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Former Kotoko striker Mark Adu-Amofah joins US army

The one-time budding talent has called it a quit in football and now serves as a military man in United States

Former Asante Kotoko striker Mark Adu-Amofah is now a member of United States of America’s military after quitting football.

The 34-year-old who was very quick and had an eye for goal played in Ghana Premier League with Liberty Professionals before joining Asante Kotoko in 2010.

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Amofah scored 21 goals in all competitions for Kotoko during his stint with the Kumasi-based giants and last played for Bahrani club FC Sitra before moving to the United States.

It was in United States that he opted to hang his boots and switch attention to military work.

Amofah, who also had stints with South African Premier Soccer League side Bloemfontein Celtic, is among top former Ghana Premier League players who have now ventured into a different field in United States.

FIVE LESSONS WE LEARNED FROM KOTOKO’S VICTORY OVER GOLD STARS IN BIBIANI

Asante Kotoko have made it three wins out of three in Ghana Premier League under new coach Prosper Ogum Narteh. The Porcupine Warriors are gradually confirming why they are title contenders despite some doubters initially writing them off but what were some of the lessons picked from the cagey encounter at the Dun’s Park in Bibiani on Friday?

AshesGyamera.com’s editor-in-chief, Evans Gyamera-Antwi, has highlighted five major talking points from the game.

Isaac Oppong is the new jewelry

Unlike Stephen Amankonah who has failed to live up to the expectations so far, youngster Isaac Oppong’s performance is in stark contrast to his counterpart further north. Sunyani Neymar, as he is affectionately called by a section of the supporters, has enjoyed a dream start since arriving at Kotoko from third-tier side Bectaro Sasana in Sunyani.

The 18-year-old has been directly involved in five of the six goals scored by Kotoko after three games. He has scored two goals including the winner against Gold Stars on Friday and provided three assists.

When he was handed a start in the away game against Gold Stars, many thought he may struggle but he proved doubters wrong. If Felix Afena-Gyan can be given a call up to Ghana’s senior national team for playing only two games for AS Roma in Serie A, Oppong deserves same. He is a cash cow for Kotoko now then never and needs guidance as well as protections.

Gold Stars have quality to stay up

Although, the debutants lost narrowly to Kotoko at home, it wouldn’t be a surprise to this writer and many people, who watched the game if Gold Stars avoid relegation after the season. The Bibiani-based side have quality and only need to bury the few chances they get especially against the cathedrals of Ghana Premier League.

They bossed the midfield against Kotoko and caused a lot of troubles to the visitors backline. It is now not a surprise that they defeated Berekum Chelsea on opening day and shared the spoils with Medeama away.

Michael Osei is really building one of the fanciest sides in the league and apart from Kotoko and Hearts who may bully their way through in Bibiani, the rest of the clubs may not leave Sefwi with even a point.

Beside, the 25 per cent stadium capacity to be filled by supporters due to Covid-19 protocols doesn’t work in Bibiani – at least we’ve seen the games vs. Chelsea and Kotoko. Therefore, the huge spectatorship during home games will be enough to intimidate away teams since the fans are very close to the action in the facility.

Appau & Agyemang show Mubarik how it is done

Kotoko were not in pitiful shape without their captain Abdul Ganiu Ismail who is on international duties with Ghana. It all amounted to the fact that defender Yussif Mubarik who struggled against Bechem was dropped and Andrew Appau as well as Maxwell Agyemang were handed their debut game of the season.

The duo redeemed themselves and proved that Mubarik’s farcical getaways may not be tolerated by Ogum again as he has been leaning so heavily on Ganiu’s talents to cover his blushes. Kotoko never missed Ganiu nor his partner Mubarik against Gold Stars, as the new pair in central defence showed beyond a doubt how far their individual magnificence papers over the cracks.

Also, Richard Boadu ‘Agadas’ was superb in defensive midfield role. Mudasiru Salifu had been playing this position and although he was struggling, Ogum was adamant to the calls from supporters for a change of roles but when he adhered to the growing concerns, Kotoko had some stability in midfield against Gold Stars. It helped them to grind results from an unfavourable position.

Kotoko must score early goals in games

Prosper Ogum Narteh’s side is getting all the praises for winning their first three games of the season, however, they need to improve in their goal scoring records. According to those who believe in numerology, Kotoko have won their first three games of the season just like they did in 2013/14 where they went on to win the league title.

That season, their midfielder Augustine Okrah had just left the club to join Bechem United and the same thing has happened this time around. Okrah left Kotoko in July and has signed for Bechem.

In spite of this, Kotoko must improve their goal scoring records as they have struggled to hit the back of the net in first halves of the games played so far.

All the six goals scored this season have been after the break and it means that should any club score first against Kotoko, they may struggle to equalise and further win the game.

From Villain to Hero

Razak Abalora came under a lot of criticisms, especially during the dying embers of last season as he conceded some ‘cheap’ goals.

He was constantly criticised by the club’s supporters because a section of them felt he was not good enough to replace former captain Felix Annan. The troubles at club side ate deep into the young shot-stopper and affected his performance at national level. In the end, Abalora lost his place in Ghana’s squad.

However, he has been one of the most important players this season for Kotoko. Abalora has made some crucial saves especially the last ditch effort from Gold Stars striker Prince Adu to win the day for Kotoko. It is not surprising that he has two clean sheets after three games and supporters are beginning to accept him as their own.

The next home game against Techiman Eleven Wonders at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium will prove whether Kotoko can continue with their incredible start or it was just a nine-day wonder.

Gold Stars dominated Asante Kotoko but weren’t lucky, says Michael Osei

The debutants boss says his side deserved something better than a defeat after dominating the Porcupine Warriors throughout the game

Bibiani Gold Stars coach Michael Osei believes his side were better than Asante Kotoko despite losing 1-0 in Ghana Premier League matchday three fixture played at the Dun’s Park in Bibiani on Friday.

A second half goal from 18-year-old Isaac Oppong ‘Neymar’ was all what Kotoko need to break down a resilient defence of Gold Stars.

The victory means that Kotoko have picked three wins in a row while Gold Stars have tasted their first defeat at home after almost two years.

“First of all, Let me congratulate my boys for such performance. They did their best today but we were just unlucky to concede that goal,” Osei said after the game.

“It’s very painful that we couldn’t get at least a point today [against Asante Kotoko] because it was a game that we dominated and controlled the entire duration with several goal glaring opportunities”

 
“Defeat is part of the game but it is very painful to lose such points to Asante Kotoko. We’ll continue to work hard for the subsequent games” he concluded.

Kotoko, who will host Techiman Eleven Wonders next, now top the log with nine points, three points ahead of second place King Faisal who face Ashanti Gold in Ashanti derby at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday.

Gold Stars 0-1 Asante Kotoko: Oppong Neymar’s effort gives Fabulous a flawless victory in Bibiani

The Porcupine Warriors have made it three wins out of three as they strengthen their lead on top of the league log

Asante Kotoko defeated Bibiani Gold Stars 1-0 on matchday three of Ghana Premier League at the Dun’s Park in Bibiani on Friday.

Despite struggling to defeat Bechem United five days ago, the Porcupine Warriors laboured once again to pick another priceless win at a venue they were making their first appearance.

Kotoko coach Prosper Ogum Narteh made four changes in the squad that defeated Bechem United 2-0 last weekend.

Abdul Ganiu Ismail missed the game since he is on international duties with Ghana and his place was given to Andre Appau while Maxwell Agyemang took over from Mubarik Yussif.

Stephen Amankonah was also dropped while Richard Boadu ‘Agadas’ made his debut start for Kotoko in midfield to partner Mudasiru Salifu and Richmond Lamptey while Fabio Gama partnered youngster Isaac Oppong Neymar and Samuel Boateng upfront.

After both side struggled to create clear cut chances, Gold Stars had an opportunity to open the scoring but Kingsford Boafo’s effort was saved by goalkeeper Razak Abalora.

After the break, Kotoko pushed men forward for the opener with Boateng and Oppong causing troubles.

On 55th minute, Kotoko finally found an opening. Oppong capitalised on a lose ball and calmly slotted in the ball beyond the reach of Gold Stars goalkeeper

Deep in additional time, Gold Stars had the best of opportunities to level the scoring. However striker Prince Owusu fluffed the chance to break the hearts of the vociferous home supporters.

Kotoko have now opened up a three point lead following the win as the rest of the matchday games will be played on Saturday and Sunday.

Gold Stars vs Asante Kotoko; Porcupines storm Bibiani in search of three points

Ghana Premier League table toppers Asante Kotoko have stormed Bibiani to battle Gold Stars in matchday three at the Dun’s Park.

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Kotoko are sitting top of the log with six points from two games and Gold Stars are with four points after defeating Berekum Chelsea on opening day and sharing the spoils 1-1 with Medeama on Tuesday.

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Prosper Ogum makes four changes in Kotoko XI vs Gold Stars in Bibiani; Mubarik, Amankonah benched

The Porcupine Warriors has made four changes in his setup as they take on the debutants in the first game of the weekend

Asante Kotoko head coach Prosper Ogum Narteh has changed his starting line up for the first time since he took over the club as they prepare to face Gold Stars in matchday three of Ghana Premier League at Bibiani on Friday.

With captain Abdul Ganiu Ismail on international duties with Ghana, his place has been given to Andre Appau while Maxwell Agyemang takes over from Mubarik Yussif after he was hugely exposed by Augustine Okrah in their last game against Bechem United.

Also, Stephen Amankonah has been dropped to the bench after failing to impress in the two games he has started. As a result, Richard Boadu ‘Agadas’ comes into the starting team to play the defensive midfield role.

Mudasiru has been pushed forward and Richmond Lamptey will takeover Amankonah’s position.

However, Isaac Oppong who has been a super sub for Kotoko has also been handed a starting role and will replace Joseph Amoako who started all the two games against Dreams FC and Bechem United.

Kotoko are topping the log with six points, two points above Gold Stars who are also yet to taste defeat.

The new entrants won on opening day against Berekum Chelsea and shared the spoils 1-1 against Medeama on Tuesday.

Kotoko XI vs Gold Stars:

Razak Abalora (C)

Christopher Nettey

Patrick Asmah

Maxwell Agyemang

Andrews Appau

Richard Boadu

Mudasiru Salifu

Richmond Lamptey

Fabio Gama

Isaac Oppong

Samuel Boateng

WATCH LIVE: South Africa vs Zimbabwe: Result will determines Ghana’s chances in 2022 Fifa World Cup

The Bafana Bafana take on the Zimbabwes this evening at the Soccer City Sports Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa.

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A win is imminent for South Africa as that will enhance their chances of making it out of Group G as winners ahead of Ghana

South Africa will travel to Ghana on Sunday for the final game of the qualifiers at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium.

Ethiopia 1-1 Ghana; Ayew’s goal saves Black Stars blushes, World Cup qualification in limbo

The Black Stars failed to win the all-important away game against the Walias Antelopes in South Africa on Thursday

Ghana shared the spoils 1-1 with Ethiopia in the penultimate game of the 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifiers at the Orlando Sports Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa on Thursday.

Milovan Rajevac maintained goalkeeper Jojo Wollacot in post but made two changes in the defence. Joseph Aidoo replaced suspended Alexander Djiku while Andy Yiadom was brought on board as Daniel Amartey switched to central defence role following Johnathan Mensah absence due to injury relay.

Also, captain Andre Ayew returned to the squad after being dropped to the substitute bench in the last game against Zimbabwe in Harare, while striker Richmond Boakye Yiadom who surprisingly had a call up after two years away led the attack for Ghana and was supported by Ayew. Crystal Palace forward Jordan Ayew and Kamaldeen Sulemana started on the flanks.

Yiadom came close to break the deadlock after ten minutes but he couldn’t guide his effort on target.

The Black Stars finally found an opening to score the opening goal on the 20th minute, after Yiadom was brought down on the edge of Ethiopia’s penalty box. Andre Ayew curled the resulting free-kick beyond the reach of the goalkeeper.

After the break, Ghana struggled to exert themselves on Ethiopia.

On the 72nd, Getaneh Kebede capitalised on a poor defence to equalise for Ethiopia to the surprise of the Ghanaians in the stadium.

The Black Stars will now hope that South Africa drop points against Zimbabwe later in the days as the two countries meet at the FNB Sports Stadium.

Ghana will host South Africa in the last round of matches on Sunday at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium.

LIVE: Ethiopia vs Ghana in 2022 Fifa World Cup qualifiers

The Black Stars take on the Walias Antelopes this afternoon at the Orlando Sports Stadium in Johannesburg, South Africa.

A win is imminent for Ghana as that will brighten their chances of making it out of Group G as winners.

After a pulsating opening ten minutes, Ghana improved and began to cause troubles in the Ethiopia box.

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Boakye Yiadom came close to opening the scoring by the 13th minute but his effort was saved. Seven minutes later, he was brought down on the edge of the box and Andre Ayew curled his resulting free-kick into the net.

The opening goal gave Ghana some breathing space but Ethiopia soon doubled their efforts in search of the equaliser.

Happy birthday Hearts of Oak: 11-11-1911

On this day 11 November 1911 (Exactly 109 years ago today) Accra Hearts of Oak was born at Ussher Town 110 years ago today.

Football was introduced into Ghana at the turn of the 20th century. In 1910, the first football club was formed in Accra.

The name chosen was The Invincibles and the club comprised mainly young men from the James Town area.

The need for a rival club was soon evident and the response to this was the birth of what now stands as the oldest surviving club and still one of the most outstanding clubs in the country’s history, Accra Hearts of Oak.

Hearts of Oak actually began in the middle of 1910 when young men from Ussher Town started practicing with a tennis ball.

Towards the end of the year, a young man from Saltpond, where the game had been played earlier, came to Accra and took up the training of the players. His name was Akom Duncan. By 1911, Hearts of Oak, with Mr Akom Duncan as their captain, were ready to take on the Invincibles.

The most memorable date for Hearts of Oak, in this period, was November 11, 1911 which has become the anniversary of the formation of the club. This was the date on which Hearts of Oak out-doored with jerseys and formally bound themselves into the giant club it was to be.

The outdooring ceremony was conducted with tradition. All the players met at the home of a Captain Mark Nettey at Ussher Town. From there, they moved to the Korle Lagoon at the Old Fadama Railway Crossing, bathed in the Lagoon for some minutes and then put on the jerseys.

All dressed up in their jerseys, they marched to an open space nearby (where now the Royal Cinema stands) and put up two posts. Hearts not only had their jerseys but also a park on which to train and play.

No officers were elected for the club. All the members were players and they all accepted the leadership of Akom Duncan.

Some of the players were William A. Simeon-Okraku, C.B Nettey who was to become chairman of the Accra Football Association later, J.T.O Ankrah, father of the first West African Commonwealth boxing champion and later national amateur boxing coach, Roy Ankrah, J.A Aryee, Dodoo Annang, Darku Abbey, Mark Nettey, Amponsah Solomon, Kwashie Solomon, W.W. Bruce-Tagoe, T.F. Bruce-Tagoe, William Ocran, Yao Foli Wilson, J.D Kwaku Botwe, Peter Malm, Quarshie Coker, Adolf Simeon-Okraku, Alfred Simeon-Okraku and teacher F.D. Amoo.

Matches were played regularly between Hearts of Oak and the Invincibles, with each side winning in turns. The interest generated by these matches inspired the formation of several other clubs in the succeeding months.

Football was expanding in Accra and the competition had become all the keener. Hearts of Oak acquired a new park, at the spot where the headquarters of the Electricity Corporation of Ghana stands.

The club found a Patron in the late Hanson Sackey, an auctioneer who was the father figure of the club in the formative years.

In 1914, Capt. Nettey was appointed the first secretary. These appointments gave the club a functional structure which other clubs lacked.

In 1917, Hearts decided to change its colours. Mr T.F. Bruce-Tagoe, popularly known as Teacher Bruce-Tagoe, designed the new rainbow colours (red, yellow and blue) and, with the approval of the executive, placed an order for the jerseys from Manchester.

When the jersey arrived, a match was arranged with Invincibles, the first club formed in Accra. It was played at the London Park, which is the present site of the James Town Police Station. Hearts won, 1-0.

But what attracted the crowd was not so much the manner of play as the bright jerseys of Hearts. This drew both spectators and some players of Invincibles to the Hearts camp after the match and thereafter, several players from other clubs began streaming into the club in the hope of wearing the bright jerseys.

Hearts proceeded to elect their first chairman, the late S.Q. Nelson, an engineer, who had played football in Nigeria.

Shortly after the outdooring of the new jerseys, a match was arranged with Steadfast who were later to become the closest rival of Hearts in the city.

The excitement created by this match was great and on the eve of the match, word spread around that Standfast had obtained some miracle which would make any Hearts player attempting to score a goal go blind. Such stories were not to be taken lightly in those days and some Hearts players were evidently reluctant to shoot at goal.

The exception was a young boy who had returned from Nigeria and was attending the Government Boys School in Accra. This young school boy found his way into the team as a result of the reluctance of some senior players to risk going blind. As soon as the team entered the field, he walked to the goalkeeper and told him: “Now let’s see if I will see you in the goal or not.”

That schoolboy was Okoe Tetteh. He proceeded to score two goals – the only goals of the match – and Hearts won without having any blind men to care for.

Hearts of Oak marks 110th anniversary today: Find out how the club was formed