Michael Essien was widely tipped to be one of Africa's next rising stars. Essien made his competitive senior debut in the 2002 Africa Cup of Nations against Morocco on 21 January 2002. but had played for Ghana in a pre-tournament friendly against Egypt on 4 January 2002. On 16 May 2006, Essien was selected to be part of the team that represented Ghana at the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. He played in midfield with team captain Stephen Appiah and Sulley Muntari. Essien played in Ghana's 0–2 defeat to Italy, their 2–0 victory over the Czech Republic, and the 2–1 victory
Orok Essien then made his professional debut for the side the next day on 21 September against Sporting Goa in which he started and played the whole match as Mumbai drew 1–1. Orok Essien Orok Orok Essien (born 25 January 1992) is a Nigerian professional footballer who plays as a forward for Bhawanipore F.C. in the Indian League. As a youth,Orok played for Audu Babes and Mozico. He then went on to play for amateur clubs Calabar Rover, Anantigha Warriors, and Anambra United. He then went on a short loan to Kenkre F.C. in the I-League 2nd Division in India before playing