The New Legon Observer

Abstract

There has never been any doubt about the importance of football to most Ghanaians. In 1978 when Ghana hosted the African Cup of Nations tournament for the first time, it was in a period when the economy was in a shambles and the people were completely frustrated. At that time many Ghanaian professionals were on their way to Nigeria and other places in search of the proverbial greener pastures. Despite the difficult times, the government and the people of Ghana managed to put on a fairly decent show which saw Ghana win the tournament. Many were those who momentarily forgot about their economic problems when Ghana beat Uganda in the finals on a hot March afternoon, courtesy of two goals from Opoku-Afriyie. The people rejoiced but they were not a very happy people. The competition was not that stiff in 1978, and the people had many other worries. This was clearly reflected by the fact that the stadium was nowhere near full when Ghana played in the finals at the Accra Sports Stadium.