Veteran Coach Joseph Sarpong Downplays Benjamin Asare’s Debut Performances

Veteran coach Joseph Emmanuel Sarpong has played down the level of challenge faced by Benjamin Asare in his first two appearances for the Black Stars, insisting the goalkeeper is yet to be truly tested at the international level.

Asare made his debut during Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches against Chad and Madagascar, keeping clean sheets in both fixtures.

However, Sarpong believes the quality of opposition in those games did not offer a realistic gauge of Asare’s capabilities.

Speaking to GhanaWeb, Sarpong argued that Asare’s performances lacked the intensity and pressure that Lawrence Ati-Zigi and Jojo Wollacott have had to endure while playing for the national team.

“The pressure Ati-Zigi and Wollacott faced while keeping goal for Ghana, Asare didn’t experience that. There was no pressure on him. Sometimes, when he was idle, they would pass the ball back to him. We are yet to see his real quality,” Sarpong said.

Despite his reservations, Sarpong praised Asare’s organisation and communication, noting that the defensive setup against Madagascar was effective and well-coordinated, thanks in part to Asare’s leadership from the back.

“Against Madagascar, the defence was well-organized, backed by the goalkeeper, who was not truly tested. Because if you say a goalkeeper is useless, what does that say about the defence? They were the shield that protected him. I’m happy Benjamin wasn’t hesitant to communicate with Djiku and the other defenders.”

Asare’s performances will continue to be closely watched as he seeks to establish himself as a top-class goalkeeper.

With Sarpong’s comments in mind, it remains to be seen how Asare will fare in more challenging matches and under greater pressure.