Godfred Karikari

Early life

Godfred Karikari was born to an affluent family in Ghana. He was a fast runner in his youth and was invited to join the school's track and field team. But he chose to play football instead. He was introduced to Hong Kong football by his manager and has not returned to Ghana since. His family members, whom he visits when he is on holiday, live in the United States and the United Kingdom today.

Early career

Godfred arrived in Hong Kong in 2002 and joined Fukien. In 2005, he moved to Rangers (HKG).

Happy Valley

Godfred moved to Happy Valley in January 2008. He scored 9 goals in the remainder of the season. Although the club decided to use a youth strategy for 2009-10 season, his contract was renewed. The club finished last of the 10 clubs in the season and Godfred left the club for TSW Pegasus.

TSW Pegasus

Godfred joined TSW Pegasus. On 11 September 2010, he scored 3 goals in TSW Pegasus' 5:1 victory over HKFC. On 1 April 2011, he scored another hat-trick against Tai Chung FC in a 7:1 win. In total, he scored 13 goals for TSW Pegasus in all local competitions in the 2010-11 season.

In the 2011-12 season, Godfred continued his good form by scoring 6 goals in 3 games, including a hat-trick against Sham Shui Po on 24 September 2011. Godfred was voted Most Valuable Player of Month in September 2011 by the Hong Kong Sports Press Association.

Henan Jianye

On 13 June 2012, Godfred moved to mainland China and signed a contract with Chinese Super League side Henan Jianye. He joined as a Hong Kong Chinese player and therefore not occupying any foreigners quotas of the club. He made his debut for Henan on 23 June, in a 0-0 away draw against Dalian Shide. His first goal for Henan came on 4 days later, which ensured Henan beat Chongqing Lifan 2–0 in the third round of 2012 Chinese FA Cup.

Shenzhen Ruby

In February 2014, Godfred transferred to China League One side Shenzhen Ruby.

Beijing Baxy

In July 2014, Godfred transferred to another China League One club Beijing Baxy.

Qingdao Huanghai

On 4 January 2016, Godfred signed by another China League One club Qingdao Huanghai.

International career

Godfred has spent more than seven years playing football in Hong Kong. He received his Hong Kong Permanent Identity Card on 7 February 2011. But his lack of a Hong Kong SAR passport means he is unable to be registered as a Hong Kong player in 2011 AFC Cup and also not able to represent Hong Kong in international matches. But due to his late application, he won't receive his passport and thus cannot represent Hong Kong until November 2011. On 2 December, he was called up by caretaker Hong Kong coach Liu Chun Fai for the 2012 Guangdong-Hong Kong Cup squad. Godfred Karikari scored on his debut for Hong Kong in the 2012 Guangdong-Hong Kong Cup as the match ended 2-2.

Godfred has yet to obtain his Hong Kong passport, but is still being drafted into new head coach Ernie Merrick's 27-member training squad. "I was told the passport is ready and the only thing the Hong Kong Immigration Department needs is a confirmation letter from the Ghana government that I have given up my original nationality, normally, it can take some time, but I have written to the Ghana government, pressuring them to give me the papers as soon as possible. It's my dream to play for Hong Kong at international level. I hope the good news can come soon so that I can be part of the team." On 11 April 2012, Hong Kong head coach Ernie Merrick confirmed that Godfred Karikari's nationality change has been approved and he can now represent Hong Kong. Merrick considers his addition to the team will be very helpful.

Godfred scored his first international goal for Hong Kong against Bhutan on 11 June 2015 in a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifier.

Honours

 Hong Kong

Career statistics