Black Stars explain reason behind their goal celebration

The Black Stars of Ghana’s unique celebration dance has become one of the endearing images of the AFCON 2017 in Gabon

A member of Ghana’s team at the ongoing Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon has broken silence on their interesting goal celebration in Gabon, and the reason behind the dance is even more interesting.

The ever-chirpy Black Stars have become known in global football not only for their impressive displays on the pitch but also, their knack to excite fans with outlandish goal celebrations during international tournaments.

Led by Asamoah Gyan, the Black Stars as usual have launched a new goal celebration at the 2017 African Cup of Nations, and the move has become one of the most exciting scenes at the tournament.

The celebration involves players running together towards the touchline, with their hands stretched forward, creating an impression of a driver and then lean backwards in a frisky fashion.

According to midfielder Cristian Atsu, the stars new celebration is inspired by hiplife hit song “Confessions” by young talented singer Kofi Kinaata.

He revealed that Kofi Kinaata’s latest track which has enjoyed massive play is the inspiration behind their dance.
“ You know that song by Kofi Kinaata asking God to take the steering wheel is what we are dancing to. We are also celebrating God taking the steering wheel for us”.

Ghana’s national teams place much importance on goal celebrations, sometimes rehearsing well ahead of tournaments. Led by Michael Essien in the 2008 African Cup of Nations, the Black Stars introduced the famous Kangaroo Dance which was imitated by other teams across the world.

The “Gunshot” goal celebration for instance, was popularised by Ghana’s U-20 World Cup gold winning team in Egypt in 2009.

The Black Stars also became very popular with the “Azonto Dance” at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa

Ghana qualified for the quarter-finals of the competition with victories against Uganda and Mali and will come up against Egypt in the final group game at Port-Gentil on Wednesday.