Kwadwo Baah glances down, chuckling softly.
“Portsmouth away,” he tells his press officer, referencing Watford’s next match. He’s bracing for a chilly welcome at Fratton Park, his first return since his memorable celebration last Boxing Day.
Baah was sent off after the final whistle for a lively display in front of Portsmouth fans at Vicarage Road, following Rocco Vata’s stoppage-time goal that clinched a 2-1 victory for Watford. His dance, known as the “Take The L” from Fortnite, stirred the pot.
“I’m expecting a rough reception,” Baah admits to Sky Sports, grinning widely. “The fans will give me grief, but I kind of enjoy it—it means I’m making an impact. It’s wild that they’re still talking about something from almost a year ago.”
He adds, “Some might not like it, but if fans can dish it out, we should be able to give it back. It’s just banter to me. I’m not changing who I am. I’ll always show personality on the pitch. Players should loosen up and express themselves. The abuse? I just smile and keep going.”
At 22, Baah’s resilience shines through, forged by a challenging path. Released by Crystal Palace at 14, he rebuilt his career through Kinetic Academy, a London-based charity blending football and education, before joining Rochdale in League One.
Last season marked his breakout at Watford, following loan spells in Germany and Burton. “It’s been a rollercoaster,” he reflects. “I got released by Palace at under-14s, then found my footing at Kinetic. After a few trials, I landed at Rochdale at 16. It’s been a journey, but I have no regrets. I always had the drive to keep pushing.”
Baah credits his father, a former player, for instilling his love for football. “From a young age, I only wanted to play football. My dad taught me so much. Even after being let go, I stayed focused on making it. Now, here I am, grateful for it all. You need hunger and determination to reach your goals—you can’t be half-hearted. I’m still young, with plenty to prove, but hard work gets you far.”
Neymar is Baah’s idol, his flair and freedom inspiring a generation. “He’s my all-time favorite,” Baah says. “I’d watch his clips and try to mimic him. He made football look so effortless. I don’t play like him now—nobody can—but as a direct winger, I love taking on defenders. Going past them is the best part of the game.”
Baah’s attacking style and vibrant personality make him a fan favorite. “It’s exciting for the crowd when a player beats opponents,” he says. “I try to bring that energy.” Whether it’s his flair on the pitch or his bold celebrations, Baah is sure to spark some excitement at Fratton Park.