Hearts of Oak Coach Didi Dramani Sees Benjamin Asare’s Black Stars Call-Up as a Big Boost
Head coach of Hearts of Oak, Didi Dramani, says goalkeeper Benjamin Asare’s involvement with the Black Stars is a major positive for the club, despite the captain’s absence from their upcoming Democracy Cup clash against Great Olympics.
Asare joined the national team squad for Thursday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad in N’Djamena, ruling him out of Friday’s match against their city rivals at the University of Ghana Stadium.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference, Dramani emphasised that Asare’s selection is a testament to the club’s work in developing top-level talent.
“For us, we prepared Benjamin to the best that we can, you know, to have that production to the national team. That’s a big plus for the club,” he told reporters.
He also stressed that Asare’s absence presents an opportunity for others to showcase their abilities.
“Also, his space has been occupied by another person, and it gives everyone the opportunity to stand in when the opportunity comes,” Dramani added.
The Hearts coach further highlighted that coping with missing players is part of the football cycle, insisting every squad member must be prepared to step in at any time.
The Democracy Cup, now in its second edition, continues to grow in stature as a celebration of sport and governance. The inaugural tournament was won by Asante Kotoko, who defeated Hearts of Oak in last year’s final.
