Initially, the team faced uncertainty after finishing third in Group A with just three points.
Leading the group were Nigeria, followed by Equatorial Guinea, which had only managed to win one of their three matches, suffering defeats against both Nigeria and the National Thunder.
However, the Elephants managed to scrape through to the knockout stage as one of the four best third-place finishers.
This marked the departure of Jean-Louis Gasset, the head coach, whose uninspiring leadership during the tournament led to his exit.
Emerse Faé, formerly the assistant coach, stepped up as the interim head coach, which proved to be a pivotal moment for the hosts.
Their journey gained momentum as they eliminated defending champions Senegal in the Round of 16 with a narrow 5-4 victory on penalties.
Subsequently, they faced Mali in the quarterfinals, showcasing dominance despite playing with 10 men for a significant portion of the match, eventually securing a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory in stoppage time.
Advancing to the finals, Ivory Coast secured their place by defeating DR Congo in the semi-finals.
The climax of Emerse Faé’s side’s remarkable journey unfolded on February 11, when they staged a spectacular comeback to defeat Nigeria 2-1 at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan.
Goals in the 62nd and 81st minutes by Frank Kessie and Sébastien Haller, respectively, propelled the hosts to a well-deserved victory on a thrilling night.
This victory marked the 12th occasion in history that a host country has clinched the CAF Africa Cup of Nations title, the first since Egypt in 2006.
It was a momentous achievement for the Elephants, adding to their previous triumphs in 1992 and 2015.
Nigeria’s loss to host country Cote d’Ivoire in the just-endedAfrican Cup of Nations (AFCON) has garnered widespread reactions.
Some Nigerian celebrities, including Afrobeat sensation Teniola Apata, popularly known as Teni, appeared to be devastated as her country’s hopes of winning the AFCON trophy were shattered by Ivory Coast.
In a video posted by an X (formerly Twitter) user @GhanaTrends.com and sighted by TIGpost, the musician was drenched in tears as she pleaded for oxygen.
“You think you can embarrass me? Somebody please. Somebody please. I need oxygen. Ivory Coast, Ivory Coast (as she went on sobbing).Eno be don say we don cool for you.I’m feeling decampapu like I can’t. You want to embarrass me? yeeeee. My shirts, my intestines… Aya ya yaaaa! Isakabalalalaaaa, Isakaba,” Teni cried while she expressed her emotions.
😳😳😅 Nigeria’s loss was really a big deal for many including musician Teni |#GhanaTrends follow for more | | | Sabinus Your Papa Blacko Dr. Bawumia Ghana and Nigeria Cote D'Ivoire No Light Lonely Sabinus Kessie Rey Mysterio Nzema Kennedy pic.twitter.com/sDthKCynXh
The 34th edition of the prestigious African Cup of Nations (AFCON) saw the Elephants of La Côte d’Ivoire clinch victory over the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a thrilling final showdown.
Despite Nigeria seizing the lead in the 38th minute, Ivory Coast managed to equalise in the 62nd minute and eventually secure the winning goal in the 81st minute of regular play.
William Troost-Ekong netted Nigeria’s goal, while Ivory Coast found the back of the net through strikes from Franck Kessie and Sebastian Haller.
In a captivating match witnessed by their home supporters, the Ivorians dashed Nigeria’s hopes of claiming their fourth AFCON title, ultimately emerging triumphant with a 2-1 victory.
This decisive encounter on Sunday,February 11, 2024, marked the conclusion of the 2023 AFCON tournament, which commenced on January 10, 2024.
Ghanaian football icon and assistant coach atFC Nordsjaelland, Michael Essien, has heaped praise on Ivory Coast winger Simon Adingra following his outstanding display in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) final on February 11, 2024.
Adingra played a pivotal role in Ivory Coast’s remarkable 2-1 comeback victory against Nigeria, providing assists for both goals.
In the aftermath of the match, Essien took to X (formerly Twitter) to commend the talented graduate of the Right to Dream Academy for his exceptional performance and extend his congratulations on the team’s triumph.
“What a player, Felicitation Mon @simon.adingra,” the Chelsea legend wrote.
The player from Brighton and Hove Albion showcased his prowess and was rightfully awarded the title of man-of-the-match.
In addition to his stellar performance, Simon Adingra clinched the Young Player of the Tournament accolade, capping off his tournament contributions with two assists and a goal.
Captain of Equatorial Guinea, Emilio Nsue,has been crowned the recipient of the Golden Boot Award at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON).
With an outstanding total of five goals scored in just four games, Nsue’s exceptional goal-scoring ability remained unparalleled throughout the tournament.
Despite being a 34-year-old right-back for Intercity in Spain’s third tier, Nsue demonstrated remarkable attacking prowess by netting all five goals across two remarkable performances.
Nsue notably achieved a stunning hat-trick against Guinea-Bissau during Equatorial Guinea’s second group stage match.
He then followed this up with a brace in Nzalang Nacional’s memorable 4-0 triumph over Côte d’Ivoire in their final group stage encounter.
Although he missed a penalty in the round of 16 match against Guinea, where Mohamed Bayo scored the winning goal for Guinea, Nsue’s remarkable goal-scoring contributions earned him the prestigious Golden Boot award.
During the closing ceremony, Nsue was duly recognised and presented with the well-deserved Golden Boot award for emerging as the tournament’s top scorer.
In a separate development, Côte d’Ivoire staged an impressive comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over favourites Nigeria, clinching the title at the Alhassane Ouattara Stadium in Abidjan on Saturday.
The 34th edition of the prestigious African Cup of Nations (AFCON) saw the Elephants of La Côte d’Ivoire clinch victory over the Super Eagles of Nigeria in a thrilling final showdown.
Despite Nigeria seizing the lead in the 38th minute, Ivory Coast managed to equalise in the 62nd minute and eventually secure the winning goal in the 81st minute of regular play.
William Troost-Ekong netted Nigeria’s goal, while Ivory Coast found the back of the net through strikes from Franck Kessie and Sebastian Haller.
In a captivating match witnessed by their home supporters, the Ivorians dashed Nigeria’s hopes of claiming their fourth AFCON title, ultimately emerging triumphant with a 2-1 victory.
This decisive encounter on Sunday, February 11, 2024, marked the conclusion of the 2023 AFCON tournament, which commenced on January 10, 2024.
Nigeria’s William Troost-Ekong has been hailed as the standout performer of the 2023Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), earning the prestigious title of Best Player of the Tournament.
Despite Nigeria’s loss to Ivory Coast in the final, Troost-Ekong’s exceptional leadership and skill were evident throughout the competition.
The central figure in POAK’s defence, Troost-Ekong, not only marshalled the backline but also captained the team, demonstrating his versatility and importance on the field.
With three goals in seven games, his contributions were significant.
He notably secured a crucial victory against Ivory Coast in the group stage with a well-taken header, converted a penalty against South Africa, and powered home another header in the rematch against Ivory Coast.
In the final match, Troost-Ekong once again rose to the occasion, scoring a powerful header just before halftime to put Nigeria in the lead.
However, Ivory Coast’s Franck Kessie levelled the score in the 62nd minute, denying Nigeria the ultimate glory.
Despite the disappointment in the final, Nigeria’s journey to the pinnacle was remarkable, especially considering the early setback of losing two group stage matches under former coach Jean-Louis Gasset.
However, it was Ivory Coast that ultimately emerged victorious, clinching their third continental title and etching their name in history as the first host nation to claim victory since Egypt in 2006.
A comical blunder by Black Stars goalkeeper Richard Ofori during Ghana’s match against Mozambique has been highlighted in a short documentary released by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) focusing on the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The scene depicting Richard Ofori’s costly mistake, where he inadvertently touched a ball heading for a goal-kick, was prominently featured in the CAF documentary, released ahead of the tournament finals on Sunday, February 11, 2024.
Despite Ghana’s strong position to advance to the knockout phase of the AFCON, Richard Ofori’s goalkeeping error became a widely shared meme from the tournament.
Ofori’s decision to intervene with the ball instead of allowing it to go out for a goal-kick resulted in a corner kick for Mozambique during the final group B match.
Subsequently, Mozambique capitalised on the corner, scoring a goal that ultimately led to Ghana’s elimination from the tournament.
Richard Ofori faced criticism and threats following the mistake, although he reportedly explained the incident to a former Kotoko forward. Ofori attributed the error to the uneven nature of the pitch at the Alassane Ouattara Stadium, where the game was held.
“He (Richard Ofori) has spoken to Maxwell Baako. They were teammates at Wa All Stars so they still have a good relationship. According to Baako, Ofori told him that the pitch was not good so the ball was often bouncing.
“He thought the ball came off one Ghanaian player so he wanted to catch it and prevent a corner kick. Some of the players begged him to leave it but before he could pull out, the ball bounced on the pitch and he scraped his hands, resulting in a corner kick. It was not deliberate,” he said.
The Black Stars ended their 2023 AFCON campaign without a victory, managing two draws and suffering one defeat in Group B.
They began with a disappointing 2-1 loss to Cape Verde in the tournament’s opening match. Subsequently, they secured 2-2 draws against Egypt and Mozambique in their second and final group-stage encounters.
Despite their efforts, the Black Stars garnered only two points and faced elimination from the tournament due to a goal deficit. This marks their second consecutive group-stage exit from the AFCON, following a similar outcome in the 2021 edition.
Following the disappointing performance inIvory Coast, Chris Hughton has been dismissed by the Ghana Football Association.
In a thrilling encounter at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), South Africa secured third place following a tense penalty shootout victory against DR Congo.
After a deadlock in regular time, the match intensified as both teams vied for victory. Ultimately, South Africa prevailed in the shootout, converting six penalties compared to DR Congo’s five.
Despite their earlier semifinal defeat against Nigeria, the Bafana Bafana showcased resilience and determination, seizing the opportunity to claim bronze in the tournament held in Ivory Coast.
As the excitement continues to build, the stage is set for the 2023 AFCON final on Sunday, February 11, 2024, where Nigeria will face off against the host nation in what promises to be anelectrifying match.
Ghanaian football icon Abedi Pele has been named as a special guest for theConfederation of African Football’s (CAF) “AFCON Winning Captains’ Roundtable,” set to occur on Saturday in Abidjan.
This event, planned as part of the buildup to the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCONS) Cote d’Ivoire 2023 final match on Sunday between Côte d’Ivoire and Nigeria, aims to provide a platform for former tournament-winning captains to share their insights and experiences.
Scheduled after the Final Matchday-1 press conference, the roundtable is expected to create a unique atmosphere for the media as they prepare for Sunday’s final showdown.
Among the esteemed list of captains attending are notable football figures such as Roger Milla of Cameroon (1988), Gadji Celi of Côte d’Ivoire (1992), Kanu Nwankwo of Nigeria (1994), and others spanning various editions of the tournament.
Abedi Pele’s presence as the special guest representing Ghana adds further prestige to the event, highlighting his significant contributions to African football.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FWnkNeEU-IQ
Details of the event are as follows:
Date: Saturday, February 10, 2024
Venue: Main Media Centre (Palais de la Culture, Abidjan)
Time: 13:00–14:30
MCs: Mark Gleeson and Katty Toure
Mixed Zone Interviews: 14:30 – 15:00
The “AFCON Winning Captains’ Roundtable” promises to offer valuable insights, providing a retrospective examination of the tournament’s rich history and significance through the perspectives of its esteemed participants.
The list of Captains consists of: 1988: Roger Milla (Cameroon); 1992: Gadji Celi (Côte d’Ivoire); 1994: Kanu Nwankwo (Nigeria); 1996: Neil Tovey (South Africa) & Lucas Radebe (South Africa); 1998: Hossam Hassan (Egypt); 2004: Riadh Bouazizi (Tunisia) 2012: Christopher Katongo (Zambia) 2013: Joseph Yobo (Nigeria) 2017: Benjamin Moukandjo (Cameroon) *Special Guest: Abedi Pelé (Ghana)
President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Dr. Patrice Motsepe, has announced that the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has garnered nearly 2 billion views worldwide.
This achievement marks a significant milestone for Africa, showcasing the continent’s premier tournament to a global audience.
Motsepe expressed pride in the widespread interest in the event, highlighting the importance of showcasing African football on a global scale.
Looking ahead, he assured that the next edition of the tournament would see further improvements, promising an even better experience for fans and participants alike.
“We have had close to 2 billion people watching AFCON globally. We should be proud as Africans and the next one will be even better,” said CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe.
The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has truly mesmerised global audiences and is hailed as one of the most remarkable tournaments to date.
Throughout the matches, teams have showcased electrifying performances, producing unforgettable moments, spectacular goals, and commendable refereeing. Meanwhile, off the field, enthusiastic fans have demonstrated unwavering support for their respective countries.
As the tournament reaches its climax on February 11, 2024, anticipation mounts for the ultimate showdown between Nigeria and the host nation, Ivory Coast.
Sports journalist Collins Atta Poku has claimed that former Black Stars goalkeepers’ trainer Richard Kingson had disagreements with the medical team during the 2023Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking on Sompa FM, Atta Poku alleged that the disagreement stemmed from the selection of Richard Ofori for Ghana’s final group game against Mozambique.
He argued that while the medical team deemed Ofori unfit for the match, Kingson insisted on the goalkeeper, citing his belief that Ofori brought luck to the team.
“The medical team said Richard Ofori was injured and unfit for the last match but the goalkeeper’s trainer said he is a lucky goalkeeper and that he believes he should have started. This is what ensued between the medical team and the technical team. There was confusion between them,” he said on Sompa Sports.
Richard Ofori has faced criticism for Ghana’s early exit from the AFCON due to his mistake that led to a crucial equaliser for Mozambique from a corner.
The Black Stars needed a win in their final group stage match to advance, having not secured a victory in their previous games. Despite taking a two-goal lead, they conceded two goals in stoppage time, ultimately ending their campaign in disappointment.
Their performance in the2023 AFCON saw them finish with zero wins, two draws, and a loss in their three Group B fixtures. They began with a 2-1 defeat against Cape Verde, followed by 2-2 draws against Egypt and Mozambique.
With just two points and a goal deficit, Ghana experienced back-to-back group stage exits from the AFCON, replicating their fate from the 2021 edition.
Following this disappointing outcome, the GFA has disbanded the technical team and is seeking to assemble a new one to revitalize the team’s prospects.
President of theGhana Football Association (GFA),Kurt Okraku, revealed plans to extend a long-term contract to the incoming Black Stars coach.
This declaration came during a press briefing in Kumasi, where Okraku addressed the nation’s dissatisfaction with Ghana’s performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
As GFA President for over four years, Okraku is spearheading the search for the team’s fifth head coach.
“When we find the new set of trainers, it is our collective decision to stay with them for the long haul and all our national teams,” he stated.
Following Ghana’s disappointing exit from the tournament, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) decided to part ways with Chris Hughton and his coaching staff, signalling the start of the search for a new coach.
To streamline the process, the GFA formed a five-member search committee assigned to identify the new coach within a three-week period.
The committee reportedly received over 600 applications for the position.
Ghana’s premature exit from the tournament occurred after the team finished third in a group that included Cape Verde, Egypt, and Mozambique.
The Black Stars faced a setback with a 2-1 loss to Cape Verde, followed by consecutive 2-2 draws against Egypt and Mozambique, ultimately leading to their elimination from the competition
National Chairman of the opposition National Democratic Congress (NDC), Johnson Asiedu Nketiah, revealed that he opted to watch a football match rather than listen to the lecture delivered by Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia on February 7.
Asiedu Nketiah explained that he considered Nigeria’s semi-final match against South Africa in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) to be more significant and enjoyable than Dr. Bawumia’s lecture.
“I recorded it because Nigeria’s match was more important to me than what Bawumia had to say… The match was more entertaining than what Bawumia had to say; you know, it is hard to listen to lies.
“You get infuriated listening to lies so I recorded it and I’ve listened to some portions,” he stated.
Dr Bawumia, who is the New Patriotic Party’s flagbearer, delivered a lecture on Wednesday dubbed “Ghana’s Next Chapter,” where he outlined his governance plans ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
As part of his vision, the vice president announced that he would reverse some controversial policies introduced by the government despite serving as vice president over the last seven years.
But according to Asiedu Nketiah, Dr. Bawumia’s attempt to shift blame on the president will not be entertained by the NDC, as the party will go all out to expose the vice president.
“This is just a precursor; we are coming to issue a major response to his statement and expose him properly. Because if you allow falsehood to lead the nation without acting against it, you are equally guilty of what is happening.
“So for us, we will keep speaking up and continue to remind him that where were you when we were fighting against E-Levy, Emission Tax, and VAT on Domestic Electricity?
“Recently, they forced through to approve the budget, which we denounced. Where are the people in the NPP now supporting Bawumia? Were they not in Parliament? What did they do? He cannot come and deceive us at all,” he told Kwame Nkrumah of Okay FM.
Vice President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Mark Addo, has stated that the GFA cannot provide an exact figure for the government’s investment in the Black Stars during the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Despite claims by Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, that the government spent $8.5 million on the Black Stars at the 2023 AFCON, the GFA has distanced itself from these assertions.
According to Addo, it is the responsibility of the Sports Ministry to create a budget for the Black Stars, and therefore, the GFA cannot verify the accuracy of the alleged amount.
“As to the actual money that is spent, the FA has no input in that. The FA does not receive any money from the Ministry to spend on any item,” the GFA Vice President said at the presser on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.
He added, “The Ministry has a purse holder who is embedded in the team, so every expenditure he accounts for it.”
He emphasised that the GFA prepared a list for the Sports Ministry to determine the amount of money to be allocated to the team. He added that no member of the GFA has a fair idea of the amount the government gave the ministry.
He said, “The perception that the Ministry has spent $8.5 million on the Black Stars—anyone on the FA does not know about it because we didn’t advance from our group stage.
“Once we prepare where we presume the team will reach for the ministry, we have no idea the amount,” he added.
Several days have passed since Ghana’s exit from the AFCON, yet the Ministry of Youth and Sports has not released a report detailing the budget allocated for the Black Stars at the 2023 AFCON in Ivory Coast.
After Nigeria’s Super Eagles secured a victory over South Africa in the Africa Cup of Nations, a video capturing the jubilant celebration of Nigerian fans has circulated widely on social media.
In the video, ecstatic Super Eagles supporters mock their South African counterparts by dousing themselves with liquid while chanting the lyrics of the hit song “Water” by South African artist Tyla.
Despite South Africa’s recent win at the Grammy Awards in the Best African Music Performance category, disappointed Nigerian fans vowed retaliation during the AFCON semi-final match.
Following Nigeria’s triumph over South Africa in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw on Wednesday night, scenes of jubilation erupted across the country.
The rivalry between Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, and South Africa, the continent’s most advanced economy, has a long history.
The viral video, filmed at Ahmadu Bello University in Zaria, shows hundreds of students congregating to sing “Water” in celebration of the Super Eagles’ victory.
Even popular Nigerian pastor Jimmy Odukoya joined in the jesting, acknowledging Bafana Bafana for their efforts while humorously suggesting they “need water” after their defeat, adding, “If it’s any consolation, it’s Grammy water.”
Some Nigerians have expanded the banter to music preferences, asserting the superiority of Afrobeats over South Africa’s amapiano genre. Culinary comparisons have also emerged, with Nigerians claiming their Jollof Rice outshines South Africa’s Bobotie.
Nigeria will face Ivory Coast in the final match on Sunday, with many South Africans likely to support the Ivorian team.
Nigerian politician Dr. Cairo Ojougboh tragically passed away while watching the Super Eagles’ semi-final game in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations(AFCON) on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.
According to a report by Nigerian news outlet Punch, the former member of the House of Representatives shouted and then slumped, ultimately succumbing to his demise when South Africa scored from the penalty spot to level the game.
Mr. Augustine Ekamagule, the publicity secretary of Agbor Community Union, announced Dr. Ojougboh’s passing in an interview with Punch, revealing that the chieftain of the All Progressives Congress died after collapsing during the match, as relayed by a family member.
“The family member said Ojougboh was watching the match and immediately after South Africa scored the goal, he shouted and slumped.”
“All efforts to revive him were not fruitful. It was around that 3 a.m. that the family announced his death.”
The Super Eagles endured a late setback but ultimately triumphed, securing a 4-2 victory on penalties after the match concluded in a thrilling 1-1 draw following 120 minutes of play.
Prosper Harrison Addo, the General Secretary of theGhana Football Association (GFA), addressed concerns regarding the association’s interaction with the media during tournaments, clarifying that certain restrictions are imposed to adhere to tournament regulations and avoid potential fines.
Speaking at a press conference held in Kumasi, Addo refuted claims suggesting that the GFA has been uncooperative or unfriendly towards the media since its inception.
He emphasised that under the leadership of Kurt Okraku, the GFA has maintained a positive and collaborative relationship with media outlets.
Addo highlighted that the current administration, led by Kurt Okraku, has actively engaged with the media and welcomed their input, noting that several media professionals serve on the GFA’s Executive Council—an unprecedented move aimed at fostering transparency and inclusivity within the association.
“This FA has been more media-friendly than ever! Myself, the President, and more media persons serve on the exco than ever; they are all media persons,” he said.
“If you look at the work we do with the GPL, WGPL, and all our products, we have engaged the media a lot, and a lot more are working closely with the FA. The concept of media officers is all part of the cohesion between the FA and the media.”
Addressing claims that the FA restricts the media from having access to the team, he said the GFA’s actions are not deliberate and that they are only to enforce the laws of tournaments.
“Now to zero in on the Black Stars, when we go to tournaments, there are rules. Take the World Cup for instance. There are rules and if they’re broken, we pay dearly for them.
“This GFA is media friendly and our door is always open to engage the media. We have to organise it within the confines of the competition rules.Also and more importantly, the FA would have to create an environment conducive for coaches and players to thrive at tournaments.”
Former Minister of Youth and Sports, Dr. Ahmed Mustapha, passed away on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, according to reports from the Herald newspaper.
He succumbed to a long-term illness that he had been battling for several months.
At the age of 63, Dr. Ahmed Mustapha served as Ghana’s sports minister for a brief period in 2015, stepping into the role following the resignation of Mahama Ayariga amidst controversy over the budget for the Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EIfk4ic4ELA
Before his tenure as Sports Minister, Dr. Ahmed Mustapha served as a Member of Parliament for the Ayawaso East Constituency from 2001 to 2013 under the National Democratic Congress (NDC).
Additionally, The Herald provided further insights into his background, noting that he was a retired military officer and a dentist who worked at the 37 Military Hospital. He also established and operated a dental clinic in Maamobi, Accra.
Sebastien Haller propelled Ivory Coast into the Africa Cup of Nations final with a decisive goal, securing a 1-0 victory over DR Congo.
The Elephants’ journey to the final has been marked by remarkable twists of fate, having narrowly escaped elimination in the group stage and weathered challenges under interim manager Emerse Fae.
Despite initial setbacks, including a managerial change and tense matches against Senegal and Mali, Ivory Coast’s resilience shone through. Haller’s goal, coming at a critical moment, now positions them for potential redemption in the final against Nigeria.
DR Congo, a formidable opponent with past tournament victories, threatened early on but had a goal disallowed. Ivory Coast gradually gained momentum, with Haller and Franck Kessie posing threats to the Congo defense.
Haller’s unorthodox goal in the 64th minute, a fortuitous hook from Max Gradel’s cross, broke the deadlock and ignited celebrations for the Ivory Coast supporters. Although Haller missed another opportunity to extend the lead, the Elephants held firm defensively to secure their place in the final.
Ivory Coast’s journey to the final has been nothing short of remarkable, defying expectations and overcoming adversity. Their resilience and determination will be put to the test once more as they vie for continental glory against Nigeria.
Ademola Lookman Olajade Alade Aylola Lookman, the Nigerian winger currently plying his trade with Serie A outfit Atalanta, was born on October 20, 1997, in Wandsworth, Greater London, to Nigerian parents.
His educational journey led him to St. Thomas the Apostle College in Peckham, where he excelled with top grades at GCSE.
Lookman’s professional football journey kicked off in 2015 when he made his senior debut with Charlton Athletic in the Championship, initially playing as a forward.
His talent caught the eye of Everton, and he joined the club in January 2017, primarily operating as a winger. Despite representing England at various youth levels, Lookman switched allegiances to Nigeria in 2022.
Nicknamed “Ademola Lookman,” he has emerged as a standout performer for Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations, overshadowing even star striker Victor Osimhen.
Lookman’s heroics in the knockout stage, including a brace against Cameroon and a crucial goal against Angola, have propelled Nigeria to the semi-finals.
While Osimhen, the reigning African footballer of the year, has struggled to find the net in the tournament due to an abdominal injury, Lookman has stepped up admirably. With Osimhen’s availability uncertain for the upcoming clash against South Africa, Nigeria will rely heavily on Lookman’s goal-scoring prowess.
Much scrutiny has been placed on Osimhen’s goal drought and the tactical approach of coach Jose Peseiro. However, Lookman’s stellar performances have provided a ray of hope for Nigerian fans, demonstrating his ability to deliver on the big stage.
“I have chosen another strategy. The players believe in it — don’t concede goals because we will score at least one,” Peseiro said in one press briefing in Abidjan.
His team’s recent defensive solidity, marked by four consecutive clean sheets leading up to the semi-finals, is attributed to a tactical shift to a three-man central defense.
However, the standout performer at present is 26-year-old Lookman, who has emerged as the game-changer, making him indispensable to coach Peseiro’s plans.
This is particularly impressive considering Nigeria’s attacking options, which include AC Milan’s Samuel Chukwueze, Kelechi Iheanacho, and the experienced Ahmed Musa, all waiting for their chance on the bench.
Lookman’s rise to prominence may have been unforeseen, especially given the depth of talent in Nigeria’s attack. However, an injury to Victor Boniface prior to the AFCON opened the door for Lookman to seize his opportunity.
Despite individual contributions, there’s a collective sense within the Nigerian squad, with each player fully committed to the team’s goal of securing a fourth Africa Cup of Nations title for the nation with the highest population on the continent.
“We are behind each other. We don’t take anything for granted. I think that shows in our work ethic, how we fight for each other, how we defend, how we attack,” Lookman said after collecting the award for man of the match against Cameroon.
Although he wasn’t included in the Nigerian squad that exited theprevious AFCON in the last 16 in Cameroon in 2022, that year marked significant changes in Lookman’s career trajectory.
Even before that tournament, the Nigeria Football Federation had been pursuing the London-born Lookman to switch allegiance, despite his previous representation of England at youth levels, a path previously taken by players like Alex Iwobi and Victor Moses.
Finally, Lookman made his debut in a crucial World Cup qualifying play-off against Ghana in March 2022, and since then, there has been no turning back for him.
“Both of my parents are Nigerian and my two older sisters were also born in Nigeria. So I was the only one out of us to be born here,” he told British newspaper The Guardian in 2021.
Lookman’s journey began at Charlton Athletic, but he soon found himself in the Premier League with Everton, where he was part of the England team that clinched victory in the Under-20 World Cup in 2017, alongside notable players like Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Dominic Solanke, and Fikayo Tomori.
After Everton, Lookman ventured to RB Leipzig, Fulham, and Leicester City before finding his footing on the international stage, coinciding with a period of peak form in his club career.
His move to Italy to join Atalanta in August 2022 proved pivotal, as he swiftly adapted and made an impact, netting 15 goals in his debut season.
This campaign, Lookman has already added seven more goals to his tally, with his performances benefiting from the guidance of coach Gian Piero Gasperini at one of Serie A’s top clubs, solidifying his place in the Nigerian national team.
“I definitely have a defensive role, to help the team within the structure, but that defensive role also allows me to attack,” Lookman told The Times in an interview last year of his club manager.
“Italian football is known for structure… They’re so drilled on structure here.”
From Bergamo to Bouake, where Peseiro’s well-drilled team faceSouth Africa as Lookman aims to take a step closer to adding the AFCON title with Nigeria to that Under-20 World Cup winner’s medal he picked up in the colours of England.
The impressive performance of Ademola Lookman for the Nigerian national team has become a major topic of conversation as they prepare for the semi-final match against South Africa on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.
Lookman’s contribution has been significant, with three goals scored during the knockout stages. His brace against Cameroon secured a 2-0 victory for the team, while his lone strike eliminated Angola from the tournament being held in Ivory Coast.
However, Lookman’s journey to represent Nigeria wasn’t without obstacles. Despite being born to Nigerian parents in Wandsworth, Greater London, he initially played for England at the youth level.
He featured in 31 games for England from U-19 to U-21, including being part of the U20 World Cup-winning team in 2016.
Yet, five years later, he made the decision to switch nationalities to Nigeria, where he now boasts 17 caps with five goals and four assists.
The discussions regarding Lookman’s switch to Nigeria began in 2018, prompting England’s coach, Gareth Southgate, to express his efforts to dissuade him from playing for the Super Eagles.
However, Lookman’s allegiance now lies with Nigeria, and his impactful performances on the field reflect his commitment to representing his heritage on the international stage.
Southgate said: “I know every country is quite aggressive in their recruiting and I know they have always had an interest in him, but he is playing and has been in our squads, the 20s and 21s.”
“So in terms of encouragement through game time, we are doing as much as we possibly can,” the coach said after Lookman’s impressive loan spell at RB Leipzig in 2018.”
Lookman has now become an integral part of the senior national team of Nigeria and he is hoping to win the AFCON for the team for the first time since ten years ago.
Amidst scrutiny over the recent performance of the Black Stars and their inability to progress beyond the group stages in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023, Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has reiterated his outfit’s dedication to leaving a significant impact on Ghanaian football.
Speaking at a press conference held in Kumasi on Wednesday, Okraku stressed his determination to secure victories in major international competitions such as the AFCON and the FIFA World Cup, highlighting his commitment to elevating the stature of Ghanaian football on the global stage.
“I want to win the AFCON; I want to win the World Cup!” Okraku declared. “I want to win every competition Ghana finds itself. This is the collective belief and mindset of my fellow Executive Council members.”
Mr Okraku’s statement resonates with his previous commitments to overhaul Ghanaian football and position the nation as a dominant force in African soccer.
Nevertheless, his term as GFA President has encountered controversy, including accusations of corruption and administrative lapses within the organization.
Despite these hurdles, Okraku maintains a positive outlook on the trajectory of Ghanaian football. He points to the nation’s legacy of nurturing gifted athletes and the ongoing enhancements to the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence as signs of advancement in the sport.
“I want to position the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence very well and make it an enviable international standard,” he said.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kurt Okraku criticised sports journalists for jeering at the Black Stars players following their elimination from the 2023 African Cup of Nations tournament in Ivory Coast.
Several journalists were seen booing the Black Stars after their disappointing group-stage exit from the 2023 AFCON.
The Black Stars squandered a two-goal lead and settled for a 2-2 draw against Mozambique.
Addressing the press during the GFA’s meeting in Kumasi, Kurt Okraku acknowledged the pain of Ghana’s early exit from the AFCON but emphasised that it was inappropriate for journalists to boo the tea
“I share the pain of every Ghanaian on the back of our poor performance by our Black Stars at the AFCON. I also share in the pain of colleague journalists whose lifespan was cut short due to our early exit. But I do not share in the act of booing our players,” Kurt Okraku said at Meet the Press in Kumasi.
He clarified that CAF has initiated an investigation to penalise the GFA for the journalists‘ insubordination and emphasised the importance of preventing such actions from reoccurring in the future.
“As journalists, we have been trained to support and report on our national team. I pray and hope that this singular act will never be repeated.
“That act has now activated CAF to find ways of imposing fines on Ghana. It was a bad one!! And like I said here, the period between our exit and now has seen a lot of sober reflection. If we behave well, we know! If we don’t behave better, we know!! Don’t let us put Ghana in a bad light.”
Saddick Adams, one of the organisers of the ‘Fix Ghana Football’ demonstration scheduled for Wednesday, February 14, 2024, discovered that his access to the GFA’s Twitter account had been restricted on Wednesday, February 7, 2024.
In a social media post, Saddick sought clarification from the President and Communications Director of the GFA regarding the block.
In response to Saddick’s inquiry, Prosper Harrison Addo apologised to the journalist and explained that the block was made in error. He assured Saddick that the issue was promptly rectified after being brought to the attention of the GFA.
“Dear @SaddickAdams, my brother. This was an error and was corrected immediately when it came to our attention. Apologies for this mishap, my brother. Talk to you immediately after meeting the press,” Prosper Harrison Addo stated on X.
Dear @SaddickAdams, my brother. This was an error and was corrected immediately it came to our attention. Apologies for this mishap, my brother. Talk to you immediately after the Meet The Press https://t.co/ughbuKcrvZ
Saddick Adams is among a group of esteemed journalists deeply troubled by the ongoing decline in Ghanaian football. They seek answers from theGhana Football Association (GFA), National Sports Authority, and Ministry of Youth and Sports through a planned protest.
The Ghana Police Service has granted them permission to carry out the protest on Valentine’s Day, February 14, 2024.
The group comprises prominent figures such as Countryman Songo, Odi Ahenkan Kwame Yeboah, Veronica Commey, and Dan Kwaku Yeboah, among others.
Nigerian football star Victor Osimhen has been given the green light to participate in the Africa Cup of Nations semi-final match against South Africa.
Reported by PoojaMedias, a Nigerian photojournalist covering the Super Eagles and AFCON, Osimhen, who was previously sidelined due to an abdominal issue, has been declared fit and is en route to join the team in Bouake.
Although the Super Eagles had earlier confirmed Osimhen’s setback, they have yet to officially announce his medical clearance.
Initially, the player remained under medical supervision in Abidjan after being diagnosed with abdominal pain, causing him to miss the team’s journey to Bouake on Monday, February 5, 2024.
Despite the lack of goals, Victor Osimhen has played a crucial role for the Super Eagles, contributing significantly throughout the tournament.
Nigeria aims to secure their first AFCON victory since 2013, which also marks their last appearance in the final.
The highly anticipated semi-final against South Africa is slated for Wednesday, February 7, 2024, with a 17:00 GMT kick-off time.
Former Ghanaian footballer Laryea Kingston has expressed his eagerness to take on the position of the next coach for the Black Stars if presented with the chance.
Following the dismissal of Chris Hughton and his coaching staff due to Ghana’s disappointing performance at the 2023 African Cup of Nations, the coaching role for the Black Stars became available.
In an interview with Graphic Sports, Laryea Kingston conveyed his belief in his capabilities to lead the Black Stars.
He highlighted his vast experience and deep understanding of the prerequisites for achieving success at the international level.
Laryea Kingston said, “Of course, I will accept and do it easy. I know the level at which I am now,” highlighting his readiness to become the next Black Stars coach.
Laryea Kingston, who currently serves as the Assistant Coach of the Black Starlets, accumulated 42 appearances for the Black Stars, during which he scored six goals.
Roberto Donadoni, an Italian coach, has shown interest in taking over as the next coach of Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars.
The coaching position for the Black Stars became available after Chris Hughton and his technical team were dismissed following Ghana’s poor performance at the 2023 African Cup of Nations.
Reports indicate that Donadoni, who has previously coached the Italy national team and managed nine other clubs, is interested in leading the Black Stars.
Donadoni’s coaching career began in 2001, and he reached a career high when he was appointed as the head coach of the Italy national team.
During his tenure, Italy made it to the quarterfinals of Euro 2008, where they were defeated by eventual champion Spain in a penalty shootout.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has tasked a committee with finding a successor within three weeks, with applications accepted until February 2, 2024.
GFA has set specific criteria, including a minimum of 15 years of coaching experience, for candidates vying for the Black Stars’ head coach position.
In a meeting held on Monday, former Barcelona striker Samuel Eto’o submitted his resignation to the Cameroon FA Executive Committee.
He urged them to follow suit and resign as well.
However, the committee rejected his request and expressed their confidence in his leadership to continue as president.
This decision came in the wake of the Indomitable Lions’ disappointing exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where they suffered a 2-0 defeat to Nigeria in the round of 16.
Since assuming the role of Cameroon FA President, Eto’o has faced mounting pressure, with various controversies emerging during his tenure.
Read the full statement from the Cameroon FA Executive Committee below:
A meeting of the Executive Committee of the Cameroon Football Federation was held this Monday, February 5th, at the Hilton Hotel in Yaoundé.
The agenda focused on assessing the performance of the men’s national team at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Côte d’Ivoire.
At the beginning of the meeting, the President of the Cameroon Football Federation, Mr. Eto’o Fils Samuel, tendered his resignation to the members of the executive body, urging them to do the same with a clear conscience.
Following discussions and subsequent deliberation, the members of the Executive Committee decided to continue their current mandates.
Unanimously, they rejected the resignation of the President of the Cameroon Football Federation, expressing renewed confidence in him to carry on the work of rebuilding and developing Cameroonian football from the grassroots to the top, as outlined in his acclaimed project during the elective General Assembly on December 11, 2021.
Advocates believe there is a pool of talented coaches within Ghana capable of leading the Black Stars.
When the coaching vacancy was announced, several Ghanaian coaches, including Maxwell Konadu, expressed their interest in the position. Maxwell Konadu, a former Asante Kotoko coach, applied for the job last week, aspiring to fulfil his dream of coaching the national team.
Konadu previously served as an assistant to Kwasi Appiah in 2012 and worked with him during the 2013 AFCON in South Africa and the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil.
Following Kwasi Appiah’s dismissal in September 2014, Konadu took over as the Black Stars’ acting coach, successfully guiding the team to qualify for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
He later served as Avram Grant’s assistant until Grant’s termination after the 2017 AFCON.
Coach Kwasi Appiah’s reappointment as head coach saw Konadu continue as part of the coaching staff alongside Ibrahim Tanko.
Additionally, Konadu was a member of Milovan Rajevac’s technical team during the 2021 AFCON, where the team exited at the group stage.
Michael Osei
The former Asante Kotoko player has confirmed that he has applied for the Black Stars, as he believes that his time is now.
“Yes, I have applied for the job because I believe that with everything I’ve learned, I am capable of coaching the squad.
“Looking at the team, there are a number of young players like Majeed Ashimeru, Enerst Nuamah, Osman Bukari, and many of the current players who I have coached at the U23 level alongside coach Ibrahim Tanko.
“I’ve been coaching in Ghana for about 12 years, totalling nearly 15 years of coaching experience. Ghana is also my home country, so I understand the culture, have the expertise, and believe now is the time to coach the squad and I’m always a winner.”
Michael Osei, who has previously managed clubssuch as Asante Kotoko and Liberty Professionals and served as an assistant at FSV Frankfurt II, submitted his application for the coaching position.
His most recent coaching role was with Bibiani Goldstars. The deadline for submitting applications, which was set for February 2, 2024, has now passed.
Egypt’s football governing body, theEgyptian Football Association (EFA), announced the dismissal of Portuguese coach Rui Vitoria on Sunday, just a week after Egypt’s disappointing exit from the Africa Cup of Nations in the Ivory Coast.
Despite Vitoria’s contract originally slated to continue until the 2026 World Cup, the lacklustre Cup of Nations performance, culminating in a penalty shootout loss to the Democratic Republic of Congo after a 1-1 draw, led to an early end to his tenure.
The EFA revealed that Vitoria and his entire coaching staff have been relieved of their duties. Mohamed Youssef, former coach of Al Ahly and the architect behind their African Champions League triumph in 2013, will assume an interim role.
“The association will also study the CVs of (some) foreign coaches,” the EFA added in a statement.
Vitoria assumed the role of Egypt’s head coach in 2022, taking charge of a team grappling with a significant decline in form following their previous journey to the Cup of Nations final in Cameroon.
The initial phase of his tenure showed promise, witnessing an improved offensive performance and securing a comfortable spot in the Cup of Nations finals in the Ivory Coast. Additionally, Egypt won their first two matches in the World Cup qualifiers.
However, their performance in the Ivory Coast was inconsistent, advancing to the last 16 with three consecutive 2-2 draws before D.R. Congo eliminated them from contention for an eighth Cup of Nations title.
Vitoria joins the ranks of coaching casualties in the tournament, alongside Djamel Belmadi of Algeria, Tom Saintfiet of Gambia, Chris Hughton of Ghana, Jalel Kadri of Tunisia, Adel Amrouche of Tanzania, and Jean-Louis Gasset of Ivory Coast.
In the aftermath of the Black Stars’ disappointing exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), seasoned commentator and political analyst, Kwesi Pratt, has raised eyebrows about the commitment of Ghana Football Association (GFA) officials to national teams.
The Ghanaian national football team’s underwhelming performance in the AFCON tournament has sparked criticism and introspection.
Kwesi Pratt, known for his candid opinions, expressed his skepticism during a recent interview, suggesting that some GFA officials may not genuinely support teams representing Ghana.
The AFCON exit has prompted calls for a comprehensive review of the country’s football structure, from grassroots development to national team management.
Kwesi Pratt also raised a pertinent question about the allegiance of Ghana Football Association (GFA) officials, asserting that their preference for international teams like Chelsea may be indicative of a broader issue affecting the nation’s football landscape.
Mr Pratt expressed his conviction that if GFA officials were asked about their favorite teams, they would likely mention renowned international clubs rather than local teams.
“Our focus is on foreign football, and this raises concerns about how we can excel in nurturing and promoting our national teams,” he remarked.
The veteran commentator emphasized the need for a more localized approach in the development and support of Ghanaian football. Pratt voiced his concerns over the composition of the Black Stars team, urging for a reflection of Ghana’s identity in the coaching staff, players, and overall team culture.
“GFA officials I am sure when you ask them which team they support they will mention international teams like Chelsea and the likes. Our focus is on foreign football, how can we excel in our team. The BlackStars team should reflect in the coaches, the players etc. They are some players who don’t eat Ghanaian foods or even speak Ghanaian language. How can such individuals play Ghana National team. All the AFCON cups Ghanaians has secured was as a result of the Ghanaian coaches we had,” he added.
He expressed dismay over certain players who may not be connected to their Ghanaian roots, citing instances where some do not consume Ghanaian foods or speak the local language.
“How can such individuals truly represent the Ghana National team?” Mr Pratt questioned, emphasizing the importance of cultural and national identity in the context of international sports representation.
Drawing a historical perspective, Pratt underscored the contribution of Ghanaian coaches in securing past Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) victories.
“All the AFCON cups Ghanaians have secured were as a result of the Ghanaian coaches we had,” he asserted, highlighting the success achieved under local coaching expertise.
In the meantime, fans and analysts have urged the GFA to address systemic issues, implement reforms, and prioritize the nurturing of talent to restore Ghana’s football glory.
After Odilon Kossounou’s first-half red card, Nene Dorgeles’ memorable strike initially gave Mali the lead.
Simon Adingra’s 90th-minute equalizer sent the match to extra time, where Oumar Diakite scored the decisive goal in the final minutes.
Mali had an early opportunity to lead with Adama Traore’s penalty saved by Ivorian keeper Yahia Fofana after Kossounou’s foul on Lassine Sinayoko. Kossounou’s second yellow card left Ivory Coast with 10 men.
Despite being a player down, Ivory Coast’s Seko Fofana had a chance that went over the bar. Mali’s pressure paid off in the 71st minute when Dorgeles scored a stunning goal, putting them in the lead.
In the 90th minute, Adingra equalized for Ivory Coast, setting the stage for a thrilling extra time. In the last minute of extra time, Diakite’s crucial touch from Seko Fofana’s shot secured Ivory Coast’s victory, sending them to the semi-finals.
The celebrations, however, saw Diakite receiving a second yellow card for removing his shirt, and Hamari Traore of Mali was shown a straight red card in the aftermath.
In a comeback victory, DR Congo defeated Guinea 3-1 to secure a spot in the semi-finals of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Guinea initially took the lead with Mohamed Bayo converting a 20th-minute penalty after a foul by Chancel Mbemba.
However, Mbemba swiftly equalized with a goal from a narrow angle seven minutes later. DR Congo turned the game around in the second half, earning a penalty when Julian Jeanvier fouled Silas.
Brentford forward Yoane Wissa successfully converted the penalty, giving the Leopards a 2-1 lead with 25 minutes remaining.
Guinea struggled to respond, and DR Congo sealed the victory when Arthur Masuaku’s free-kick caught out Guinea’s goalkeeper Ibrahim Kone at his near post.
Having drawn all four of their previous games and triumphing over Egypt on penalties in the last 16, DR Congo now prepares for their first semi-final appearance since finishing third in 2015.
They will face the winners of the quarter-final between Mali and hosts Ivory Coast in the last four on Wednesday.
Contrary to reports, senior players of Nigeria’s national football team have refuted claims of a bonus dispute ahead of their quarterfinal clash against Angola in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The Super Eagles, known for past bonus-related controversies, have not received any tournament bonuses despite the approved funding by Nigerian President Bola Tinubu.
While Nigerian media has hinted at a possible rift within the team, with certain senior players reportedly discontented with captain Ahmed Musa, both William Troost-Ekong and Kenneth Omeruo, who have captained during the tournament, have denied any confrontations.
“The report is a joke,” Omeruo told ESPN. “Musa showed us at lunch and we laughed about it. There is no issue here in camp. We are focused on our game tomorrow, believing that our money will be paid.
“This squad is not the one to fight over money; otherwise, you would have heard that we refused to go to training even before the tournament.”
NFF General Secretary Mohammed Sanusi said the federation is working closely with the Central Bank of Nigeria to expedite the payments.
“The NFF is grateful to the CBN for the way and manner in which they have continued to expedite action on payment requests that we have sent to them with regards to this competition,” Sanusi said.
“We have not experienced any delays or complications in processes at the CBN this time, and we give kudos to them for their diligence and great sense of duty.”
In adherence to their pre-tournament agreement with the NFF, the Super Eagles are set to receive incremental qualification bonuses for each round they advance in the tournament.
Additionally, they will be entitled to graduated match-by-match bonuses, reflecting their progress throughout the competition. This marks a departure from past practices, where payments were solely made on a match-by-match basis.
The whole technical team of the Black Stars had to leave after a disappointing performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is now looking for a new coach and has set February 2, 2024, as the deadline for coaches to submit their applications.
Local reports suggest that the Serbian coach has applied for the position, wanting to have a second chance with the national team.
Goran Stevanovic managed the Black Stars from 2011 to 2012, leading them to the semifinals of the continental competition.
At 57 years old, he has experience managing various clubs, including Cukaricki Partizan and Qingdao Jonoon.
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has revealed a significant mistake in how Ghana’s participation in the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast was handled.
Surprisingly, the $8.5 million budget for the event was not approved by Parliament before the national team took part.
Ghana’s disappointing exit from the AFCON, not making it past the group stage for the second time, is now coupled with the discovery that proper parliamentary procedures were not followed.
It seems both the Sports Ministry and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) didn’t fulfil their duty to go before Parliament to explain and defend the budget, as required by law.
Mr. Ablakwa, speaking on Luv FM, pointed out the strange behaviour of the Sports Ministry and the GFA. He mentioned that their hesitance to present the budget raised suspicions among members of Parliament.
According to him, their reasons were weak, and attempts to get information about the allocated funds for AFCON were met with resistance.
A consortium of sports journalists has obtained approval from the Ghana Police Service to stage a demonstration against the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the Ministry of Youth and Sports, addressing concerns about the declining standards of football in Ghana.
Citi Sports has verified that the Ghana Police Service will issue an official statement at 14:00 GMT today, revealing details about the demonstration route.
Among the prominent members of the group are esteemed sports journalists Veronica Commey, Saddick Adams, and Patrick Osei Agyemang.
Commey expressed her frustrations regarding the deteriorating state of Ghanaian football during a segment on Citi FM’s Sports Panorama.
Scheduled for Wednesday, February 14, the demonstration aims to voice discontent over the current state of football in Ghana and is set to transpire in the capital, Accra.
According to Saddick Adams, the event is “a peaceful walk to present a petition” that the passion of thenation—football—is dying and that “there is no hate” but a “positive anger” to change the state of affairs.
The planned demonstration comes on the heels of Ghana’s first-round exit from the 2023 AFCON in Cote d’Ivoire, which had the Black Stars fail to win a game in three outings.
Dede Ayew reacts to Ghana’s 2-2 draw with Mozambique
For the second consecutive AFCON edition, Ghana has been eliminated in the group stage.
The 2021 AFCON marked the nadir of Ghana’s performance in the history of the competition, securing just a single point.
This comes after some journalists were seen wearing their national team jerseys and vocally supporting their teams during games, loudly celebrating any goals or victories, dancing shirtless or performing in the media work spaces after their team’s win, fighting , attacking, or insulting other journalists or players from different countries.
These acts are quite unprofessional, as AIPS stated in a statement.
“Being a journalist means behaving properly and, above all, exercising restraint. Certain behaviours are simply unworthy of a profession as noble as journalism,” a section of the statement read.
The AIPS also stressed that sports journalists cannot act as supporters, saying, “Even if the journalist is not a UFO (Unidentified Flying Object), he cannot be considered a supporter. This is why AIPS Africa invites colleagues to be reasonable and to work in compliance with the rules of ethics and professional conduct.”
The tournament has received widespread praise for the competitive games, quality of play, effective coaching, and successful use of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR).
A team of sports journalists, including Songo and Obama, has received permission from the police toorganise a protest addressing the challenges currently faced by Ghanaian football.
Saddick Obama, a member of the group, informed the media on January 31, 2024, that they were content with the support received from the police following a meeting at the regional command earlier that day.
“The police wish they could join because we all love football; we don’t have a fight with anyone or hatred towards anyone. The agreed timelines and conditions are favourable.
“It is a simple march to present a petition to the authorities; this is about a common passion that we want to protect,” he explained.
Per reports, other journalists participating in the march include Countryman Songo, Veronica Commey, and Charles Osei Assibey.
The march follows the disappointing performance of the Black Stars at the 2023 African Cup of Nations, where they exited in the first round with only two points in a group that included Cape Verde, Egypt, and Mozambique.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) has faced criticism for forming a committee to select the next Black Stars coach after firing Chris Hughton.
Journalists have urged the government to intervene and stop the GFA’s decision, emphasising the need for comprehensive reforms to address fundamental issues in football administration in the country.
He deleted nearly all his Instagram posts, including ones related to the Black Stars, and kept images from his current club, Besiktas.
Rumors circulated that Amartey was unhappy, especially since he did not get much game time during the 2023 AFCON and deleted the images while in the Black Stars camp.
However, he clarified that the decision to remove his posts had nothing to do with being sidelined by the Black Stars coach.
“Why would I delete my Black Stars pictures from my Instagram? It would be so childish. Everyone who knows me knows I am not a social media person; it’s all part of life, and it’s not because of the coach’s decision not to field me,” he said, as quoted by Happyghana.com.
During the AFCON, Daniel Amartey, who had been a regular starter in almost all the qualifying games, found himself on the bench for all three group stage matches.
He only got to play about 10 minutes, entering the field in the final moments of Ghana’s 2-2 draw against Mozambique.
Ghana concluded the group stage in third place with two draws and one defeat, conceding a total of six goals and failing to advance to the next round.
Member of Parliament for the North Tongu Constituency, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has advocated for the halt of all budgetary allocations to the Black Stars.
This suspension, he suggests, should pave the way for an impartial forensic audit of the expenditures related to their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.
Ablakwa emphasised that this suspension of financial allocations should extend to the current efforts to seek a new head coach, replacing Chris Hughton.
The call for an independent forensic audit reflects concerns about the transparency and accountability of the funds allocated to the national football team during the AFCON tournament.
“It is clear to me that the only way out of this grand mess is to immediately curtail any further expenditure on the Black Stars, including that ill-advised, rushed and misguided search for a new coach, and to urgently commission an independent forensic audit.
“Parliament must also assert its constitutional oversight authority when the House resumes. These outlandish breakdowns, illegalities and insulting opacity must be probed and sanctioned; we cannot afford to let the people down.”
His unwavering stance follows his interception of letters purportedly from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Finance Minister, and the Controller and Accountant General’s Department detailing the expenditure of the Black Stars during their unsuccessful AFCON campaign in Cote d’Ivoire.
On Monday, the lawmaker shared a letter from the Ministry of Youth and Sports to the Finance Ministry, requesting a substantial amount of US$8 million as a budget, causing public outcry.
Subsequently, on January 30, he released two documents claiming to confirm payments of the requested amount. One document, supposedly from the Minister for Finance to the Controller and Accountant General, instructed the release of a partial payment of US$5,071,840.36, equivalent to GHS60,306,717.80, out of the budgeted US$8,506,450.00.
The document detailed expenses, including GHS15.3 million for the Black Stars’ preparation days before AFCON, GHS14 million for air transport and per diem, GHS14 million for provision for Group stage bonuses, and GHS2.1 million for honorarium.
A bank transfer advice from the Controller and Accountant General confirmed the release of funds to the Ministry of Sports.
Ablakwa also alleged the existence of a separate budget for the supporters of the Black Stars, further adding to the controversy surrounding the team’s financial management.
“Deep throat sources inform me that the budget was managed by National Security. Nothing will stop us from demanding full accountability on this too,” he noted.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) reacted to the publication of the budget by the legislator, calling it cheap politics.
“He should concentrate on his job of passing bills in Parliament and stop engaging in small, cheap politics in football. It is not the best,” Nana Oduro Sarfo, an Executive Council member of the GFA is quoted as saying by JoyNews.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) has issued a public apology to the Ghanaian people regarding the lackluster performance of the Black Stars during the ongoing 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Cote d’Ivoire.
Failing to progress beyond the group stage, the national team endured a campaign without a single victory, suffering a defeat to Cape Verde and securing draws against Egypt and Mozambique.
In an official statement released on Tuesday, January 30, the GFA acknowledged the palpable frustration and disappointment felt by the passionate football-loving nation. They took full responsibility for falling short of the expectations placed on the team and expressed their regret for not meeting the standards anticipated by the Ghanaian supporters.
“The Ghana Football Association extends our sincerest apologies to the good people of Ghana and all stakeholders for the recent disappointing performance of the senior national team, the Black Stars at the Africa Cup of Nations Côte d’Ivoire 2023,” the statement read in part.
In the aftermath of the Black Stars’ elimination from the 2023 African Cup of Nations, head coach Chris Hughton has been relieved of his duties, and the entire technical team has been disbanded.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has taken decisive action by initiating a search for a new head coach. To oversee this process, a five-member committee, led by Vice President Mark Addo, has been appointed.
In addition to the coaching change, the GFA has announced a comprehensive review of various aspects of the national team. This examination will encompass strategies, training methodologies, compensation structures, and the overall team framework.
The Association has underscored its unwavering commitment to the revitalization of Ghanaian football. The objective is to not only rebuild but also elevate the standards, with the ultimate goal of reinstating pride and success to the Black Stars.
“We value the unwavering support of our stakeholders, and we commit to working tirelessly with you to ensure a stronger and more competitive team. Your loyalty and passion are the driving forces behind our efforts to rebuild and elevate the standard of Ghanaian football,” the GFA assured in its statement.
Football Association (FA) has come under intense scrutiny in the aftermath of the Black Stars’ dismal showing at the AFCON, with some critics levying accusations of gross incompetence against the association.
Before the FA issued its official statement, a faction of critics had vociferously called for an apology, holding the association accountable for its perceived role in the team’s subpar performance. Concurrently, there were calls from another segment of critics urging the dissolution of the FA.
In the midst of this controversy, numerous members of the Black Stars team have taken to their individual social media platforms to extend apologies for the team’s underwhelming performance at the AFCON.
Andre Dede Ayew, the captain of the Black Stars, has formally apologized for the team’s performance at the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In a recorded video message, Ayew expressed regret for the team’s winless campaign that led to their exit in the group stage, including a loss to Cape Verde and draws against Egypt and Mozambique.
“These past days have been very difficult for every Ghanaian football fan and myself. I would like to apologize for the results at the AFCON that we just exited; we know that we should have done better,” Ayew stated, taking full responsibility as the captain.
He acknowledged the disappointment of the fans, emphasizing that setbacks in football make a team stronger. Ayew assured Ghanaians that the Black Stars would rise again and promised to put the nation’s flag back where it belongs.
In response to the criticism and public outcry, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) also issued a public apology.
The GFA acknowledged the frustration and disappointment of Ghanaians and accepted full responsibility for the Black Stars’ performance, expressing sincerest apologies to the nation and all stakeholders.
The Ghana Football Association has extended its apologies to Ghanaians and all stakeholders for the recent disappointing performance of the senior national team, the Black Stars at the Africa Cup of Nations Cote D’Ivoire 2023.
The GFA on January 30 admitted that Ghana’s performance fell short of the high expectations “we all share, and we take full responsibility for the disappointment.”
Following a meeting of the Executive Council of the Association and Chairmen of the RFAs on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, the GFA assured all stakeholders that the requisite steps are being taken to address the issues at hand, and a thorough review of the team’s strategies, training, compensation, and overall structure is underway.
“We value the unwavering support of our stakeholders, and we commit to working tirelessly with you to ensure a stronger and more competitive team. Your loyalty and passion are the driving forces behind our efforts to rebuild and elevate the standard of Ghanaian football.
“We appreciate your understanding during this challenging time and remain dedicated to restoring the pride and success we all desire for the Ghana Black Stars. Together, we will emerge stronger and more resilient,” the GFA added.
Ghana failed to progress from the group stage of the ongoing tournament in Ivory Coast. Following this, many stakeholders called on the GFA to render an unqualified apology to Ghanaians for the bad performance. The GFA has finally done so, a week after Black Stars’ exit.
GFA’s long-awaited apology comes at a time when it is facing public scrutiny for budgeting an amount of $8.5million for the senior national team without Parliamentary approval.
Dede Ayew apologizes to Ghanaians for Black Stars' performance at 2023 AFCON
North Tongu’s Member of Parliament, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has intensified his criticism of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over the bloated budget prepared for the senior national team during its time at the 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In an interview on Peace FM, Mr Ablakwa, described the GFA as a disrespectful institution for trying to play a smart one on Parliament and the Ghanaian public by withholding details of how much it planned to spend on the Black Stars at AFCON.
He noted that prior to the commencement of the tournament in Ivory Coast, Parliament requested the budget prepared for the Black Stars but the GFA claimed that it was yet to be finalised.
For him, this does not bid well for Ghana’s democratic process as the Legislature is not a rubber stamp to be used anytime and anyhow.
But after his own investigations, Mr Ablakwa has discovered the extravagant expenditure the GFA had plan to undertake.
“It is our responsibility to keep the Executive on its toes. To be able to do the job well, you need evidence. If you have an Executive that doesn’t want to be transparent, accountable. If you can remember, going into this tournament, we asked in Parliament, time without number, that where is the budget. They told us it was not finalized so they can’t disclose it, which is not best practice.
“Zambia, weeks before the tournament, presented their budget to the Zambian Parliament. There was transparency. Ivory Coast and South Africa did same. Nigeria too. Why can’t Ghana do same? After the calamitous performance, instead of you to apologize to us, which you haven’t done.
“Parliament is not a rubber stamp. In the constitution, we are the custodians of the purse. Parliament is where you are to present your budget and we then scrutinize it. So we can protect the public purse and get value for money.
“Now you are back. Now you are trying to bring us more bills. You haven’t accounted for the previous one. You have rather set a committee and sending us an invoice. You just have no respect for the Ghanaian people. This is not democracy. This cannot be democracy. That is why we have decided to intercept all the documents,” he said.
In his recent disclosure, Mr. Ablakwa highlighted that the government allocated a substantial sum of US$8,506,450 for the Black Stars’ involvement in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
Should Ghana not have been prematurely kicked out of the AFCON tournament and won this year’s trophy, the Black Stars would have earned $7 million.
For Mr Ablakwa, it is beyond reasoning that the government would plan to spend more that it would generate from the tournament. He is also peeved by the fact that Zambia approved a total budget of only US$2.1million for its national team.
“This hefty US$8.5million translates into a colossal GHS105million at current exchange. Note that the GHS105 million is entirely separate from the GHS27.9million spent on the qualifiers. What this means is that even if the Black Stars had won the trophy, the public officials who put this budget together were determined to ensure that Ghana made losses in excess of US$1.5million,” the North Tongu legislator wrote.
Mr Ablakwa referenced an intercepted letter from the Ministry of Youth and Sports, dated 2nd January, 2024 which was addressed to the Minister of Finance requesting part payment of US$5,071,840.36 from the total Black Stars budget of US$8,506,450.00.
The request letter in issue was signed by the Chief Director of the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mr. William Kartey, on behalf of the Minister, Hon. Mustapha Ussif, he added.
“A painful addition to the scandalous GHS105million budget is that it did not guarantee success on the pitch either. It would be interesting to know what thought processes went into a scary US$8.5million budget for a bankrupt country which has defaulted on its loans and is desperately seeking an IMF bailout,” Mr Ablakwa added.
THE SECRET IS OUT; THE WAIT IS OVER — GOVT & GFA AGREED ON A BLACK STARS AFCON BUDGET OF AN ASTONISHING US$8.5MILLION (GHS105MILLION)
I promised in my publication last week on the staggering GHS27.9million taxpayers spent on the Black Stars between 2022 and 2023, that I shall… pic.twitter.com/4005pvDngk
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced a 40% increase in the prize money for the winner of the AFCON 2023, from $5 million to $7 million. The runner-up will receive $4 million, while the losing semifinalists will get $2.5 million each. The quarterfinalists will pocket $1.3 million each, and the third-placed team will earn $2 million.
Unfortunately, Ghana could not earn any of the aforementioned amounts as it failed to even progress beyond the group stages. Ghana lost to Cape Verde in its opener, drew with Egypt and Mauritania.
Subsequently, Chris Hughton, who led the Black Stars to the 2023 AFCON tournament quit his job, and now Ghana is in search of a new head coach for the senior national team.
North Tongu member of Parliament, Okudzeto Ablakwa’s expose ofthe Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) ‘oversized’ budget appears to have fallen on the wrong side of the association.
Mr Ablakwa took to his social media on January 29, 2024, with purported documents from the Ministry of Youth and Sports containing what was believed to be an agreed-upon budget of $8.5 million (about GH¢105 million) for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) by government and
He claimed that he had intercepted documents that showed that the government and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) had agreed on a whooping budget of $8.5 million (about GH¢105 million) for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and this budget, he said, was separate from the GH¢27.9 million that was spent on the qualifiers.
In response to this, an Executive Council member of the GFA, Nana Oduro Sarfo, during an interview on Asempa FM, accused Ablakwa of being a detractor whose goal is to” influence public discourse and deflect our focus from important issues” because he “did not like the fact that the New Patriotic Party’s parliamentary primaries were peaceful, free and fair.”
He further went on to caution Mr Ablakwa to stop playing politics with football and focus on his mandate in Parliament.
“He should concentrate on his job of passing bills in Parliament and stop engaging in small, small cheap politics in football. It is not the best” he fumed.
The GFA also issued a statement,cautioning Ablakwa to stop the cheap politics and focus on policies. They said that the budget was not final and that it was subject to review and approval by the relevant authorities
Host of Adom TV’s Fire-for-Fire, Patrick Osei-Agyemang, popularly known as Countryman Songo, is gearing up to lead a significant demonstration against the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Scheduled for Valentine’s Day on February 14, the protest aims to express dissatisfaction with the performance of the Kurt Okraku-led administration.
This decision stems from the disappointing exit of the Black Stars from the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament in Ivory Coast.
Despite high hopes of ending the country’s 42-year trophy drought, the team exited the group phase with just two points.
The Black Stars faced draws against Egypt and Mozambique, along with a defeat to Cape Verde in their opening match. This early departure marks the first consecutive group-phase exit for the team in AFCON history.
Award-winning broadcaster Osei-Agyemang squarely places the blame on the GFA, criticising them for spending taxpayer money without producing satisfactory results.
His call for accountability, especially regarding the AFCON budget, has prompted him to lead the demonstration.
Adding to the fallout from the team’s poor performance, head coach Chris Hughton has been sacked.
The GFA has unveiled a roadmap for the appointment of a new coach in the aftermath of the 34th edition of the AFCON.
Black Stars winger Osman Bukari has offered an apology following Ghana’s underwhelming performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
Ghana was eliminated in the group stage after securing only two points out of a possible nine.
Bukari, acknowledging the team’s disappointing showing, expressed his regret and admitted his contribution to the setback.
Despite the setback, he assured fans that the team would redouble their efforts and come back stronger in the next tournament.
See Osman Bukari’s post below
It has taken me quite a number of days to gather the words to address you, our dear fans, because of the embarrassment we brought on the nation & the fact that we let you down. Our inability to advance to the next stage has hit heavily on me, for I contributed a part in it.
It has taken me quite a number of days to gather the words to address you our dear fans, because of the embarrassment we brought on the nation & the fact that we let you down and our inability to advance to the next stage has hit heavily on me, for I contributed a part in it. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/Z1yJjZGOjr
I would like to render an unqualified apology for the mistakes and assure you that we will come back better and stronger for the team and the country. I hope and ask that you forgive us. We live to fight someday. Thank y’all for the encouragement, love and support!!
Member of Parliament for North Tongu, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has called for a Parliamentary probe into Ghana’s African Cup of Nations (AFCON) budget.
The call comes after the MP released documents suggesting that the government allocated a substantial sum of US$8,506,450 for the Black Stars’ involvement in the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Ivory Coast.
Per the leaked document, the Black Stars would have earned US$7 million if the team had won the AFCON.
For Mr Ablakwa, it is beyond reasoning that the government would plan to spend more that it would generate from the tournament. He is also peeved by the fact that Zambia approved a total budget of only US$2.1million for its national team.
It is in view of this that he has charged Parliament to probe the said budget and the expenditure of the players at the tournament.
THE SECRET IS OUT; THE WAIT IS OVER — GOVT & GFA AGREED ON A BLACK STARS AFCON BUDGET OF AN ASTONISHING US$8.5MILLION (GHS105MILLION)
I promised in my publication last week on the staggering GHS27.9million taxpayers spent on the Black Stars between 2022 and 2023, that I shall… pic.twitter.com/4005pvDngk
Mr Ablakwa in a tweet said: “It would be interesting to know what thought processes went into a scary US$8.5million budget for a bankrupt country which has defaulted on its loans and is desperately seeking an IMF bailout.”
Controversial sports journalist Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly known as Countryman Songo, has urged President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo and Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia to intervene and prevent theGhana Football Association (GFA) from proceeding with the search for the next Black Stars coach.
Following the dismissal of coach Chris Hughton after Ghana’s exit from the 2023 AFCON, the GFA established a 5-member committee, led by vice president Mark Addo, to find the next Black Stars coach.
Countryman Songo contends that the GFA has overseen the appointment of four coaches since 2019, resulting in unsatisfactory outcomes. He suggests that the GFA aims to select a coach they can easily manipulate and influence in terms of player selection.
“The government of Ghana should dissolve the committee because it’s a waste of time and taxpayers’ resources. No one should sit down and allow them to proceed with this. These are the same people who brought in Milovan, Otto Addo and now Chris Hughton, Songo stated.
He added, “They should rather be apologising to Ghanaians so we see the next way forward. They have destroyed the Black Stars and our football…”
“They want to bring their coach so that they can use him to enrich themselves with taxpayers’ monies. Akufo-Addo and Bawumia should not allow these so-called football people to search for our next coach,” Songo said on Adom TV.
