Meet Samuel Sarfo: One year ago he was police corporal protecting Ghanaian national team, now he is in squad for Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ethiopia


A GHANAIAN policeman has gone from protecting the national team to representing them in just under a year.

This is the amazing story of Samuel Sarfo.

Samuel Sarfo is interviewed after being called up to Ghana national team
Samuel Sarfo is interviewed after being called up to Ghana national team

The 26-year-old was an amateur footballer with local amateur side, Liberty Professionals FC.


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But his livelihood consisted of working as a corporal for the Ghana Police Service — and his duties would often include working as a security officer, protecting the national side.

Just 12 months ago, Samuel Sarfo was policeman guarding Ghana players
Just 12 months ago, Samuel Sarfo was policeman guarding Ghana players
Samuel Sarfo in training with Ghanaian national team after call up
Samuel Sarfo in training with Ghanaian national team after call up

However, he has now joined the team after being called up following the withdrawals of experienced internationals, Alfred Nelson and Daniel Nii Adjei.

It caps an incredible rise for Sarfo.

Just a year after making his debut for Liberty, he was appointed captain.

And this season, he has surpassed himself.

He is the country’s highest-scoring defender with six goals and is being tipped for a move to Ghana’s top division.

His form did not go unnoticed by head coach, Kewsi Appiah, who called him up for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Ethiopia.

Amazingly, Sarfo will continue to juggle his role as international footballer and policeman.

His unbelievable dedication earned him a special visit from the Ghana Football Association.

Sarfo admitting he was thrilled to be called up to the national side and insists he has been rewarded for his hard work.

He told Joy Sports: “It was great hearing the news about my call-up to the team, I think hard work pays and this is the time I need to put in more hard work.

“It has not been easy but we pray for strength to fight more because I am looking beyond the call-up.”

Sarfo played in a recent 6-1 friendly win over Asokwa Deportivo 6-1 and contributed an assist for Swansea’s Jordan Ayew.

Watch a 16-year-old Francesco Totti announce himself at Under-17 World Cup in 1993

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