Sports
Former Ghana Coach Oko Aryee goes home on October 12
Former Ghanaian football coach Oko Aryee will be laid to rest on October 12, 2024, at the Resurrection Methodist Church in Adenta, Accra.
He passed away on August 12, 2024, at the age of 83, leaving behind a legacy as one of Ghana’s best football coaches.
Coach Aryee made history by becoming the first Ghanaian coach to qualify a national team for the FIFA World Cup not once, but twice.
His impressive career milestones include qualifying the Under 16 team for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in 1991, alongside Sudan and Congo Brazzaville, and masterminding the Senior Women’s national team’s (Black Queens) second appearance at the FIFA Women’s World Cup in the United States in 2003.
Throughout his coaching career, Aryee also led several prominent Ghanaian football clubs, including Accra Hearts of Oak, Tema Ghapoha, Real Tamale United, and AshantiGold SC.
The Ghana Football Association and the entire football community have extended their heartfelt condolences to his family, widow, and children.
Some of Coach Aryee’s notable achievements include:
· First Ghanaian coach to qualify a national team for the FIFA World Cup
· Qualified the Under 16 team for the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in 1991
· Led the Black Queens to the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2003
· Coached prominent Ghanaian football clubs, including Accra Hearts of Oak and AshantiGold SC
Coach Oko Aryee’s legacy extends beyond his impressive achievements, as he played a pivotal role in nurturing and developing some of Ghana’s most talented footballers.
His exceptional coaching skills and guidance helped shape the careers of:
· Samuel Osei Kuffour (Bayern Munich and Ghana legend)
· Mohammed Gargo (former Black Stars player)
· Nii Odartey Lamptey (former Aston Villa and Ghana player)
· Yaw Preko (former Ghana international)
Among others, these talented players benefited from Coach Aryee’s expertise, mentorship, and vision. Under his guidance, they honed their skills, gained valuable experience, and went on to achieve great success in their careers.
Coach Aryee’s Impact on Ghanaian Football:
· Developed talented players who became pillars of Ghana’s national teams
· Inspired a generation of coaches and players with his innovative coaching methods
· Contributed significantly to Ghana’s football growth and international recognition
· Left an enduring legacy that continues to influence Ghanaian football
The Ghanaian football community will forever be grateful for Coach Aryee’s dedication, passion, and commitment to developing the sport. His influence will continue to be felt for generations to come.
May his soul Rest In Peace!
GFA COMMUNICATIONS
Sports
National Teams Ambassador, Asamoah Gyan visits Black Queens training, rallies team ahead of WAFCON
National Teams Ambassador, Asamoah Gyan, paid a visit to the Black Queens during training on Wednesday.
The former Black Stars striker offered words of encouragement as the team continued preparations for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
He congratulated the players and technical team for securing qualification to the continental showpiece and urged the team to remain focused, give their best whenever they step onto the pitch and to continue working hard.
The visit marked one of Gyan’s first engagements with a national team since his appointment as Ambassador for Ghana’s national teams.
He also assured the players of his commitment to supporting and motivating the team as they build towards WAFCON.
Gyan’s presence was warmly received by the players and technical staff, with the football icon sharing his experience and inspiring the squad as well.
The Black Queens are currently in camp in Accra as the team continue preparations under coach Kim Lars Björkegren.
Black Princesses captain, Linda Owusu Ansah has received a late call-up to the Black Queens camp for the June FIFA Women’s international window.
Owusu Ansah replaces Alexandre Emefa Tay, who has been excused from camp due to academic commitments.
The talented midfielder, who previously featured for Ampem Darkoa Ladies, captained Ghana’s Black Princesses (U-20) and has been recognized as one of the country’s promising young talents.
Her call-up comes shortly after completing a move to AFC Toronto in Canada, marking another important milestone in her growing career.
Linda has joined the rest of the squad in Accra as preparations continue under Head Coach Kim Lars Björkegren.
