A Mubarak Wakas first-half strike was all that Ghana needed to secure the 1-0 victory against the Wallas of Ethiopia in the opening fixture of the 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Friday night in Cape Coast.
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2022 WCQ: Akonnor admits to poor performance against Ethiopia
Ghana head coach Charles Kwablan Akonnor has expressed disappointment over the performances of some of his charges in the slender victory against Ethiopia in Friday’s night 2022 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Akonnor admitted that the team’s output did not meet expectations despite the 1-0 at the Cape Coast Stadium.
A Mubarak Wakas first-half strike was all that Ghana needed to secure the victory against the Wallas of Ethiopia in the opening fixture of Group G.
“There were also other bad performances from some players on the field. We managed to win. It was a very difficult game” Akonnor told reporters after the game.
“We were not too exciting as we expected to play, I must admit. But we managed to win the three points which is the most important thing”
The Black Stars will leave the shores of Ghana Saturday to Johannesburg to face South Africa on Monday, September 6 for the second round of matches of the qualifiers.
Ghana are currently leading the Group G log after Zimbabwe and South Africa had shared spoils in the other group fixture on Friday afternoon.
Ghana will be without the players who ply their trade in England due to the Covid-19 restrictions as South Africa is listed among the countries with red flag for the novel disease by the British government.
The players include Jordan Ayew, Daniel Amartey, Andy Boakye Yiadom and Jeffrey Schrupp.
2022 WCQ: Ghana beat Ethiopia to go top of Group G
A Mubarak Wakaso drive from distance in the first half gave Ghana a winning start against Ethiopia in the African qualifiers to the 2022 Fifa World Cup Friday night.
The Walias defended their lines brilliantly to prevent the Black Stars from finding openings in the Group G encounter at Cape Coast Sports Stadium.
The win means Ghana is leading the group with 3 points after Zimbabwe and South Africa drew goalless earlier.
Both teams approached the game cautiously, with the Black Stars dominating possession but could not create clear-cut chances in attack as Ethiopia defended neatly and passed out well from the back.
Jeffrey Shlupp was forced off in the 27th minute after feeling his hamstring while trying to pick a pass alone in the halfway line. Daniel-Kofi Kyereh came in as a replacement for his Ghana debut.
Wakaso’s long-range effort was let in by goalkeeper Teklemariam Shanko’s dreadful howler, the goalkeeper let the ball pass through his legs in the 35th minute to give Ghana the lead.
There were shouts for a penalty with 5 minutes to half-time when Jordan was brought down in the box after a solo run down the right, but referee Redouane did not heed to the calls.
The first half-ended 1-0 for Ghana.
Akonnor’s side still continued the dominance in terms of possession in the second half with Jordan and Andre Ayew pestering on the shoulders of the Walias’ defence but not finding the cutting edge.
Substitute Yaw Yeboah forced goalkeeper Shanko into making a good save with another long-range effort 15 minutes to time, Andre’s follow-up strike was also kept out.
A relatively relaxed Richard Ofori was sharp to palm down a strong Ethiopian strike 83 minutes after an attacker had caught the ball well inside the box.
The Walias finished the game as the dominant side in the last 10 minutes but could not find the equalizer. Wakaso’s goal was what separated the two sides after 90 minutes.
Ghana will play South Africa three days later in Johannesburg in their next game while Ethiopia hosts Zimbabwe a day later.
By Abdul Karim Adamu Benin
Akonnor names Ghana starting line-up for Ethiopia clash
Ghana coach Charles Akonnor has named his strongest starting line-up to face Ethiopia on Friday for their start of the 2022 World Cup qualifiers with teenage prodigy Kamaldeen Sulemana grabbing a starting place.
Crystal Palace star Jeffery Schlupp will also start but he is getting his natural place on the left wing which shows coach Akonnor’s desire to come out with his strongest attacking force.
The two players are the most notable changes in the Black Stars starting line-up with the usual first time players retaining their places in the team.
Goalkeeper Richard Ofori will retain his place in the goal posts despite the presence of Belgium league top shot-stopper Abdul Manaf Nurudeen and Swiss-based Lawrence Ati Zigi.
Reading defender Andy Yiadom will play from the right side of the Black Stars defence and his team-mate in English Championship Baba Rahman will play at left back.
The central defence is marshalled by experienced and calm centre-back Daniel Amartey with his partner being the impressive France-based defender Alexander Djiku.
Matster midfielder controller Mubarak Wakaso will retain his central midfield position to be partnered by hardworking Spain-based midfileder Baba Iddrisu who will join the attack.
Kamaldeen will attack the Ethiopians from the right wing with Schlupp expected to carry out similar duties from the left side of the wings will create some pace problems from the East Africans.
Jordan Ayew will lead the attack of Ghana with his elder brother and captain of the Black Stars getting the chance to play as the playmaker just behind the striker.
Below is the full starting line-up
Richard Ofori (GK)
Andy Yiadom, Daniel Amartey, Alexander Djiku, Baba Abdul Rahman
Baba Iddrisu, Mubarak Wakaso, Jeffery Schlupp
Kamaldeen Sulemana, Andre Dede Ayew, Jordan Ayew
©GSN
Great Olympics sign Hearts Of Oak target George Asamoah
Ghana Premier League side Accra Great Olympics have officially signed George Asamoah for their 2021/22 season’s campaign.
The 23-year-old penned a one-year contract with an option of renewal with the Capital based club this afternoon.
He has joined Great Olympics on a free transfer after ending his stay with relegated Premier League side Ebusua Dwarfs after the just ended season.
Following his explosive performance in the 2020/21 season, Asamoah emerged as a top transfer target for several clubs including the two most glamorous teams in Ghana Football — Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak.
He previously had stint at West African Football Academy SC before sealing a move to Ebusua Dwarfs prior to the start of the 2020/21 Ghana Premier League season.
The highly-rated midfielder was handed a maiden call-up to the senior national team of Ghana by CK Akonnor for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations double-header qualifiers against South Africa and Sao Tome in June.
Asamoah managed to score three goals in his 33 game outings for Ebusua Dwarfs in the just ended season.
-Kickgh
Caf approves GFA’s request to allow fans into Cape Coast Stadium for Black Stars vs Ethiopia World Cup qualifier
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has approved Ghana’s request to admit spectators for Ghana’s Group G FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 qualifier against Ethiopia.
CAF did not grant the full 25% request of the Ghana Football Association but approved Two Thousand Two Hundred and Fifty (2,250) spectators for the match.
The approval letter signed by CAF Development Officer Raul Chipenda to GFA General Secretary, Prosper Harrison Addo, Esq. read:
‘’As is it known, we would like to reiterate that the CAF and FIFA covid-19 match Protocols clearly state that all matches must be played behind closed doors. Nonetheless, CAF analysed and assessed your request from a medical, stadium requirements compliance, and safety & security perspective in your venue. Accordingly, a decision has been taken to exceptionally allow the presence of 2,250 spectators in the aforementioned match”.
The letter went on to warn that “we kindly ask your cooperation to fully comply with the above decision, while noting that in case of non-respect, your federation will be subject to disciplinary sanctions by CAF’’.
Per the requirements of the Protocols, the Safety and Security Officer of the GFA, Julius Ben Enumah shall together with all the relevant stakeholders including the COVID-19 Officer, Dr. Christine Baah ensure strict adherence of the directive.
The GFA consequently advise all Ghanaians to obey all the Protocols strictly to first and foremost have a successful match and also to avoid any sanctions from CAF and FIFA.
The Group G encounter between Ghana and Ethiopia will kick off at 1900GMT on Friday, September 3, 2021.
GFA
Kotoko board chairman excuses himself from much-awaited board meeting
The chairman of the board of directors was present at the meeting but was later seen driving away from the venue
Asante Kotoko board chairman Osikani Kwame Kyei sought for permission to excuse himself from the much-anticipated board meeting which is currently ongoing at the Golden Tulip Hotel in Kumasi.
Earlier scheduled to take place at the club’s training ground at Adako Jachie in Kumasi, the meeting was later to moved to Golden Tulip for security reasons.
Although, the board chairman was present before the meeting commenced, he respectfully sought permission from the other members to attend to a pressing family issue.
Reports in the local media suggest that Osikani Kyei told the other board members a family member has been confirmed dead and as a leader in his family, he is required to be present before any other decision concerning the departed soul can be concluded.
The rest of the board members began continued with the meeting and called on the National Circles Council to know what is currently happening with the supporters front of the club.
Later, they invited the club’s chief executive officer, Nana Yaw Amponsah to give his report on the immediate past season and explain why the club went trophyless as well as they way forward.
Source:Ashesgyamera
Cristiano Ronaldo breaks men’s international scoring record with brace against Ireland
Cristiano Ronaldo broke the world record for goals scored in men’s international football as he hit his 110th and 111th goals for Portugal in their dramatic 2-1 World Cup qualifying win over the Republic of Ireland.
The 36-year-old scored two late headers – to break and extend the record – after he had a penalty saved by Gavin Bazunu.
Ali Daei, who scored 109 goals for Iran between 1993 and 2006, held the record which Ronaldo equalled with a double against France at Euro 2020.
The Manchester United forward has also equalled Sergio Ramos’ European record for men’s caps – with his 180th Portugal appearance.
The world record – only ratified by Fifa this summer – is the 195 Malaysia caps won by Soh Chin Ann between 1969 and 1984.
Ronaldo, who rejoined United from Juventus on deadline day, and Daei are the only two male players to score 90 or more international goals.
“I’m so happy, not only because I beat the record, but for the special moment that we had,” he told RTE. “Two goals at the end of the game. I have to appreciate what the team did, we believed until the end. I’m so glad.”
This is the latest landmark to push the argument for the Portuguese to be considered an all-time great.
He is already the top scorer in club football’s top tournament, the European Cup/Champions League, a trophy he has won five times.
The former Real Madrid forward is also the top scorer in European Championship history (14) and in Euros and World Cups combined (21).
How his international goals have come
| What tournaments have they come in? |
|---|
| 33 – World Cup qualifiers |
| 31 – European Championship qualifiers |
| 19 – International friendlies |
| 14 – European Championship |
Almost half of Ronaldo’s goals have come in the final 30 minutes of games.
He has netted 33 times in the final 15 minutes – including twice against the Irish – and 22 times between the 61st and 75th minute.
Ronaldo has scored 17 times between minutes 16-30 and 16 times between 31-45, with 11 in the opening 15 minutes of the first half and 12 in the opening 15 minutes of the second half.
Some 91 of his goals have been inside the box with 20 from outside. He has scored 14 penalties and nine free-kicks.
Lithuania and Sweden – seven each – are the sides he has scored the most against. He had not scored against the Republic of Ireland before Wednesday’s game in the Algarve.
How Ronaldo’s record stacks up
There is no official database for top men’s international goalscorers which makes it hard to say exactly who ranks where.
Ronaldo is top on 111 and Daei is next on 109, of that there is no doubt.
Iran’s Daei, who played for Bayern Munich, was said to have broken Hungarian legend Ferenc Puskas’ record in 2003 with his 85th international goal. That is the year Ronaldo made his international debut.
Cynics could argue that Daei’s goals were against easier opposition – with 95 against fellow Asian sides.
He scored eight against the Maldives and Laos and six against Lebanon.
But Ronaldo has also benefitted from facing weaker nations including six against Andorra and Luxembourg each.
The only question is who ranks below them? Mokhtar Dahari of Malaysia – who played in the 1970s and 80s – is credited as being third in some places with 89 goals. A Fifa tweet this summer seemed to confirm that, despite it never being officially validated.
Puskas is definitely next, with 84 goals in 85 caps for Hungary. He was the top-scoring European before Ronaldo.
Zambia’s Godfrey Chitalu scored 79 goals between the 1960s and 1980s – again not certified but also mentioned on that Fifa tweet.
Ronaldo is unlikely to beat the world record, including women’s football, of Canada striker Christine Sinclair. She has scored 187 goals in 304 caps and has not yet retired.
Ronaldo gets one over on Messi
In the strange modern-day phenomena of Ronaldo and Lionel Messi fanboys, this is another tick in the Ronaldo column.
Ronaldo’s 111 goals in 180 games is well clear of Messi’s 76 in 151 – roughly 0.6 goals a game compared with 0.5.
Messi – the joint eighth top scorer in the world – is 34 and on current form would need to play into his forties to reach 111 international goals.
Ronaldo’s remarkable international career
The highlight of Ronaldo’s international career was undoubtedly winning Euro 2016, although he went off injured early in the final.
He has scored in two Euros semi-finals too, 12 years apart – against the Netherlands in 2004 and Wales in 2016.
His finest hour at a World Cup was a hat-trick against Spain in the group stages three years ago in Russia, including a late free-kick. That is one of his nine international hat-tricks – including one against Switzerland in the 2019 Uefa Nations League semi-finals.
He has also scored in all nine major tournaments he has played in – World Cups and European Championships. Including the Confederations Cup and Nations League, he has scored in 11 out of 11.
He won the Golden Boot at Euro 2020 with five goals in four games, beating five-goal Czech Patrik Schick on assists.
source: BBC
‘Gov’t will ensure successful World Cup qualifying campaign’ – Sports Minister
Ghana’s Youth and Sports Minister Mustapha Ussif (Hon.) has stressed on Government’s commitment to ensure that the Black Stars qualify for the 2022 Fifa World Cup in Qatar.
Ghana – who have made three World Cup appearances between 2006 and 2014 – missed the ticket to the last edition in Russia.
In a brief breakfast meeting Tuesday morning, Mustapha Ussif emphasized the need for the players to fight hard to lift the flag of Ghana very high.
‘’I bring you greetings from H.E President of the Republic Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo- Addo, the man who himself is a sports enthusiast.
“Everybody knows that he likes football and as you embark on this journey, a journey that every single Ghanaian is looking forward to’’ the Yabaga-Kubore lawmaker said.
‘’The campaign that you are about to launch – he said I should bring his goodwill message and best wishes to you before you embark on this journey and that is why I am here to deliver that message.”
He continued: “You can’t send the army to the battle without ammunition – they will be defeated. So the campaign we are going to embark on, on the Government side we are going to ensure that everything is done so that you will have a very fruitful campaign.
‘’We know, we cherish each and every one of you, to have the opportunity of wearing the colours of the Black Stars is a pride and we know that the calibre of people sitting in this room going to represent us both in the World Cup qualifiers and the Afcon, we have no doubt at all that we going to perform and deliver and lift the flag of Ghana very high.”
‘’Anytime the Black Stars qualifies and participates in the World Cup the whole continent looks up to Ghana. You can talk of what happened in Germany and South Africa so we have rich history when it comes to the World Cup.
‘’What you have done in the past have left a big hole for you come and fill and I have no doubt you are going to deliver.
‘’So I am here to deliver a short message and the message to assure you that we totally cherish you. Whatever that Government is going to do to ensure that this campaign becomes successful,” the GFA quoted the Sports Minister as saying.
Ghana’s best outing at the Fifa World Cup finals came at South Africa 2010 when the Black Stars were cruelly denied a semifinal berth after a penalty shootout defeat to Uruguay.
After missing the Russia 2018 edition, the Black Stars have another go at making it to the World Cup by battling for a final round slot from Group G of the African qualifiers where they are to battle the likes of Ethiopia, South Africa and Zimbabwe.
©Footyghana
Malian referees to officiate CI Kamsar vs Hearts Of Oak Champions League preliminary round first-leg clash
The continent’s football governing body has named the Malian referees to handle the preliminary round fixture involving the Phobians
Caf has officially confirmed that Malian referee Ibrahima Keita Sory will be the centre referee when CI Kamsar host Ghana champions Hearts of Oak in the preliminary round of the 2021/22 Caf Champions League.
The game has been scheduled for September 12 and it will kick off on 4pm Ghana time at the Nongo-Stade General Lansana Conte in Conakry.
Sory will be assisted by countrymen Drissa Kamory Naire and Amadou Belly Guisse Amadou as line one and two respectively.
Also, Harouna Coulibaly from Mali will be fourth referee while Oner Kouame Dehoule from Cote D’Ivoire acts as the Match Commissioner.
Senegalese Fadouma Dia Dia will play the role as match assessor whiles Mohamed Tafsir Soumah from Guinea performs the role as Covid-19 protocol officer.
Sory was part of the referees that officiated the 2021 WAFU U-17 tournament for West Africa Zone A.
Hearts have began their preparations for the game will play Adabraka Elders FC in their first friendly game on Wednesday before they face a foreign club to conclude their fine tuning.
The Phobians will depart Ghana on September 10 for Guinea and will return to the country hours after the first leg to prepare for the return fixture which will take place at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 19.
Source: Ashesgyamera