Wilberforce Mfum, the legendary former Ghana striker and Asante Kotoko icon, has passed away at the age of 88 after a brief illness. The sad news was confirmed on Sunday, May 11, 2025, marking the end of an era for Ghanaian football.
Affectionately nicknamed “The Bulldozer,” Mfum is remembered as one of Ghana’s most prolific and powerful forwards. He etched his name into African football history during the 1963 Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored Ghana’s first-ever goal at the tournament. He later netted twice in the final against Sudan, helping the Black Stars secure their maiden continental title on home soil.
Mfum’s contributions to the national team were immense. He scored 20 goals in just 26 appearances for Ghana and was also part of the squad that represented the country at the 1964 Olympic Games in Tokyo.
At club level, Mfum was a star for Kumasi-based giants Asante Kotoko, where his performances earned him national acclaim and opened doors abroad. In 1968, he moved to the United States, joining the Baltimore Bays in the National Professional Soccer League. He later played for Ukrainian SC in the German American Soccer League in 1969.
His journey continued with the Ukrainian Nationals in the American Soccer League in 1970, where he finished as joint top scorer alongside Juan Paletta. A year later, in 1971, he joined the New York Cosmos in the newly formed North American Soccer League, becoming one of the early African pioneers in U.S. professional football.
Mfum’s legacy as a trailblazer and footballing great remains etched in the hearts of fans across Ghana and beyond. His power, precision, and passion for the game made him a symbol of Ghana’s golden football generation.
