Ghanaian football mourns the loss of one of its true greats: Wilberforce “The Bulldozer” Mfum, the former Asante Kotoko and Black Stars striker, passed away on Sunday, May 11, 2025, at the age of 88 following a brief illness.
Renowned for his raw power, clinical finishing, and fearless presence in the box, Mfum helped define Ghana’s golden era on the continental stage.
Mfum first announced himself to the continent at the 1963 Africa Cup of Nations, drilling home Ghana’s inaugural goal in the tournament before adding a brace in the final to dethrone Sudan and deliver the nation its first continental crown on home soil.
Over twelve years in Black Stars colors, he amassed 20 goals in 26 appearances and represented Ghana at the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, leaving an indelible mark on every pitch he graced.
At club level, Mfum was Asante Kotoko’s talisman throughout the 1960s, his thunderous runs and eye for goal earning him legend status in Kumasi and beyond.
Kotoko announced the passing of Mfum by stating that the club, “is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Wilberforce Mfum. A legend of the club and a National hero, our thoughts and condolences go to his family.“
In 1968 he ventured to the United States, joining the Baltimore Bays (NPSL), then Ukrainian SC in the German American Soccer League, and later the Ukrainian Nationals where he finished as co–top scorer in the ASL and the New York Cosmos in the nascent NASL.
As one of the first African stars to ply his trade in U.S. professional leagues, he paved the way for generations to follow.