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 Addresses Tax-Related Bonus Delays for Black Stars and Denies Black Maidens Arrears
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Sports Minister Kofi Adams Addresses Tax-Related Bonus Delays for Black Stars and Denies Black Maidens Arrears

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has clarified the government's financial standing regarding Ghana’s national football teams, revealing that tax disputes are the primary cause for the delay in paying bonuses to the Black Stars. Appearing before Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee, the Minister provided a comprehensive update on the aftermath of the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the current status of the women’s national teams. While the Black Stars successfully reached the World Cup in North America, their journey ended in the Round of 32, and the subsequent disbursement of player bonuses has since been stalled by technicalities regarding tax responsibilities. Minister Adams emphasized that the government is committed to fulfilling its obligations to the senior national team but noted that a resolution is needed on whether the tax burden falls on the individual players or the state. "Once this is clarified, the payments will proceed," Adams assured. This financial update comes as the Black Stars, under the guidance of Coach Carlos Queiroz, pivot toward the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers. The team is scheduled to face Côte d'Ivoire on September 24 and The Gambia on September 27, with the squad announcement expected imminently to begin preparations for these critical fixtures. In contrast to the situation with the senior men's team, the Minister forcefully rejected allegations that the government owes per diems or bonuses to the Black Maidens, Ghana’s U-17 women’s team. Addressing reports of outstanding payments, Adams stated he is not aware of any approved bonuses due to the team that remain unpaid. He explained the administrative distinction in funding, noting that while the Ghana Football Association (GFA) manages player bonuses during qualifying phases, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation intervenes when teams participate in officially sanctioned international tournaments. The Black Maidens have already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco and recently demonstrated their prowess with a 4-0 victory over Burkina Faso in the WAFU B U-17 Girls Cup. However, the outlook was less positive for the senior women’s team, the Black Queens. During his briefing to Parliament, the Minister confirmed that the team failed to advance to the semi-finals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON). This exit resulted in the Black Queens missing out on automatic qualification for the 2027 Women’s World Cup. The Ministry is expected to review these performances as part of a broader strategy to improve the competitive standing of Ghana’s national teams across both youth and senior levels in the coming year.

The University for Development Studies (UDS) football team celebrates their victory on a winners' podium. The players are wearing green jerseys and white socks, cheering and clapping behind a red banner marked '1st PLACE' on a football field under a clear blue sky.
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Ghanaian Universities Dominate 12th All-Africa University Games with UDS Football Retain and UG Medal Record

Ghanaian higher education institutions have achieved unprecedented success at the 12th All-Africa University Games, also known as the FASU Games, recently held in Cairo, Egypt. The University for Development Studies (UDS) made history by successfully defending its African university football title, while the University of Ghana (UG) delivered an outstanding multisport performance, securing a record-breaking haul of 23 medals. These achievements collectively underscore Ghana's rising dominance in continental collegiate sports and highlight the growing strength of the nation's athletic programs. The UDS football team solidified their status as a continental powerhouse by defeating Julius Nyerere University of Guinea 2–1 in a thrilling and closely contested final. After a cagey, goalless first half, UDS broke the deadlock in the 59th minute through a strike from Raphui. Although Julius Nyerere University leveled the score in the 70th minute to force the game into additional time, the Ghanaian side showed remarkable resilience. In the second half of extra time, Ezedeen Alhassan netted the decisive goal, ensuring UDS became the first university ever to win the African continental championship in consecutive editions. Complementing the football victory, the University of Ghana showcased its athletic prowess across a wide range of disciplines, including athletics, badminton, and tennis. The institution finished the competition with a total of 23 medals, comprising 10 gold, 8 silver, and 5 bronze. UG's gold medalists excelled in high-profile events such as the men's long jump, hurdles, and relays, as well as the women's 200m and javelin throw. This performance represents a significant improvement from the previous 2022 Games held in Nairobi, where the university secured 16 medals. The double success of UDS and the University of Ghana marks a milestone for the country’s sports development at the tertiary level. By maintaining their football supremacy and expanding their reach in track and field, these institutions have set a high benchmark for university sports across the continent. This performance provides a strong foundation for future international competitions and reinforces Ghana's reputation as a nursery for elite athletic talent in Africa.

Real Bolga United Appoints Finance Expert Prosper Awuni Ayinbila as President to Lead Strategic Comeback
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Real Bolga United Appoints Finance Expert Prosper Awuni Ayinbila as President to Lead Strategic Comeback

Real Bolga United FC has announced the appointment of Mr. Prosper Awuni Ayinbila as its new President, a move aimed at revitalizing the club ahead of the 2026/2027 football season. Mr. Ayinbila, a seasoned Chartered Accountant currently serving with the Ministry of Finance, brings a wealth of experience in financial management and administration to the Upper East Region-based club. His appointment is seen as a pivotal step in the club's efforts to return to its former prominence by establishing a solid professional foundation and enhancing the team's strategic direction. Under his leadership, Real Bolga United is set to implement a comprehensive overhaul focusing on financial discipline and organizational efficiency. Mr. Ayinbila’s vision emphasizes the importance of youth development and talent identification as the cornerstones of the club’s future success. By prioritizing the nurturing of local talent from the Upper East Region, the club intends to create a sustainable pipeline of players while fostering deeper community engagement and building strategic partnerships with both local and national stakeholders. Beyond the pitch, the appointment serves as a broader call to action for the socio-economic development of Northern Ghana. The club is actively urging financially successful individuals and natives of the region to reinvest in local football, highlighting the sport's potential as a tool for job creation and youth empowerment. By leveraging the untapped talent pool in the area, Real Bolga United aims to provide meaningful opportunities for young people, offering hope and a professional pathway for the next generation of Ghanaian athletes.

Dr. Kwaku Ofosu-Asare Defends $250 Million African Games Expenditure Before Parliamentary Committee
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Dr. Kwaku Ofosu-Asare Defends $250 Million African Games Expenditure Before Parliamentary Committee

Dr. Kwaku Ofosu-Asare, the former Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 13th African Games, has robustly defended the US$250 million expenditure on the event during a hearing before Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee. Addressing concerns regarding the budget, Dr. Ofosu-Asare dismissed comparisons between the 2023 African Games and the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He argued that such comparisons are fundamentally flawed due to the massive difference in the scale and scope of the two continental tournaments. According to Dr. Ofosu-Asare, while the 2008 AFCON involved only 16 nations competing in a single discipline (football), the African Games hosted athletes from 53 countries participating in 23 different sports and eight demonstration disciplines. He emphasized that the $250 million investment was necessary to cover comprehensive requirements, including large-scale infrastructure development, accommodation, feeding, and the complex operational logistics required to manage thousands of athletes and officials across multiple venues. A significant point of discussion during the session was the management of the event's funds. Dr. Ofosu-Asare revealed that, contrary to historical precedents where the LOC typically manages its own operational budget, the Ministry of Youth and Sports took direct control of the financial resources for this edition. He noted that under the leadership of the Ministry, led by Mustapha Ussif during the planning and execution phases, the financial oversight was centralized, which modified the LOC's traditional role in fiscal management. The parliamentary inquiry into the funding of the 13th African Games is part of a broader effort to ensure transparency and accountability in the utilization of public funds for major sporting events. Dr. Ofosu-Asare maintained that the expenditure must be viewed through the lens of long-term benefits, noting that the infrastructure developed for the Games serves as a lasting legacy for Ghanaian sports, despite the administrative shifts in how the budget was handled between the LOC and the Sports Ministry.

Ghana Set to Face African Champions Morocco in High-Stakes Friendly at Tangier
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Ghana Set to Face African Champions Morocco in High-Stakes Friendly at Tangier

Ghana's Black Stars are scheduled to face Morocco in an international friendly match on Sunday, October 4, 2026. The fixture, confirmed by the Moroccan Football Federation, will take place at the Grand Stade de Tanger (Ibn Battuta Stadium) with kick-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m. local time. This high-profile encounter was arranged as a replacement for Ghana's previously planned friendly against Tanzania, which was cancelled, providing the Black Stars with a formidable challenge during the October international window. The upcoming match reignites a significant continental rivalry that has seen the Atlas Lions gain the upper hand in recent years. Morocco secured 1–0 victories in the last two meetings between the two sides, including a friendly in June 2021 and a crucial opening Group C match during the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Cameroon, where Sofiane Boufal scored a late winner. This friendly offers Ghana an essential opportunity to test their tactical depth and resilience against one of Africa's most elite squads. For Morocco, the match serves as critical preparation for their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, where they are slated to compete against Gabon and Lesotho. The reigning African champions are expected to field a star-studded lineup that maintains the core of their successful 2026 FIFA World Cup squad. Key figures likely to feature include Real Madrid’s Brahim Diaz, alongside established stars such as Achraf Hakimi and Soufiane Rahimi, as they look to maintain their dominance on home soil. As the Black Stars prepare for the journey to Tangier, the technical team will view this fixture as a vital benchmark for the team's progress. Facing a top-ranked opponent like Morocco allows Ghana to fine-tune their strategies and integrate new talent ahead of their own competitive international commitments. With the rich history between these two footballing giants and Morocco's current status at the pinnacle of African football, the October 4 clash is expected to be a highlight of the international break.

Sports Minister Kofi Adams Discloses $1.26 Million Expenditure on 2026 World Cup Tickets for fans
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Sports Minister Kofi Adams Discloses $1.26 Million Expenditure on 2026 World Cup Tickets for fans

Ghana's Minister for Youth and Sports, Kofi Adams, has revealed that the government allocated approximately $1.26 million to procure tickets for the national team’s group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Appearing before Parliament’s Youth and Sports Committee on September 17, Adams provided a detailed account of the Ministry’s spending aimed at ensuring a strong presence of Ghanaian supporters during the global showpiece. The expenditure is part of a broader strategy to bolster the Black Stars' campaign as they face a challenging group stage against international heavyweights including England and Croatia. According to the Minister, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation secured a total of 2,922 tickets across Ghana's three opening fixtures. Specifically, the allocation includes 948 tickets for the match against Panama, 1,000 tickets for the clash with England, and 974 tickets for the encounter against Croatia. Adams emphasized that the total cost included a mandatory 10% administrative fee charged by FIFA. He further clarified that these tickets were purchased directly for distribution to stakeholders and were strictly not intended for resale to the public, ensuring that the benefit went directly to the intended fan groups. The distribution of the tickets has been strategically managed to navigate logistical hurdles, particularly regarding visa acquisitions. Minister Adams explained that because of significant challenges faced by many fans in obtaining visas to the host nations, the Ministry adjusted its focus to ensure the tickets did not go to waste. A substantial portion of the tickets was allocated to the Ghana Supporters Union and official delegations, as well as Ghanaian citizens already residing in the diaspora. This approach was designed to guarantee that the seats are filled by passionate fans who have already cleared travel hurdles, thereby maximizing the atmosphere in the stadiums for the national team. This disclosure comes as the Ministry intensifies its preparations for the tournament, with the government facing ongoing scrutiny over sports-related expenditures. The briefing to the Parliamentary committee serves as a key measure of transparency, addressing how public funds are utilized to promote national interests on the world stage. As the 2026 World Cup progresses, the Ministry continues to monitor the impact of these investments, with the goal of ensuring that the Black Stars receive the necessary support to progress beyond the group stages and replicate the nation's past historic successes in the tournament.

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London to Host 2026 Ballon d'Or Ceremony as Global Voting Criteria and Nominees Spark International Debate

The global football community has turned its attention toward the 2026 Ballon d'Or following the official announcement of the nominees for the sport’s most prestigious individual accolade. The release of the shortlist has immediately sparked widespread discussion regarding the specific standards and performance metrics that will determine the eventual winner. In a notable shift for the event's logistics, the upcoming ceremony is scheduled to take place in London, providing a high-profile backdrop for the crowning of the world's best player. Central to the 2026 proceedings is the breakdown of the criteria used by the voting panel to evaluate the candidates. The winner will be decided by a global pool of accredited voters who are tasked with weighing the achievements of each nominee based on established benchmarks. This process is designed to ensure a comprehensive assessment of talent, moving beyond simple statistics to consider the broader impact players have had on their respective teams and the sport as a whole during the qualifying period. As momentum builds for the London ceremony, the focus remains on the integrity and transparency of the voting standards. With the nominees now confirmed, the accredited voters will begin the process of casting their ballots, a phase that often leads to intense debate among fans and pundits. The 2026 Ballon d'Or stands as a significant moment in the footballing calendar, continuing the tradition of recognizing excellence on the global stage while highlighting the evolving nature of elite competition.

Ghana’s Black Spikers Suffer Straight-Set Defeat to Tunisia in 2026 Africa Nations Volleyball Championship Opener
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Ghana’s Black Spikers Suffer Straight-Set Defeat to Tunisia in 2026 Africa Nations Volleyball Championship Opener

Ghana’s national men’s volleyball team, the Black Spikers, endured a difficult start to their 2026 Africa Nations Volleyball Championship campaign, falling to hosts Tunisia in their opening match on September 15. Competing in Pool A in Tunis, the Ghanaian side struggled against the clinical efficiency of the Tunisian team, losing the match in straight sets. This championship carries significant weight for the Black Spikers, as it represents a critical pathway toward global competition and a return to prominence on the continental stage. The match saw Tunisia assert their dominance early, securing the first set with a decisive 25-17 scoreline. Although Ghana showed signs of improvement as the match progressed, they were unable to disrupt the hosts' rhythm, dropping the second set 25-21. The third set proved to be the most competitive of the encounter, with the Black Spikers pushing the Tunisians to the limit. However, the North Africans ultimately held their nerve to win the set 25-22, completing a 3-0 clean sweep and leaving the Ghanaian delegation with much to reflect on regarding their tactical approach. The 2026 Africa Nations Volleyball Championship is not merely a regional contest; it serves as the official qualifying tournament for both the 2027 FIVB Volleyball World Championship and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. For Ghana, a strong performance in Tunis is essential to securing a spot in these prestigious international events. The loss to Tunisia, while a setback, highlights the high level of competition within Pool A and the uphill battle the Black Spikers face in their quest for qualification. Despite the opening defeat, the tournament remains a live prospect for the Black Spikers. The team will look to rectify their errors and bounce back in their upcoming fixture against Kenya. A victory in the next round is now imperative if they are to advance through the group stages and keep their Olympic and World Championship dreams alive. The coaching staff is expected to focus on defensive transitions and service reception ahead of the crucial clash with their East African rivals.

Soufiane Rahimi Surpasses Asamoah Gyan as Al Ain’s All-Time Leading Scorer in Asian Competitions
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Soufiane Rahimi Surpasses Asamoah Gyan as Al Ain’s All-Time Leading Scorer in Asian Competitions

Soufiane Rahimi has officially surpassed the long-standing scoring record of Asamoah Gyan at Al Ain FC, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer in Asian club competitions. This historic milestone was reached on September 15, 2026, during a high-profile encounter in the AFC Champions League Elite. Rahimi’s performance marks a significant shift in the club's record books, as he overtook a record that had been held by Gyan for a considerable period. The record-breaking moment occurred during Al Ain’s dominant 4-0 victory over Al Nassr. By reaching a total tally of 19 goals in Asian club competitions, Rahimi officially moved ahead of Gyan. The victory against Al Nassr provided a fitting stage for the milestone, highlighting Rahimi's importance to the team during elite continental fixtures. His ability to consistently find the net in the AFC Champions League Elite has been a key factor in his rise to becoming Al Ain's top scorer on the Asian stage. Asamoah Gyan's record had stood for several years, serving as a benchmark for excellence at Al Ain. The achievement by Rahimi to reach 19 goals demonstrates his scoring consistency and his role as a leading figure in the club's attacking department. The transition of this scoring title from Gyan to Rahimi underscores the evolving history of the club and the high level of competition within Asian club football. Looking forward, Rahimi is now positioned to further extend his record as Al Ain continues its participation in the AFC Champions League Elite. The 4-0 win over Al Nassr not only secured three points for the team but also solidified Rahimi’s legacy within the club’s history. This achievement will be remembered as a defining moment for both the player and Al Ain, representing the surpassing of a legendary mark set by one of the club's most prominent former scorers.

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Raheem Sterling Faces Potential Prison Sentence as Samuel Eto’o Confronts Cameroon Corruption Probe

High-profile football figures are currently under intense legal and ethical scrutiny as Raheem Sterling faces potential imprisonment in England while Samuel Eto’o confronts corruption allegations in Cameroon. Former England international Raheem Sterling, 31, has pleaded guilty to multiple charges stemming from a high-speed incident involving a Lamborghini crash in Hampshire earlier this year. Simultaneously, the Association of Amateur Football Clubs of Cameroon (ACFAC) has formally requested an investigation into Samuel Eto’o, the president of the Cameroonian Football Federation (FECAFOOT), over allegations of improper financial dealings with the Russian Football Federation. These two unrelated cases highlight a period of significant controversy for both active players and administrative leaders within the global sport. In the United Kingdom, Raheem Sterling appeared at Basingstoke Magistrates’ Court, where he admitted to three serious offences. The charges include dangerous driving, failing to provide a specimen for analysis, and possession of nitrous oxide—commonly known as laughing gas—for wrongful inhalation. This legal development marks a significant crisis for the veteran forward, as the possession of nitrous oxide for inhalation was recently criminalized in the UK, carrying the weight of potential custodial sentences. The court's proceedings focus on the gravity of the crash and Sterling's subsequent failure to cooperate with standard testing procedures. Meanwhile, the football landscape in Africa is being shaken by a graft scandal involving Samuel Eto’o. The ACFAC has urged authorities to probe the FECAFOOT president following claims that he improperly received funds from the Russian Football Federation. These payments are allegedly linked to a friendly match staged in October 2023. The call for an investigation adds to the ongoing administrative turbulence within Cameroonian football, as stakeholders demand greater transparency and accountability from the federation's leadership regarding international financial agreements. These developments underscore the mounting pressure on football stars and administrators to uphold the integrity of the sport both on and off the pitch. For Sterling, the immediate future involves sentencing and a possible prison term of up to two years, which could have devastating effects on his career. For Eto’o and FECAFOOT, the outcome of any potential probe will be crucial for the stability of Cameroonian football governance. As both cases progress through their respective legal and regulatory systems, they serve as a stark reminder of the heightened accountability facing global football figures today.

Midfielder Noah Nartey Commits to Denmark U21s Despite Outreach from Ghana Football Association
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Midfielder Noah Nartey Commits to Denmark U21s Despite Outreach from Ghana Football Association

Noah Nartey, the highly-regarded Denmark-born midfielder of Ghanaian descent, has officially signaled his international preference by choosing to represent Denmark over Ghana. Despite a concerted effort from the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to secure his services in early 2025, the youngster has opted to continue his development within the Danish national team structure. This decision marks a significant moment in the ongoing talent search conducted by the Black Stars' technical team, who have been actively scouting dual-national players across Europe to strengthen the national squad during President John Mahama’s current administration. The tug-of-war for Nartey’s international future reached a turning point when Ghanaian football officials reached out to the midfielder to discuss a potential switch to the Black Stars. However, Nartey, who has spent his formative years within the Danish football system, ultimately accepted a call-up to the Denmark Under-21 side. This move reflects his current commitment to the Nordic nation, where he has already established himself as a promising prospect in the midfield. His technical ability and vision on the pitch have made him a primary target for both nations, but for now, his immediate international journey remains tied to Danish colors. The GFA’s pursuit of Nartey is part of a broader strategy to integrate high-caliber diaspora talent into the Ghanaian national setup to ensure long-term success on the continental and global stage. While the association has successfully convinced several players to switch allegiances in recent years, Nartey's decision underscores the challenges in competing with established European youth programs. The Danish football infrastructure often provides a clear and familiar pathway for young players born and raised in the country, making it a compelling choice for those at the start of their professional careers. While his current participation with the Denmark U21s does not officially "cap-tie" him to the senior team under current FIFA eligibility rules, it places him firmly on the path toward the Danish senior squad. The Black Stars' technical staff will likely continue to monitor his progress, as the door remains mathematically open until a senior competitive appearance is made. However, Nartey’s choice serves as a reminder of the competitive nature of international scouting and the importance of early engagement with dual-national athletes in the modern global football landscape.

University for Development Studies Retains African Title as Black Maidens Dominate WAFU B Opener
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University for Development Studies Retains African Title as Black Maidens Dominate WAFU B Opener

The University for Development Studies (UDS) has etched its name into the history books by successfully defending its African University Football Championship title in Cairo, Egypt. In a competitive final, the Ghanaian side secured a 2-1 victory over Tanzania’s Julius Nyerere University, becoming the first university in history to retain the continental crown. This achievement follows a dominant run in the tournament, which included a 4-0 semi-final victory against Egypt’s Delta University. The win in Cairo further cements UDS’s status as a global powerhouse, coming shortly after they became the first African team to win the FISU World University Football Championship in September 2025 by defeating Brazil’s Paulista University. Simultaneously, on the national youth front, Ghana’s U-17 women’s team, the Black Maidens, launched their 2026 WAFU B U-17 Girls Cup campaign with an emphatic 4-0 triumph over Burkina Faso. Head coach Nana Joe Adarkwa praised the team’s clinical performance, which saw goals from Seidatu Wahab, Gloria Ameaa, Benedicta Danso, and Hajara Adams. Adarkwa emphasized that the squad’s strength lies in its collective play and balance across every department, noting that the team is executing their tactical plans effectively as they look ahead to a high-stakes encounter against Nigeria. For the Black Maidens, the WAFU B tournament serves as a vital preparation platform for the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup. This marks Ghana’s return to the world stage following a CAF ban in 2022, and the technical team is utilizing every regional match to fine-tune the squad. Coach Adarkwa expressed optimism about the team's progress as they prepare to face a challenging World Cup group featuring Norway, Brazil, and Canada. The current momentum in the WAFU B tournament is seen as essential for building the resilience needed for the global showpiece. These combined successes represent a significant period of growth for Ghanaian football at both the university and youth international levels. While UDS continues to dominate the collegiate circuit continentally and globally, the Black Maidens are signaling a strong resurgence for the women’s game. These performances not only highlight the depth of talent within Ghana’s footballing structures but also set a high standard for the nation's upcoming international assignments, reflecting a high level of technical and tactical development across various tiers of the sport.