Ghana’s legendary footballer and a two-time AFCON winner in 1963 and 1965, Rev Osei Kofi has shared insights into the events surrounding Ghana's participation in the 1972 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) held in Sudan.
The Black Stars reached the final but were defeated 1-0.
Reflecting on the tournament, Rev. Osei Kofi expressed confidence that his presence could have altered the outcome.
"I know if I went to Sudan [1972 AFCON], we would have won it," he asserted. This sentiment was echoed by the late Kwasi Owusu, a former teammate.
"Recently, Kwasi Owusu before he died said, 'Osei [Kofi] is troublesome, but if he was part of the 1972 group for the AFCON in Sudan, we would have won it.' They lost the final 1-0," Kofi recounted.
However, the disappointment of losing the final was compounded by an unusual turn of events during the medal presentation ceremony. Rev. Kofi disclosed that Ghana did not receive their silver medals due to a procedural mishap.
"Instead of the president to present the silver medals to Ghana first, he presented the gold medals to the winning team, so Ghana did not get the silver," he revealed.
This oversight led to significant frustration among the Ghanaian contingent.
"Somebody sneaked to tell the president that the Ghanaians are furious that they didn't even receive the silver medals so that night, they were deported back to the country," Rev. Kofi added, highlighting the abrupt end to Ghana's AFCON 1972 campaign.
Rev. Osei Kofi's account sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of Ghanaian football history, underlining both the highs and lows experienced by the Black Stars during their pursuit of continental glory.
Latest Stories
-
Where hope fails: Ghana’s decaying home for the destitute
5 mins -
NDC Mining Committee for 2024 campaign refutes allegations of recruiting thugs for elections
15 mins -
Traction Control: A lifesaver with an off switch? Here’s why it exists
19 mins -
I don’t need anyman to woo me with money – Miss Malaika 2024 winner refutes pimping claims
26 mins -
”Kurt Okraku sabotaged my national team career because I refused to sign with Dreams FC” – Najeeb Yakubu
26 mins -
Businesses urged to leverage Generative AI for enhanced customer engagement
30 mins -
MultiChoice Ghana partners with Ghana Hotels Association to elevate guest entertainment
39 mins -
Bawumia’s music streaming app or Mahama’s pay-per-view TV channel?
44 mins -
Karpowership Ghana empowers 40 Takoradi Technical University students with scholarship
46 mins -
We expect significant reduction in prices of petroleum products in coming weeks – CEO AOMC
59 mins -
Betway Africa offers once-in-a-lifetime ‘Play-on-the-Pitch’ experience at Emirates Stadium
1 hour -
I coined the term ‘hype man’ in Ghana – Merqury Quaye
1 hour -
Vasseur questions ‘strange momentum’ of Formula One race director change
2 hours -
“I am disappointed in Kojo Manuel” – Merqury Quaye on “no tie” comment
2 hours -
Nana Kwame Bediako; The beacon of unity
2 hours