Kofi Pare, one of Ghana’s most iconic footballers, celebrates his 87th birthday today, November 26, 2025, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire generations of Ghanaian players.
Renowned for his goal-scoring prowess and versatility on the pitch, Pare holds the record for the most goals scored by a Ghanaian in a single international match, netting six goals in Ghana’s 13-2 victory over Kenya during a 1964 Independence Day anniversary match.
He was also a key member of the Black Stars squads that won the African Cup of Nations in 1963 and 1965. He also represented Ghana at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics.
Pare’s journey began at Asamankese Methodist School, where he showcased his talent for football as a Form Three pupil. His performances with the Asamankese Shooting Stars caught the attention of Gold Coast national team captain Tim Darbah, who encouraged him to play in the big towns.
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This led to stints with Great Ahantas and Sekondi Eleven Wise, where he impressed fans with his scoring ability, including a memorable three-goal performance against Accra Hearts of Oak.
He later joined the Real Republicans, and after the club’s dissolution, played briefly for Hearts of Oak and Kotoko before retiring.
Beyond football, Pare pursued correspondence courses in salesmanship while working with the National Sports Council.
In 1978, he became a born-again Christian, founding the Good News Chapel, where he served as Founder and General Overseer with branches across Ghana.
Happy 87th Birthday to former Black Stars player, Kofi Pare. 🇬🇭
Pare is a double AFCON winner (1963,1965), went to the Olympics in 1964 and has the record of the most goals scored by a Ghanaian player in a single game. Put 6 goals in the net when Ghana beat Kenya 13-2 in 1964. pic.twitter.com/hpQDG9NINp
— Yaw (@theyawofosu) November 26, 2025
FKA/JE
