Ghana Sports News

The latest Ghana sports news: the Black Stars, the Ghana Premier League, boxing, athletics, and the stories fans are following. Curated from Ghana's leading newsrooms and updated through the day, newest first.

Sports Minister Kofi Adams Withholds African Games Payments Following Audit as Kick Nation CEO Represents Ghana at Madrid Summit
sports|

Sports Minister Kofi Adams Withholds African Games Payments Following Audit as Kick Nation CEO Represents Ghana at Madrid Summit

The Minister of Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, has revealed that the government is withholding payments to several service providers involved in the 13th African Games due to discrepancies identified during a rigorous auditing process. Appearing before Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee on September 18, 2026, the Minister explained that while the state is committed to settling its legitimate debts, the findings of the audit have necessitated a freeze on disbursements to specific entities. This move underscores the current administration’s focus on financial accountability and the protection of public funds following the continental multi-sport event. During the parliamentary session, Minister Adams noted that the ministry had been specifically instructed not to pay certain firms based on the audit’s recommendations. This development follows months of inquiries regarding outstanding arrears owed to various vendors and contractors who supported the games. The Minister’s testimony suggests that while many providers may soon see their accounts settled, those flagged for irregularities will face further scrutiny or outright denial of payment. This stance reflects a broader effort by the government to ensure that sports expenditures are transparent and justifiable to the Ghanaian taxpayer. Parallel to these domestic administrative developments, Ghana’s presence on the international sports stage continues to expand through private-sector initiatives. Wunnam Haruna, the Chief Executive Officer of Kick Nation, represented the nation at the prestigious World Football Summit in Madrid, Spain. Held from September 15 to 16, 2026, the summit’s 10th-anniversary edition brought together global leaders to discuss the evolution of football business, focusing on technological integration and enhanced fan engagement strategies. Haruna’s participation marks a significant step for Ghanaian sports executives in influencing international discourse and seeking partnerships that could modernize the local football ecosystem. The contrast between the government’s focus on auditing past expenditures and the private sector’s drive for future-oriented global partnerships highlights the dual-track nature of the Ghanaian sports industry. As Minister Adams navigates the complexities of closing the financial books on the 13th African Games, the involvement of figures like Wunnam Haruna in global forums suggests a push toward a more professionalized and technologically advanced sports sector. Together, these events indicate a period of transition where accountability for past projects is being balanced with a vision for future international collaboration and growth.

sports|

Burna Boy Set to Headline Halftime Show at Historic 2026 NFL Paris Game

Grammy Award-winning Afrobeats star Burna Boy has been confirmed as the headline act for the halftime show at the National Football League's (NFL) inaugural regular-season game in Paris. Scheduled for October 25, 2026, the landmark fixture will see the Pittsburgh Steelers face off against the New Orleans Saints at the iconic Stade de France. This announcement marks a significant milestone in the NFL’s ongoing global expansion efforts, blending world-class American football with international musical excellence on one of Europe’s grandest stages. Burna Boy's selection for this historic performance is particularly poignant given his existing connection to the venue. The Nigerian superstar previously made history at Stade de France by becoming the first African artist to perform and sell out a solo concert at the stadium. Expressing his enthusiasm for the upcoming halftime show, Burna Boy emphasized the importance of the platform for representing African music and culture to a global audience. His participation underscores the growing influence of Afrobeats and its successful crossover into mainstream Western sports entertainment. The game itself represents a strategic pillar in the NFL’s international strategy, which has seen the league increase the number of regular-season games played outside the United States to record levels. By bringing high-profile teams like the Steelers and Saints to the French capital, the league aims to tap into the burgeoning European market while utilizing musical performances to enhance the cultural relevance of the sport. This approach aligns with a broader trend of cultural diplomacy, where major sports leagues leverage international artistic talent to build brand loyalty and engage diverse audiences. As the NFL continues to break new ground, the Paris game is expected to draw a massive global audience across multiple viewing platforms. The integration of high-profile entertainment with competitive sports highlights the league's shift towards becoming a holistic entertainment brand rather than just a sporting organization. For fans, the October 25 event promises a unique fusion of athletic prowess and musical spectacle, further solidifying the bridge between the African music industry and the American sports landscape.

Black Stars Defender Alidu Seidu Completes Long-Term Loan Move to OGC Nice
sports|

Black Stars Defender Alidu Seidu Completes Long-Term Loan Move to OGC Nice

Ghanaian international Alidu Seidu has officially joined French Ligue 1 side OGC Nice on loan from Stade Rennais, a move that reinforces the club’s defensive options for the foreseeable future. The 26-year-old versatile defender has signed an agreement that will see him stay with the Eaglets until the end of the 2026/2027 season. The deal marks a significant shift for the player as he seeks more consistent playing time within the top flight of French football. The transfer was processed as a "joker" signing, a specific provision in French football regulations that allows clubs to acquire a player outside of the standard transfer window under certain conditions. Nice was forced into the market following a series of defensive injuries that left the squad vulnerable. Specifically, the recruitment of Seidu is intended to fill the void left by sidelined defenders Antoine Mendy and Moïse Bombito, providing immediate cover for the first-team squad. Seidu brings a wealth of Ligue 1 experience to Nice, having previously featured for Clermont Foot before his stint at Stade Rennais. His tactical flexibility is a major asset; the Ghanaian is equally comfortable operating as a right-back or in the heart of the defense as a centre-back. With 25 caps for the Black Stars, Seidu also provides a veteran presence and international pedigree that Nice hopes will stabilize their backline during a challenging period of the season. For the player, the move to the Allianz Riviera represents a strategic opportunity to reclaim a regular starting role and maintain his fitness for national team duties. As Seidu integrates into the squad, his immediate task will be to adapt to the tactical demands of the coaching staff and help the team navigate their upcoming domestic fixtures. The long-term nature of the loan suggests that both the player and the club are looking to build a stable partnership through the coming years.

Samson Deen, President of the African Paralympic Committee, is seen speaking at a press conference regarding the 13th African Games held in Accra. He wears branded apparel for the games and gestures emphatically while standing behind a table crowded with news microphones, surrounded by observers.
sports|

NPC Ghana President Samson Deen Urges NPP-NDC Unity to Protect Sports Sector from Political Interference

Samson Deen, the President of the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) of Ghana, has issued a stern warning to the nation’s primary political entities—the New Patriotic Party (NPP) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC)—demanding an end to partisan rivalries within the sports sector. Deen argues that the ongoing political friction between these two groups is actively sabotaging the development of Ghanaian sports by driving away corporate sponsors and depriving young athletes of vital opportunities. In a series of public statements, he emphasized that the politicization of sports administration has reached a critical point where it threatens the very foundation of the industry. Central to Deen’s critique is the recurring pattern of targeting sports officials based on their political affiliations rather than their professional merits. He noted that this environment of administrative hostility not only demoralizes current leaders but also creates a toxic atmosphere that discourages the private sector from investing. According to Deen, the cycle of political attacks undermines the credibility of national sports institutions, making it nearly impossible to secure the long-term partnerships needed to maintain facilities and fund training programs for the next generation of competitors. To bridge this divide, the NPC President is advocating for a comprehensive, non-partisan forum that brings together political leaders, sports stakeholders, and administrative experts to draft a unified roadmap for the sector. He stressed that the public is tired of rhetoric regarding reforms and now expects visible, concrete action. Furthermore, Deen called on the media to exercise greater responsibility in their reporting, suggesting that balanced and constructive journalism is essential for building the goodwill necessary to attract significant international and local investment. Highlighting his personal frustration with the status quo, Deen revealed his intention to retire from sports administration in 2028 if the environment does not undergo significant structural improvement. His potential exit serves as a warning that Ghana risks losing its most experienced sports advocates to political fatigue. He concluded by reiterating that the future of the nation's sporting success depends on a collective commitment to prioritize athlete welfare and institutional integrity over partisan point-scoring, urging both the NPP and NDC to collaborate for the greater good of the country.

sports|

Minister Kofi Adams Reveals $1.26m World Cup Ticket Expenditure as Ghana Awaits $12.5m FIFA Payout

The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has disclosed that the Ghanaian government invested approximately $1.26 million to secure tickets for supporters during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Speaking before Parliament's Youth and Sports Committee on September 17, 2026, the Minister provided a detailed breakdown of the costs associated with the national team's campaign, highlighting the state's commitment to ensuring a vocal presence for the Black Stars on the global stage. According to the figures presented to the committee, the $1.26 million expenditure was used to acquire a total of 2,922 tickets. These tickets were distributed across three matches, facilitating the attendance of local supporters who traveled to cheer for the national team. This disclosure comes as part of a broader effort by the Ministry to maintain transparency regarding the allocation of public funds for international sporting tournaments, which remains a subject of significant public and legislative interest. Beyond the tournament's expenses, Minister Adams also shared positive news regarding Ghana's financial returns from the global showpiece. He announced that Ghana is expected to receive US$12.5 million from FIFA by the end of September 2026. This payment constitutes the country's share of the financial rewards following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup. The Minister noted that the government is currently engaged in final discussions with FIFA to resolve matters related to taxation and the formal settlement of these funds. The anticipated $12.5 million inflow is expected to provide a substantial boost to the nation's sports development budget, potentially offsetting the initial costs of participation and supporter mobilization. As FIFA finalizes its administrative processes with host nations and participating associations, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation expects the funds to be cleared shortly, marking a successful financial conclusion to Ghana's 2026 World Cup journey.

Ranking Member Vincent Ekow Assafuah Alleges $623,000 NSA Visa Scandal and Demands Answers Over Thomas Partey Entry Refusal
sports|

Ranking Member Vincent Ekow Assafuah Alleges $623,000 NSA Visa Scandal and Demands Answers Over Thomas Partey Entry Refusal

Vincent Ekow Assafuah, the Ranking Member on Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, has leveled serious allegations of corruption and administrative negligence against Ghana’s sports leadership. Central to these claims is a massive visa racketeering scheme allegedly involving the National Sports Authority (NSA), where approximately $623,000 was reportedly extorted from individuals seeking travel documents for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The Minority in Parliament is now demanding immediate transparency and accountability from both the Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Ghana Football Association (GFA) as the nation’s World Cup preparations face growing scrutiny. According to Assafuah, the alleged scheme saw individuals falsely representing themselves as NSA staff members to secure visas for the tournament. He specifically named Yaw Ampofo-Ankrah, the Director-General of the National Sports Authority, as being involved in the facilitation of these documents in exchange for substantial payments from the public. Furthermore, Assafuah accused the Sports Minister of attempting to shield those responsible for the misrepresentation, suggesting a coordinated effort to cover up the fraudulent activity within the state sports agency. Compounding the controversy is the administrative handling of the Black Stars' squad, specifically the situation surrounding midfield maestro Thomas Partey. The Minority is seeking an official explanation as to why Partey was unable to enter Canada for Ghana’s opening 2026 World Cup fixture against Panama. Assafuah questioned whether the GFA and the Sports Ministry conducted proper due diligence or adequately assessed travel requirements before including the Arsenal star in their competitive plans. This entry refusal has raised questions about the level of coordination between football authorities and international diplomatic channels. These dual scandals—financial exploitation through visa fraud and the failure to secure entry for a key national team player—highlight significant gaps in Ghana’s sports governance. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the Minority’s demands for answers signal a deepening divide between Parliament and the executive branch’s management of sports. The fallout from these allegations could lead to further parliamentary inquiries into the internal operations of the NSA and the GFA, as the government faces pressure to ensure that the national team's campaign is not overshadowed by administrative misconduct.

Carlos Queiroz Names 24-Man Black Stars Squad as Kudus Returns for AFCON 2027 Qualifiers
sports|

Carlos Queiroz Names 24-Man Black Stars Squad as Kudus Returns for AFCON 2027 Qualifiers

Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has announced a 24-man squad for the upcoming 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and Gambia. This announcement coincides with Queiroz’s return to Ghana to finalize a two-year contract extension, a move supported by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) following his leadership during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he guided the team to the Round of 32. The squad selection signals a strategic shift as Ghana begins its campaign to secure a spot in the continental tournament, starting with a high-stakes clash against Côte d'Ivoire on September 24, followed by a home match against Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium on September 27. The most significant roster update is the return of star midfielder Mohammed Kudus, who missed the 2026 World Cup due to injury. Kudus is joined by other returning players, including Alexander Djiku, Ibrahim Osman, Nathaniel Adjei, and Ibrahim Sulemana. In a move to inject fresh talent, Queiroz has handed maiden senior call-ups to Jan Gyamerah and 21-year-old Ronald Donkor. Donkor, currently playing for the New York Red Bulls in Major League Soccer, has impressed the technical team with six goal involvements and an 85% pass accuracy this season. However, the squad will be without Thomas Partey, who is still recovering from injury, and several World Cup regulars including Brandon Thomas-Asante, Jonas Adjei Adjetey, and Abdul Mumin. Coach Queiroz has used this international window to manage public expectations, urging Ghanaians to remain realistic about the team's current trajectory. Despite the national desire for silverware, Queiroz emphasized that the immediate priority is the qualification process itself, stating, "We cannot win AFCON when we have not qualified." His stated long-term vision involves building a robust and competitive squad capable of contending at the 2030 World Cup. This pragmatic approach follows a period of rebuilding after the team suffered recent group-stage exits in previous continental tournaments. The road ahead remains challenging as Ghana’s first opponent, Côte d’Ivoire, led by head coach Hervé Renard, is also finalizing its preparations. While the Ivorians will be missing key players like Diallo, Adingra, and Singo, they remain a formidable threat in the group. Following the two competitive qualifiers, the Black Stars are scheduled to play an international friendly against Morocco on October 4. This series of matches will serve as a critical litmus test for Queiroz’s newly extended project as he seeks to stabilize the team and restore Ghana's status as a dominant force in African football.

Veteran Sports Broadcaster Owen Ndlovu Found Dead with Gunshot Wounds After Johannesburg Abduction
sports|

Veteran Sports Broadcaster Owen Ndlovu Found Dead with Gunshot Wounds After Johannesburg Abduction

The South African media landscape is in mourning following the tragic death of veteran sports broadcaster Owen Ndlovu, whose body was discovered with gunshot wounds a day after he was abducted in Johannesburg. Ndlovu, a well-known figure in the sports and entertainment industry, was kidnapped on Tuesday evening while waiting to pick up his wife from a church in Katlehong. His disappearance sparked an immediate search, which ended in heartbreak when authorities located his body the following day. Law enforcement agencies in Gauteng have launched a massive manhunt for the suspects involved in the kidnapping and subsequent murder. According to preliminary reports, the broadcaster was forcefully taken by unidentified individuals, and the specific motive behind the attack remains under investigation. Police officials have called upon members of the public to provide any information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators, emphasizing the gravity of the incident and the need for justice in a community rattled by this act of violence. Beyond his prominent work in sports journalism, Owen Ndlovu was a multifaceted figure who made significant contributions to the advocacy for musicians' rights. He was notably recognized for his initiatives aimed at ensuring artists received fair compensation and recognition for their creative work. His family, describing the loss as devastating, highlighted his deep passion for both sports and the creative arts, noting that his absence leaves a void that will be difficult to fill in both the broadcasting and music sectors. The killing of Ndlovu has once again brought South Africa's escalating crime rates into sharp focus, drawing widespread condemnation from the public and media organizations alike. As tributes continue to pour in for the veteran broadcaster, there is a growing demand for the government to take more decisive action against violent crime. For now, the focus remains on the ongoing police investigation as the nation waits for answers regarding the senseless death of one of its most prominent media voices.

Michael Essien's 'Game of Hope': A Look Back at the Star-Studded 2013 Exhibition Match in Accra
sports|

Michael Essien's 'Game of Hope': A Look Back at the Star-Studded 2013 Exhibition Match in Accra

In 2013, former Ghana midfielder Michael Essien leveraged his extensive global network to host a landmark event dubbed the "Game of Hope" in Accra. The exhibition match remains one of the most high-profile football events held in the country, drawing some of the biggest names in world football to the capital city. The initiative showcased Essien’s deep connections within the sport and served as a significant moment of celebration for football fans across the nation. The centerpiece of the event was a match held at the Accra Sports Stadium featuring an "Africa XI" side competing against a "World XI." The World XI was captained by Michael Ballack, the legendary former Germany and Chelsea midfielder. The star-studded rosters also included other international icons such as Emmanuel Adebayor and Marcelo, highlighting the high level of talent Essien was able to bring to Ghana for the charity-driven fixture. The Game of Hope served as a major exhibition of sport and unity, bringing together diverse talents from across the globe on a single pitch in Accra. By organizing this high-profile fixture, Essien successfully showcased his influence and commitment to his home country through high-level sporting entertainment. Even years later, the match is remembered as a testament to the power of football to unite stars from different continents for a singular cause in the heart of West Africa.

Nairobi Awarded 2029 World Athletics Championships as Ghana's Black Spikers Secure Crucial Volleyball Win
sports|

Nairobi Awarded 2029 World Athletics Championships as Ghana's Black Spikers Secure Crucial Volleyball Win

African sports celebrated a historic milestone as Nairobi was officially named the host city for the 2029 World Athletics Championships, marking the first time the prestigious event will be held on the continent. The decision has sparked widespread celebration across Africa, with legendary Ethiopian runner Haile Gebrselassie among the first to laud the announcement. Gebrselassie described the news as a wonderful achievement for the entire continent, emphasizing that bringing the championships to Kenya is a fitting tribute to Africa’s enduring legacy and dominance in global athletics. The selection is expected to provide a massive boost to regional sports infrastructure and inspire a new generation of athletes to compete on home soil. In a separate but equally significant victory for West African sports, Ghana’s national volleyball team, the Black Spikers, kept their international championship hopes alive with a dominant performance in Tunis. Following an initial loss in the 2026 Africa Nations Volleyball Championship, the team bounced back to defeat Kenya 3-0. The Black Spikers demonstrated exceptional skill and composure throughout the match, winning the sets 25-20, 25-23, and 25-20. This clinical performance secured their advancement to the next stage of the competition, providing a much-needed momentum shift for the Ghanaian side as they progress through the tournament. The stakes for the Africa Nations Volleyball Championship remain high, as the tournament serves as a critical qualifier for both the 2027 FIVB Volleyball World Championship and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. For the Black Spikers, the victory over Kenya is a vital step toward returning to the global stage. Meanwhile, as Nairobi begins its preparations for 2029, these collective successes highlight a period of immense potential for African sports. Whether on the track or the volleyball court, the continent is increasingly positioning itself as a central player in the global sporting arena, driven by both elite talent and the capacity to host world-class events.

Boxer Theophilus Allotey Targets WBA Title Eliminator as Football Star Mohammed Kudus Credits Banku for Success
sports|

Boxer Theophilus Allotey Targets WBA Title Eliminator as Football Star Mohammed Kudus Credits Banku for Success

Ghanaian sports excellence is currently being celebrated across two distinct arenas, as a rising boxing star prepares for a world title eliminator and a football icon highlights his cultural roots on the international stage. Unbeaten Ghanaian boxer Theophilus Allotey is scheduled to face Argentina’s Facundo David Garcia in a high-stakes World Boxing Association (WBA) Super Flyweight World Title Eliminator. The twelve-round bout, slated for September 19, 2026, will be the centerpiece of the Osagyefo Fight Night at the Bukom Boxing Arena in Accra, an event held in honor of Ghana’s founding president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah. The upcoming match represents a significant milestone for Allotey, who carries the hopes of Ghanaian boxing fans as he moves closer to a potential world championship opportunity. Fighting on home soil provides Allotey with a strategic advantage, though Garcia is expected to offer a stern challenge in what is being billed as a major test for the undefeated Ghanaian. The choice of venue and the dedication of the night to Dr. Nkrumah underscore the national importance of the event, blending elite athleticism with historical commemoration. While Allotey prepares for physical combat in Accra, Ghana’s football talisman, Mohammed Kudus, has been making waves in the English Premier League with a personal revelation about his performance secrets. During a recent interaction with a young Tottenham Hotspur supporter, the versatile midfielder shared that banku—a fermented corn and cassava dough staple—is one of his favorite pre-match meals. When asked by the inquisitive fan about what he eats before a game, Kudus playfully asked, "Do you know banku?" before confirming its role in his nutritional routine. This glimpse into the life of the Spurs and Black Stars attacker highlights the deep connection Ghanaian athletes maintain with their heritage, even while competing at the highest levels of European football. For Kudus, the choice of banku is more than just a meal; it is a piece of home that fuels his world-class displays on the pitch. As Allotey readies his gloves for the Bukom ring and Kudus continues to dazzle in London, these athletes continue to serve as prominent ambassadors of Ghanaian culture and sporting prowess on the global stage.

Saudi Pro League Sanctions Al-Taawoun as FIFA Reopens Investment Review and Vinicius Jr. Faces Madrid Pressure
sports|

Saudi Pro League Sanctions Al-Taawoun as FIFA Reopens Investment Review and Vinicius Jr. Faces Madrid Pressure

The global football landscape is currently navigating a series of disciplinary, administrative, and performance-related challenges across multiple continents. In the Saudi Pro League, Al-Taawoun has been handed a significant stadium ban and a heavy fine following offensive behavior by their supporters. Simultaneously, at the administrative level, FIFA has announced it will revisit a controversial investment plan previously spearheaded by President Gianni Infantino, while in Spain, Real Madrid star Vinicius Jr. is facing intense scrutiny from fans over his early-season form in the 2026/2027 campaign. These developments highlight the mounting pressures on clubs, governing bodies, and elite athletes to maintain high standards of conduct and performance. The disciplinary action against Al-Taawoun follows a match that ended in a 6-0 defeat to Al-Hilal, during which home supporters directed offensive chants at midfielder Ruben Neves. The chants reportedly referenced Neves' late friend and former teammate, Diogo Jota, sparking widespread condemnation from Saudi football authorities and high-profile figures such as Cristiano Ronaldo. As a result, Al-Taawoun must play their next two home matches behind closed doors and pay a fine of 100,000 Saudi Riyals (approximately £20,000). The ruling serves as a stern warning regarding fan conduct as the league continues its rapid international expansion. On the governance front, FIFA is preparing to present a review of the halted FIFA Forward Enterprise (FFE) investment proposal to the FIFA Council. The decision to revive the discussion follows pressure from Jesper Moller, the president of the Danish Football Association, who raised concerns during a Legal Committee meeting about the lack of transparency and response to queries regarding the proposal's suspension. This review marks a pivotal moment for FIFA's financial strategy, as the organization seeks to address criticisms from member associations while managing its global investment portfolio. Meanwhile, the spotlight on individual performance has intensified for Vinicius Jr. at Real Madrid. Despite recording one goal and three assists in his first seven appearances of the 2026/2027 season, including La Liga and UEFA Champions League fixtures, the Brazilian forward has become the target of social media criticism. Some supporters have even called for him to be benched, reflecting the uncompromising expectations at the world's most successful club. Together, these stories underscore a period of transition and accountability within the sport, where actions both on and off the pitch are subject to rigorous evaluation by authorities and the public alike.