Former Ghana international and coach Godwin Attram has voiced his firm belief that rising defender Kojo Oppong Peprah has what it takes to become a cornerstone of the Black Stars’ backline in the years ahead.
Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Attram couldn’t hide his admiration for the 21-year-old Nice defender, who recently earned his first call-up to the national team for Ghana’s decisive 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against the Central African Republic and Comoros.
“I’ve known Kojo since his academy days, and the foundation was very solid,” Attram recalled. “He’s a player who understands the game, listens, and applies what he’s been taught. Those are the kind of traits you need to succeed at the top level. He’s disciplined, hardworking, and I have no doubt he can become a mainstay in the Black Stars.”
Peprah’s journey has been a story of steady progress and calculated ambition. After impressing in youth football, the versatile defender secured a move to OGC Nice in France’s Ligue 1, a deal reportedly worth between €2–3 million. Since joining, he has featured seven times and registered one assist, earning plaudits for his composure and defensive maturity.
For Attram, Peprah’s rise is no accident but the result of deliberate steps and patience.
“It’s always crucial for a young footballer to take the right steps every two or three years,” Attram noted. “Kojo has been smart about his choices, moving to a league where he can develop and challenge himself. I’ve seen him grow both physically and mentally, and that maturity will help him in international football.”
Attram further praised the youngster’s adaptability and mindset, qualities he believes will help Peprah flourish under the national spotlight.
“He’s very coachable, he learns quickly, and he handles pressure well. Playing for the national team comes with expectations, but I’m confident he has the attitude to thrive. Ghana is getting a very talented player, and with the right guidance, he can be part of this team for years to come,” Attram emphasized.
The Black Stars are currently deep in preparation for a crucial week, facing the Central African Republic on Wednesday in Meknes, before hosting the Comoros in Accra on Sunday. Ghana need at least four points from the two fixtures to guarantee a ticket to the 2026 World Cup, though victory in the first encounter could seal qualification outright.
Attram ended his remarks with a rallying note of faith in his former protégé.
“Kojo has all the tools, the technique, the intelligence, and the mindset. He’s ready to step up and show that he belongs at this level. I expect great things from him, and I believe Ghana fans will see a bright future in him.”
As Ghana push toward another World Cup appearance, the emergence of talents like Kojo Oppong Peprah may just be the new spark the Black Stars need.
