Akaminko faces Freddy Adu in Turkey promotion play-offs

It’s an all-Ghanaian affair in battle for promotion to the top flight in Turkey as ex-junior international Jerry Akaminko’s Orduspor face Caykur Rizespor who have Ghanaian born US international Freddy Adu as well as Clement Boateng who may be largely unknown back in the homeland.

Akaminko has remained a tower in defence for Orduspor all season making 23 appearances and scoring once as his quest to help his side gain promotion to the Turkey Super League gains momentum.

Now they face Caykur Rizespor in a two-legged play-off semi final for the right to face either Gaziantep BB or Tav?anl? Linyitsporin the final of which only the winner is guaranteed promotion.

Orduspor host the first leg next Monday May 23 with the return encounter in Rizespor three days later. Akaminko has told All Sports he will offer his all to propel Orduspor to success and consequent promotion to the top flight.

Freddy Adu, once hailed as the next Pele and who turned down a chance to play for Ghana, has struggled to live up to the expectations thrust on him at an early age. Now 21 years of age, Adu who was born in Tema, Ghana, is currently on a season long loan at Caykur Rizespor from Portuguese side Benfica.

Akaminko has sworn to deal with Rizespor attackers including Freddy Adu.

“I am excited and proud that we are getting close to the dream of qualifying to the Super League. I am happy we are playing at home first because it gives us the advantage to win and put pressure on them for the return game.

“There can be no turning back now and I am committed to give my all, not even Freddy Adu because we are playing against a team, not an individual,” Akaminko told All Sports from his Turkey base.