From Sweden’s second tier to the World Cup, Kojo Peprah Oppong’s rapid Nice rise | OneFootball

Kojo Peprah Oppong, 21, arrived from Sweden last summer, became an unexpected starter at Nice and broke into Ghana’s squad, with a World Cup trip to the United States this summer if he is fit.

As reported by L'Équipe, he had 18 months on loan in Sweden’s second tier at Sundsvall and around 15 top-flight matches for Norrköping, attracting European scouts. City Group even tried a late hijack before he signed. He was initially earmarked as Dante’s understudy.

Injuries to Ndayishimiye, Abdelmonem and Bombito accelerated his promotion. He came on at half-time in the Champions League qualifying first leg at Benfica on 6 August, a 0-2 defeat after Dante was injured, and barely left the starting XI. He then began the first 14 Ligue 1 matchdays alongside Mendy and Juma Bah.

Oppong lived through Europa League setbacks and an autumn crisis, and was shaken by a hostile reception from fans after a 1-3 loss at Lorient on 30 November. Franck Haise was replaced by Claude Puel. Stephen Bolma, a close friend and former team-mate, says he adapted and remains happy at Nice.

Raised at Strong Tower, which also produced Mohammed Kudus of Tottenham and Ibrahim Osman of Birmingham City, he embraces each challenge. He spent years at the Attram De Visser academy and trialled with PSV Eindhoven’s under-19s. At Sundsvall in northern Sweden, he even wore boots a size up to keep his toes moving.

Bolma adds that the plan had been to give Oppong time from the bench, and that his positioning and long passing have improved markedly. Dante has taken him under his wing. Salis Abdul Samed pushed successfully for a first Ghana call-up in November.

With his United States visa being processed, the rugged defender could head to the World Cup if available.

Source: L'Équipe