Former Ghana Sports Minister Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye has launched a sharp critique of Benjamin Asare, insisting the Accra Hearts of Oak goalkeeper still falls well below the demands of top-level international football.
Speaking during an appearance on Citi FM’s Sports Panorama on Friday, April 3, 2026, Vanderpuye did not hold back in his assessment, arguing that even Ghana’s most highly rated local goalkeeper is riddled with shortcomings:
“Even Benjamin Asare is a problem. He may be the best goalkeeper in the country, but he lacks many things. Against Germany, he came out twice, and both situations were disasters.”
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His remarks follow Ghana’s 2-1 international friendly loss to Germany national football team, a match in which Asare’s judgment, particularly in dealing with advancing plays, came under heavy scrutiny.
But Vanderpuye’s criticism extended beyond just one player. He used Asare as a symbol of what he sees as a deeper issue within Ghanaian football, questioning the overall quality of talent in the domestic game and rejecting arguments for increased representation of home-based players in the Ghana national football team.
“When I hear calls to include local players, I sometimes laugh. How is it possible? They play like Colts players. Who are these local players? The standard is poor. Name three who are good enough to start,” he added.
Despite his standing as one of the most dependable performers in the Ghana Premier League, Asare’s transition to the international stage continues to divide opinion. His consistent displays for Hearts of Oak have earned him repeated call-ups, but critics like Vanderpuye believe the leap in quality from domestic to global football remains glaring.
Meanwhile, uncertainty still clouds the future of the Black Stars’ technical setup following the exit of Otto Addo. With no permanent head coach in place, Ghana faces a crucial rebuilding phase ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Drawn into a challenging Group L alongside England national football team, Croatia national football team, and Panama national football team, the Black Stars must quickly address both tactical direction and player quality if they are to compete on the world stage.
