As the week passes by, I had the gratification of reading so many magical and great moments of Stephen Appiah also known as ‘Tornado’ paid farewell to his football career, there is no doubt that, in his moments the Black Stars jersey provided the best memories.
He was not one of those who can count many cups and many tournaments to their names. Even though he had many disappointments, he didn’t let all the challenges weight him down. He didn’t play that much under Guiseppe Dosena when Ghana co-hosted the competition in 2000, was injured for the 2002 edition. His captainship for the Black Stars collapsed in the first round at the 2006 Nations Cup in Egypt.
Despite the challenges he faced, he was one of those exceptional players for whom international football seemed to bring more fame and acceptance than club career. He has some good times at Parma, Brescia, won a Serie A title with Juventus and enjoyed good standing with Fernabahce in Turkey and other teams.
Hey!!! the moments we would remember Stephen Appiah for, the moments that sticks most, is the moments that attracted so many people in Ghana, on the continent and the world was with the Black Stars over a brief two or three years period.
Some people say the magical moments for him was his pass for Asamoah Gyan in the game against the Czech Republic; Against Czech Republic, things needed to change and Appiah was there to ensure that. He sat in midfield with Michael Essien and made a mockery of the famed Czech giants of Pavel Nedved and Tomas Rosicky. It was also his delightful 2nd minute pass that set up Asamoah Gyan for Ghana’s first ever world cup goal.
Others say it was his performance as Ghana thrashed South Africa 3-0 in Kumasi. He scored twice. Michael Essien and Stephen Appiah, were two players who completely bossed the South Africans in midfield and ensured that game was played at Ghana’s pace.
Others still point out to his performance in South Africa as Ghana won 2-0, especially with his assist for Michael Essien. Indeed, that assist gave Ghanaian way too many magical moments of Stephen Appiah.
But for me, the best moments and my favourite Tornado game was the 4-1 win against Nigeria on a cold night in London in February 2007. He was selfishless. He was just releasing the ball for his team-mates that day and eventually, he was involved in all of the four goals. Instead going for the glory, he concentrated on setting his team-mates up during that game.
I remember that particular night I was so happy that, I even forgot to eat. I will never forget that night in my life time as long as I live.
Ayeekooooo!!!!!! EL Capitano Tornado. I wished you well in life as you say bye to your playing career.
#celebratingStephenAppiah a true Legend!!!!
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