Frank Acheampong has given Ghana’s Black Stars selectors a strong reason to reconsider him after playing a key role in Dalian Yingbo FC’s first Chinese Super League title.
The 33-year-old winger helped his side overturn a 14-point deficit during the closing stages of the 2026 campaign, completing a remarkable recovery to win the championship.
Dalian finished level on points with long-time leaders Chengdu Rongcheng but were crowned champions because of their superior head-to-head record. They defeated Chengdu in both league meetings.
Chengdu had appeared to be in command of the title race, but their collapse in the final weeks allowed Dalian to take advantage and secure a historic triumph.
Acheampong was central to the achievement, ending the season as Dalian Yingbo’s top scorer with 12 goals and four assists from 29 Chinese Super League appearances.
He played 2,313 minutes, started all 29 matches and contributed directly to 16 goals. His total placed him ahead of teammates Nicolae Stanciu, who scored 10 times, and Cephas Malele, who finished with eight goals.
One of his most significant performances came against Qingdao West Coast, when he scored all four goals in a 4-0 victory. The result helped keep Dalian’s title challenge alive and highlighted his ability to deliver during the most important part of the season.
Acheampong’s contribution extended beyond his goals. His four assists reflected his creativity and attacking awareness, while his experience and consistency made him one of the most influential players in Dalian’s championship-winning team.
Case for another Ghana opportunity
His form in China has also raised questions about his continued absence from the Ghana squad.
The former Anderlecht and Tianjin Teda player has been overlooked by successive Black Stars selections despite his performances abroad and previous experience at major international tournaments.
His 12 goals and four assists in a competitive top-flight title-winning campaign underline that he remains a productive attacking player. He can operate on either flank, take on defenders, run in behind the defence and create chances from wide areas.
Those qualities, combined with his pace and direct style, could give Ghana another attacking option against teams defending deep.
Acheampong’s experience of European and international football could also benefit a squad preparing for important assignments. At 33, he may not be a long-term answer for the Black Stars, but his age alone should not rule him out while he continues to perform consistently.
Ghana are preparing for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, giving the technical team an opportunity to reassess their attacking options. Acheampong’s return would provide competition for places and give the coaching staff an experienced player capable of changing a match.
He has made his case in China by helping Dalian Yingbo reach a historic milestone while producing impressive individual numbers. The decision now rests with the Black Stars technical team over whether that form merits another opportunity to represent Ghana.
2026 Chinese Super League statistics: 29 appearances, 12 goals, four assists, 2,313 minutes played and Dalian Yingbo’s leading goalscorer.
