Award-winning reggae-dancehall artiste Stonebwoy believes the Black Stars’ 2-1 defeat to Croatia at the FIFA World Cup was a calculated move aimed at improving Ghana’s chances of progressing in the tournament.
Speaking after the match in Philadelphia on Saturday, June 27, Stonebwoy said he agreed with pre-match analysis suggesting that finishing third in the group would allow Ghana to remain in the United States for the Round of 32 instead of travelling to Canada.
According to the musician, the analysis centred on midfielder Thomas Partey, who has not been granted a Canadian visa.
Remaining in the United States, he said, would ensure the Black Stars retained one of their key players for the knockout stages.
“The game was a beautiful one, but before the game started, sports analysts did their calculations, and I actually bought into the analysis because I follow what is going on.
“It was said that if we maintain our place at third, then we get to remain within America and play our next game in America, probably in Atlanta. That is how we’re going to be able to retain Thomas Partey, who is like the midfield giant for us.”
Stonebwoy noted that Ghana had already secured qualification to the Round of 32 and could no longer finish top of the group because of England’s position. For that reason, he believes losing to Croatia ultimately worked in the Black Stars’ favour.
“I believe that was a strategic play. With the way we defend, when we go into our next match against Colombia, we’re going to continue to win.”
