Shilla Iliasu- “I never believed I would get the opportunity at the world Cup”

Flashback to 2006 when Ghana qualified for its first ever World Cup under the guidance of Serbian tactician Ratomir Dujkovic.

Ghana was a powerhouse on the African continent but had never be to the FIFA World Cup, the pinnacle of world football.

Ghana went to the Germany 2006 World Cup with four local-based players in the 23-man squad.

Ashanti Gold’s goalkeeper George Owu, King Faisal’s defender Habib Mohammed, Daniel Quaye of Accra Hearts of Oak and Asante Kotoko’s 23-year-old defender Shilla Iliasu the surprise inclusion were part of the team from the Ghana Premier Leagie.

Iliasu was young and inexperienced but well matured for the festival.

The Real Tamale United and former King Faisal Babes defender has admitted that he never considered traveling to Germany for the 2006 World Cup.

“I never believed I would get the opportunity at the world Cup. At my position, there was Sammy Kuffour who was the first choice followed by Issah Ahmed,” said Iliasu.

“Maybe the coach knew something I didn’t. Maybe at training, he saw some qualities in me,” Shilla added.

Ghana in their debut World Cup defied the odds and progressed to the Round 16 after beaten Czech Republic and the USA to finish second behind the eventual winners Italy in the group stage. Brazil beat Ghana 3-0 to end the Black Stars’ odyssey.