Former Black Stars defender Lee Addy recently reminisced about his experiences during the 2010 World Cup held in South Africa.
Representing Ghana Premier League club Berekum Chelsea at the time, Addy made his World Cup debut in this unforgettable tournament.
In a comprehensive discussion on Ernest Brew Smith’s YouTube channel, Addy reflected on the intensity of the match against the United States, highlighting it as his most demanding encounter.
He vividly recalls the emotional rush he experienced when he stepped onto the field with the score deadlocked at 1-1.
However, Addy found strength and motivation from an unexpected source—a pre-match visit from Ghana’s then-president, Professor John Evans Atta Mills, who graced the team’s dressing room with his presence.
Professor Mills underscored the historical significance of the match against the US and emphasised the imperative of securing a victory for Ghana.
“Professor Mills visited us in the dressing room to offer motivation.
He encouraged us to seek victory, citing Ghana’s historical edge over the US. He assured us that history was in our favour and that we should strive for a win. Professor Mills expressed his support for our pursuit of victory,” Addy recounted.
Addy also disclosed a remarkable interaction with the iconic African statesman, Nelson Mandela, who made some prescient remarks about Ghana’s upcoming quarter-final match against Uruguay.
“Nelson Mandela met with us before the Uruguay match and foretold the events of the game. He warned us that we would be wronged,” Addy revealed.