Stars- Ministry still undecided over bonuses

Against all odds, Comoros recorded an impressive goalless draw against the Black Stars of Ghana.

For a team ranked 177th in the World FIFA Rankings, the results at the Stade Saed Mohammed Sheik seem satisfying for the less-than-a-million populated Island.

But for the larger faction, it’s a big shocker as the outcome of Friday’s game leaves no favorite for the second leg encounter in Kumasi on Tuesday.

Would Comoros deny Ghana – four-time African Champions, 2010 World Cup Quarterfinalist, 2015 AFCON runners-up – of another appearance at the world soccer Mundial in Russia?

The fact is, Ghana’s Sports Ministry has not enjoyed a smooth rapport with the Black Stars in recent times after rows over financial benefits due the team.

If it’s not unpaid bonuses, then it has to do with the $5,000 take-it-or-leave-it stance the Ministry has resorted to, thus a slash in the $10,000 originally due, the players.

Before leaving Accra last Wednesday, the team delayed it’s scheduled 21:00 GMT flight to Moroni.

In what was rather expected to be a routine pre-departure talks, skipper Asamoah Gyan, with some senior members of the squad were engaged in talks with Sports Minister Dr. Mustapha Ahmed in the presence of some FA officials.

Like every tough business negotiation would be, the 11th-hour talks with the sector minister seemed unsuccessful but crucial.

The look on some members present at that meeting was simply revealing. The BONUS ROW was far from over.

In as much as I can’t confirm the key decisions from the meeting, neither was there a release stating an agreement had been successfully concluded between both parties – Gyan & co on behalf of the playing body with Dr. Mustapha Ahmed representing the Government.

Let’s just say they played their hearts out but still recorded a scoreless draw. But I’m optimistic the tides could change if the players are much more psychological with all monetary issues well concluded.

Ghana now needs a favourable scoreline without conceding against Comoros in Kumasi on Tuesday in the second leg fixture.