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.

Manchester City Win Derby Amid VAR Controversy as Officials Are Suspended Over Haaland Goal
sports|

Manchester City Win Derby Amid VAR Controversy as Officials Are Suspended Over Haaland Goal

Manchester City secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Manchester United in the 199th Manchester derby on September 13, 2026, but the result has been overshadowed by a significant VAR error. Erling Haaland netted the decisive goal, marking his ninth in the derby series, to maintain City's perfect start to the Premier League season. However, the refereeing body has since admitted that the goal should have been reviewed more rigorously for offside interference, leading to the immediate suspension of the officiating crew involved in the decision. Despite the controversy, City’s performance was defined by resilience. The defending champions were forced to play much of the match with ten men after Phil Foden received an early red card. Under intense pressure, City relied on tactical adjustments and a standout performance from midfielder Enzo Fernández, who emerged as a fan favorite for his work rate and impact on the game. Manchester United, despite having the numerical advantage and significant possession, failed to break down a resolute City defense, with goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma making several crucial saves to preserve the clean sheet. The match's defining moment came when Haaland’s goal was allowed to stand despite Enzo Fernández’s position. While Fernández did not play the ball, questions were raised regarding whether his presence interfered with the play and influenced the United defenders or goalkeeper. The Professional Game Match Officials Limited (PGMOL) later conceded an "error of judgment," stating that the impact of Fernández's position was not adequately assessed by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). As a direct result of the lapse, VAR official Matt Donohue and assistant VAR Blake Antrobus have been removed from their duties for the upcoming weekend fixtures. They are expected to remain sidelined until at least after the international break. While the three points remain with Manchester City, the incident has reignited debates over the consistency of officiating in high-stakes matches. For Manchester United, the loss leaves them with tactical challenges to address, while City continues their flawless league campaign under a cloud of controversy.

Ghana Left Without Continental Representation as Medeama and Nations FC Exit CAF Competitions
sports|

Ghana Left Without Continental Representation as Medeama and Nations FC Exit CAF Competitions

Ghanaian football faces a period of introspection after both Medeama SC and Nations FC were eliminated from the 2026/27 CAF inter-club competitions during the preliminary stages. Medeama SC, competing in the CAF Champions League, suffered a 3-1 defeat to DR Congo's TP Mazembe in their second-leg encounter, resulting in a 4-1 aggregate loss. Simultaneously, Nations FC's debut campaign in the CAF Confederation Cup ended following a 1-1 draw with Mali's FC Diarra, which saw them exit with a 2-1 aggregate defeat. These results leave Ghana without any representatives in the group stages of CAF's continental tournaments this season. Following the exit, Nations FC head coach Zdravko Logarušić addressed the media, stating, "I am not a magician," to explain the challenges his side faced. Logarušić cited significant player turnover, a spate of injuries, and the inability to secure key signings as primary reasons for the club's early departure from the competition. The coach noted that the squad had undergone drastic changes, which hampered their ability to compete at the high standard required for continental football, especially following the club's recent domestic struggles. The disappointing performance of the two clubs sparked a wider debate about the standard of the Ghana Premier League (GPL). However, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has been quick to defend the league's reputation. GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum rejected assertions that the preliminary-round exits exposed a lack of quality in the GPL. Drawing a comparison to major European leagues, Twum argued that even dominant clubs like PSG do not always guarantee continental trophies and insisted that these specific match outcomes should not be used as a definitive metric for the entire league's strength. As the continental journey ends, the two clubs head in opposite directions domestically. Medeama SC will now focus exclusively on defending their Ghana Premier League title, with their next challenge coming against Vision FC. In contrast, Nations FC must navigate a difficult transition period; following their relegation from the top flight, the club is set to begin competing in the Division One League. Both teams will be looking to stabilize their domestic form after the high-intensity experience of African competition.

Asamoah Gyan and Coach Sampson Rally Black Princesses After World Cup Exit as Black Maidens Begin WAFU Title Defense
sports|

Asamoah Gyan and Coach Sampson Rally Black Princesses After World Cup Exit as Black Maidens Begin WAFU Title Defense

Ghana’s women’s youth football landscape is currently navigating a period of transition as the national U-20 team, the Black Princesses, exits the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, while the U-17 side, the Black Maidens, embarks on a mission to defend their regional dominance. Following a challenging group stage, the Black Princesses suffered a 4-0 defeat to France in their final Group C match, with all four goals conceded in the second half. This result marked the team's eighth consecutive group-stage exit from the tournament, ending their campaign with one win and two losses. Meanwhile, the Black Maidens have departed for Yamoussoukro, C$te d'Ivoire, to participate in the WAFU B U-17 Girls' Cup, which serves as a critical stepping stone for both regional silverware and World Cup preparation. Despite the disappointment of finishing at the bottom of their group, national team brand ambassador Asamoah Gyan has called for resilience and continued faith among the U-20 players. Gyan emphasized that while "not all wishes come true," the players must maintain their confidence and continue training for the brighter opportunities that lie ahead. Head coach Charles Sampson echoed this optimistic outlook, asserting that the future of the senior national team, the Black Queens, is "safe for many years" due to the talent within the Princesses' squad. Sampson identified lapses in concentration on set pieces as a primary factor in their exit but praised the character and discipline shown by his players throughout the tournament. Simultaneously, the Black Maidens are entering the WAFU Zone B U-17 Girls Cup with high morale as the defending champions. Head coach Joe Nana Adarkwa has selected a 22-player squad to compete in a round-robin format against Burkina Faso, Nigeria, Togo, Niger, and C$te d'Ivoire. The tournament, which opens with a clash against Burkina Faso, is being used as a vital preparation ground for the upcoming FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup in Morocco. Adarkwa stressed that the team is focused on both defending the title they won last year against Nigeria and refining the squad to compete at the highest international level. As the Black Princesses return to Ghana to integrate back into domestic and senior football programs, the spotlight shifts to the Maidens' ability to maintain Ghana's status as a powerhouse in West African women's football. The overlap of these two campaigns underscores the continuous cycle of development within the Ghana Football Association’s women’s wing. With technical leaders like Sampson and Adarkwa focusing on the long-term trajectory of their athletes, the immediate goal remains translating regional success and youth potential into more consistent performances on the global stage.

An emotional Aryna Sabalenka speaks to the US Open crowd
sports|

Argentina Rejects $1m Morocco Friendly Offer as Elena Rybakina Secures Historic US Open Title

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has officially declined a $1 million proposal from Morocco for an international friendly match that was scheduled for the October window in Rabat. Despite the significant financial incentive and advanced negotiations, the reigning World Cup champions have opted to prioritize domestic fixtures to strengthen engagement with their local fan base. This decision comes as the global sports world also celebrates a major milestone in tennis, with Elena Rybakina capturing her first US Open title and ascending to the world number one ranking after a commanding performance in New York. The AFA’s refusal to travel to Morocco is reportedly based solely on scheduling preferences and a desire to play before home crowds rather than any dissatisfaction with the Moroccan proposal or the host nation itself. While the negotiations had reached an advanced stage, the Argentine federation remains committed to a strategy of hosting matches within Argentina to allow local supporters more opportunities to see the national team in action. Unless there is a sudden shift in the AFA’s planning, the proposed encounter in Rabat is unlikely to proceed, leaving the Moroccan federation to pivot their strategy for the upcoming FIFA window. For Morocco, the rejection necessitates a shift in focus as they continue intensive preparations for their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign. The Moroccan federation is now actively seeking another high-profile opponent to test their squad during the October break to maintain their competitive edge. In the interim, official preparations for their upcoming matches continue, with South African referee Abongile Tom already assigned to officiate Morocco’s upcoming match against Gabon. The North African side remains intent on securing top-tier opposition to ensure they are battle-ready for continental competition. In the world of tennis, Elena Rybakina solidified her status as the sport's premier female player by defeating two-time defending champion Aryna Sabalenka in the US Open final. In a match defined by Rybakina’s composure and powerful return game, she triumphed 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 to claim her first title at Flushing Meadows. This victory adds to her growing resume of Grand Slam titles, which includes Wimbledon (2022) and the Australian Open (2023). The win is particularly remarkable given Rybakina overcame a significant ankle injury earlier in the season that had nearly sidelined her from the tournament entirely. Rybakina’s rise to the world number one spot marks a significant shift in the WTA rankings, reflecting her vastly improved performance and resilience on hard courts. Conversely, the defeat marks a difficult chapter for Sabalenka, for whom this was a fifth loss in nine major finals as she struggled with the intense pressure of the occasion. As the footballing world looks toward the October international break and the tennis circuit concludes its major season, these developments highlight a period of significant transition and high-stakes results across the global sporting landscape.

Carlos Queiroz Faces Selection Dilemma as Black Stars Prepare for AFCON 2027 Qualifiers Against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia
sports|

Carlos Queiroz Faces Selection Dilemma as Black Stars Prepare for AFCON 2027 Qualifiers Against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia

Head coach Carlos Queiroz is set to lead Ghana’s Black Stars into the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, starting with a high-stakes encounter against Côte d’Ivoire in Bouaké on September 24. Following a successful run to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Queiroz has been retained to bring stability and consistency to a national side looking to redeem itself after missing the 2025 AFCON tournament. Ghana Football Association (GFA) Communications Director Henry Asante Twum confirmed that the squad for the upcoming double-header—which includes a home match against The Gambia on September 29—will be officially announced during the week of September 21–25. The team's preparation, however, is clouded by significant injury concerns involving key personnel. Tottenham Hotspur manager Roberto De Zerbi has raised serious doubts regarding the fitness of star midfielder Mohammed Kudus. Although Kudus has made limited substitute appearances for his club following a recent injury, De Zerbi emphasized that the player has yet to reach peak physical condition and may not be ready for international duty. Furthermore, the Black Stars are expected to be without vice-captain Thomas Partey due to ongoing injury issues, while the attacking department faces a permanent void following the international retirement of Athletic Club forward Iñaki Williams. To address these absences, Queiroz is considering several in-form players currently excelling in foreign leagues. Augustine Boakye of Saint-Étienne, who has recorded three goals and two assists this season, and Swansea City’s 20-year-old winger Joseph Opoku are among the top contenders for a call-up. In midfield, Rahim Ibrahim of Slovan Bratislava and Ibrahim Sulemana are being touted as potential replacements for Partey, with Sulemana specifically noted for his defensive discipline and passing accuracy. Defensive depth could be bolstered by Lorient’s Nathaniel Adjei, while MLS striker Prince Osei-Owusu, who has netted 13 goals in 22 appearances, offers a physical presence to mitigate the loss of Williams. Despite calls from some sections of the fanbase for a more expansive and attacking style of play, the technical team remains focused on a pragmatic "results-first" approach. This strategy aims to navigate a challenging qualifying group that also includes Somalia. As the GFA finalizes the assessment of Queiroz’s submitted squad list, the primary objective for the Black Stars remains restoring their status as a dominant force in African football through a disciplined and efficient qualification process.

Jordan Ayew Marks Sheffield United Debut as Black Stars Prepare for AFCON Qualifiers
sports|

Jordan Ayew Marks Sheffield United Debut as Black Stars Prepare for AFCON Qualifiers

Jordan Ayew, the captain of Ghana’s national team, the Black Stars, made a highly anticipated debut for Sheffield United during their recent fixture against Wolverhampton Wanderers. The forward, who recently celebrated his 35th birthday, came off the bench to play the final 26 minutes of the match. This appearance marks a pivotal moment for Ayew, as it was his first competitive outing since representing Ghana at the 2026 World Cup, signaling his return to match fitness at a crucial juncture for both his club and the national side. During his time on the pitch, Ayew showcased the technical quality and experience that led manager Chris Wilder to bring him to Bramall Lane. Although the match ended in a narrow 1-0 defeat for the Blades following a late goal by Ra l Jiménez, Ayew’s individual performance was a notable highlight. He recorded 19 touches, including a dangerous effort that nearly equalized and a precise pass into the opposition box. Defensively, he contributed with a tackle, a clearance, and two recoveries, earning post-match praise from Wilder for the depth and leadership he brings to the squad. Beyond his club commitments, Ayew’s return to competitive action provides a significant boost for the Black Stars. With the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Côte d’Ivoire and The Gambia fast approaching, the availability of a seasoned captain is vital for Ghana’s qualification hopes. Fans and the technical team have been monitoring Ayew’s progress closely, and his successful integration into the Sheffield United setup suggests he will be ready to lead the national team in these high-stakes international fixtures. Ayew’s debut was part of a broader weekend of action for Ghanaian internationals across European leagues. While Ayew was establishing himself in the English Championship, other key players including Inaki Williams and Boakye also made headlines with significant goal-scoring contributions for their respective clubs. As the international break nears, the collective form of these key players, spearheaded by Ayew’s return to play, positions the Black Stars strongly as they aim to secure their place in the next continental tournament.

Ryan Garcia Defends WBC Title as Kate Koval Departs LSU Over Geopolitical Concerns
sports|

Ryan Garcia Defends WBC Title as Kate Koval Departs LSU Over Geopolitical Concerns

The international sports landscape saw significant developments this week, ranging from a dominant championship defense in professional boxing to a principled transfer in collegiate basketball. In Las Vegas, Ryan Garcia reaffirmed his status as a top-tier fighter by retaining his WBC welterweight title in a swift and decisive victory over British challenger Conor Benn. Simultaneously, the NCAA landscape has been shifted by the departure of Ukrainian basketball talent Kate Koval from Louisiana State University, a move sparked by the inclusion of a Russian athlete on the team's roster. In the ring, Ryan Garcia delivered a clinical performance that highlighted the gap in technical proficiency between him and his opponent. From the start of the first round, Garcia maintained composure and control, effectively punishing Benn for a strategy that appeared increasingly reckless and desperate. The contest concluded in the second round with a stoppage, as Garcia’s precision and power proved too much for the overmatched Briton. The victory cements Garcia’s hold on the WBC welterweight championship and leaves Benn to re-evaluate his offensive approach after failing to survive the early onslaught. Meanwhile, the collegiate basketball community is processing the exit of 20-year-old Ukrainian star Kate Koval from LSU. Koval’s decision to leave the high-profile program was rooted in the university's signing of a Russian player, a move that sat in direct conflict with Koval’s national identity and the ongoing geopolitical tensions involving her home country. In a show of support for the athlete’s convictions, the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) granted Koval an immediate transfer waiver at the formal request of LSU, allowing her to join a new program and continue her career without the standard waiting period. These two events underscore the diverse challenges and triumphs found in modern sports, from the physical dominance required at the championship level to the difficult ethical decisions athletes must make off the court. While Ryan Garcia looks ahead to his next title defense with his reputation further bolstered, Kate Koval’s transfer marks a significant instance of an athlete prioritizing personal principles over program prestige. Both stories reflect a week where individual resolve, whether through tactical boxing or principled stances, took center stage in the sporting world.

Inaki Williams Strikes After Ghana Retirement as Arsenal and Chelsea Face Mixed Fortunes in Europe
sports|

Inaki Williams Strikes After Ghana Retirement as Arsenal and Chelsea Face Mixed Fortunes in Europe

The European football weekend was marked by significant milestones and tactical frustrations, headlined by Inaki Williams’ immediate scoring return for Athletic Bilbao just one day after announcing his retirement from the Ghana national team. In the Premier League, Arsenal secured a gritty victory over Sunderland despite managerial concerns over player safety, while Chelsea’s defensive vulnerabilities continued to haunt them in a high-scoring draw against Hull City. In Spain, Inaki Williams proved his enduring value to Athletic Bilbao during their La Liga clash with Elche. Merely 24 hours after stepping away from his international career with the Black Stars, the forward salvaged a point for his club in a 1-1 draw. Elche had taken the lead early in the second half through a penalty converted by Facundo Buonanotte. However, Williams ensured the spoils were shared by reacting quickest to convert a near goal-line clearance from Alex Berenguer’s strike with just ten minutes remaining on the clock. Across the English Channel, Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta voiced significant displeasure despite his side’s 2-0 triumph over Sunderland. While the Gunners showcased defensive resilience and clinical efficiency, the match was defined by a volatile 121-second window that nearly shifted the momentum. Arteta’s post-match comments focused on the "unprotected" nature of the game, suggesting that officiating standards left his players vulnerable. Despite these complaints, the victory keeps Arsenal’s momentum steady as they navigate a challenging fixture list. Conversely, Chelsea’s tactical transition under a new system continues to yield inconsistent results. The Blues played out a thrilling but ultimately disappointing 2-2 draw with Hull City, exposing a "soft" defensive underbelly that has frustrated manager Xabi Alonso. Although Chelsea has shown offensive prowess by netting ten goals this season, they have conceded two or more goals in each of their first four league matches—a defensive slump not seen at Stamford Bridge in over a decade. As the season progresses, Alonso faces the urgent task of tightening a backline that threatens to undermine their attacking output.

Elena Rybakina Claims US Open Crown as Alexander Zverev and Ben Shelton Disrupt Tennis Hierarchy
sports|

Elena Rybakina Claims US Open Crown as Alexander Zverev and Ben Shelton Disrupt Tennis Hierarchy

The 2026 tennis season has reached a historic crescendo at the US Open, marked by a significant shift in the global hierarchy of the sport. Elena Rybakina has captured her maiden US Open title in a hard-fought three-set thriller, simultaneously ascending to the position of world number one. Her victory comes alongside a breakthrough season for Alexander Zverev, who has finally secured a Grand Slam title, signaling a potential end to the era of dominance previously held by Jannik Sinner and Carlos Alcaraz. In the women's final, Rybakina displayed remarkable resilience to overcome the two-time defending champion, Aryna Sabalenka. The match, which kept spectators on the edge of their seats, concluded with a scoreline of 6-4, 5-7, 6-2 in Rybakina's favor. By dethroning Sabalenka, Rybakina not only secured her first trophy in New York but also mathematically confirmed her status as the top-ranked player in the world. This win represents a career-defining moment for the Kazakh star, proving her ability to perform under the highest pressure against the tour's most formidable opponents. On the men's side, the narrative of the 2026 season has been defined by the emergence of Alexander Zverev and Ben Shelton from the shadow of the so-called "Sincaraz" rivalry. Zverev, entering the tournament as the German top seed, has finally realized his long-held ambition of winning a major title this year. His success is viewed as a pivotal turning point, as he managed to navigate a field previously dominated by the youth and consistency of Sinner and Alcaraz. Similarly, Ben Shelton’s performance throughout the year has been hailed as a major step forward for American tennis, with both players reflecting positively on their Grand Slam campaigns regardless of the final outcome in New York. As the 2026 US Open draws to a close, these results suggest a transformative period for professional tennis. With Rybakina establishing herself at the pinnacle of the women's game and Zverev finally breaking his Grand Slam drought earlier in the season, the competitive landscape appears more open than it has been in years. The success of these athletes provides a glimpse into a new era where established stars and rising talents are successfully challenging the previous status quo, setting the stage for an intense and unpredictable 2027 season.

Hearts of Oak Move Top of Ghana Premier League Table as Berekum Chelsea Secure First Win
sports|

Hearts of Oak Move Top of Ghana Premier League Table as Berekum Chelsea Secure First Win

Hearts of Oak have ascended to the summit of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League table following a hard-fought 2-1 comeback victory over Bibiani GoldStars. The Phobians, who have now secured two consecutive wins, demonstrated significant resilience after falling behind early in the match. Despite Kwame Poku opening the scoring for GoldStars in the 11th minute, Hearts responded emphatically in the second half. Goals from Yaw Amankwa Baafi and Henry Kwaku Boateng turned the tide, leaving GoldStars to grapple with their second successive defeat following an earlier loss to Bechem United. Away from the matchday action, the Phobians are also navigating changes in their squad as goalkeeper Solomon Agbasi officially bid an emotional farewell to the club. The 25-year-old shot-stopper is set to join South African side Stellenbosch FC after failing to reach an agreement for a contract renewal during the transfer window. Agbasi’s departure marks the end of his tenure with the Ghanaian giants, as he transitions to the South African Premier Division to seek a new challenge following the expiration of his contract negotiations. In another high-stakes fixture at Golden City Park, Berekum Chelsea registered their first win of the season with a commanding 3-1 triumph over Dreams FC. The Biribes established early dominance, with Abubakari Seidu finding the net just three minutes into the game, followed by a clinical strike from Jonah Attuquaye in the 16th minute. Although Dreams FC’s Abdul Razak Salifu pulled one back in the 75th minute to set up a tense finale, Marvin Owusu secured the three points for the hosts with a third goal during stoppage time. The recent results provide significant momentum for the winning sides as the 2026/27 league season unfolds. Berekum Chelsea coach Kwaku Danso expressed his intention to build on this success in their upcoming fixture against Port City. Meanwhile, Dreams FC and Bibiani GoldStars will be desperate to regain their footing as they prepare to face each other in the next round of matches. For Hearts of Oak, maintaining their position at the top of the standings will be the primary objective as the competition intensifies.

Mohammed Kudus and Tottenham Hotspur Face Fan Backlash After Goal-Shy Stalemate Against Everton
sports|

Mohammed Kudus and Tottenham Hotspur Face Fan Backlash After Goal-Shy Stalemate Against Everton

Tottenham Hotspur's stuttering start to the Premier League season reached a new low point as they played out a frustrating 0-0 draw against Everton. Despite entering the match with high expectations under the leadership of manager Roberto De Zerbi, the North London side failed to find the back of the net for the fourth consecutive match. The result leaves Spurs winless in their opening four fixtures, a worrying trend for a club that many hoped would see a resurgence during this campaign. The atmosphere at the stadium turned increasingly hostile as the match progressed without a breakthrough. Before the opening whistle, the depth of supporter anxiety was already visible, with one fan displaying a poignant banner that simply pleaded, "Please Score A Goal." This sentiment echoed through the stands as the final whistle blew, with the home crowd subjecting the players and management to a chorus of boos. Despite possessing a squad filled with talent, including Ghanaian star Mohammed Kudus, De Zerbi’s side appeared toothless and lacked the clinical edge required to dismantle a resilient Everton defense. This latest performance has cast a shadow over what was touted as a promising new era for the club, with critics now describing the start as a "false dawn." The inability to convert possession into goals has become a glaring systemic issue that the coaching staff must address urgently to pacify an increasingly impatient fanbase. As the Premier League season progresses, the pressure will only intensify on Kudus and his teammates to rediscover their scoring form and climb the table before their seasonal ambitions slip further out of reach.

Senegal Welcomes Olympic Flame as Dakar Prepares for Historic Youth Olympic Games
sports|

Senegal Welcomes Olympic Flame as Dakar Prepares for Historic Youth Olympic Games

The Olympic flame has officially arrived in Dakar, Senegal, marking a momentous milestone for the continent as it prepares to host its first-ever Olympic sporting event. The arrival of the flame serves as the official countdown to the Youth Olympic Games, which are scheduled to commence next month. This historic occasion represents a significant achievement for both Senegal and the wider African sporting community, positioning the region at the center of the global Olympic movement for the first time in history. The welcoming ceremony took place at the iconic Place du Souvenir Africain, a location steeped in symbolism and dedicated to African history and identity. The atmosphere was celebratory, characterized by vibrant music and traditional dancing that reflected the local culture. A highlight of the proceedings was a ceremonial march featuring 100 women, who led the gathered crowd in welcoming the flame. More than a hundred attendees joined the festivities, which were held against a backdrop of portraits honoring significant figures from across the African continent, further emphasizing the pan-African importance of the upcoming games. As the flame begins its journey through the host nation, the successful arrival in Dakar reinforces Senegal’s readiness to welcome the world's elite youth athletes. The Youth Olympic Games in Senegal are expected to showcase the continent's organizational capacity and passion for sports, setting a precedent for future international competitions in Africa. With the eyes of the sporting world turning toward Dakar next month, the arrival of the flame has ignited a sense of pride and anticipation, signaling the final preparations for an event that will be etched into the annals of Olympic history.