Sunday, May 31, 2009

Caf Confed Cup weekend wrap


Manuel Jose ended his career as Al Ahly coach disastrously when the Egyptian giants were dumped out of the African Confederation Cup by Santos in Angola a few hours ago.

Ahly, winners of the African Champions League a record six times, took a 3-0 lead into the return match and even the absence of star midfielder Mohamed Aboutraika was not expected to prevent them reaching the group phase.

But a Santos team competing in Africa for the first time this year had other ideas and triumphed 3-0 in Luanda to level the aggregate score before winning the fourth-round tie 6-5 on penalties.

It was a sad exit for Jose, who stays in Luanda to take over a struggling Angolan national team from June 1 with the task of building a team capable of using home advantage to win the 2010 African Nations Cup.

Success for Santos completed a wonderful weekend for the oil-rich southern Africa nation in the second-tier African club competition, as Primeiro Agosto eliminated holders CS Sfaxien in Tunisia on Saturday, also after a shoot-out.

Primeiro lost 2-0 to Sfaxien only to convert all their post-match penalties and win the shootout 5-4, while Stade Malien of Mali outplayed Al-Ittihad Khemisset of Morocco 3-1 in Bamako to advance 4-2 on aggregate.

Nigerian side Bayelsa United are also through to the group stage after defeating Kampala City Council of Uganda 4-0.

Bayelsa go through 5-3 on aggregate.

And that's the wrap.
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Amoah fires NAC Breda into Europas

Black Stars man Matthew Amoah has put his team in the driving seat in their quest for a Europa league spot. The match was the second leg playoff against Groningen after an earlier 1-1 draw.

The goal came after 61 minutes after Appiah headed a cross home. Another was scored on 81 minutes by Csaba Feher. The match finished not long ago.

Ghana needs the man on song as the Nations Cup/World Cup qualifiers approach...and no mistake!

I'll get ya the videos later.

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The Y'ello boys...what's the catch?

Lately, I've been thinking about why telecoms giant MTN is so much into sponsoring Ghanaian football. Here's a list of their involvement (off the top of my head)

1. They used to be sponsors of the Black Stars before losing out to Glo.

2. They are headline sponsors of Hearts of Oak SC and have a great mobile marketing stratagem for the team's fans.

3. They used to sponsor Asante Kotoko FC before losing out to Tigo.

4. They sponsored the Ghana 2008 Nations Cup

5. I'm hearing that they wanna add Heart of Lions FC to their stables, too

6. They have honoured Stephen Appiah and Michael Essien in big bucks deals.

7. They are headline sponsors of King Faisal FC.

Last Friday I was at the offices of the company where they presented a brand new 53-seater Mercedes Benz bus to Accra Hearts of Oak. They said the presentation of the bus was in fulfillment of a promise made after agreeing to sponsor the Phobians in the ongoing Glo Premier League.

While presenting the bus to Accra Hearts of Oak, George Andah, Marketing Manager of MTN, said his company’s association with football was extensive.

“In addition to sponsoring football properties, the company was the title sponsor of the recent MTN Africa Cup of Nations held across Ghana and we are the proud title sponsors of the 2010 World Cup to be staged in South Africa”

Explaining further, he said MTN holds dear its association with the Phobians and therefore it believes Hearts identifies with some of the key values that drive the MTN brand in its 21 operating countries across Africa and the Middle East.

“Leadership and the ‘can-do’ spirit immediately come to mind. One needs only recall Accra Hearts of Oak’s endearing slogan- Never Say Die- to appreciate the team’s ‘can-do’ spirit”

Commodore Mensah, Board Chairman of Hearts, noted that none of the donations received in the past measures up to what MTN has done for Hearts. That's a huge endorsement, man!

He assured MTN that Hearts will go all out to replicate the 2000 and 2004 feat in Africa by winning next year’s CAF Champions’ league.

I was covering the thingy for Sports Unlimited and the glee on the Hearts' faces was priceless.

Back to subject, I think the Y'ello guys are doing well in sport and should be commended. Plus they have conquered the MTN World Cup and Confederations' Cup, too. That's really impressive for an African company.

But what do they gain? When I asked George Andah, he hinted that with their inability to sponsor the league, then why not get the teams? It's a fabulous plan and I think it's good for Ghana in the end. Again, that's really impressive for an African company.

Go Africa!

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Review: Ghana (U-23) 3 - South Africa (U-23) 5

I sat behind my telly yesterday afternoon wondering if I was watching the African champions playing.

Ghana's Black Satellites (under 20) are the current champions after winning in Rwanda.

As part of their winning package, they've got a free ticket to represent Africa in Egypt at the World Youth Championships later this year.

And in preparation, Ghana decided to play South Africa's under 23 in Accra. South Africa's team - the Amajita - had good reason to accept to play the Stars. Ghana beat them in Rwanda in a very very entertaining game. They weren't kicked out, but it was a setback. Ghana, of course, went on to win the tourney.

I met the game after it had started. South Africa were 3-1 up and had all the possession. Our defense was spineless. Soon, Ghana scored. 3-2. Not long after, South Africa had a penalty and chucked it away. 4-2.

It was getting a bit embarassing but soon Ghana a had a penalty of their own and Daniel Addo scored. 4-3.
Ghana 3 - 5 South Africa
Venue: Ohene Djan stadium, Accra

Team Ghana: Robert Dabou, Daniel Addo, Samuel Kyere, Alhassan Karim/Musah Inusah, James Bissue, Ekow Benson/Latifu Salifu, Gladson Awako, Larbi Koomson, Sadat Karim/Issac Donkor, Ghandy Kassenu

Team South Africa: Thela Ngobeni, Ramahlwe Mphalele, Njabulo Ntusi, Sibisiso KhiDumalo, Thulani Hlatshanayo, Andile Jali, Daylon Claasen, Thulane Serero/Philane Khwela, Mandla Masango, Sameechs Toufie, Kermit Erasmus/Thulani Ngcepe

Sellas Tetteh was standing in the cool breeze with the Atlantic Ocean 1000 meters away. But he was fidgeting in his internal heat. His several subs seemed to be working.

Then the killer blow came. The southerners made it 5-3. They were cruising. Ghana was disbelieving. Game over

In the post-match interviews, Sellas Tetteh said Ghana could learn from the defeat.

“I was pleased with the reaction of the boys in the second half as they showed commitment and a desire to fight. That was a good response from them against a technically good side.

“But we made too many mistakes and had problems with our centre back pairing. We can only build on this. It was good to bring on new local players and try them. When they full squad assembles, we would be up there.

“The target is the World Championship, so we have to work towards that.”


The truth of the matter is that Ghana was defenceless. Without the foreign based contingent Ghana looks very pale indeed. Is the local talent not good enough without Ransford Osei, Dominic Adiyiah et al?

It looks so.

As for the Amajita, they were delighted and rightly so.

After the 4-3 we lost to Ghana in Rwanda, we came here with the intention of winning, said the Amajita coach Serame Letsoaka

We made good use of our good chances and we are happy with the result.

Even one of their players, Kermit Erasmus, scored twice - and on his debut. Their next game is against in Uruguay. Ghana plays Venezuela next.

Maybe, both teams would meet again in Egypt for a part three of their 2009 meetings.

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Erasmus Kwao asks: Can Ghana get to South Africa?

My colleague Erasmus Kwao over at Citi FM in Accra hosts and produces various sports shows on the station. He also occasionally does punditry for Metro TV in Accra. Here are his views on Ghana's chances of getting to Rainbow Land in 2010, written after the Ghana - Benin game two months ago.

Various interpretations have been given to the Black Stars’ performance in their 1-0 win over Benin in the World Cup qualifier at the Baba Yara Stadium on March, 29 2009. The Stars were put on the back foot for long periods in the match but were fortunate to run away with the victory courtesy the first minute strike by Prince Tagoe.

In the aftermath of the match, some have openly questioned the commitment of the players to the national cause and head coach Milovan Rajevac has not been spared either. The Stars showed promise when they were training for the game but their performance during the match kept most people guessing what might have happened.

A former Chairman of the Ghana Football Association Ben Koufie was alarmed about reports which suggested that the Minister of Youth and Sports had clashed with Sulley Muntari over the thorny issue of winning bonuses five clear days to the match.

There were early signs which suggested the players were going to demand an increase in winning bonuses, which stood at $8,000 but I think the issue could have been dealt with much better between the two sides, albeit diplomatically

Another ex-Stars striker Augustine Arhinful is however quick to point out that despite the fact that the Minister did not help matters with his heavy handedness, the players were not likely to be affected by the row since they earn more than what was being offered at their clubs.
It’s true that the players stand to benefit more than the nation in the overall analysis if they qualify for the second successive occasion.

Their market values could skyrocket just as it did in the immediate aftermath of the 2006 World Cup in Germany and that is enough personal motivation. There is no denying the fact that money was one of the factors which influenced the Stars’ qualification to the last World Cup and it clearly showed in the way the Stars went in for challenges for the ball, during the competition.

There were early signs which suggested the players were going to demand an increase in winning bonuses, which stood at $8,000 but I think the issue could have been dealt with much better between the two sides, albeit diplomatically. But that is not all.

Milovan Rajevac is also at fault for the poor display. To start with, the decision to play right full back Samuel Inkoom on the left full back position despite the availability of fit Harrison Afful and Belgium based Nana Kwasi Asare was unpardonable.

The Serbian rationalised his selection saying he needed a quick player to deal with the threat from Benin. He added that Inkoom played according to his instructions when clearly the Kotoko defender struggled with the pace of the Benin attackers and found it problematic kicking the ball with his left foot.

The Serbian also gave a half fit Stephen Appiah and a non committal Sulley Muntari too much time on the pitch while emerging players like Kwadwo Asamoah was given too little time to perform.

The Serbian trainer would need to make some bold decisions and introduce competition in the team in order to bring out the best in the players because he would have no excuse if he fails and Ghana fails to make it to South Africa 2010.

Asamoah could be his bait for such a revival. The 20-year-old has proven with his 16 appearances for Udinese that he could fit into various roles in the midfield, both defensive and offensive.

On the way forward, it’s still baffling that the GFA did not send any scout to watch our next opponents Mali draw 1-1 with Sudan in Omdurman. Rajevac and his assistants are now on a scouting mission in Europe to spy on the individual players at their club sides - amazing.

The ball is in your court, GFA and Milovan Rajevac.

Agree with him? Lemme know your views. But here's his blog anyway.
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Ghana - Uganda is on: preview

On Friday Junior Agogo and Haminu Draman both joined the swelling camp of Black Stars players.

As we speak they are in Tamale and are getting ready for their friendly against Uganda that starts pretty soon.

Tamale, in the northern part of Ghana will see coach Milovan Rajevac and his boys in person. This honour that used to be reserved for Accra and Kumasi. That rotation ended especially after the FA saw that the four stadia built for CAN 2008 would go waste. Sekondi first benefitted from this move.

Coach Milo has camped his team throughout the week in Accra, the capital, where the Black Stars on Thursday tested their preparedness for the game against the Cranes on Sunday with a 2-2 draw with second-division side King Solomon at the El-Wak Stadium.

Opoku Agyeman and Bernard Kumordzi were on hand to score for the national side.

The friendly against Uganda’s Cranes - who arrived on Friday - at the Tamale Sports Stadium is a prelude to the team’s preparation for 2010 World Cup double-header next month.

Ghana faces two tough away matches in the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign this June with the Black Stars paired against Mali on June 7 and a game with Sudan, thirteen days later.

The Black Stars sit at the top of the Group D World/Nations' Cup qualifying after securing an opening day win in the qualifying campaign.

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GPL log after week 21

There will not be any GPL matches until 6 June.

*sigh*

But well, I haven't updated you on the tables yet, so here it is.



Club (points)

Hearts (44)
Lions (35)
Faisal (34)
All Stars (32)
B Arsenals (32)
Kotoko (31)
XI Wise (29)
Kessben (28)
B. Chelsea (28)
Tema Youth (28)
RTU (26)
AshGold (24)
Liberty (23)
Hasaacas (23)
All Blacks (21)
St. Mirren (19)

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A drunk Messi: Something you won't see every Sunday afternoon.

After a great season for him, Lionel Messi can take a little time off and get drunk.

Well, it appears so. And that's exactly what he did.



Leave him alone. You don't do Spanish trebles every time!

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Weekend picks

Agogo would be mad to go back to Zamalek despite claims by the re-elected boss that he would be comfy if he comes back.

Essien has won another FA Cup. - Ghanasoccernet

Ghana Premier League Board says the date for the Hearts-Kotoko game is cool.

Yesterday, the Black Satellites were dismembered by the Amajita of RSA. Sellas Tetteh has his say at Ghanafa

On the foreign front, Scott the Red on the RoM still thinks Hiddink would be a good Fergie replacement.

Video: Nigeria 1-1 Ireland. Amodu must be happy, then.

Still in the international zone, Nigeria's friendly with the Republic of Ireland would have come out well for our West African neighbours.

It ended 1-1. Goals scored by Michael Eneramo & Robbie Keane.



Shuaibu Amodu, the Super Eagles coach who was severely criticised after Nigeria opened their World Cup qualifying campaign with a goalless draw against Mozambique, has a high-profile friendly with France in Saint Etienne on Tuesday.

But of even greater importance is the World Cup qualifier against a resurgent Kenya in Abuja on 7 June.

Defeat there cannot be countenanced, so Nigeria's sturdy performance here - albeit with a largely second-string side - will have cheered the coach.

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Prince Tagoe is still blasting

Prince Tagoe keeps giving everyone a reason not to overlook him, though the team he plays for isn't really A+.

But then, he's still scoring for Ittifaq in the Asian Champions League. That can't be too bad.

Don't forget that he's denied the widely reported deal with Hoffenheim.



We'll be keeping tabs on him.

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Sudan beaten, good news for Stars?

Bright Sunday morning.

In news that would do the average Ghanaian supporter a lot of good, Sudan have been beaten 4-0 by Tunisia.

Tunisia got off to a quick start with Oussemma Darragi and Sami Allagui combining to give Tunisia the opener as early as the 10th minute. Sami Allagui doubled the hosts lead, before Radhi Jaidi added the third off a trademark header in the 22nd minute. Radhaouane Felhi completed the rout when he met Khalil Chemmam’s corner after the break.



Seeing that Ghana plays the Sudanese soon in the World Cup, Nations Cup qualifiers, does it mean the Stars have a good chance?

No. The Sudanese, for me just had a bad patch and will recover in time for the September 5 game in Ghana.

PS: I'm having internet problems here, that explains the lull in posts yesterday. Working on them, though

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Friday, May 29, 2009

Fabulous news - if it's true!


Last year's Glo premier league winners say they have agreed to an astonishing feat.

Asante Kotoko claim they have received an invitation from English Premier side Everton play an international friendly at the Baba Yara Stadium on 12 July.

According to the club's official newspaper, Kotoko Express, the inivitation was sent through the Ghana Football Association.

This piece of news must be something special indeed - if it is true!

Don't forget that Everton play Chelsea on Saturday in the FA Cup final at Wembley on Saturday, that's tomorrow. You can see the preview here.

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Causing emotional loss to the club!

I picked a copy of the Hearts News tabloid this morning and was a bit amused at what I read.

The current league leaders claim their two substitute goalkeepers, Sammy Adjei and Laud Quartey conspired to wreck their league campaign on Wednesday.

The duo are reported to have deserted the team without permission from the club's technical team and that resulted in their 1-0 loss to AshGold at the Len Clay.

Said team manager Saban Quaye:

"Both keepers left camp when in fact we needed them to represent the club in the game against AshGold so we were forced to take McCarthy and Joshua with us even though we had wanted to especially rest McCarthy.

Quaye accused Sammy Adjei for feigning stomach ache and added that when granted permission, he returns only after persistant calls by the technical team.

"These are the two other keepers that we look up to but they have shown in recent times that they cannot be trusted when it comes to going the extra mile for the team."

Adjei joined Hearts of Oak for the rest of season in March but his yet to make his first appearance for the league leaders.

Interesting.

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The Spanish Media Presents: Cristiano Ronaldo v Messi

Morning, all. It's a bright morning here in Accra, Ghana.

After the UCL finale, the comparison. Here's just one of 'em.



Well, the bias is clear, but what do you think?

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Thursday, May 28, 2009

Justice is served

I came, I predicted, I won!
Barca came, Barca predicted, Barca won.

Head coach Pep Guardiola completed the unthinkable in his first season in charge of FC Barcelona winning the treble.

I think you can get the match report all over the web. See here for one of many many reviews.

Here are the highlights, in pictures.




















All pictures: AFP
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African show in Europe's spotlight

Manchester were totally outclassed by a Barca side that was awesome.

And that awesomeness included three (west) Africans: Samuel Eto'o, Yaya Toure and Seydou Keita.

1. Samuel Eto'o Fils - Cameroun

Samuel Eto'o delivered what was arguably the most definite blow for Barca. He scored in the tenth minute when United were on a frenetic high. In short, he broke 'em before Messi burned 'em. And guess what? He is proud to be African. Go Africa!

Ratings: Telegraph, Eurosport, Goal

2. Yaya Toure - La Cote d'Ivoire

To the left of your picture, the man simply kept the United attack on edge. Together with Puyol, Sergio Busquets and Pique, Yaya showed what class he is. Curiously, this role is not one he is used to yet he played there as if he's been doing that his whole life!

Ratings: Telegraph, Eurosport, Goal

3. Seydou Keita - Mali


A man the Black Stars would face soon in the qualifiers, he came on to replace Henry. Made sure the midfield was tight and taut. His contribution would not be overlooked, lest why was he put there?

Ratings: Telegraph, Eurosport, Goal

Gaps and Slips: GPL week 21 review

Today, here's a quick round up of the games played in the GPL week 21


AshGold produced another good show, beating leaders Hearts of Oak 1-0 win at the Len Clay. They've thus continued their steady climb out the drop zone. Hearts now only have a nine-point lead at the top. Papic must be worried.

In Kumasi, Asante Kotoko won 3-0 over Tema Youth at the Baba Yara Stadium.

Heart of Lions jumped to second on the log after winning 2-0 in Wa over All Stars.

Sekondi XI Wise drew with RTU in Tamale after a 1-1 drawn game at the Tamale Sports Stadium.

A 30th minute strike helped Berekum Arsenals secure three points in their local derby with Bechem Chelsea at the Coronation Park. The Gunners won 1-0.

Liberty Professionals drew to maintain their poor form. A goalless draw was all they could manage with All Blacks - who are battling to avoid the drop.

At the Sekondi Sports Stadium, Hasaacas managed a crucial 2-1 win over King Faisal.

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Wednesday, May 27, 2009

My Picks of the Day

A call to South Africans to make Africa proud in the Confed Cup. - iafrica Sport

Ghanaian born Frenchman Marcel Desailly thinks Wayne Rooney is now a 'great' - Telegraph

Some people think Ghana's only interest in the UCL finale is in English-born Ghanaian Danny Welbeck. I think: yawa boys and girls.


Azumah Nelson has inspired millions. This is the latest. - GNA via Ghanaweb

A football player has reportedly been robbed in the Holy Land. - Ghanasoccernet

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Matchday Pass: GPL week 21

Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko wanna maintain the momentum in the Premiership when the season enters match-day-21 later today. There's also a crunch English premier league derby - in North central Ghana!


Hearts - AshGold
Venue: Len Clay
Hearts of Oak, still leading the log by ten points will be in Obuasi where they play another side on the up 'n' up. After three wins on the trot, the Miners have pulled themselves out of the drop zone - not by much though. They must avoid defeat at home to give their search for survival a fresher feel.

Kotoko - Tema Youth
Venue: Baba Yara
Asante Kotoko return to their home grounds after their neat win over Wise during the weekend. As it stands now, Tema Youth are level on points with Kotoko.

Bechem Chelsea - Berekum Arsenals
Venue: Coronation Park
Today's games include a derby game in Sunyani where Chelsea battle regional rivals Berekum Arsenals. A seriously wild atmosphere is expected in a region where 'football is dead' has been chanted for so long. An English premier league match in the center of Ghana? Yeah, right!

Wa All Stars - Lions
Venue: Wa Park
Having failed to get a point over the weekend, All Stars attempt a win against Heart of Lions to maintain their top four place. Lions are also looking at a top six finish and it's gonna be a fine game.

Liberty - All Blacks
Venue: Ohene Djan Stadium
Liberty Professionals, Gamba All Blacks. Two teams looking for something more than a stay in the top flight. Liberty are in uncharacteristic hot water and All Blacks're battling to avoid the drop. Should be a good one.

RTU - XI Wise
Venue: Tamale
Some say XI Wise lost to a better Kotoko side last Sunday. Me, I think a loss is a loss. Real Tamale United will clash with Eleven Wise with Wise as favourites.

King Faisal - Hasaacas
Venue: Essipong stadium
Meanwhile King Faisal may make relegation strugglers, Hasaacas work more - as if they'ven't had enough. What with a said lobbying group put together to sack the sitting management of the westerners, things off-the-pitch are not going well but let's see if we'll hear more cries of 'doooo' - as they say out West when a goal is scored.

The final fixture comes off tomorrow at the Ohene Djan Stadium where bottom side, Sporting Mirren take on Kessben FC.
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Prediction time!

I've had my say in who I want to see top the UCL. You?



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Why Barca must win the UCL

1. Football is not called the beautiful game for nothing. Which of the teams have, for so many months now, played such breathtakingly beautiful football? B-a-r-c-a!

2. The Manchester United faithful keep getting smug about how good their attack is against the deflated defence of the Blaugrana. I believe Yaya Toure would do a great job of playing in defence with his cohorts. United will not break Barca down.

3. Sir Alex has reached the end of his trophy haul for this season. It is time to turn things around. Guardiola has the makings of a great coach. His team is good yes, but have you heard the parable of the talents?


4. Lionel Messi is a better player than CR7 (let's not have a debate, that's my opinion). However if the diminutive Argentine doesn't win the thing tonight, he may as well forget about the Fifa World Player of the Year(TM)

5. This is a team called Barcelona. Manchester United is one of individuals. And we all know that in football, the saying is may the best team win. So why the doubts...

Capisce?

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A Ghanaian preview of the European Champions League finale

Am sorry I couldn't come online with a post yesterday. I was taken a bit ill. Thanks for understanding

Which preview?

Duh.


Simple as that.

Ghana acknowledges

Here in Ghana the streets are buzzing with a quiet fervour that is frightening. The zenith of the European football season is almost upon us, with the two teams most neutrals (and UEFA if you believe the conspiracy theorists) would want left standing for what promises to be an absorbing encounter at Rome's Stadio Olimpico.

And it all boils down to the two players to watch. Either it's a fan of Messi or Ronaldo. And then there is the thing that Chelsea fans want Manchester United to win because Barca kicked them out in painful circumstances.

The champions of England against the champions of Spain; holders against the main contenders; English football's most dominant force against the aristocrats of La Liga, British football's most decorated manager against a novice in his debut season as coach.

Conversely Arsenal fans want Barca's glory because of a similarity of philosophy - free flowing fluid football. For United, Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Carlos Tevez, if selected, are the main threats, while Barca boast the likes of Lionel Messi, Samuel Eto'o and Thierry Henry providing the incision in the final third.

All are players who can turn a game in the blink of an eye, all capable of illuminating the Rome night with a piece of individual magic.

Expect a night of high drama and no little skill by the Tiber, with the individual talents of Mssrs Ronaldo and Messi vying to engineer their side's success on the pitch, while the sideline plotting of Ferguson and Guardiola promises to add extra intrigue and allure.

Probable teams:

Manchester United (4-4-2): Van der Sar; O'Shea, Ferdinand, Vidic, Evra; Ronaldo, Carrick, Anderson, Park; Rooney, Tevez.

Barcelona (4-3-3): Valdes; Puyol, Toure Yaya, Pique, Sylvinho; Xavi, Iniesta, Keita; Messi, Eto'o, Henry.

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Monday, May 25, 2009

My Picks of the Day

With 381 days to go for SA 2010...

Hockey, first. - GNA via Ghanaweb

Papic says his team has worked for him all this while so leave him to do the selection, thanks a lot. - Ghanasoccernet

Update:

Kickoff Nigeria has the team list for the Super Eagles against the Les Blues. Apparently France have named theirs, too.

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Kotoko find their feet again plus all the GPL reviews and stats.


1.
Hearts
2. Faisal
3. Lions
4. All Stars
5. Arsenals
6. Kotoko
7. Tema Youth
8. Chelsea
9. Eleven Wise
10. Kessben
11. RTU
12. Liberty
13. AshGold
14. Hasaacas
15. All Blacks
16. Sp. Mirren


Herbert Addo has won his first game in charge of Kotoko. Big deal. What I feel they should be concentrating on is how the hell they can win the league, because some of their fans sincerely feel they can.

League toppers Hearts of Oak opened a 10-point gap at the top as Francis Bossman struck twice for them.

AshantiGold pulled away from the relegation zone but left Hasaacas down there. AsGold's win is their third consecutive one. Good news for them!

Sporting Mirren won away but still lie at the foot of things.

All Stars failed to break the very long Berekum Arsenals record.

Here's the once-over scores.

Accra
Hearts 2 Tema Youth 1

Kpando
Lions 1 RTU 1

Berekum
Arsenal 1 All Stars 0

Abrankese
Kessben 3 Chelsea 2

Obuasi
Ashgold 2 Hasaacas 0

Swedru
All Blacks 0 Sporting Mirren 1

Kumasi
Faisal 1 Liberty 0

Sekondi
Eleven Wise 1 Kotoko 2

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Everyone says Maldini's retiring. I say check Tony Yeboah!

I'm back from the Ashanti Kingdom!

On Saturday and Sunday, I was still in Kumasi covering the Asantehene's 10th anniversary Gold Cup. To my surprise I saw a very non-golf related face.

His name is Tony Yeboah.

It served as a nice cue for what I have in store today. I'm recapping the life of a Ghanaian football legend.

Fact: When Tony went to Germany in 1988, he became only the second black person to play professional football there.

Ghanaian Premier League top scorer two seasons in a row? Check. German Bundesliga top scorer two years in a row? Check. The only player to ever win the BBC’s Goal of the Month award twice in two consecutive months? Check.

I won't bore you with biographies. You can read it here. But I'll do referrals from time to time.

One of my most enduring memories of this man's football days is of that goal he scored at the then Accra Sports Stadium: someone crossed the ball from the right corner area and he hit a side-volley. For years, it was used in the opening montage of Sports Highlights on Ghana's national station.

I cannot find that video on the net, sadly. But no problem, for there are other great ones. Like this one.



And then people like the sour memories of him with the Abedi Pele rift thing. Yuck.

I'm celebrating him, so on we go. Now here's a compilation someone kindly made and it is....fantastic!



But as human as he is, Anthony had flaws. Here is one of many!



So what's he doing now? He had interview some time back with my old buddy Owen Slot over at the Times. Nice read.

And as I said at the start of the post, he's into golf,too.

Can't have enough of the man? Here's a bonus.



He's won several stuff, including this from Kicker.

So if you are a real fan, join him on facebook.

Fact: Yeboah is still a legend at Frankfurt, with fans regularly wearing t-shirts with “Zeugen Yeboahs” - meaning, “Yeboah’s Witnesses.”

Tony Yeboah = Legend.

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Sunday, May 24, 2009

Matchday Pass: Ghana

In case you missed Friday's previews of today's GPL games, here they are again.


Week 20

Today
Kick off: 1500 GMT (subject to change)


Hearts - Tema Youth
Venue: Ohene Djan Stadium, Accra

A quite familiar scenario is expected for this game. Apart from the first round victory over the Tema side and a sprinkling of others, Youth have proven to be continual bogeys for the league leaders. They may sit pretty at the top but Hearts know they need every point now.

Lions - RTU
Venue: Kpando Park, Kpando

Fourth-placed Lions host RTU in what should be a great game. These two teams have a formidable record at their traditional grounds. Plus with RTU needing to widen the gap between relegation and themselves, I would be keeping an eye out for this one.

Arsenals - Wa All Stars
Venue: Golden City Park, Berekum

To face second-placed Wa All Stars at your home, where you haven't lost for so long - over two seasons - is good enough for any of your football team's fans. This would be my pick of the pile for this week, and then this one too...

XI Wise - Kotoko
Venue: Essipong stadium, Sekondi

...Yep, this one. For Kotoko, they wouldn't get a better chance than this to avenge defeat. The woes of the reds have been reported all this month and it looks like things are getting worse.

The Sylvester Asare-Owusu management team has been shown the Amakom door, a new one has come, Otumfuo is not happy, the fans are raving mad...

As it is, Wise are fighting for a Champions league place and Kotoko would have it all to do - away from home.

Hearts - Tema Youth
XI Wise - Kotoko
Lions - RTU
Arsenals - All Stars
Kessben - Chelsea
All Blacks - Mirren
Faisal - Liberty
AshGold - Hasaacas


Berekum Chelsea - Kessben
Venue: Coronation Park, Sunyani

To be played in the same region as the Arsenals - All Stars game, this should be less media-frenzied. Middle-placed Kessben and Chelsea (sixth), that should be decent.

AshGold - Hasaacas
Venue: Len Clay stadium, Obuasi

With a somewhat revived AshGold hosting Hasaacas, the Miners seek another victory primarily to lift them out of the bottom. Important, too, is that psychological boost. Normally satisfied with a mid-table finish, this team looks very much like a Newcastle United (Ghana version) at the moment. Nothing seems to be working. Hasaacas are not that happy, either. Quite simply, they are also threatened.

All Blacks - Mirren
Venue: Swedru Park, Swedru

Another not-too-hot game but essential for both teams to take the three points. Especially for Mirren, who have been seeing the world through the eyes of relegation for so long. They need that miracle. Would All Blacks give in? At home? Not likely.

King Faisal - Liberty
Venue: Baba Yara stadium, Kumasi

King Faisal will welcome Liberty Professionals to Kumasi but with the latter expected to be more aggressive. Liberty lie 12th on the log. That, people, is a shock. Some may say it's testimony to how our football is growing. But still...well, Faisal are having a good season and the top four is in their sights, too.

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My Picks of the Day

After the sorry football-related deaths in our western neighbours' land, the verdict is swift. - BBC Sport

A little belated, but just for the record, a Ghanaman is goal-king in Egypt.

Where's Agogo? - Here is your answer.

Nigeria's Under-17 thing is looking tiresome!

A dull news day. More later.

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Saturday, May 23, 2009

My Picks of the Day

Tagoe denies deal with Hoffenheim, that's on Ghanasoccernet. Lord, what does that say about journalists? We carried and even CONFIRMED it!

In the past few days, Kotoko has asked Herbert Addo to be their new helmsman. Now he's looking forward to scalp XI Wise.

Ghanafa looks at what it sees as the nation's 'fixation with youth football'. Interesting read.

The under-20 national team would play in RSA at the end of the month. - GNA via Ghanaweb

Who won Chelsea's Goal of the Season?- Goal

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SA 2010: Crime, terrorism and all that

The World Cup is a truly global event and, because of the nature of the competition, organisers need to consider any potential threat that the host country will face during the month long football extravaganza. Some people may not even consider the subjects of crime and terrorism, however, the host country needs to plan for any possibility, with safety and security key to the smooth running of the World Cup.

Next year is a very important year for South Africa and its people, as the football World Cup brings fans of the beautiful game from all over the world to the tip of Africa in what will be the first ever tournament held on the continent.

The IPL (Indian Premier League) cricket competition was recently moved to South Africa from India due to government fears that the country could not provide adequate security for fans after a number of terrorist attacks in the country claimed lives and destroyed the reputation of relatively peaceful Indian cities.


The IPL takes place later this month [has started, actually, and ends tomorrow] and South Africa was chosen to host it with less than a month to go before it was scheduled to start. This is further proof of the world’s faith in South Africa as a nation capable of hosting a sterling event and taking good care of those that choose to travel to the Rainbow Nation.

One thing is undeniable, however, and in modern times terrorism is a curse that is present throughout the world. The staging of the World Cup brings with it a certain focus and media rich environment that could create a potential target for terrorists aiming to capture the attention of the world with an act of cowardly violence.

The man whose job it is to neutralise these types of threats is director David Garnett - 2010 Senior Operations Coordinator - and he is mustering all his forces to combat both terrorists and criminals.

Speaking about crime, Garnett said, "[The] government has admitted that crime is a problem in South Africa, but I can give you the assurance that there are thousands upon thousands of dedicated members of the South African Police Services who are really working day and night in order to address the scourge of crime. We have had enormous successes."

Over the past few months the main concern of the world press has been the completion of the stadia, something that is moving along smoothly and without many obstacles. But what people have not noticed is the truly enormous security effort behind the scenes to ensure the safety of the players, fans and officials that come to the country.



In modern times terrorism is a curse that is present throughout the world.


- Peter Pedroncelli

For the last 18 months 14 different government departments have been conducting joint operations in different host cities around the country. A massive 41,000 additional policemen will be deployed before the tournament, with the police's budget alone amounting to R1.3 billion.

A grand plan is coming together to secure the routes, accommodation and tourist attractions. South Africa will be super safe by 2010. Backing up the average cops on the street is the police task force, who have spent months in training ahead of 2010.

Garnet said, “Special forces are going to be utilised according to their roles and responsibilities. Those details I'm not going to make public for obvious reasons because they remain the sharp edge of our policing."

He is also planning to supplement South African forces with foreign police. "We are in the process of inviting the police agencies from the countries who are attending the event to provide us with 16 to 20 police officers who will then be deployed in South Africa,” he said.

And where an incident occurs Special Courts will be set up to deal with any crime immediately.


A massive 41,000 additional policemen will be deployed before the tournament, with the police's budget alone amounting to R1.3 billion.


Garnet continued, "The police are about 175,000 people [strong] at present and we are calling up some 41,000 - so there are many police officers left who will be conducting their normal crime prevention, law enforcement and investigation duties. We do not leave the rest of South Africa without any policing - that would be ludicrous."

In terms of the recent wave of terrorism, the air force is prepared to deal with any airborne threats that may present themselves.

After 18 months of World Cup specific training regarding any threats during the competition, the police, emergency services and the air force gave the media a glimpse of their training.

In a mock exercise, hijackers stormed in and captured members of the media. Three state of the art Hawk fighter jets were immediately commandeered to force the rogue plane down and, for the sake of the exercise, it landed. The hijackers were apprehended and hostages freed by a tactical task force. Meanwhile, a robot diffused a bomb on the tarmac. It was an example of what could happen in an emergency, and the training involved with the various situations portrayed in the exercise was impressive.

After 18 months of World Cup training, the police, emergency services and the air force gave the media a glimpse of their training.

Lombard explains, "The worst case scenario would be that there would be intervention on the aircraft which could lead to the aircraft being shot down, but for that we would need presidential approval."

The fact that such situations have been taken into consideration is another reason why the World Cup is bound to be a success in South Africa. So much planning has gone into every detail of the competition. For the duration of the World Cup all aircraft flying within 50 nautical miles of a stadium will be deemed to be in military airspace. Working closely with civil aviation, even the air crews will need to be pre-approved.

Garnet added, "Obviously terrorism remains one of our main focus areas from a safety and security perspective. But I can tell you that we put in contingency plans to deal with any event in South Africa. We have dealt with major events in the past. We've had over 140 major events in the country since 1994 so I am confident from an international perspective that South Africa is quite safe."

Local Organising Committee CEO Danny Jordaan is confident of a safe World Cup. “We have had a 100 per cent safety record for every single match over the last 15 years in this country and, as we sit today, we are confident that we will have a safe event,” he said.

There is no doubt that South Africa is focusing on the safety and security of those fans that will travel to the country during the Confederations Cup and World Cup.

It certainly seems as though the country will be very safe and secure during the tournaments, leaving a legacy for those that remain after the final whistle has been blown.

First published by Peter Pedroncelli, Goal.com
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Friday, May 22, 2009

The Kumasi burger that av become.

For the past few days I've been in Kumasi in the southern central part of Ghana.

I'm on a golf assignment as part of the Asantehene's 10th anniverary celebrations.

I'm staying on the campus of KNUST (Kwame Nkrumah University of Science & Technology) and considering that they're on vacation, the place is qite empty but well, that's not too bad.

Had a lot of time to plan for next week's articles and all that.

Will be back on Sunday, hopefully. With more stories, too...

...but in the meantime the blog lives on.

Thanks for your support so far. I'm grateful. Happy reading!

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Street Soccer Africa: Week 14 is NEW TOWN

Normally, when people hear 'Street Soccer' they think it's the game.


But regulars to this blog would know that Oxigen's version is the real deal.

And that is called Street Soccer Africa.

This week, New Town is the latest ghetto to be reached and the whole train would be moving there.

Week 14 it is. You can listen to the final preview to the mega-event tonight at 1730GMT on Atlantis radio.

Black Stars midfielder Bernard Yao Kumordzi is expected to be the star attraction although many of the folks do not know that. So this is a scoop for ya.

Try and be there. It's loads of fun.

Laters!

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Matchday Pass: Ghana


Week 20

Sunday, May 24
Kick off: 1500 GMT (subject to change)


Hearts - Tema Youth
Venue: Ohene Djan Stadium, Accra

A quite familiar scenario is expected for this game. Apart from the first round victory over the Tema side and a sprinkling of others, Youth have proven to be continual bogeys for the league leaders. They may sit pretty at the top but Hearts know they need every point now.

Lions - RTU
Venue: Kpando Park, Kpando

Fourth-placed Lions host RTU in what should be a great game. These two teams have a formidable record at their traditional grounds. Plus with RTU needing to widen the gap between relegation and themselves, I would be keeping an eye out for this one.

Arsenals - Wa All Stars
Venue: Golden City Park, Berekum

To face second-placed Wa All Stars at your home, where you haven't lost for so long - over two seasons - is good enough for any of your football team's fans. This would be my pick of the pile for this week, and then this one too...

XI Wise - Kotoko
Venue: Essipong stadium, Sekondi

...Yep, this one. For Kotoko, they wouldn't get a better chance than this to avenge defeat. The woes of the reds have been reported all this month and it looks like things are getting worse.

The Sylvester Asare-Owusu management team has been shown the Amakom door, a new one has come, Otumfuo is not happy, the fans are raving mad...

As it is, Wise are fighting for a Champions league place and Kotoko would have it all to do - away from home.

Hearts - Tema Youth
XI Wise - Kotoko
Lions - RTU
Arsenals - All Stars
Kessben - Chelsea
All Blacks - Mirren
Faisal - Liberty
AshGold - Hasaacas


Berekum Chelsea - Kessben
Venue: Coronation Park, Sunyani

To be played in the same region as the Arsenals - All Stars game, this should be less media-frenzied. Middle-placed Kessben and Chelsea (sixth), that should be decent.

AshGold - Hasaacas
Venue: Len Clay stadium, Obuasi

With a somewhat revived AshGold hosting Hasaacas, the Miners seek another victory primarily to lift them out of the bottom. Important, too, is that psychological boost. Normally satisfied with a mid-table finish, this team looks very much like a Newcastle United (Ghana version) at the moment. Nothing seems to be working. Hasaacas are not that happy, either. Quite simply, they are also threatened.

All Blacks - Mirren
Venue: Swedru Park, Swedru

Another not-too-hot game but essential for both teams to take the three points. Especially for Mirren, who have been seeing the world through the eyes of relegation for so long. They need that miracle. Would All Blacks give in? At home? Not likely.

King Faisal - Liberty
Venue: Baba Yara stadium, Kumasi

King Faisal will welcome Liberty Professionals to Kumasi but with the latter expected to be more aggressive. Liberty lie 12th on the log. That, people, is a shock. Some may say it's testimony to how our football is growing. But still...well, Faisal are having a good season and the top four is in their sights, too.

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Thursday, May 21, 2009

Tagoe is getting great recognition

As if we didn't know.

But when your countryman is named in the team of a continental league, then you know he/she is doing great things.

Cue Prince Tagoe.



The Black Stars forward has done very well in the Asian Champs league, prompting goal to say this about him.

It is no wonder that the Ghanaian hitman has been linked with a Premier League move to Fulham. A blast of seven goals in three games sent the Damman club hurtling into the next stage.


He's the only African in the list.

Well, here is the full article.

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Get ready...

From next week, this blog would begin running series on the history of the Black Stars.

Yep, you guessed right. It's in anticipation of the upcoming Black Stars games: Uganda, Mali and Sudan.

But I just had to give you a glimpse!

So, say we mention a player like Yegoala...who comes to mind?



Things like this. With quizzes and very relevant info too.

You don't wanna miss...

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Prediction Time!



It's that time again!



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My Picks of the Day

Mr. Rajevac has his 32 set. - Ghanafa

Wa All Stars are second on the log and are having a strop. At the media. - Ghanasoccernet

Kotoko want Herbert Addo to handle them? Please, you guys...

After GHANSU, SUGHA and all that, now COSUA are making noise. - GNA via Ghanaweb

Some nice socially-responsible gestures. Bravo, Sidalco

Out there, the final of the final Uefa cup is decided. - Goal

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Wednesday, May 20, 2009

No GPL midweek games but we do have a scorers chart.


Seeing as there is no GPL action today let's run through the list of the top scorers.

Player, club (goals)
Obed Ansah, Hearts (9)

Alex Asamoah, Kotoko (8)

Kofi Nti Boakye, Lions (7)

Charles Nartey, Hasaacas (7)

Opong Abdul Samad, Faisal (6)


Top banger profile: Obed Ansah

Mercurial and proven to be the heartbeat of the Phobians this season, Obed has been turned into a defensive nemesis to the 19 teams that have played Hearts this season.

Looking like a serious version of Rambo III here, the lad is really an amiable chap. Do I recall him with a frown or an undisciplined gesture? Nope.

All of 5ft or less, this young man is the ish. Especially if you consider the fact that he joined the team only at the start of last season. He, with Godwin Yeboah joined from Heart of Lions.


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My Picks of the Day

Prince Tagoe's Al Ettifaq were beaten 3-0 in the Asian Champions League. But he still is top scorer. Game highlights here:



Fifa does another training program for photographers/journalists. - Goal

Ghana's got talent! Laryea's back!

Today is D-day in the Egyptian league and Ismaili can spoil Manuel Jose's bye-bye party for Ahly.

Imagine Frank Rijkaard in Africa. Now imagine him coaching Al Ahly. So says Goal.

Amr Zaki's leaving Wigan. - Kickoff Europe

Outside Africa, Istanbul gets ready for the very last Uefa Cup final. - BBC Sport

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Tuesday, May 19, 2009

Flashback, anyone?

The race for the Serie A crown ended a bit unfashionably last weekend, as Inter Milan won the title by default after AC Milan fell to Udinese on Saturday night.

From Sulley Muntari and the Nerazzurri’s point of view, it appeared to matter little that Inter won the title while nowhere near a football pitch.

The squad gathered together at their Pinetina training complex to collectively watch the Rossoneri lose to the Zebretta, and the TV cameras were also invited to record the scenes of celebration.

With almost everyone on their feet as the final seconds ticked down, the noise volumes of the Inter squad grew rapidly louder in anticipation of the final whistle. And when the whistle finally arrived the squad immediately huddled together to celebrate their yet another back-to-back championship.



Anyone see Muntari in there?

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In the offing...

There are murmurs in the wind that the severally-acclaimed football pundit Nana Kwaku Agyemang is up to something.

Nothing sinister but they say it is a sports program. I hope, for the sake of the viewing public, Nana himself and sports journalists, it would be a cut above the rest.





The runners-up in anything are just the first losers.


- Neil Jones, Soccerlens


So, there. The secret is out. I also hear he's doing it with Yaw Ampofo-Ankrah, my presenter here at Atlantis.

Well, no surprises there.

You can say they are two peas in a pod. The industry needs a renaissance (II) what with Yaw's initial one at Metro. Someone has to do it again.

As my bud Neil Jones over at Soccerlens says, we need winners, not runners up.

Ghana's sports journalism has for too long endured mediocrity that kills the spirit of professionalism. Don't forget that it is professionalism that feeds the thirst of ambition of advancement.

What, then do we do, if it dies?

We're finished, that's what!

Anyway, I spoke to Nana Gee about the show and he was mum, but I'm told that the 'skeleton' is sorted and that only 'flesh' is needed now. I suppose 'flesh' means finances and support staff.

Well, then. Till later.

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