Asante Kotoko coach Karim Zito has revealed that he is already working behind the scenes to convince defender Samba O’Neil to commit his international future to Ghana.
O’Neil, who hails from Congo-Brazzaville, is yet to make a senior appearance for his home country. His reputation received another boost on Wednesday following a solid performance in Kotoko’s 2–1 win over Young Apostles — a display Zito says confirms the centre-back’s suitability for the Black Stars.
“Samba O’Neil is exceptional, and I have started trying to convince him to switch nationality to Ghana; then we can figure out the next step,” Zito told the media after the game.
The defender moved to Ghana in 2024 when he joined Kotoko from Burkinabé side Rahimo FC.
Per FIFA regulations, a player may represent a country through birth, ancestry, or after completing five consecutive years of residency. Eligibility can also be obtained through a parent or grandparent born in the nation, or through marriage to a citizen.
Following Wednesday’s victory, Kotoko now shift their focus to Sunday’s Matchday 11 fixture against FC Samartex at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena.