PETALING JAYA: Life may be throwing Jordan Mintah one hurdle after another, but the Kuching City striker believes the challenges are only shaping him to return stronger than ever.
The naturalised Ghanaian had been hopeful of finally earning his first national cap this year.
Yet, in the last two centralised camps, circumstances beyond his control had denied him that long-awaited debut.
Mintah received his Malaysian citizenship in August and was expected to widen the national team’s attacking options.
In October, he was ruled out of Malaysia’s AFC Asian Cup 2027 third-round qualifiers against Laos due to documentation issues.
And just as Mintah geared up again for Tuesday’s qualifying game against Nepal, the 30-year-old was forced to withdraw - this time on medical grounds after being diagnosed with a thyroid-related condition.
Despite the setback, Mintah refuses to let disappointment consume him. He believes there is a bigger purpose in play.
“I’m not feeling too down anymore. In the beginning, it hurt a lot, but everything that happens in my life, I give thanks to God,” said Mintah, who has been playing in the Malaysian League since 2019.
“God knows what’s best for me. He is preparing me to come back stronger than before.”
For now, Mintah’s focus is on healing - both physically and mentally.
“I want to stay focused and give myself the time to recover. I will be back soon - step by step,” said Mintah, who also thanked his fans for their support.
