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Maxwell Konadu, a former assistant coach for the Ghana national team, expressed his disappointment over the Black Stars' recent surprise defeat to Angola in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. Despite not watching the match live, Konadu was well aware of the gravity of the loss, particularly given Ghana's historically strong record at the Baba Yara Stadium. "It's just unfortunate," Konadu stated, emphasising the rarity of a home loss at the venue. "It's been over 20 years and we haven't lost there before." The former coach acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football, highlighting this defeat as one of the "surprises of the competition."
While admitting that he hadn't personally witnessed the game, Konadu believed reports indicating that Ghana had not played poorly. However, he stressed the missed opportunity to secure at least a point, crucial in the context of the qualifiers. "They need to get their act together and move the country forward," Konadu urged, stressing the importance of the team regrouping and focusing on their upcoming matches. The unexpected loss has undoubtedly dealt a blow to Ghana's qualification hopes. However, Konadu's call for resilience and a forward-thinking approach underscores the need for the team to learn from this setback and strive for improved performances in their next fixture.
The Black Stars went on to draw 1-1 with Niger on Monday. They will be hoping to get their 2025 AFCON campaign on track in October when they face Sudan in back-to-back fixtures.
KONADU IDENTIFIES FOUR POTENTIAL STARS FOR BLACK LEOPARDS
Meanwhile, Konadu, who is in charge of South African second-tier side Black Leopards has identified four potential future stars at a youth tournament organised by the NJM Foundation in Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province.
The eight-team tournament, held at Rabali Stadium, was the brainchild of Nyambeni Jones Maphalaphathwa, founder and group CEO of NJM Group of Companies. Its primary aim is to provide opportunities for talented young players in the region.
Konadu praised the tournament, stating, "The program is excellent. The initiative is commendable. The youth around this area must be grateful to NJM for organizing such a tournament, allowing them to showcase their talent." He stressed the importance of grassroots football in developing players. “This is how it all starts... It's a good way to unearth hidden talent in remote areas. A star can rise from here."
Among the many talented players, Konadu highlighted four who particularly stood out. "We’ve seen like four boys I think have the talent. I mean the special ones. The majority of them are good players.
You know there is a difference between the good ones and the special ones," he commented. Konadu has already taken steps to follow up on these promising prospects. He has instructed his staff to contact the players, although one is currently focused on exams and will be monitored for the time being.
This tournament serves as a testament to the power of grassroots initiatives in identifying and nurturing future football stars. With coaches like Konadu actively involved in scouting talent at such events, the future of South African football looks bright.
