Sports
Rebuilding with Promise: Ghana’s young stars hold the key
The Black Stars showed some positives in their 2-1 loss to Nigeria at the GTech Community Stadium in Brentford on Wednesday, May 28, 2025.
The first half was a nervy one, but the change in shape and tactic in the second half had a positive impact on the team’s output, resulting in a much-improved performance that saw Ghana create more chances and pin Nigeria into their half for a significant part of the second half.
There were two debutants, Aaron Essel and Christopher Bonsu Baah, in the first half, but Aaron Essel hobbled off before the first-half whistle due to a hip injury.
In the second half, Otto Addo made a bold move by bringing on Brandon Thomas Asante and Caleb Yirenkyi, another debutant, for Kwame Opoku and Kamaradini Mamudu, respectively. Nigeria dominated the early stages, with Cyriel Dessers scoring in the 14th minute after picking up a pass from Ismaila Sodiq.
The Super Eagles doubled their lead when Seyi Ajayi’s header deflected off Razak Simpson for an own goal in the 19th minute.
Coventry City forward Brandon Thomas Asante reduced the deficit for Ghana in the 70th minute, scoring beautifully after connecting with a pass from Ebenezer Annan.
Otto Addo showed confidence in Mohammed Gadafi Fuseini, who earned his first cap after coming on for Christopher Bonsu Baah in added time. Ghana pushed hard in the second half but failed to take their chances, allowing Nigeria to hold on for the win.
With the absence of key players like Thomas Partey, Alexander Djiku, Alidu Seidu, Kingsley Schindler, Mohammed Kudus, Ernest Nuamah, Antoine Semenyo, Abdul Mumin, Joseph Painstil, Osman Bukari, Ibrahim Sulemana, and Inaki Williams, here are some positives from the Black Stars players:
Christopher Bonsu Baah: As a debutant, he showed promise and energy on the right-wing. His pace and movement caused problems for the Nigerian defense at times.
Caleb Yirenkyi: His introduction from the bench seemed to bring a spark to the team. He likely added some fresh legs and energy to the midfield or attack as he was deployed on the right side of Ghana’s defense. The young man showed energy and spark with some runs on the lines and making timely interceptions to stop Moses Simon and Kelechi Iheanacho.
Brandon Thomas Asante: He scored a world-class goal, showcasing his technical ability and finishing skill. This goal will likely boost his confidence and give him momentum going forward.
Gideon Mensah: After moving into midfield in the second half, he seemed to add some control and creativity to the team. His experience and vision were valuable assets in the attacking plays.
Razak Simpson: Although he inadvertently scored an own goal, he showed courage and commitment in defense. Own goals can happen to anyone, and he likely learned from the experience.
Stephan Ambrosius: As a defender, he played a role in organizing the backline and working with his teammates to contain Nigeria’s attacks. His experience and leadership were valuable assets.
Abdul Samed Salis: In midfield, he likely worked hard to win the ball back and distribute it to his teammates. His energy and work rate are important for the team’s overall performance.
Razak Simpson: Although he inadvertently scored an own goal, he showed courage and commitment in defense. Own goals can happen to anyone, and he likely learned from the experience.
Ebenezer Annan: After coming on and shifting to left wing-back, he provided width and supported the attack. His cross led to Brandon Thomas Asante’s goal, showcasing his contribution to the team’s offense. These players, among others, played important roles in the match, and their efforts contributed to the team’s performance.
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Sports
Black Starlets arrives in Morocco on U-17 AFCON mission …FA boss charges team to make Ghana proud
The Black Starlets, the national U-17 male team, have safely arrived in Casablanca ahead of the 2026 U-17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The team departed Accra on Wednesday, travelling with a 35-man contingent made up of 21 players and 14 officials, all focused on delivering a strong campaign on the continental stage.
They completed a smooth five-hour flight to Morocco, where final preparations will continue before the tournament kicks off.
The technical team is expected to fine-tune tactics and build cohesion among the squad as they gear up for the competition.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Mr Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, was present at the Accra International Airport to bid farewell to the team.
Speaking during a brief farewell at the Airport, the FA President urged the team to carry a ‘never say die’ spirit into the competition.
President Simeon-Okraku emphasised the importance of mental strength and unity, particularly in difficult moments during matches. His message was inspired by the team’s recent friendly encounters against Cote d’Ivoire, where they bounced back strongly after an initial defeat.
“I’m very happy that when you lost to Cote d’Ivoire in your first game during your friendly matches, you were able to bounce back—not only to dominate but to outscore them in the second game,” he said. “I read a lot of meaning into that, and I want all of you to keep that in your heads—that, it’s not over until it’s all over,” he added.
The FA president stressed that the ability to respond positively to setbacks would be crucial in a tournament as competitive as the AFCON.
He encouraged the players to stay united and support one another when the pressure intensifies on the continental stage.
“When the chips are down, that’s when we need to hold each other together,” Okraku added. “So go out there and make Ghana proud.”
Ghana will compete in Group D alongside Algeria, Senegal, and South Africa, with their opening match scheduled for Thursday, May 14.
Twenty-three (23) players have been called up for this month’s international friendly against Mexico.
The squad is composed of star players from the domestic league and European leagues who are closely monitored by Coach Carlos Queiroz, as well as U-23 players who will soon represent Ghana in the upcoming Olympic Games qualifiers.
Notable names include Majeed Ashimeru, Felix Afena-Gyan, Razak Simpson, and Birmingham City’s Ibrahim Osman.
Ashimeru returns to action after a long spell on the sidelines due to a muscle injury that limited his appearances at both club and national level.
Also in the team is Felix Afena-Gyan, whose last appearance for Ghana was in May last year when he featured against Trinidad and Tobago in the Unity Cup in London.
Barcelona B’s Abdul Aziz Issah, Ebenezer Annan of AS Saint-Étienne, Ibrahim Osman of Birmingham City, and Paul Reverson of Ajax FC have also been included in the squad.
Midfielder Salim Adams, one of the key players for Ghana Premier League leaders Medeama SC, leads the group of home-based players.
Others are Heart of Lions’ Ebenezer Abban, Ebenezer Adade of Dreams FC, and Nations FC captain Razak Simpson. Ghana will travel to Mexico for the international friendly on Friday, May 22, 2026.
