English-born Ghanaian attacker Daniel Adu-Adjei delivered a standout performance in the Croatian top flight on September 20, scoring once and registering two assists as HNK Rijeka defeated Hajduk Split 3-0. Adu-Adjei had a hand in all three of Rijeka's goals, cementing his status as one of the most effective attackers in the division. His impressive display has contributed to Rijeka's strong start to the season.
Adu-Adjei opened the scoring in the 32nd minute by playing in Portuguese midfielder Tiago Dantas, who converted to give Rijeka the lead. He continued to cause problems for the Hajduk defence and, just before the break, turned provider again, this time for Italian midfielder Samuele Vignato, whose finish gave Rijeka a two-goal cushion heading into the interval.
Adu-Adjei rounded off his afternoon shortly after the restart, getting on the scoresheet himself before the hour mark to complete a commanding 3-0 result for his side. This performance brought his season totals to four goals and three assists across seven Croatian league matches. His form has been impressive, and he is making a strong case for himself to be considered for international duty.
Beyond his club form, Adu-Adjei has made clear his international intentions. He has expressed his desire to represent Ghana at international level, citing his parents' Ghanaian heritage. With both parents from Ghana, he is eligible to represent the Black Stars. His current level of output in European football is likely to bring him to the attention of Ghana Football Association selectors.
Despite his impressive form, Adu-Adjei was overlooked in Carlos Queiroz's recent 24-man squad for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers. However, his development will continue to be watched closely by Ghanaian football followers as he builds on an encouraging start to life in Croatia. Adu-Adjei's progress is being monitored, and he may yet get his chance to represent Ghana in the future.
Adu-Adjei's situation is not unique, as another English-born Ghanaian striker, Eddie Nketiah, is also reportedly close to switching his international allegiance to Ghana. Nketiah, who plays for Crystal Palace, remains eligible to represent the Black Stars due to his Ghanaian parents. The Ghana Football Association will be keeping a close eye on both players as they continue to develop in their careers.
As Adu-Adjei continues to impress in the Croatian league, his chances of representing Ghana at international level remain a topic of interest. With his talent and dedication, he may yet become a valuable addition to the Black Stars squad. For now, he will focus on maintaining his high level of performance and waiting for his opportunity to arise.
Key points
- Daniel Adu-Adjei scores and provides two assists in HNK Rijeka's 3-0 win over Hajduk Split.
- Adu-Adjei is eligible to represent Ghana at international level due to his parents' Ghanaian heritage.
- Adu-Adjei was overlooked in Carlos Queiroz's recent 24-man squad for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
