Kofi Balmer, defender for Motherwell
Northern Ireland’s Kofi Balmer has an intriguing story behind his first name. Despite having no Ghanaian heritage, Balmer’s parents named him after the former United Nations Secretary-General, Kofi Annan.
Interestingly, unlike Kofi Annan, who was born on a Friday (as per traditional Ghanaian naming customs), Balmer was born on a Tuesday—breaking the typical convention associated with the name.
The 24-year-old center-back has steadily climbed the ranks in his football career, starting at Ballymena before moving to Crystal Palace, where he featured for their U21 side.
He is now with Motherwell, having made 13 appearances in the 2024/25 Scottish Premiership. While he has yet to score a league goal, he has one goal to his name in the Scottish League Cup after three appearances.
After making four consecutive starts, Balmer was an unused substitute on Saturday, January 25, 2025, as Motherwell suffered a 2-1 defeat to relegation-threatened St. Johnstone.
Balmer’s performances have earned him opportunities on the international stage as well. He has represented Northern Ireland at both the senior and U21 levels, participating in the 2023 Euro U21 qualifiers and three friendlies with the senior national team between 2021 and 2022.
Motherwell’s Kofi Balmer has been capped by Northern Ireland up to U21 level.
His parents named him Kofi, traditionally given to boys born on a Friday in Ghana, reportedly after former UN Secretary-General Kofi Annan.
Balmer has no Ghanaian roots and was born on a Tuesday 😅🇬🇭 pic.twitter.com/4zG5Xw1stq
— ESPN Africa (@ESPNAfrica) January 25, 2025
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