Accra: Former Deputy Managing Director of the National Investment Bank (NIB), Alfred Thompson, has commended the Black Stars for their start to the FIFA World Cup campaign. In an interview with TV3, Thompson acknowledged that the senior national team has often disappointed Ghanaians in the past, but stated that their performances so far deserve praise.
According to Ghana Web, Thompson highlighted the Black Stars' achievements, noting their victory in the first game and a subsequent draw against England. "The Black Stars are known for breaking hearts, so for them to win the first game and then come back to secure a draw against England, I think they have done very well," he stated.
Thompson particularly praised goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, whose performances have earned recognition since being entrusted with the number one spot. "He showed us that he's well-trained. He's from Hearts of Oak, and for a goalkeeper to come from there and perform at the World Cup the way he has, it tells you a lot about the quality we have in Ghana," Thompson said.
Thompson dismissed the notion that Asare should transfer to local rivals Asante Kotoko, emphasizing that the goalkeeper's accomplishments have elevated him to a higher standing. "This is someone who has played on the international stage and made Ghana proud. We should be talking about bigger opportunities for him," he remarked.
Looking ahead to Ghana's final group game against Croatia, Thompson expressed optimism about the team's potential to continue its strong performance and make history. "I didn't have much faith in them at the beginning of the tournament, but they have proven many people wrong. I pray they continue to make us proud and go as far as possible in the competition," he added.