(Video) New Ghana goalkeeper David Akologo spotted training with Bolivia
David Akologo, a 27-year-old goalkeeper born in Ghana, finds himself in a unique situation. He’s currently training with the Bolivian national team in Brazil, preparing for the inaugural FIFA Series, all while receiving his first-ever call-up for the Black Stars of Ghana. This unexpected turn of events has thrown Akologo’s international allegiance into a bit of a scramble.
Akologo’s journey to this point has been one of perseverance and adaptation. After leaving Nigerian club Mighty Jets FC in 2020, he landed in Bolivia, joining Cochabamba FC. He impressed there and went on to play for CD Enrique Happ and Club Deportivo FATIC before returning to Aurora in January 2023. His consistent performances in the Bolivian league caught the eye of the Bolivian Football Federation (BFF) in August 2023.
Bolivia’s nationality laws offer a path to citizenship for foreigners who have resided in the country for at least three years continuously. Akologo, having met this requirement, was presented with an opportunity to represent his adopted nation. This came despite Akologo previously featuring for Ghana’s U-20 team, perhaps harboring aspirations of a senior call-up from his home country.
With the FIFA Series approaching, Bolivia head coach included Akologo in the squad. The friendly competition in Algeria presents Akologo with a chance to stake his claim for the number one spot with Bolivia. Facing Algeria and Andorra will be a valuable test for the goalkeeper and his teammates.
However, just as Akologo settles into the Bolivian camp, his phone rings. Ghana, perhaps spurred by Akologo’s impressive form in Bolivia, finally extends a call-up to their senior national team. The Black Stars are also gearing up for friendlies against Uganda and Nigeria, scheduled for later this month in Morocco.
Akologo now faces a tough decision. Does he stay loyal to Bolivia, the nation that offered him an international chance, or does he answer the call of his birth nation, Ghana? The logistics further complicate matters. With both teams playing friendlies in different continents at roughly the same time, it’s highly unlikely Akologo can manage to participate in both sets of fixtures.
This situation highlights the complexities of international football in today’s globalized world. Players like Akologo, who have spent formative years in different countries, can find themselves eligible for multiple national teams. While representing one’s birth nation holds a special significance, the opportunity to carve out a career on the international stage with another team can also be very appealing.
For fans and pundits alike, this situation presents an intriguing storyline. How will Akologo handle this dilemma? Will he choose Bolivia, the nation that gave him a chance, or will he opt for Ghana, his country of birth? There’s no easy answer. Both options come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.
If Akologo chooses Bolivia, he could potentially become their starting goalkeeper, establishing himself on the international stage. However, Bolivia isn’t traditionally a football powerhouse, and the level of competition might not be as high compared to playing for Ghana.
On the other hand, choosing Ghana would mean potentially fighting for a spot on the team, especially considering their established goalkeepers. However, representing his birth nation and potentially playing against familiar faces could be a very special experience for Akologo.
Ultimately, the decision rests with Akologo. He’ll need to weigh his options carefully, considering his long-term career goals and personal preferences. Regardless of his choice, Akologo’s story is an interesting one, and it will be fascinating to see how his international career unfolds.
This situation also raises questions about potential changes in international football’s eligibility rules. Could there be a system that allows players like Akologo to represent both nations in some capacity? Perhaps future discussions within FIFA might explore such possibilities.
For now, all eyes are on Akologo. How will he handle this unique situation? Will he choose Bolivia or Ghana? One thing’s for sure, Akologo’s decision will be a talking point for fans and analysts alike, and his international career path will be one to watch in the coming years.