Fresh controversy has resurfaced over the 2001 World Cup qualifier between Nigeria and Ghana, a match that ended Liberia’s hopes of reaching its first World Cup – www.isagoal.com reports.
Ghanaian journalist Fentuo Tahiru reignited the debate on his podcast, alleging that Ghana’s players and officials accepted money after Nigeria’s 3-0 victory in Port Harcourt, Soccernet.ng reports.
He claimed Rivers State Governor Peter Odili hosted a private dinner after the match and handed the Ghanaian delegation $25,000 in cash.
Tahiru further alleged that Ghana’s FA chairman Ben Koufie accepted the money in the presence of Deputy Sports Minister Joe Aggrey.
Journalists covering the game were also said to have received $100 each after protesting their exclusion from the payout.
The scandal quickly spread in Ghana, where lawmaker Abuga Pele condemned the act as “unethical and corrupt,” demanding an inquiry.
Former Black Stars captain C.K. Akonnor later described the situation as “embarrassing,” while Aggrey admitted Ghana should never have taken the cash.
Liberian captain George Weah, who went on to become president, reportedly felt robbed of his one chance at a World Cup.
Two decades later, Liberia still waits for its first FIFA World Cup appearance.
This article was updated 2 days ago