Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare is preparing for one of the biggest chapters in his career as he joins the Black Stars squad for the inaugural Unity Cup tournament in London.
The 32-year-old shot-stopper, widely regarded as one of the most consistent performers in the Ghana Premier League, is among five debutants named in coach Otto Addo’s 23-man squad for the four-nation friendly competition.
Set to kick off on Wednesday, May 28 at the Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford, the Unity Cup features Ghana, Nigeria, Jamaica, and Trinidad and Tobago in a round-robin format.
While officially billed as a preparatory tournament ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, for Asare, it’s a defining moment.
“I’m truly honored to be called up for the Unity Cup. It’s a chance to show what we can do as a team and make Ghanaians proud again,” Asare told Max TV before leaving Accra. “We’re going to give everything on the pitch to bring joy to our fans back home.”
Asare’s call-up is a reward for his stellar performances both for club and country. After earning his international debut in March against Chad, he followed up with another assured display in a clean-sheet win over Madagascar.
With 15 clean sheets in 25 Ghana Premier League games and a 75% save success rate this season, he’s emerged as a fan favorite and a reliable option in Ghana’s goalkeeping ranks.
Arriving in London on Saturday night alongside fellow Ghana Premier League stars Razak Simpson (Nations FC) and Kwame Opoku (Asante Kotoko), Asare has joined the Black Stars camp ahead of their highly anticipated opener against arch-rivals Nigeria. The match on May 28 will reignite one of Africa’s fiercest football rivalries.
“We know Nigeria will come with everything they’ve got,” Asare said. “But we’re ready to fight and show our quality.”
The tournament also carries deeper meaning for Asare. As captain of Hearts of Oak, he’s been a vocal advocate for greater recognition of local players in the national setup. His rise—marked by discipline, humility, and resilience; has become a symbol of what’s possible for home-based talents.
“I’m overwhelmed by the support I’ve received,” he told 3Sports after his initial call-up. “I hope my performances show that local players can compete at the highest level.”
Beyond the pitch, Asare’s grounded demeanor and work ethic have earned him respect from fans and officials alike. Hearts of Oak board member Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe recently praised his leadership and urged younger players to emulate him.
As Ghana eyes a strong Unity Cup campaign and builds momentum ahead of September’s crucial World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Mali, Benjamin Asare stands as more than just a goalkeeper. He is a leader, a symbol of local excellence, and an inspiration.
“This tournament is a stepping stone,” he added. “We want to build momentum and make our country proud;not just now, but for the challenges ahead.”
For Asare, the Unity Cup is more than preparation; it’s a mission. One driven by heart, pride, and the belief that Ghanaian football can shine from within.
