Memphis Depay: The Meaning Behind His New Ghanaian Celebration After Screamer Against Granada

Memphis Depay: The Meaning Behind His New Ghanaian Celebration After Screamer Against Granada

Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
updated at August 15, 2023 at 11:55 AM
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  • Memphis Depay delivered a Puskas-worthy goal for Atletico Madrid in their La Liga opener against Granada
  • Following his screamer, the 29-year-old executed the widely recognized 'Adowa' dance move in his celebration
  • Depay, who plays for the Dutch national team, holds Ghanaian heritage as his father originates from the West African nation

Kicking off the 2023-24 season in remarkable style, Memphis Depay made a dazzling impact by scoring an extraordinary goal, propelling Atletico Madrid to a 2-1 victory against Granada.

Having previously donned the jerseys of Barcelona and Manchester United, the seasoned forward emerged from the substitutes' bench to clinch the winning goal for the Rojiblancos.

Memphis Depay, Ghana, Adowa, Atletico Madrid, dance
Memphis performed popular Ghanaian dance Adowa after scoring against Granada. Photo credit: Diego Souto/Quality Sport Images Green View
Source: Getty Images

In a moment of sheer brilliance, Memphis executed a goal that could contend for the Puskas Award for the season as he unleashed an absolute screamer during stoppage time, according to Football Espana.

Just moments after entering the game, Memphis had narrowly missed converting a promising opportunity.

However, he swiftly seized an opening in the midfield and, with only two touches, etched his first goal of the season— a stunning goal that is unlikely to be surpassed in the remainder of the campaign.

Memphis' Ghanaian-themed goal celebration

Following his extraordinary goal, the 29-year-old player, renowned for his signature BADTTW goal celebration, introduced an iconic Ghanaian dance, Adowa, into his jubilant display.

In his celebratory act, he gestured towards the heavens in both directions before tapping his chest—a symbolic assertion of his dominion over the Wanda Metropolitano.

Here is the video:

What is the Adowa dance?

Adowa represents a traditional dance originating from the Akan community in Ghana.

This cultural dance holds significant popularity and is a prominent feature at various ceremonial occasions, including festivals, funerals, engagements, and celebratory events across the nation, per Green Views.

Memphis jet skis in Ghana

Previously, Sports Brief highlighted the enjoyment of the Atletico Madrid star during his vacation in Ghana in anticipation of the upcoming football season.

During a significant portion of the summer, the 29-year-old athlete immersed himself in Ghana's capital, Accra, where he also dedicated time to individual training.

The Dutch forward took a brief excursion to Ada, situated on Ghana's southeastern coast. Accompanied by family and friends, he engaged in beachside recreation and relaxation.

Authors
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe photo
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe
Godwin Nii Armah Tagoe is a Ligue 1, Bundesliga, and La Liga editor with five-year experience. He previously worked with Sports Corna and 360SportsGH.
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