http://ghanasoccernet.com Ghanasoccernet.com brings to you the latest news on Ghana soccer, soccer, Ghana league, league Sunday, England league, league fantasy, Spain league, Italy league, France league, Nigeria league, Germany league, Egypt league, fantasy football, English football, English football league, football, world football, football news, etc. Fri, 24 Jun 2011 06:04:25 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 en hourly 1 http://ghanasoccernet.com/nyantakyi-shows-early-signs-of-delivering-on-his-promises/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/nyantakyi-shows-early-signs-of-delivering-on-his-promises/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2011 06:04:20 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32497
Kwesi Nyantakyi keen on improving Ghana football
Ghana FA boss Kwesi Nyantakyi has hit the ground running in his second term of office by delivering on some of his promises after just one week.
The 43-year-old promised last week, when he was re-elected, to massively improve the local league which has been in the doldrums.
He also vowed to continue to use football to promote good causes in the country while concentrating also on improving the youth national teams.
The Caf Executive Committee member stated his keenness on getting goalkeeeper Adam Kwarasey’s nationality switch approved.
In his first attempt to revive the local league, the GFA is seeking expert advice from Sir Dave Richards who arrives in the country on Friday to hold meetings with key stakeholders which shows Nyantakyi seriousness in dealing with the problem of the league.
His promise to get Kwarasey approved for the Black Stars has also been fulfilled as the ex-Norway youth international has been cleared to play for Ghana.
This week also Nyantakyi travelled with Emmanuel Adebayor to the Wa and Koro to provide water for the two needy communities, using the game as a force for good.
The country U23 side has sent a strong team to Nigeria for their All African Games qualifier which shows the serious in improving the fortunes of the junior national team.
If Nyantakyi delivers on all his promises including the short-term and long-term promises, Ghana football will be back of its feet.
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32492
Ghana FA is keen on improving the standards of the local league
The chairman of the English Premier League Sir Dave Richards will arrive in Ghana on Friday on an official visit aimed at helping the West African country improve its local league.
The visit has been organised by the Ghana FA boss Kwesi Nyantakyi as part of his efforts to improve the game in the country in his second term of office.
Sir Richards, who controls the most talked about league in the world, the English Premier League, will start his duties in Ghana on Saturday
He will hold several meetings with various stakeholders geared towards upping the standard of the Ghanaian elite division.
He will also help in the formulating of guidelines aimed at raising the level of the Ghana Premier League in the areas of marketing, sponsorship and broadcast rights.
Sir Richards, who is also Chairman of the International Committee of the England FA has been Chairman of the EPL since 1999.
The league has been struggling because of waning interest but Nyantakyi has vowed to arrest the slide with measures aimed at improving the game.
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/english-premier-league-boss-set-to-arrive-in-ghana-to-help-boost-local-game/feed/ 0 http://ghanasoccernet.com/african-origin-named-official-travel-partner-for-ghana-nigeria-clash-in-london/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/african-origin-named-official-travel-partner-for-ghana-nigeria-clash-in-london/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2011 04:47:54 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32487
Justin Addo (left) seal travel deal with Samson Deen (right) with journalist Asare Brako witnessing
Organizers of the Ghana-Nigeria friendly in London in August have named African Origin Travel and Sports Tourism as their sole official travel partner for the match.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ghana High Commission immediately after the media launch of the friendly match in London this week.
The much-anticipated match will be played on 9 August at Vicarage Road, the home pitch for Watford Football Club.
African Origin Travel and Sports Tourism have been tasked with bringing fans from Ghana to support the Black Stars during the match.
The official match partner has been given all the 1,000 tickets meant for fans coming for the game from Ghana.
Match organizer Justin Addo given says given their experience in organizing support for the various national teams throughout Ghana, African Origin has been given the sole mandate to bring the fans in.
“African Origin are our official travel partners for this game and it is the reason why they have all the 1,000 tickets meant for fans coming from Ghana,” Addo told GHANAsoccernet.com.
“They have the experience and expertise in not only bringing the fans but also making their tour of England an good experience.”
African Origin will organize fans not only for the match but also for them to tour historic places in London like the Big Ben, The House of Parliament, Trafalgar Square and the BBC Bush House Building.
The fans will also visit Wembley Stadium, the Chelsea Stadium at Stamford Bridge and Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium before Ghana takes on Nigeria.
The specialists in sports tourism says they want to make the experience of Ghanaian fans travelling for the game a memorable one.
“We have put together a comprehensive plan of making fans experience the beauty and intensity of a Ghana-Nigeria match and also for them to see the historic places in London, Samson Deen, the CEO of African Origin Travel and Sports Tourism said.
“Apart from the match fans from Ghana will get an exclusive tour of London and some of the great stadiums of English football and get to know the history of clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal.”
The game will be the second meeting between the two sides in England after Ghana thumped Nigeria 4-1 in their last friendly meeting back in 2007.
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32478
Ibrahim Tanko (center) examines the run by Cologne player Christian Eichner (right).
Former Ghana striker Ibrahim Tanko has become the first African to coach a German Bundesliga side after taking full charge of FC Cologne on Thursday.
The 33-year-old was appointed as an assistant coach of the club last week which made waves in Germany.
But with substantive trainer Stale Solbakken scheduled to arrive next week, Tanko has taken full charge of pre-season training.
Tanko, a former Borrusia Dortmund player, prematurely ended his playing because of a knee injury four years ago and turned to coaching.
Ex-Ghana international striker Ibrahim Tanko has been appointed as an assistant coach of German Bundesliga side Cologne.
Tanko was the co-coach of Japanese top-flight side Urawa Red Diamonds before he quit the post at the end of last season.
Please watch video of Tanko’s training session on Thursday:
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/ex-ghana-striker-tanko-takes-full-charge-of-fc-cologne/feed/ 2 http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-u23-unhappy-with-facilities-in-benin-city-ahead-of-qualifier-against-nigeria/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-u23-unhappy-with-facilities-in-benin-city-ahead-of-qualifier-against-nigeria/#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 21:02:44 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32470
Akwesi Appiah is Ghana Under-23 coach
Ghana’s Under-23 team have complained about poor facilities in Benin City, Nigeria, ahead of the All Africa Games final qualifying round first leg tie on Saturday, GHANAsoccernet.com understands.
The Black Meteors arrived on Thursday morning and checked in at the Isno Hotel.
The team had to abandon an evening warm-up exercise because of the poor state of the training pitch.
“It’s like a school park and a dumping site with people also defecating somewhere. We are all shocked and at to shake down at the hotel,” an exasperated player told GHANAsoccernet.com
The Meteors will train at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Stadium, venue for the cagey qualifier.
The food served at the hotel for supper was inadequate for the 28-man contingent and some had to eat their rice without chicken.
The winner of the two-legged will qualify for the Games in Maputo, Mozambique in September this year.
Ghana squad
Goalkeepers: Joe Addo (Heart of Lions), Daniel Agyei (Liberty Professionals)
Defenders: Daniel Addo (FC Zorya), Ahmed Adams (Berekum Chelsea), Daniel Opare (Standard Liege), Samuel Inkoom (FC Dnipro), David Addy (FC Porto), Masawuhudu Alhassan (Genoa), Jonathan Mensah (Granada)
Midfielders: Mubarak Wakaso (Villarreal), Rabiu Mohammed (Udinese), Afriyie Acquah (Palermo), Gladson Awako (Berekum Chelsea), Emmanuel Agyeman-Badu (Udinese), Isaac Cofie (Genoa), Richard Mpong (Medeama SC)
Strikers: Dominic Adiyiah (AC Milan), William Owusu Acheampong (Sporting Lisbon), Richmond Boakye-Yiadom (Genoa), Jordan Ayew (Olympique Marseille).
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32466
By Akyereko Frimpong-Manson
Christian Atsu during his unveiling ceremony at FC Porto
Ghanaian teenager Christian Atsu Twasam has mourned the departure of coach Andre Villas-Boas to English side Chelsea as a personal loss.
The 19-year-old, on loan from local side Cheetah FC, was promoted to the Porto first team during Villas-Boas’ reign and was on the bench in their 2-0 triumph over Maritimo in May.
Atsu is highly-rated at the Estadio do Dragao and was confident enjoying more playing time had the 33-year-old remained at the club.
“I was promoted to the first team at the close of last season and I trained under him. He is a fantastic coach and we wish he had stayed with us.Its a great loss to the club,” Atsu told GHANAsoccernet.com
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghanaian-teenager-atsu-laments-villas-boas-porto-exit/feed/ 2 http://ghanasoccernet.com/kotokos-awal-and-akuffo-to-try-out-at-dynamo-zagreb/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/kotokos-awal-and-akuffo-to-try-out-at-dynamo-zagreb/#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:52:52 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32461
By Patrick Akoto
Mohammed Awal will try out at Dynamo Zagreb
Asante Kotoko duo Michael Akuffo and Awal Mohammed are billed to begin a two-week trial with Croatian giants Dynamo Zagreb, GHANAsoccernet.com understands.
The two players are expected to leave the country by the close of the week as they seek to impress manager Krunoslav Jur?i?.
Akuffo, a defensive midfielder and centre-back Mohammed joined Kotoko in January from local side Gomoa Fetteh Feyenoord.
Dynamo Zagreb won the Croatian League and Cup double last season.
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/kotokos-awal-and-akuffo-to-try-out-at-dynamo-zagreb/feed/ 1 http://ghanasoccernet.com/israel-based-goalie-ahorlu-eyes-black-stars-return/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/israel-based-goalie-ahorlu-eyes-black-stars-return/#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:25:30 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32456
Israel-based goalie Stephen Ahorlu eyes Black Stars return
By Patrick Akoto
Israel-based goalkeeper Stephen Arholu is eyeing a return to the Ghana national team after a year absence.
Arholu, 22, sat on the bench during the 2010 Fifa World Cup finals but has been overlooked by new coach Goran Stevanovic.
With names being considered as a replacement for Richard Kingson, the Hapoel Ashkelon gloves man says he is open for a shot at the position.
“I’m still playing actively and therefore if they call me I will definitely come and help my country,” Ahorlu said.
“I’m surely available for any challenge and so when the coach gives me an opportunity, I will never hesitate for a minute and so who what I’ve got under my sleeves.”
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/israel-based-goalie-ahorlu-eyes-black-stars-return/feed/ 4 http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-defender-inkoom-lauds-derek-boateng-for-dnipro-move/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-defender-inkoom-lauds-derek-boateng-for-dnipro-move/#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:19:26 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32452
Samuel Inkoom joined FC Dnipro last January
By Patrick Akoto
Ghana defender Samuel Inkoom has hailed the decision of compatriot Derek Boateng to join him at Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk.
Boateng, 28, moved to the ambitious Ukrainian side in a mega transfer deal worth US$ 8.5m from Spanish outfit Getafe on a three-year deal on Monday.
Boateng, voted Getafe’s best player of the season by the fans, will re-unite with international team-mate Inkoom, who joined the club in January.
The ex- Asante Kotoko and Basle FC defender says Boateng who he claims has made the right choice.
“Dnipro is a club with great prospect, fantastic coach and amazing supporters and therefore I’m really excited he’s sealed the move to join me,” Inkoom said.
“The place is nice and the money too is good for him and for his future and many players will make sure bet to play there. He’s a fantastic player and I’m very sure he’ll adapt easily like I did.”
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-defender-inkoom-lauds-derek-boateng-for-dnipro-move/feed/ 10 http://ghanasoccernet.com/exclusive-asamoah-gyan-qa/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/exclusive-asamoah-gyan-qa/#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 15:57:01 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32447
Asamoah Gyan at his newly acquired home in Ghana
Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan is taking his summer holidays in his home country after playing in a tough first season in England with Premiership Sunderland.
MTNFootball.com spent some time at the Ghana international’s home in Accra to talk to him about the past season in England.
Gyan has been linked with several clubs in Europe this summer transfer window so we talk to him about his future with his English club, the Black Stars’ recent matches and the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
MTNFootball: How have you been celebrating your holidays?
AG: You would think you might be taking some rest but it’s no time to rest at all because after being away for one year, you must see and visit your family, your friends and other social programmes that I must attend to.
There are also friends and family who want to come home and visit and have a chat. So I have to make time for all – for family, for friends and for the less privileged in my country by visiting and offering some help.
We footballers who play in the top leagues of Europe are blessed and when we come back home we must look to give to those who are in need.
MTNFootball: Have you been thinking about football during your holidays?
AG: I try as much as possible not to think about but this is not only my job but also my passion and I can’t leave it. I must wake up early every morning and go jogging on the streets of Accra or in the gym.
Also I go to the place where I started playing football to play with my childhood friends to keep fit, see my childhood friends, go the neighbourhood and also entertain the people who have been supportive of me with their prayers whether when I am playing for Sunderland or playing for my country.
I always look back to my childhood with nostalgia.
MTNFootball: Have you taken stock of what happened to Sunderland last season?
AG: Yes. I always reflect on our last game so that I can improve by the next game and in the same way I have been thinking through my Sunderland’s season when I am lonely. I think about our performances, where things worked, where things did not work and would want to us to improve on what we did last season.
MTNFootball: What were your high points and low points of the English Premier League season?
AG: I think our 3-0 win over Chelsea was huge and our 1-1 draw with Newcastle in January at home was big because of the time the equaliser came. The way we finished the league was not what we expected. But as you know the injuries late in the season affected us and I think with luck on our side we will avoid this situation next season.
MTNFootball: We have read of reports of the club wanting to sell you next season. Are you on the verge of leaving?
AG: I am not leaving Sunderland and I am not interested in these rumours in the newspapers and the internet. I am fully committed to Sunderland because I love the institution and traditions of this club.
I am staying at Sunderland next season and the foreseeable future as I am looking forward to meeting my team-mates and Sunderland fans when we return next month.
MTNFootball: Lots of players have left Sunderland. What must Sunderland do to compete to honours next season?
AG: It is obvious that when some players leave some must come in and the manager has already indicated that we will have some good quality players coming in. Good players like Danny Wlebeck, John Mensah and Sulley Muntari have all left so it is natural that some will come in. We will have a junior team with good players and I think some might be promoted too.
MTNFootball: You were left all alone upfront at the end of last season. Did it affect your performance or your output?
AG: I am used to playing alone upfront for the Ghana national team but for the injuries late last season, I would have had some support which is always good. Playing alone upfront requires a lot of energy and tenacity especially in the Premier League where it’s running for 90 minutes. So help and tight team work is required to succeed when playing alone upfront.
MTNFootball: Sunderland have been linked with players like Peter Crouch to boost the attacking department of the club next season. Do you welcome the signing of such players?
AG: I cannot comment on specific players because they are under contract with other clubs so it’s unfair to ask me to comment on them signing for my club. But generally everyone will agree with me that Crouch is a good player who will boost any club at any time. It is up to my bosses at Sunderland to decide.
MTNFootball: Your national team colleagues Sulley Muntari and John Mensah have left Sunderland. You will be lonely next season if stay there.
AG: I will miss them and playing with them at Sunderland was like playing for the Black Stars. They will be missed but as you know there are many, many players at Sunderland who are friends and we will keep each other happy. There is never a dull moment!
MTNFootball: You were with the Black Stars throughout the holidays and even though you didn’t play against Congo in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, victory means you are still neck-and-neck with Sudan. Do you think you will qualify especially when you will play in Sudan in what looks like a decider on the final day?
AG: First we must play our next game against Swaziland and sweeping them aside like that is disrespectful. I think we must respect all our opponents and we should not be complacent.
These days there are no small teams in Africa. We will take one match at a time and deal with Sudan when the time comes.
But I will assure you one and that is Ghana will qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. If it means we must go to Sudan and win there, we are capable of doing it and God willing we will do it when it comes to that. We have done it before, in the game on our way to the 2010 World Cup, and we will do it again.
MTNFootball: You have played only two matches under coach Goran Stevanovic and that’s because you are serving a suspension. What is your assessment of the coach?
AG: Even if I am not playing he invites me to the squad and I am grateful for the confidence he has in me and I am working hard so that by the time I finish serving my suspension I can hit the ground running.
I will say the coach is a great coach. He comes with a different style which more attacking and he is very serious with his training sessions and very tactical. All my colleagues are comfortable with this and confident in the coach.
MTNFootball: How different do you think he is with previous coach Milovan Rajevac?
AG: Milo was very, very tactical with his approach and the system he used then was alien to Ghana football but provided the results.
The current coach provides almost what Ghanaians are used to but also very cautious with defending. In essence all the coaches have their unique styles but all aimed at winning matches for the Black Stars.
This is the bottom line – we must win our matches.
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/exclusive-asamoah-gyan-qa/feed/ 3
http://ghanasoccernet.com Ghanasoccernet.com brings to you the latest news on Ghana soccer, soccer, Ghana league, league Sunday, England league, league fantasy, Spain league, Italy league, France league, Nigeria league, Germany league, Egypt league, fantasy football, English football, English football league, football, world football, football news, etc. Fri, 24 Jun 2011 06:04:25 +0000 http://wordpress.org/?v=2.9.2 en hourly 1 http://ghanasoccernet.com/nyantakyi-shows-early-signs-of-delivering-on-his-promises/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/nyantakyi-shows-early-signs-of-delivering-on-his-promises/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2011 06:04:20 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32497
Kwesi Nyantakyi keen on improving Ghana football
Ghana FA boss Kwesi Nyantakyi has hit the ground running in his second term of office by delivering on some of his promises after just one week.
The 43-year-old promised last week, when he was re-elected, to massively improve the local league which has been in the doldrums.
He also vowed to continue to use football to promote good causes in the country while concentrating also on improving the youth national teams.
The Caf Executive Committee member stated his keenness on getting goalkeeeper Adam Kwarasey’s nationality switch approved.
In his first attempt to revive the local league, the GFA is seeking expert advice from Sir Dave Richards who arrives in the country on Friday to hold meetings with key stakeholders which shows Nyantakyi seriousness in dealing with the problem of the league.
His promise to get Kwarasey approved for the Black Stars has also been fulfilled as the ex-Norway youth international has been cleared to play for Ghana.
This week also Nyantakyi travelled with Emmanuel Adebayor to the Wa and Koro to provide water for the two needy communities, using the game as a force for good.
The country U23 side has sent a strong team to Nigeria for their All African Games qualifier which shows the serious in improving the fortunes of the junior national team.
If Nyantakyi delivers on all his promises including the short-term and long-term promises, Ghana football will be back of its feet.
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/nyantakyi-shows-early-signs-of-delivering-on-his-promises/feed/ 0 http://ghanasoccernet.com/english-premier-league-boss-set-to-arrive-in-ghana-to-help-boost-local-game/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/english-premier-league-boss-set-to-arrive-in-ghana-to-help-boost-local-game/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2011 05:32:13 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32492
Ghana FA is keen on improving the standards of the local league
The chairman of the English Premier League Sir Dave Richards will arrive in Ghana on Friday on an official visit aimed at helping the West African country improve its local league.
The visit has been organised by the Ghana FA boss Kwesi Nyantakyi as part of his efforts to improve the game in the country in his second term of office.
Sir Richards, who controls the most talked about league in the world, the English Premier League, will start his duties in Ghana on Saturday
He will hold several meetings with various stakeholders geared towards upping the standard of the Ghanaian elite division.
He will also help in the formulating of guidelines aimed at raising the level of the Ghana Premier League in the areas of marketing, sponsorship and broadcast rights.
Sir Richards, who is also Chairman of the International Committee of the England FA has been Chairman of the EPL since 1999.
The league has been struggling because of waning interest but Nyantakyi has vowed to arrest the slide with measures aimed at improving the game.
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/english-premier-league-boss-set-to-arrive-in-ghana-to-help-boost-local-game/feed/ 0 http://ghanasoccernet.com/african-origin-named-official-travel-partner-for-ghana-nigeria-clash-in-london/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/african-origin-named-official-travel-partner-for-ghana-nigeria-clash-in-london/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2011 04:47:54 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32487
Justin Addo (left) seal travel deal with Samson Deen (right) with journalist Asare Brako witnessing
Organizers of the Ghana-Nigeria friendly in London in August have named African Origin Travel and Sports Tourism as their sole official travel partner for the match.
The signing ceremony was held at the Ghana High Commission immediately after the media launch of the friendly match in London this week.
The much-anticipated match will be played on 9 August at Vicarage Road, the home pitch for Watford Football Club.
African Origin Travel and Sports Tourism have been tasked with bringing fans from Ghana to support the Black Stars during the match.
The official match partner has been given all the 1,000 tickets meant for fans coming for the game from Ghana.
Match organizer Justin Addo given says given their experience in organizing support for the various national teams throughout Ghana, African Origin has been given the sole mandate to bring the fans in.
“African Origin are our official travel partners for this game and it is the reason why they have all the 1,000 tickets meant for fans coming from Ghana,” Addo told GHANAsoccernet.com.
“They have the experience and expertise in not only bringing the fans but also making their tour of England an good experience.”
African Origin will organize fans not only for the match but also for them to tour historic places in London like the Big Ben, The House of Parliament, Trafalgar Square and the BBC Bush House Building.
The fans will also visit Wembley Stadium, the Chelsea Stadium at Stamford Bridge and Arsenal’s Emirates Stadium before Ghana takes on Nigeria.
The specialists in sports tourism says they want to make the experience of Ghanaian fans travelling for the game a memorable one.
“We have put together a comprehensive plan of making fans experience the beauty and intensity of a Ghana-Nigeria match and also for them to see the historic places in London, Samson Deen, the CEO of African Origin Travel and Sports Tourism said.
“Apart from the match fans from Ghana will get an exclusive tour of London and some of the great stadiums of English football and get to know the history of clubs like Chelsea and Arsenal.”
The game will be the second meeting between the two sides in England after Ghana thumped Nigeria 4-1 in their last friendly meeting back in 2007.
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32478
Ibrahim Tanko (center) examines the run by Cologne player Christian Eichner (right).
Former Ghana striker Ibrahim Tanko has become the first African to coach a German Bundesliga side after taking full charge of FC Cologne on Thursday.
The 33-year-old was appointed as an assistant coach of the club last week which made waves in Germany.
But with substantive trainer Stale Solbakken scheduled to arrive next week, Tanko has taken full charge of pre-season training.
Tanko, a former Borrusia Dortmund player, prematurely ended his playing because of a knee injury four years ago and turned to coaching.
Ex-Ghana international striker Ibrahim Tanko has been appointed as an assistant coach of German Bundesliga side Cologne.
Tanko was the co-coach of Japanese top-flight side Urawa Red Diamonds before he quit the post at the end of last season.
Please watch video of Tanko’s training session on Thursday:
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http://ghanasoccernet.com/ex-ghana-striker-tanko-takes-full-charge-of-fc-cologne/feed/ 2 http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-u23-unhappy-with-facilities-in-benin-city-ahead-of-qualifier-against-nigeria/ http://ghanasoccernet.com/ghana-u23-unhappy-with-facilities-in-benin-city-ahead-of-qualifier-against-nigeria/#comments Thu, 23 Jun 2011 21:02:44 +0000 admin
http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32470
Akwesi Appiah is Ghana Under-23 coach
Ghana’s Under-23 team have complained about poor facilities in Benin City, Nigeria, ahead of the All Africa Games final qualifying round first leg tie on Saturday, GHANAsoccernet.com understands.
The Black Meteors arrived on Thursday morning and checked in at the Isno Hotel.
The team had to abandon an evening warm-up exercise because of the poor state of the training pitch.
“It’s like a school park and a dumping site with people also defecating somewhere. We are all shocked and at to shake down at the hotel,” an exasperated player told GHANAsoccernet.com
The Meteors will train at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium Stadium, venue for the cagey qualifier.
The food served at the hotel for supper was inadequate for the 28-man contingent and some had to eat their rice without chicken.
The winner of the two-legged will qualify for the Games in Maputo, Mozambique in September this year.
Ghana squad
Goalkeepers: Joe Addo (Heart of Lions), Daniel Agyei (Liberty Professionals)
Defenders: Daniel Addo (FC Zorya), Ahmed Adams (Berekum Chelsea), Daniel Opare (Standard Liege), Samuel Inkoom (FC Dnipro), David Addy (FC Porto), Masawuhudu Alhassan (Genoa), Jonathan Mensah (Granada)
Midfielders: Mubarak Wakaso (Villarreal), Rabiu Mohammed (Udinese), Afriyie Acquah (Palermo), Gladson Awako (Berekum Chelsea), Emmanuel Agyeman-Badu (Udinese), Isaac Cofie (Genoa), Richard Mpong (Medeama SC)
Strikers: Dominic Adiyiah (AC Milan), William Owusu Acheampong (Sporting Lisbon), Richmond Boakye-Yiadom (Genoa), Jordan Ayew (Olympique Marseille).
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32466
By Akyereko Frimpong-Manson
Christian Atsu during his unveiling ceremony at FC Porto
Ghanaian teenager Christian Atsu Twasam has mourned the departure of coach Andre Villas-Boas to English side Chelsea as a personal loss.
The 19-year-old, on loan from local side Cheetah FC, was promoted to the Porto first team during Villas-Boas’ reign and was on the bench in their 2-0 triumph over Maritimo in May.
Atsu is highly-rated at the Estadio do Dragao and was confident enjoying more playing time had the 33-year-old remained at the club.
“I was promoted to the first team at the close of last season and I trained under him. He is a fantastic coach and we wish he had stayed with us.Its a great loss to the club,” Atsu told GHANAsoccernet.com
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32461
By Patrick Akoto
Mohammed Awal will try out at Dynamo Zagreb
Asante Kotoko duo Michael Akuffo and Awal Mohammed are billed to begin a two-week trial with Croatian giants Dynamo Zagreb, GHANAsoccernet.com understands.
The two players are expected to leave the country by the close of the week as they seek to impress manager Krunoslav Jur?i?.
Akuffo, a defensive midfielder and centre-back Mohammed joined Kotoko in January from local side Gomoa Fetteh Feyenoord.
Dynamo Zagreb won the Croatian League and Cup double last season.
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32456
Israel-based goalie Stephen Ahorlu eyes Black Stars return
By Patrick Akoto
Israel-based goalkeeper Stephen Arholu is eyeing a return to the Ghana national team after a year absence.
Arholu, 22, sat on the bench during the 2010 Fifa World Cup finals but has been overlooked by new coach Goran Stevanovic.
With names being considered as a replacement for Richard Kingson, the Hapoel Ashkelon gloves man says he is open for a shot at the position.
“I’m still playing actively and therefore if they call me I will definitely come and help my country,” Ahorlu said.
“I’m surely available for any challenge and so when the coach gives me an opportunity, I will never hesitate for a minute and so who what I’ve got under my sleeves.”
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32452
Samuel Inkoom joined FC Dnipro last January
By Patrick Akoto
Ghana defender Samuel Inkoom has hailed the decision of compatriot Derek Boateng to join him at Dnipro Dnipropetrovsk.
Boateng, 28, moved to the ambitious Ukrainian side in a mega transfer deal worth US$ 8.5m from Spanish outfit Getafe on a three-year deal on Monday.
Boateng, voted Getafe’s best player of the season by the fans, will re-unite with international team-mate Inkoom, who joined the club in January.
The ex- Asante Kotoko and Basle FC defender says Boateng who he claims has made the right choice.
“Dnipro is a club with great prospect, fantastic coach and amazing supporters and therefore I’m really excited he’s sealed the move to join me,” Inkoom said.
“The place is nice and the money too is good for him and for his future and many players will make sure bet to play there. He’s a fantastic player and I’m very sure he’ll adapt easily like I did.”
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http://www.ghanasoccernet.com/?p=32447
Asamoah Gyan at his newly acquired home in Ghana
Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan is taking his summer holidays in his home country after playing in a tough first season in England with Premiership Sunderland.
MTNFootball.com spent some time at the Ghana international’s home in Accra to talk to him about the past season in England.
Gyan has been linked with several clubs in Europe this summer transfer window so we talk to him about his future with his English club, the Black Stars’ recent matches and the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.
MTNFootball: How have you been celebrating your holidays?
AG: You would think you might be taking some rest but it’s no time to rest at all because after being away for one year, you must see and visit your family, your friends and other social programmes that I must attend to.
There are also friends and family who want to come home and visit and have a chat. So I have to make time for all – for family, for friends and for the less privileged in my country by visiting and offering some help.
We footballers who play in the top leagues of Europe are blessed and when we come back home we must look to give to those who are in need.
MTNFootball: Have you been thinking about football during your holidays?
AG: I try as much as possible not to think about but this is not only my job but also my passion and I can’t leave it. I must wake up early every morning and go jogging on the streets of Accra or in the gym.
Also I go to the place where I started playing football to play with my childhood friends to keep fit, see my childhood friends, go the neighbourhood and also entertain the people who have been supportive of me with their prayers whether when I am playing for Sunderland or playing for my country.
I always look back to my childhood with nostalgia.
MTNFootball: Have you taken stock of what happened to Sunderland last season?
AG: Yes. I always reflect on our last game so that I can improve by the next game and in the same way I have been thinking through my Sunderland’s season when I am lonely. I think about our performances, where things worked, where things did not work and would want to us to improve on what we did last season.
MTNFootball: What were your high points and low points of the English Premier League season?
AG: I think our 3-0 win over Chelsea was huge and our 1-1 draw with Newcastle in January at home was big because of the time the equaliser came. The way we finished the league was not what we expected. But as you know the injuries late in the season affected us and I think with luck on our side we will avoid this situation next season.
MTNFootball: We have read of reports of the club wanting to sell you next season. Are you on the verge of leaving?
AG: I am not leaving Sunderland and I am not interested in these rumours in the newspapers and the internet. I am fully committed to Sunderland because I love the institution and traditions of this club.
I am staying at Sunderland next season and the foreseeable future as I am looking forward to meeting my team-mates and Sunderland fans when we return next month.
MTNFootball: Lots of players have left Sunderland. What must Sunderland do to compete to honours next season?
AG: It is obvious that when some players leave some must come in and the manager has already indicated that we will have some good quality players coming in. Good players like Danny Wlebeck, John Mensah and Sulley Muntari have all left so it is natural that some will come in. We will have a junior team with good players and I think some might be promoted too.
MTNFootball: You were left all alone upfront at the end of last season. Did it affect your performance or your output?
AG: I am used to playing alone upfront for the Ghana national team but for the injuries late last season, I would have had some support which is always good. Playing alone upfront requires a lot of energy and tenacity especially in the Premier League where it’s running for 90 minutes. So help and tight team work is required to succeed when playing alone upfront.
MTNFootball: Sunderland have been linked with players like Peter Crouch to boost the attacking department of the club next season. Do you welcome the signing of such players?
AG: I cannot comment on specific players because they are under contract with other clubs so it’s unfair to ask me to comment on them signing for my club. But generally everyone will agree with me that Crouch is a good player who will boost any club at any time. It is up to my bosses at Sunderland to decide.
MTNFootball: Your national team colleagues Sulley Muntari and John Mensah have left Sunderland. You will be lonely next season if stay there.
AG: I will miss them and playing with them at Sunderland was like playing for the Black Stars. They will be missed but as you know there are many, many players at Sunderland who are friends and we will keep each other happy. There is never a dull moment!
MTNFootball: You were with the Black Stars throughout the holidays and even though you didn’t play against Congo in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, victory means you are still neck-and-neck with Sudan. Do you think you will qualify especially when you will play in Sudan in what looks like a decider on the final day?
AG: First we must play our next game against Swaziland and sweeping them aside like that is disrespectful. I think we must respect all our opponents and we should not be complacent.
These days there are no small teams in Africa. We will take one match at a time and deal with Sudan when the time comes.
But I will assure you one and that is Ghana will qualify for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. If it means we must go to Sudan and win there, we are capable of doing it and God willing we will do it when it comes to that. We have done it before, in the game on our way to the 2010 World Cup, and we will do it again.
MTNFootball: You have played only two matches under coach Goran Stevanovic and that’s because you are serving a suspension. What is your assessment of the coach?
AG: Even if I am not playing he invites me to the squad and I am grateful for the confidence he has in me and I am working hard so that by the time I finish serving my suspension I can hit the ground running.
I will say the coach is a great coach. He comes with a different style which more attacking and he is very serious with his training sessions and very tactical. All my colleagues are comfortable with this and confident in the coach.
MTNFootball: How different do you think he is with previous coach Milovan Rajevac?
AG: Milo was very, very tactical with his approach and the system he used then was alien to Ghana football but provided the results.
The current coach provides almost what Ghanaians are used to but also very cautious with defending. In essence all the coaches have their unique styles but all aimed at winning matches for the Black Stars.
This is the bottom line – we must win our matches.
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