Black Stars set-piece coach and chief video analyst, Gregory De Grauwe, has revealed that Ghana’s assistant coach, Desmond Ofei, played a crucial role in bringing him into the national team setup.
The Belgian specialist, who joined the Black Stars in March 2025, has been a key figure in Ghana’s successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Under his guidance, the team has become one of Africa’s most effective sides from set pieces, with more than half of their goals since his arrival coming from dead-ball situations.
Speaking to Sporty FM, De Grauwe recounted how his connection with Ofei led to his appointment.
“We worked together in Lokeren — I was a video analyst for the first team, and Desmond was the coach of the reserves. That’s how we got to know each other about five years ago,” he said.
“We kept in touch through Instagram, and one day he asked, ‘Greg, do you want to come work for us?’ Two or three days later, I had an online meeting with GFA President Mr. Kurt Okraku, and everything happened so fast.”
De Grauwe expressed deep pride in his role with the national team, describing the opportunity as a special one.
“I was so happy to come to this beautiful country and work with such quality players. It was really a big honour for me to join the Black Stars,” he added.
Ghana confirmed their 2026 World Cup qualification with a 1–0 win over Comoros, topping Group I with 25 points from 10 matches.
The Black Stars now await the World Cup draw scheduled for December 5, 2025, in Washington, D.C.
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Story by Samuel Annang|univers.ug.edu.gh
Edited by Erica Odeenyin Odoom
