At 22, Prince Kwabena Adu is finally stepping onto the big stage.

The young striker has earned his first-ever call-up to the Black Stars for Ghana’s upcoming international friendlies against Japan and South Korea, marking the latest milestone in a career that has already seen its share of challenges and comebacks.

Prince Kwabena Adu’s story is one of quiet resilience, a journey that began on the streets of Kumasi, faced a major setback with a career-threatening injury and found new life across Europe.

Now, after years of hard work and patience, he’s back in the national conversation.

Here are five things to know about him.

Born and raised in Sampa

Prince Kwabena Adu was born on September 23, 2003, Sampa, in the Bono Region of Ghana. He grew up surrounded by the passion of local football, often playing in community tournaments that helped shape his early skills and understanding of the game.

Breakthrough at Bechem United

Kwabena Adu’s professional career began with Bechem United, where he made an instant impression during the 2019–20 Ghana Premier League season. The teenage forward scored 8 goals in 15 matches, showcasing his ability to find space, finish under pressure, and link play effectively. His performances quickly earned attention from scouts both locally and abroad.

Missed the 2021 U-20 AFCON due to injury

In early 2021, Prince Kwabena Adu was named in Karim Zito’s provisional Ghana U-20 squad for the Africa U-20 Cup of Nations. However, a knee ligament injury sustained while playing for Bechem United ended his dream of representing Ghana at the tournament,  one the team would eventually go on to win.

A two-year battle with injury and recovery

That injury would keep Adu sidelined for almost two years, forcing him into surgery and long-term rehabilitation. Many feared his potential would fade, but he fought back to fitness and looked abroad for a fresh start.

He moved from Bechem United in Ghana to Belarus side FC Isloch Minsk Raion  in February 2023, before joining Ukrainian outfit FC Kryvbas Kryvyi Rih in September 2023 on a four-year deal.

In August 2024, he transferred to FC Viktoria Plzeň in Czech Republic,  continuing his development in Europe.

Impressive form at Viktoria Plzeň

Now at Viktoria Plzeň, Kwabena Adu has begun to rediscover his best form. He has scored six goals in all competitions this season, combining strength and composure in front of goal. His consistency earned him a long-awaited call-up from Black Stars head coach Otto Addo, who is looking to inject new energy and attacking options into the national team.

As he joins the Black Stars for their upcoming international friendlies against Japan and South Korea, all eyes will be on Prince Kwabena Adu, a striker with the potential to become a key part of Ghana’s attack in the years ahead.