Abukari Gariba facts for kids

Abukari Gariba (born 13 June 1939 – died 23 January 2021) was a talented Ghanaian footballer. He was known for representing his country at the Olympic Games, playing in both the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City and the 1972 Summer Olympics in Munich. Gariba was a forward, meaning he played in an attacking position on the field, aiming to score goals.

Who Was Abukari Gariba?

Abukari Gariba was a well-known Ghanaian footballer who made a significant mark in the sport during his time. He was born in a place called Yamale, which is located in Ghana, a country in West Africa. From a young age, he showed great skill and passion for football, which led him to become a professional player.

Early Life and Football Beginnings

Born in Yamale on June 13, 1939, Abukari Gariba grew up with a love for football, like many children in Ghana. He developed his skills on local pitches, dreaming of playing for big clubs and his country. His dedication and talent soon caught the attention of scouts, leading him to join one of Ghana's most famous football teams.

Playing for Ghana: Olympic Games

One of the biggest highlights of Abukari Gariba's career was representing Ghana at the Olympic Games. The Olympics are a huge international sports event where athletes from all over the world compete. Playing in the Olympics is a great honor for any athlete.

• 1968 Summer Olympics: Gariba was part of the Ghanaian football team that competed in the 1968 Summer Olympics held in Mexico City. This was a major achievement, showing his importance to the national team.
• 1972 Summer Olympics: He also played in the 1972 Summer Olympics, which took place in Munich, Germany. Being selected for two Olympic Games shows how consistently good he was as a player.

Club Career: Asante Kotoko SC

Besides playing for his country, Abukari Gariba was also a key player for Asante Kotoko SC. This is one of the most successful and popular football clubs in Ghana. Playing for a club like Asante Kotoko means you are among the best players in the country. As a forward, his job was to score goals, and he was very good at it.

Later Life and Legacy

Abukari Gariba passed away on January 23, 2021, at the age of 81, in Kumasi, Ghana. He left behind a legacy as a dedicated footballer who proudly represented his country on the international stage. His career serves as an inspiration for young Ghanaian footballers who dream of reaching the highest levels of the sport.