Accra, June 19, 2024, 2024 Press Release:
Players of the victorious Ghana National Amputee Football team, the Black Challenge, have described one Ken Kalai as someone who has no interest in Amputee Football at heart and, thus, shouldn’t be given an audience in its related activities.
Despite the formidable obstacles orchestrated by Ken Kalai, the Ghana National Amputee Football team, the Black Challenge, showcased their indomitable spirit and unwavering dedication. They triumphed over his malicious efforts that nearly prevented their participation in the African Amputee Football Cup of Nations (AAFCON) in Cairo, Egypt. Their victory, a testament to their resilience, marked their third consecutive win, solidifying their status as African Champions.
“Someone who writes a letter to the Egyptian Foreign Affairs and Embassy, requesting them not to grant us visas to represent our country, can only be our number one enemy,” Captain of the national team, Richard Arthur Opentil, has declared.
Richard Opentil, the team’s captain, expressed his gratitude towards Mr Samson Deen and other officials at the Sports Ministry and Foreign Affairs Ministry. Their timely interventions were instrumental in securing the team’s visas, preventing them from being denied the opportunity to represent Ghana. This unity and support, a true reflection of the team’s spirit, were crucial in their victory.
The Black Challenge defended the African Amputee Football trophy they had won in 2021 at the continental event in Cairo, Egypt, on May 27th7th following a 2-1 win over Morocco.
According to the Captain of the side and other members of the delegation that travelled to Cairo, Ken Kalai, who claims to be a disability sports advocate and parades media houses to speak about the sport, mounted a campaign to prevent them from representing Ghana, which could have resulted in Ghana missing out on the trophy and participation in the Amputee Football World Cup.
The team’s success has been instrumental in part due to the unity and unwavering support of its fans and stakeholders. They stand united against Ken Kalai, a man they believe is a threat to the sport. Their unwavering determination to protect the future and the integrity of Amputee Football is truly inspiring.
Ghana’s triumph in this year’s African Amputee Football Cup of Nations (AAFCON ) in Cairo, Egypt, was a moment of immense pride. The team’s victory retained the trophy and elevated them to three-time continental champions, a remarkable feat showcasing their exceptional skills and determination.
Signed:
Richard Arthur Opentil
Ghana Amputee Football Team Captain
For and On behalf of the Black Challenge
