The Black Satellites have experienced a refreshing resurgence, marked by the dominance of local players under the astute guidance of coach Desmond Ofei.
Responding to widespread calls for more involvement of local players in the national teams, the Ghana Football Association’s director of coaching education has integrated several players from the Ghana Premier League (GPL) into the squad.
Ofei’s trust in homegrown talent has proven well-founded, instilling hope in the quality of the GPL through the inspired performances of players.
The GPL has long been a breeding ground for raw talent, yet its potential has often been overshadowed by the allure of foreign leagues. However, Ofei’s faith in local boys has served as a catalyst for change.
Taking a closer look, five of these talented players have stood out and deserve commendation.
Ofori McCarthy
Dreams FC’s Ofori McCarthy, a precocious 18-year-old center-back, has risen to prominence, featuring prominently for his club this season. laying a pivotal role in Dreams FC’s journey to the quarter-finals of the Confederations Cup, McCarthy has emerged as a standout player for both his club and the national team, the Satellites.
With his composed demeanor on the ball, McCarthy has been instrumental in securing three clean sheets out of four matches, solidifying his reputation as a formidable defender. Adept at snuffing out attacking threats with his intelligent reading of the game and composure on the ball, he has contributed to three clean sheets in four matches.
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Edwin Asamoah
Another standout local player entrusted with a leadership role is Edwin Asamoah, the 18-year-old captain from Berekum Chelsea. The talented right-back has demonstrated his ability to marshal the defense and impress with his ability on the ball, skills that bode well for his future development.
Abdul Aziz Issah
Abdul Aziz Issah needs no introduction on the local scene, having already etched his name in CAF Confederations Cup folklore before the African Games. The diminutive playmaker has six goals in 15 appearances this season. His overall performance at the 2023 African Games has been phenomenal, with one crucial goal to his name.
Aaron Essel
Bechem United’s versatile defender Aaron Essel is another local player who has proven his ability to compete with the league’s elite. A mainstay in the Hunters’ backline before the African Games, featuring in eight consecutive starts. Essel’s presence on the left side of the Satellites’ defense showcases his adaptability across multiple positions. The chemistry forged among these young talents has been a driving force behind the team’s success.
Kelvin Nkrumah
Forward Kelvin Nkrumah has made three appearances for defending champions Medeama SC this season. At just 16 years old, the pacy and tricky striker has featured in every game for the Satellites at the 2023 African Games, offering a unique threat with his intelligent off-the-ball movement that draws defenders out of position and creates space for his teammates.
Micheal Ephson
Micheal Ephson, whose goal propelled Ghana to the final of the 2023 African Games, has shown glimpses of a poacher’s instinct. At Samartex, he is yet to gain playing time but should be getting on the team sheet of Nurudeen Amadu soon. At 20 years, it will be intriguing to see how he develops further and adds up to the quality bowl of the league leaders as they seek to clinch their first-ever title.
Jerry Afriyie
Thought FC’s Jerry Afriyie appears to be a thoughtful addition to Desmond Ofei’s squad given his outstanding input. He has proven the only way he can go is up with his stunning finishes and impressive work rate as well. Scoring two goals as well as his crucial role in getting the lone goal for Ghana against Senegal to make it to the final is a testament of his significance and envious talent. He is certainly one of the reasons, Ghanaians would thank the existence of the African Games. A genuine local talent delighting fans with extraordinary displays of heroism.
Ofei’s faith in these local boys represents a paradigm shift that will undoubtedly open doors for more young talents from the domestic scene.
In addition to the impressive display of some of these local talents have equally gained recognition with the Black Stars and are poised for success further underscoring the value of their skillset.
Frederick Asare, who was named goalkeeper of the month in the Ghana Premier League last December, has received a debut Black Stars call-up. In the past few months, Asare has risen in the ranks as he’s now Asante Kotoko’s number one goalkeeper ahead of club captain Ibrahim Danlad.
Medeama SC defender Nurudeen Abdulai returns to the national team after being in the squad for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Madagascar and Comoros in November last year. Abdulai has continued to shine in the ongoing season, featuring prominently in both league and CAF Champions League matches, accumulating 12 league appearances and seven in the continental competition.
This shift in approach, of Ofei emphasising the inclusion of local players, represents a significant paradigm shift that deserves commendation and further exploration.
By Frank-kamal Acheampong|3Sports|Ghana