ABDUL RAZAK 

Abdul Razak Tanko, renowned in the footballing world as Abdul Razak or the "Golden Boy," epitomizes the essence of Ghanaian football excellence. Born on April 18, 1956, in Kumasi to Alhaji Abdul Karimu and Hajija Ishatu, Razak's journey from the streets of his hometown to international acclaim is a testament to his extraordinary talent and unwavering dedication to the sport.

Razak's early years were steeped in the rich footballing culture of Kumasi, where he first discovered his passion for the beautiful game. Educated at Asem Boy's Elementary School, he swiftly made his mark in local youth team football before catching the eye of talent scouts and embarking on his professional career.

In 1972, Razak's journey took him to Kumasi Cornerstones, marking the inception of a remarkable footballing odyssey. However, it was his move to Asante Kotoko in 1975 that propelled him into the spotlight. Over the course of four years with Kotoko, Razak not only cemented his place as a key player but also earned a call-up to the Ghana national team, laying the foundation for his illustrious career on the international stage.

The pinnacle of Razak's club career came during his tenure with the New York Cosmos in the prestigious North American Soccer League (NASL). Joining the Cosmos in 1979, Razak had the privilege of playing alongside footballing legends such as Franz Beckenbauer and Carlos Alberto, further enhancing his reputation as one of Africa's finest talents.

Despite his success abroad, Razak remained deeply rooted in his Ghanaian heritage, returning to Asante Kotoko in 1981 after a brief stint in New York. His subsequent ventures with clubs in the UAE, Egypt, and Ivory Coast underscored his versatility and enduring impact across diverse footballing landscapes.

On the international stage, Razak's crowning moment came in 1978 when he played a pivotal role in Ghana's triumphant campaign at the African Cup of Nations. His decisive goals, including the iconic "Golden Goal" against Tunisia, propelled Ghana to victory, earning him the prestigious title of African Footballer of the Year.

Transitioning seamlessly from player to coach, Razak embarked on a new chapter in his footballing journey. From Togo to Mali, and eventually Ghana, he shared his wealth of experience and tactical acumen, guiding both club and national teams to unprecedented success.

Razak's enduring legacy in African football is further underscored by his numerous accolades and honors. From being named among the top African footballers of the past half-century by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) to clinching domestic titles and individual awards, his contributions have left an indelible mark on the sport.

REFERENCE: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karim_Abdul_Razak