Richard Ofori Set to Join AmaZulu FC

Ghanaian goalkeeper Richard Ofori has arrived in South Africa to finalize his move to AmaZulu FC, a Premier Soccer League (PSL) side, as a free agent.

Ofori, who ended his stint with Orlando Pirates following the expiration of his contract in June 2024, has spent the summer training independently to maintain his fitness and readiness for the next stage of his career.

The 30-year-old has been a notable presence in South African football since 2018, when he first joined Maritzburg United. His consistent performances quickly established him as one of the best goalkeepers in the league, catching the attention of top clubs.

Ofori’s stellar form at Maritzburg United led to a move to one of South Africa’s most renowned football clubs, Orlando Pirates.

During his time with the Pirates, Ofori contributed significantly to the team’s success, particularly in their MTN 8 Cup victory. In the 2020 final against Bloemfontein Celtic, Ofori played a crucial role in securing a 2-1 win, which ended Orlando Pirates’ six-year drought without a major trophy. His performances between the posts solidified his reputation as one of the league’s top goalkeepers.

Ofori departs from Orlando Pirates after making over 100 appearances for both Maritzburg United and the Pirates combined. His experience in the PSL has been marked by consistent excellence, and his leadership on the pitch has been a key asset to the teams he has played for. Now, as he prepares to join AmaZulu, he embarks on a new chapter in his career, with hopes of making a lasting impact.

AmaZulu, who finished 11th in the PSL last season, are looking to strengthen their squad and improve their standings in the upcoming campaign. The club is aiming for a top-eight finish to qualify for the prestigious MTN 8 competition, and Ofori’s arrival is expected to enhance their defensive stability. His wealth of experience, both in domestic leagues and on the international stage, makes him a valuable addition to AmaZulu’s roster.

In addition to his club achievements, Ofori has also represented Ghana at the international level, earning 33 caps for the national team. He has been a key figure for the Black Stars, with his most recent appearance coming at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in a match against Mozambique.

Ofori’s ambition with AmaZulu is not only to help the team improve on their previous season but also to replicate their strong form from the 2021/22 campaign, where they finished as MTN 8 runners-up and advanced to the group stages of the CAF Champions League. With his proven track record and extensive experience, Ofori is expected to bring leadership and stability to AmaZulu’s backline as they strive for success in the upcoming season.