Jerome Opoku, the Ghana international footballer, recently made his full competitive debut for the Black Stars in a 3-0 victory over Madagascar. The Istanbul Basaksehir defender was surprised when coach Otto Addo gave him the starting nod for the match, especially after coming on as a substitute in the previous game against Chad.
In an exclusive interview with Flashscore.com.gh, Opoku expressed his surprise at being named in the starting lineup but was grateful for the opportunity. He mentioned that he had always worked hard and looked forward to representing his country at the highest level. Opoku said, “I’m super happy to finally make my official debut and full competitive debut for my country, it’s an honour.”
Opoku revealed that he felt comfortable playing in Addo’s 3-5-2 formation, thanks to his experience with a similar setup at his Turkish club. He praised the technical staff of the national team for their smooth adoption plans and clear strategies for the players. Opoku also highlighted his versatility, having played as a left back earlier in his career, and expressed his willingness to contribute in any position required by the coaches.
Looking ahead, Opoku is optimistic about Ghana’s chances of qualifying for the 2026 World Cup. However, he emphasized that it won’t be an easy task and acknowledged the competitive nature of international football. Despite the challenges, Opoku is determined to give his best and help the team achieve its goals.
In conclusion, Jerome Opoku’s journey with the Black Stars has just begun, and he is eager to make a positive impact on the team. With his versatility, determination, and commitment to success, Opoku is set to be a key player for Ghana in their quest for World Cup qualification.