Legend of the Black Stars Turns 87 Today

Today, November 26, 2025, Ghanaian football legend Kofi Pare celebrates his 87th birthday, a milestone that honors a life defined by sporting brilliance and lasting influence.

Pare is celebrated for his goal-scoring feats and adaptability on the field. He famously set a record for the most goals by a Ghanaian in a single international match, scoring six times in a 13-2 victory over Kenya during the 1964 Independence Day celebrations. He also played a pivotal role in Ghana’s African Cup of Nations triumphs in 1963 and 1965 and represented the nation at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.

His football journey began at Asamankese Methodist School, where his talent shone early. Performing with the local Asamankese Shooting Stars, Pare caught the attention of Gold Coast national team captain Tim Darbah, who encouraged him to pursue the sport in larger towns. This led to successful spells with Great Ahantas and Sekondi Eleven Wise, where he delighted fans with memorable performances, including a hat-trick against Accra Hearts of Oak.

Pare later joined the Real Republicans, and following the club’s dissolution, he had brief stints with Hearts of Oak and Kotoko before hanging up his boots.

Off the pitch, Pare pursued personal growth, taking correspondence courses in salesmanship while working with the National Sports Council. In 1978, he embraced a new calling as a born-again Christian, establishing the Good News Chapel. As Founder and General Overseer, he has nurtured branches across Ghana, extending his impact from sports to spiritual leadership.

Kofi Pare’s legacy endures not only in the record books but also in the lives of countless Ghanaians inspired by his talent, faith, and dedication to community.