up with brother Jordan for the third time in their career after spells in Wales with Swansea City and with Olympique Marseille.

    Source: ghanaguardian.com

  • Black Stars depart Ghana for South Africa

    The Black Stars will depart Accra for Johannesburg today March 23, 2021, for their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against South Africa.

    Twenty players are currently in camp in Accra while six others are expected to arrive from Europe this evening.

    Baba Abdul Rahman, Mohammed Kudus, Osman Bukari, Nicholas Opoku, Emmanuel Lomotey, and Kwasi Okyere Wriedt will join the rest of the squad in Ghana before they leave the country.

    Orlando Pirates goalkeeper Richard Ofori will also join his colleagues in Johannesburg when they land in South Africa.

    Captain Andre Ayew, forward Jordan Ayew, and midfielder Thomas Teye Partey who will not be part of the contingent to South Africa will join the squad later for the final game against Sao Tome and Principe.

    Ghana will play South Africa on Thursday, March 25 in Johannesburg, before hosting Sao Tome and Principe in Accra on March 29.

    The Black Stars sit at the top of Group C with 9 points after four games and a win in their remaining two games will see them in the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

    Below is the full squad:

    Goalkeepers: Richard Ofori (Orlando Pirates South Africa), Razak Abalora (Asante Kotoko – Ghana), Eric Ofori Antwi (Medeama SC – Ghana), Danlad Ibrahim (Asante Kotoko- Ghana).

    Full Backs: Baba Abdul Rahman (PAOK Greece), Benson Annan (MLK Zilina Slovakia), Philemon Baffuor (Dreams FC Ghana), Imoro Ibrahim (Asante Kotoko).

    Central Defenders: Nicholas Opoku (Amiens SC France), Ganiyu Ismael (Asante Kotoko Ghana), Joseph Adjei (Legon Cities), Yussif Mubarik (Asante Kotoko).

    Central Midfield: Kudus Mohammed (Ajax Amsterdam Holland), Mubarak Wakaso (Jiangsu Suning F.C – China), Afriyie Acquah (Yeni Malatyaspor – Turkey), Emmanuel Lomotey (Amiens SC – France), Gladson Awako (Great Olympics -Ghana), Justice Blay (Medeama SC – Ghana), Kwame Afriyie Poku (Colchester United England).

    Left Attacking Midfield: Osman Bukari (Gent Belgium), Joseph Esso (Dreams FC- Ghana).

    Attackers: Emmanuel Boateng (Dalian Professional- China), Emmanuel Gyasi (Spezia Italy), Kwame Opoku (Asante Kotoko Ghana), John Antwi (Pyramids FC Egypt), Kwasi Okyere Wriedt (Willem II Holland), Caleb Ekuban (Trabzonspor Turkey).

    Source: Ghana Guardian

  • Gent star Osman Bukari handed debut Black Stars call-up for AFCON qualifiers

    Gent midfielder Osman Bukari has been invited for Ghana’s AFCON qualifiers against South Africa and Sao Tome later this month by Coach Charles Kwabla Akonnor.

    The 22-year old is among five other foreign-based players to receive a maiden call up from Black Stars coach Akonnor for the doubleheader next week.

    Osman has been top form for Belgian side Gent in the ongoing season since joining the side in the summer,

    The former Accra Lions winger has made 24 appearances, scored four goals and registered six assists in the ongoing season.

    The other debutants are Stephen Ambrosius (Hamburger SV), Kamal Sowah (OH Leuven), Kwasi Okyere Wriedt (Willem II), Kwame Afriyie Opoku (Colchester United) and Emmanuel Gyasi (Spezia FC).

    Below is the squad

    Goalkeepers: Richard Ofori (Orlando Pirates South Africa), Razak Abalora (Asante Kotoko – Ghana), Eric Ofori Antwi (Medeama SC – Ghana), Danlad Ibrahim (Asante Kotoko- Ghana)

    Full Backs: Baba Abdul Rahman (PAOK Greece), Gideon Mensah (Vitória de Guimarães Portugal), Benson Annan (MLK Zilina Slovakia), Philemon Baffuor (Dreams FC Ghana)

    Central Defenders: Nicholas Opoku (Amiens SC France), Kasim Nuhu (1899 Hoffenheim Germany), Ganiyu Ismael (Asante Kotoko Ghana), Stephen Ambrosius (Hamburger SV Germany)

    Central Midfield: Kudus Mohammed (Ajax Amsterdam Holland), Mubarak Wakaso (Jiangsu Suning F.C – China), Afriyie Acquah (Yeni Malatyaspor – Turkey), Emmanuel Lomotey (Amiens SC – France), Iddrisu Baba (RCD Mallorca Spain), Gladson Awako (Great Olympics -Ghana), Kwame Afriyie Poku (Colchester United England)

    Left Attacking Midfield: Osman Bukari (Gent Belgium), Joseph Esso (Dreams FC- Ghana)

    Right Attacking Midfield: Kamal Sowah (OH Leuven- Belgium), Fatawu Issahaku (Steadfast FC Ghana)

    Attackers: Emmanuel Boateng (Dalian Professional- China), Emmanuel Gyasi (Spezia Italy), Kwame Opoku (Asante Kotoko Ghana), John Antwi (Pyramids FC Egypt), Kwasi Okyere Wriedt (Willem II Holland), Caleb Ekuban (Trabzonspor Turkey).

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Three Black Satellites players earn Black Stars call up

    Black Stars Head Coach C.K Akonnor has handed call ups to three players of the victorious Black Satellites squad.

    The trio, Ibrahim Danlad, a goalkeeper of Asante Kotoko who was adjudged the overall best goalkeeper of the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations in Mauritania, Philemon Baffuor of Dreams FC who plays at right-back and Fatawu Issahaku, a player of Division One side Steadfast FC who has also adjudged the overall best player of the Nations cup.

    The three players will team up with the rest of the squad on Tuesday, March 16, to continue preparation for the two remaining Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

    Ghana will take on South Africa on March 25 before hosting São Tomé and Principe four days later.

    The Black Stars sit at the top of Group C with 9 points and are in search of a ticket to the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations in Cameroon.

    Source: ghanafa.org

  • Black Stars break camp as players return to clubs to prepare for next GPL matchday

    The Ghana FA has announced that the Black Stars are breaking camp on Thursday for home-based players to report to their various clubs ahead of matchday 17 of the Premier League.

    In the last few days, coach CK Akonnor and his technical team have been working hard in training as preparations continue for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying matches set to be played later this month.

    Due to upcoming matches in the Ghana Premier League, there has been a break in camp today.

    All home-based players in camp are hence returning to their clubs to prepare for their games on the next matchday of the Premier League.

    “The Black Stars will break camp on Thursday after a one-week training programme in Accra.

    “The players held their final training session on Wednesday morning and are expected to depart for their respective clubs Thursday for this weekend’s matchday 17 Premier League games,” a communique on the website of the GFA has said.

    The players are expected to report on Monday, March 8, 2021.

    Below is the list of players

    Goalkeepers:

    Joseph Addo (Aduana Stars), Razak Abalorah (Asante Kotoko), Eric Ofori Antwi (Medeama SC)

    Defenders:

    Ganiyu Ismail (Asante Kotoko), Yusif Mubarik (Asante Kotoko), Kwadwo Amoako (AshantiGold SC), Konadu Yiadom (WAFA), Ibrahim Moro (Asante Kotoko), Haruna Jamal Deen (Great Olympics), Christopher Nettey (Asante Kotoko), Dennis Korsah (Ebusua Dwarfs), Joseph Agyei (Legon Cities)

    Midfielders:

    Gladson Awako (Great Olympics), Justice Blay (Medeama SC), Michel Otou (Great Olympics), Yaw Annor (AshantiGold SC), Rashid Nortey (Medeama SC), Maxwell Abbey (Great Olympics), Augustine Boakye (WAFA), Salifu Moro (Bechem United), Mubarak Wakaso (Jiangsu Suning), Joseph Esso (Dreams FC)

    Forwards: Emmanuel Boateng (Dalian Pro), Kwame Peprah (King Faisal), Kwame Opoku (Asante Kotoko), Diawusie Taylor (Karela United).

    Source: footballghan.com

  • There is no smoke without fire – Jonathan Mensah speaks on Black Stars captaincy

    Black Stars defender, Jonathan Mensah has reacted to the purported captaincy feud that exists in the senior national soccer team.

    Ghana in the last decade has been to the Africa Cup of Nations final twice but has failed to win the trophy on both occasions making the country wait for 3 years without a continental trophy.

    This and other abysmal performances of the Black Stars especially in the 2014 FIFA World Cup and the 2017 and 2019 Afcon have been attributed to the alleged captaincy feud that ensued between former captain Asamoah Gyan and current captain Andre Dede Ayew.

    A similar rivalry was purported to have existed between Abedi Pele and Anthony Yeboah.

    Though authorities and other players have denied the report of a captaincy feud in the camp of the Black Stars, Jonathan Mensah who is an integral member of the squad has said otherwise.

    According to the Columbus Crew captain who has been missing in the Black Stars in recent times, officials who are close to the team cannot continue to deny these reports when they know the captaincy rival is real and not a myth

    “The fact that it comes out should tell you that there is something like that there. This is because if there is nothing, you won’t hear anything and every rumour they say comes with a certain iota of truth in it,” Jonathan Mensh told Saddick Adams Obama in an interview on Accra-based Angel FM.

    “For us to do well, we need to be honest with ourselves because we cannot continue to deceive ourselves that it is not happening when we truly know that it is happening.”

    “And you cannot solve a problem when you have not admitted there is indeed a problem in the team.”

    Jonathan Mensah has made 65 appearances for the Black Stars and has scored a goal.

    Source: www.ghanaweb.com

  • New Fifa Rankings: How Akonnor and Ghana finished 2020

    Ghana ends the year 2020 as the 52nd best men’s national football team in the world, according to the latest Fifa Rankings.

    Released on Thursday on Fifa’s official website, the new table sees the Black Stars, sandwiched between Greece (51) and Costa Rica (53), locked on their position from last month, also with no change in the total accumulated points.

    The lack of movement, which was generally the case of all other nations on the ranking, is a result of the team’s activity since the last ranking was announced in November.

    Ghana produced a mixed bag of results in their last set of international assignments, beating Sudan 1-0 in the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) qualifier in Cape Coast courtesy of an Andre Ayew double but fell 1-0 away in the reverse fixture in Omdurman as Mohamed Abdelrahman struck late to win all three points for his side.

    The scores saw the CK Akonnor’s side drop down by four places on the November edition of the rankings.

    At the continental level, Ghana still hold eighth position, just above Mali (57) and Burkina Faso (58) in Africa’s Top 10. Senegal (20) continue to lead the pack, followed by Tunisia (26), Algeria (31), Morocco (35), Nigeria (35), Egypt (49) and Cameroon (50).

    The mixed results against Sudan also saw Ghana move from sixth to eighth on the continent in the November ranking.

    Back on the world table, there was no change among the top 57 countries due to the only two recognised international matches played across the globe since the last update.

    Belgium are still top of the table, their third straight time of finishing the year as leaders, while France, Brazil, England and Portugal hold the second, third, fourth and fifth positions respectively. Spain, Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico and Italy, in that order, sit sixth to tenth.

    Ghana returns to action on March 2021 with an Afcon 2022 qualifying double-header against South Africa (away) and Sao Tome and Principe (home) to conclude the series. The 2022 World Cup qualifiers will then take centre stage for the rest of the year.

    According to Fifa, the next edition of the world rankings will be announced on February 18, 2021.

    Source: goal.com

  • Former Black Stars goalkeeper Brimah Razak makes team of the week in Segunda Division B

    Ghanaian goalkeeper Brimah Razak has been named in the Spanish Segunda Division B Group IV team of the week after outstanding performances.

    Razak put in an excellent effort as Linares Deportivo beat El Ejido 2-0 at away on Sunday in round 7 of the Spanish third-tier.

    The 33-year-old saved a penalty in the 61st minute at the Estadio Santo Domingo (Alcorcón) to ensure Linares clinch the vital victory.

    The former Black Stars shot stopper has been impressive this season having kept 5 clean sheets in 7 matches so far.

    Linares currently sit at the 2nd position on the league standings with 13 points.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Ghana midfielder Afriyie Acquah sure of AFCON qualification

    Ghana midfielder Afriyie Acquah is sure of qualification to the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations tournament despite shock defeat at the hands of Sudan.

    Black Stars lost 1-0 in Omdurman after conceding a 92nd-minute goal scored by Abdelrahman Mohamed.

    After three straight wins, a draw against North Africans would have ensured early qualification to Cameroon for Charles Akonnor’s side.

    Black Stars now have to avoid defeat in the last two games against Sao Tome and Principe (away) and South Africa (home) to progress.

    “Of course I think the team can qualify but in football, things have changed so the most important thing is for us to work hard as a team and focus to qualify.”

    “We have to perform well against Sao Tome and South Africa to seal our qualification,” he told reporters.

    Acquah made a return to the team for the double-header against Sudan after over a year absent.

    The Yeni Malatyaspor ace has been capped 36 times by Ghana.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet

  • Ghana unleashes strong starting line-up to face Sudan – Wakaso, Schlupp start

    Ghana coach Charles CK Akonnor has unleased Mubarak Wakaso and Jeffrey Schlupp in his crack starting line-up to face Sudan on Tuesday in their 2021 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier, Ghanasoccernet.com can exclusively reveal.

    The Black Stars coach will also use two proven strikers in Caleb Ekuban and captain Jordan Ayew in his starting team, serving his intention of attacking the opponent even though they would be playing the match as visitors in Omdurman.

    True to the prediction of Ghana’s leading football news outfit, the Black Stars coach has named a largely changed starting team to face the Nile Crocodiles in Group C.

    Injuries to substantive captain Andre Ayew and winger Samuel Owusu has forced the coach to make some changes while augmenting the starting line-up with the arrival of the more experienced Wakaso and Schlupp.

    In-form St. Gallen FC goalie Lawrence Ati-Zigi has been given the nod to start between sticks ahead of returnee Fatau Dauda.

    Surprisingly, central defender Nicholas Opoku will play from the right-back while Baba Rahman maintains his place at the left side of the defence.

    John Boye and Alexander Djiku will also maintain their position at the centre of the defence while Wakaso will partner Afriyie Acquah in central midfield.

    This makes the Black Stars defence and midfield perhaps the strongest in recent times with several in-form or experienced players starting in the match.

    Tarique Fosu will also maintain his place on the right side of the midfield while Schlupp will play from his favourite position of the left side of midfield.

    Ekuban will play as the lone striker while Jordan Ayew will take the role of the playmaker to provide the needed threat to draw out the opponents who have been strong in defending.

    Ghana have a perfect record in the qualifiers for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations and a victory for the Black Stars on Tuesday take them through to the tournament in Cameroon.

    The Black Stars defeated Sudan 2-0 in their previous fixture played in Cape Coast on Thursday with Andre Ayew scoring both goals in the game.

    Black Stars starting line-up

    Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Nicholas Opoku, Baba Rahman, John Boye, Alexander Djiku, Afriyie Acquah, Tarique Fosu Mubarak Wakaso, Caleb Ekuban, Jordan Ayew, Jeff Schlupp.

    Source: Ghana Soccernet