Otto Addo crowns Benjamin Asare as Black Stars no. 1

Ghana’s national men’s football team coach, Otto Addo, has declared Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare as his current first-choice shot-stopper.

The announcement came in a post-match interview following the Black Stars’ comfortable 3-0 victory over Madagascar at the Al Hoceima Grand Stadium on Monday, 24 March.

Asare, 32, has enjoyed a stellar season in the Ghana Premier League, boasting an impressive record of 12 clean sheets and conceding just eight goals in 19 appearances for the Phobians.

His consistent performances earned him a coveted opportunity to stake his claim for the national team’s number one jersey.

The experienced goalkeeper grasped the chance with both hands, making his debut for the Black Stars against Chad on Friday, 21 March, in front of enthusiastic home supporters in Accra.

Asare delivered a confident performance in the subsequent 5-0 thrashing of Chad, solidifying his position between the posts.

He retained his place for the match against Madagascar, where he once again proved a reliable presence at the back.

Speaking after the game, coach Otto Addo confirmed Asare’s status, stating: “At the moment, he’s the number one. We decided for him. He did well in training.”

Addo also highlighted the positive atmosphere within the goalkeeping department, praising the camaraderie between Asare and his fellow custodians.

“[It’s] not like he’s here and the others are there,” Addo explained. “So, we have a good situation where the goalkeepers are pushing each other, really, really helpful.”

He specifically commended Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Jojo Wollacott for their supportive behaviour towards Asare. “The way [Lawrence] Ati-Zigi and [Jojo] Wollacott also behaved during this week and the way they also tried to push Benjamin to help him, to support him, which is not that common.”

“I don’t take it for granted, but big, big props for them for pushing him, for giving him hints, you know. And this is good teamwork.”

Addo emphasised that Asare’s elevation to the number one spot was well-deserved, acknowledging his strong performances both in the league and during national team training.

“Benjamin really deserved it. He did well in the league but also in the training; the little training we had, he did very, very well, and I’m happy for him.”

This announcement marks a significant moment for Benjamin Asare and Ghanaian football, as the experienced goalkeeper looks set to become a key figure for the Black Stars moving forward.

His impressive form and the coach’s confidence in him will undoubtedly provide a boost to the national team’s ambitions.