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.

A football player in a white Israel national team kit kneels on the pitch while holding a yellow corner flag. He is mimicking a shooting motion with his hands and the flag pole as part of a goal celebration against a backdrop of a blue digital advertising board.
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Israel International Sayed Abu Farhi Sent Off After Mimicking Gun Celebration in Nations League Loss to Austria

Israeli forward Sayed Abu Farhi faced a dramatic dismissal during a recent UEFA Nations League fixture against Austria, after a controversial goal celebration led to a second yellow card. The 20-year-old Colorado Rapids player had momentarily secured hope for his side by scoring an equalizer, but the joy was short-lived. In the heat of the moment, Abu Farhi used the corner flag to mimic the action of firing a weapon, a gesture that the officiating team deemed a bookable offense. Having already been on a yellow card, the striker was promptly sent off, leaving his teammates to navigate the remainder of the match with only ten men. The incident significantly impacted the match's outcome, as Austria took full advantage of their superior numbers. Following Abu Farhi’s departure, the Austrian side asserted control, finding the back of the net through Romano Schmid, Phillipp Mwene, and Sasa Kalajdzic to seal a 3-1 victory. Beyond the tactical consequences on the pitch, the celebration sparked immediate debate due to the sensitive geopolitical environment surrounding the Israeli national team. With the conflict in Gaza drawing global attention, any perceived military or violent imagery in a sporting context is subject to heightened scrutiny from both fans and governing bodies. This controversy occurs as international pressure mounts regarding Israel’s continued participation in UEFA competitions. Recently, there have been vocal calls from various groups, including some within the Republic of Ireland, for a boycott of matches involving the Israeli national team. Sports governing bodies have traditionally sought to keep political statements off the field, and Abu Farhi’s actions are likely to be reviewed for potential further disciplinary measures. As Israel prepares for its upcoming fixtures, the focus remains on whether the team can distance itself from off-pitch tensions or if incidents like this will continue to define their international campaign.

Georgian footballer Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is captured waving to a crowd while holding a silver star-patterned trophy, likely a Player of the Match award. He is wearing a white long-sleeved jersey against a dark stadium backdrop with blurred lights.
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Khvicha Kvaratskhelia Embraces Ballon d’Or Nomination and Comparisons to Football Legend George Best

Georgia’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has expressed immense pride after being named on the 30-player shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. The 25-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger, who was recently honored as the Champions League player of the season, described the nomination as a realization of "something special" in his career. Ahead of the award ceremony scheduled for 26 October, Kvaratskhelia is being celebrated not just for his individual skill, but as a symbolic figure for football in smaller nations. Reflecting on his journey, the Georgian international emphasized the significance of his achievement for his home country. Kvaratskhelia noted that representing Georgia on such a global stage serves as a beacon of hope for young players from nations that are not traditionally viewed as footballing giants. His rise has drawn comparisons to Northern Ireland legend George Best, a parallel that the winger finds deeply humbling. Like Best, Kvaratskhelia is viewed as a generational talent capable of becoming a national icon through his flair and technical ability on the pitch. Despite the individual spotlight, Georgia national team coach Willy Sagnol has been quick to highlight the player's grounded nature. Sagnol praised Kvaratskhelia for maintaining a "team-first" mentality even as he garners global accolades. This blend of individual brilliance and collective commitment has been central to his success at both the club level with PSG and on the international stage. Sagnol’s comments suggest that Kvaratskhelia’s professional attitude is just as vital as his footwork in his pursuit of greatness. As the football world looks toward the October ceremony, Kvaratskhelia’s presence among the elite signals a shift in the landscape of European football, where talent from emerging nations is increasingly recognized. Whether or not he takes home the top prize, his nomination cements his status as one of the game's premier talents. For Georgia, he represents a new era of sporting excellence, inspiring a future generation of footballers to believe that global recognition is within their reach.

Andy Carroll Reveals 2021 Sexual Assault and Attacker's Conviction in New Autobiography
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Andy Carroll Reveals 2021 Sexual Assault and Attacker's Conviction in New Autobiography

Former England international and current Dagenham & Redbridge player-owner Andy Carroll has disclosed that he was a victim of sexual assault in 2021. The harrowing revelation, featured in his newly released autobiography titled 'Owning It,' details how the incident occurred within the confines of his own home while he was asleep. This disclosure marks a significant moment of personal transparency for the striker, who has navigated much of his professional life under intense public scrutiny. Following the incident, a criminal investigation was launched which eventually led to the perpetrator being sentenced to three years in prison. In his book, Carroll reflects on the immense difficulty he experienced in processing the trauma and the challenges involved in discussing the event openly. He acknowledges the lasting impact the assault has had on his life, emphasizing that the vulnerability of such a situation transcends professional status or public persona. Currently balancing roles as both a player and a co-owner of Dagenham & Redbridge, Carroll explained that his primary motivation for sharing his story is the hope that it might help other survivors. By speaking out, he aims to challenge the stigma often associated with male victims of sexual assault, particularly within the historically hyper-masculine environment of professional football. His narrative joins a growing movement of athletes using their platforms to address sensitive and previously taboo subjects. As the sports community reacts to his revelation, Carroll’s story highlights the critical need for robust support systems and a culture that encourages victims to seek justice. The publication of 'Owning It' provides a broader context to the striker's career and personal journey, serving as a call for greater awareness and empathy regarding the private struggles of public figures.

Switzerland’s Breel Embolo and Granit Xhaka Dropped from Squad Over Forged COVID-19 Certificates
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Switzerland’s Breel Embolo and Granit Xhaka Dropped from Squad Over Forged COVID-19 Certificates

Switzerland’s national football team has been rocked by scandal following the exclusion of striker Breel Embolo from the squad ahead of their upcoming Nations League fixtures. The decision comes as a direct result of sanctions imposed on the forward for his involvement in the use of forged COVID-19 test certificates during the global pandemic. This high-profile omission highlights a rigorous stance by Swiss football authorities regarding document fraud and health protocol violations that occurred during the height of the health crisis. Embolo’s removal follows closely on the heels of another major blow to the team’s lineup. Earlier in the week, captain Granit Xhaka was also dropped from the squad after it was revealed he used a fake certificate to evade mandatory vaccination requirements. While Embolo’s specific sanction relates to test certificates, Xhaka's admission involves the bypass of immunization mandates. The loss of both a primary attacking threat and the team's veteran leader creates a significant void in the Swiss roster as they prepare for high-stakes international competition. The disciplinary actions taken against these two pillars of the national team underscore the lasting consequences of pandemic-era misconduct. Although the specific events occurred in the past, the current sanctions demonstrate that international football federations are continuing to hold players accountable for ethical breaches and the falsification of official health documents. The Swiss squad will now have to navigate their Nations League campaign without the experience and tactical presence of Embolo and Xhaka, forcing the coaching staff to adjust their strategy and rely on alternative talent during this critical window.

GCB Bank Targets Historic Ninth Consecutive Championship at 2026 Business Olympics
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GCB Bank Targets Historic Ninth Consecutive Championship at 2026 Business Olympics

GCB Bank is preparing to defend its long-standing dominance at the 2026 Business Olympics, scheduled for Saturday, September 26. The financial institution is eyeing a record-breaking ninth consecutive overall championship, reinforcing its status as a powerhouse in the Ghanaian corporate sporting arena. The event, which brings together various corporate entities for a day of athletic competition and networking, will be hosted at the Eden Heights Sports Complex starting at 8:00 a.m. Despite a condensed preparation window of only three days, the GCB Bank Sports Committee remains highly optimistic about their prospects for the upcoming games. Ruth Nana Ama Asamoah, an Executive Member of the committee, emphasized that the team’s extensive experience and previous successes provide the necessary motivation to compete at a high level. In the previous edition of the games, GCB Bank delivered a commanding performance, securing a total of 14 medals across various disciplines, a feat they hope to replicate or exceed this weekend. The path to a ninth title will not be without challenges, as Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) has emerged as a primary contender seeking to unseat the reigning champions for overall honors. This year’s competition is organized under the theme, “Bridging the Gap in Our Corporate World Through Sports,” highlighting the role of athletic competition in fostering collaboration within the business sector. The day will feature a wide array of sporting activities designed to test the physical prowess and teamwork of participants while strengthening professional ties outside the traditional office environment.

Manchester City Found Guilty of Financial Breaches as UEFA Warns of Premier League Spending Dominance
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Manchester City Found Guilty of Financial Breaches as UEFA Warns of Premier League Spending Dominance

In a landmark moment for English football, an independent commission has reportedly found Manchester City guilty of 114 out of 115 charges related to breaches of Premier League financial regulations. The ruling, reported by high-level sources including The Athletic and BBC Sport, follows a multi-year investigation into the club's financial conduct. While the Premier League and Manchester City have declined to comment officially on the findings, the club is expected to appeal the decision. This verdict carries significant implications for the club's standing and the broader integrity of the league's financial framework. Simultaneously, a new report from UEFA has highlighted the staggering economic divide between the Premier League and the rest of European football. According to UEFA executive director Andrea Traverso, English top-flight clubs dominated the summer transfer market with an estimated spend of ‐4.6 billion (#4 billion). This figure exceeds the total combined spending of the next eight largest European leagues. The report notes that Premier League clubs accounted for over 60% of all deals, with an average expenditure of ‐24 million per incoming player, reflecting a widening gap in global purchasing power. UEFA's findings also raise alarms regarding the sustainability of current financial practices. The report identifies a "two-speed" transfer market where English clubs increasingly rely on selling academy products to meet financial regulations. Furthermore, the report pointed to the influence of multi-club ownership models, noting that more than half of the total transfer fees between clubs this summer arose from transactions involving Chelsea and the French club Strasbourg. UEFA expressed concern that rising transfer values and growing debt could lead to severe financial pressure on clubs if the market experiences a sudden correction. These dual developments depict a Premier League that is both at the pinnacle of global financial power and under intense regulatory scrutiny. As Manchester City prepares for a potential appeal process, the wider footballing world is left to contend with the sustainability of an economic model that UEFA fears may be reaching a breaking point. The eventual penalties imposed on Manchester City and the governing bodies' response to the widening wealth gap will likely define the structural future of European football for years to come.

Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah Declares Ghana Football "Collapsed" Under GFA President Kurt Okraku
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Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah Declares Ghana Football "Collapsed" Under GFA President Kurt Okraku

Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, has launched a scathing critique of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) leadership, asserting that the nation’s football sector has "collapsed" under the administration of President Kurt Okraku. Speaking in a series of interviews, the lawmaker highlighted a significant decline in the performance of national youth teams and the domestic league since Okraku assumed office in 2019. Awuah has formally appealed to President John Mahama to initiate urgent reforms within the GFA, warning that the sport’s status as a vital national passion is at stake without immediate government intervention to address what he describes as systemic failures. A central theme of the MP's criticism involves allegations of a "cabal" controlling the GFA and potential conflicts of interest. Awuah specifically pointed to Okraku’s ownership of four football clubs, questioning how an administrator with such vested interests can manage the national game impartially. "The FA President has four clubs; what do you think he would do?" Awuah remarked, suggesting that such structures hinder fair opportunities for players across the country. He cited specific concerns regarding national team selections and player development, referencing cases like that of former player Philemon Baffour to illustrate his point about the administration's impact on player opportunities. The exchange between the two figures has become increasingly personal, moving from administrative critiques to local performance records. In response to the MP’s criticisms, GFA President Kurt Okraku challenged Awuah’s own contributions to sports, questioning what infrastructure the lawmaker had provided for his constituents. Awuah countered this by highlighting the existence of three AstroTurf pitches within the Manhyia South constituency. The MP argued that while local infrastructure is important, the structural challenges facing Ghanaian football are "beyond" the current GFA leadership's ability to resolve, necessitating a deeper look into the association's core operations. The escalating tension between the GFA and political figures reflects a growing public dissatisfaction with the state of the "passion of the nation." While the GFA leadership maintains that it is working to improve the sport, the pressure from legislative figures for transparency and better performance remains high. As calls for President Mahama to take a more active role in addressing GFA issues grow louder, the football governing body faces a critical period where it must address these systemic allegations or potentially face more direct government oversight to restore the integrity and success of Ghanaian football on the international stage.

Football manager Carlos Queiroz is pictured during a press conference, wearing earpieces and speaking into a microphone. The background consists of a branded media wall featuring various sports and corporate sponsors.
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Carlos Queiroz Slams ‘Joke’ Penalty as Ghana’s 2027 AFCON Qualifying Campaign Starts with Defeat

Ghana’s quest for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) began on a disappointing note as the Black Stars suffered a 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké. Goals from Malick Yalcouyé and a second-half penalty from Franck Kessié secured the win for the hosts, leaving Ghana at the bottom of Group C after the first round of matches. Despite the scoreline, Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz expressed pride in his team’s effort, arguing that the Black Stars created more scoring opportunities than their opponents but were undone by clinical finishing and a controversial officiating decision. Queiroz was particularly vocal in his criticism of the penalty awarded against Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, which led to the second goal. Describing the decision as a "joke," the coach claimed the incident fundamentally altered the match's momentum at a time when Ghana was still very much in contention. Issahaku himself later denied making contact with the Ivorian attacker, stating he did not kick his opponent. This frustration led Queiroz to formally call for the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in AFCON qualifiers to ensure fair outcomes in high-stakes matches. In contrast, Côte d’Ivoire’s coach Hervé Renard sidestepped the controversy during post-match interviews, choosing instead to focus on the significance of the three points while acknowledging that the pitch conditions made for an imperfect performance from both sides. The defeat has sparked intense scrutiny of the team’s current form and individual performances. Midfielder Kwasi Sibo faced significant backlash on social media for his display in Bouaké, and statistical analysis reveals an alarming trend: the Black Stars have won only one of their last 11 matches, suffering eight defeats since November 2025. This run of form has heightened pressure on Queiroz, especially as comparisons are drawn to the tenure of his predecessor, Otto Addo. While the Black Stars struggled for midfield control in Bouaké, forward Brandon Thomas-Asante has urged the Ghanaian public to remain steadfast and rally behind the team as they attempt to navigate this difficult period. Ghana’s path to qualification has become significantly more complex following The Gambia’s 2-1 victory over Somalia, which puts the Scorpions level on points with Côte d’Ivoire at the top of Group C. Now sitting three points behind their primary rivals, the Black Stars face a must-win situation in their next fixture against The Gambia on September 29 at the Accra Sports Stadium. Despite the opening setback, Queiroz remains defiant, expressing "no doubt" that his side will level the historical head-to-head record when the Elephants visit Accra later in the campaign. For now, the focus shifts to the upcoming home fixture, where a win is crucial to keep their 2027 AFCON hopes alive.

Bukayo Saka Reflects on England’s World Cup Journey as Christian Eriksen Exits Wolfsburg and MLS Coach Sacked for Sexist Remarks
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Bukayo Saka Reflects on England’s World Cup Journey as Christian Eriksen Exits Wolfsburg and MLS Coach Sacked for Sexist Remarks

The international football landscape is witnessing a period of significant transition and emotional reflection, headlined by Bukayo Saka’s candid remarks on England’s recent tournament history and Christian Eriksen’s sudden departure from the Bundesliga. Saka, the Arsenal and England winger, recently opened up about the lingering "scars" from the team’s 2022 World Cup campaign. Despite a third-place finish following a victory over France, Saka noted that the semi-final exit at the hands of eventual champions Argentina remains a source of deep disappointment for the squad. As England prepares for a highly anticipated Nations League clash against Spain, Saka emphasized the importance of the team channeling that emotional history into their upcoming international season. In Germany, veteran Danish midfielder Christian Eriksen has reached a mutual agreement to terminate his contract with Wolfsburg, effective immediately. Eriksen, who joined the club as a free agent a year ago and made 34 appearances, requested to leave to be closer to his family in Denmark following a health scare during a friendly match against Ukraine. Although his contract was originally set to run until June 2027, Wolfsburg management opted to respect the player's personal circumstances and contribution to the team. This move marks another chapter in the midfielder’s resilient career as he prioritizes his health and family life over his tenure in the Bundesliga. While Saka looks toward the future of the England squad, he has also identified emerging talent within his own club. Saka praised his teenage Arsenal teammate, Max Dowman, describing him as an exceptional talent destined for a senior international call-up. While there is growing excitement surrounding the youngster, current developmental plans from the Under-21 management suggest that Dowman will remain with the Under-19 squad for the time being to ensure his growth is managed appropriately before he is thrust into the high-pressure environment of senior international football. Across the Atlantic, Major League Soccer (MLS) side Columbus Crew has taken decisive action regarding coaching conduct. The club terminated the contract of its reserve team coach, Federico Higuain, following a controversial incident during an MLS Next Pro league match. Higuain, the brother of legendary striker Gonzalo Higuain, was reported to have refused to release a female referee's hand while making the sexist remark, "don't forget this is a man's game." While the league initially handed down a two-match suspension, the Crew moved to dismiss him entirely, signaling a zero-tolerance policy for such behavior. These developments across three continents underscore the evolving priorities of the sport, ranging from mental health and family to the enforcement of professional standards of respect.

A close-up portrait of veteran football coach Claude Le Roy wearing a navy blue suit and a light-striped shirt. He has a serious expression, and in the blurred background, several individuals in ceremonial uniforms or hats are visible. This photo likely captures the coach during a formal or state event.
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Claude Le Roy Suffers Defeat in Congo Brazzaville Return During AFCON 2027 Qualifiers

Claude Le Roy’s highly anticipated return to the helm of Congo Brazzaville began with a setback as his side suffered a 1-0 defeat to Namibia in their opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying match. The 78-year-old French veteran, embarking on his second tenure with the Diables Rouges after a period away from the touchline, saw his team struggle to break down a resilient Namibian defense. The match, held at a neutral venue in Botswana due to the lack of CAF-approved facilities in Namibia, marks a challenging start for the man often referred to as the 'White Witch Doctor' of African football. The lone goal of the encounter was scored by Namibia’s Bethuel Muzeu in the 47th minute, just moments after the halftime break. Despite the tactical adjustments made by Le Roy, Congo Brazzaville was unable to find an equalizer, leaving them at the bottom of Group G in the early stages of the campaign. The group is expected to be highly competitive, featuring other formidable opponents such as Cameroon and the Comoros, who are also vying for a spot in the 2027 tournament. Beyond Group G, other African nations were also in action as the race for 2027 qualification intensified. The Democratic Republic of Congo managed a narrow victory over Equatorial Guinea, while Mauritania also secured three points with a win against the Central African Republic. For Le Roy and Congo Brazzaville, the focus must now shift to their upcoming fixtures, where the veteran coach will need to draw upon his decades of continental experience to navigate a path to the finals.

Medeama SC Denies Dreams FC Maiden Victory with Dramatic Last-Minute Equalizer
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Medeama SC Denies Dreams FC Maiden Victory with Dramatic Last-Minute Equalizer

Dreams FC were denied their first victory of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season in heart-wrenching fashion, following a 2-2 draw against Medeama SC on Monday, September 23, 2026. In a rescheduled Matchday One fixture that delivered high-intensity drama until the final whistle, Dreams FC twice held the lead but ultimately failed to secure all three points at home, leaving them frustrated as they continue to search for their first win of the campaign. The match began with high energy as Dreams FC sought to assert dominance early on. Their efforts were rewarded in the ninth minute when Joel Agbovi found the back of the net, giving the home side an early advantage. However, the lead was short-lived; Medeama SC responded with resilience, mounting several attacks before Emmanuel Owusu struck an equalizer in the 23rd minute. The remainder of the first half and much of the second period remained a tense stalemate, with both sides missing opportunities to pull ahead as defensive structures held firm. The game reached a fever pitch in the closing stages. In the 86th minute, Abdul Razak Salifu appeared to have secured a heroic victory for Dreams FC by scoring what many believed would be the winning goal. The joy of the home supporters was quickly extinguished, however, during the final moments of regulation time. In the 90th minute, a defensive lapse resulted in an own goal by Rahman Osman, gifting Medeama SC a crucial point and leaving Dreams FC to rue missed opportunities in a fixture they had nearly controlled. Following the result, Dreams FC remains in a precarious position at the bottom of the league table, having secured only one point from their opening two matches. Medeama SC, while also seeking more consistent form, sits slightly higher with two points from two games. As the 2026/27 season progresses, Dreams FC will need to address their defensive lapses in the dying minutes of matches if they hope to climb out of the relegation zone and find their footing in a competitive league field.

Gideon Nortey Revives Bukom Boxing with Two-Round Stoppage of Nigeria's Ogunbunmi
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Gideon Nortey Revives Bukom Boxing with Two-Round Stoppage of Nigeria's Ogunbunmi

Ghanaian boxing sensation Gideon Nortey solidified his rising status in the sport with a commanding victory over Nigeria’s Yusuf Ayinde Ogunbunmi during the "Jollof Derby" in Accra. The bout, which served as a centerpiece for the Osagyefo Dr. Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Day celebrations, saw Nortey secure a knockout in just two rounds. The electric performance has reignited local interest in boxing, with fans and analysts drawing parallels between Nortey's clinical style and the legendary exploits of Ghanaian icon Azumah Nelson. The match was more than just a regional rivalry; it was a showcase of Nortey’s technical prowess and explosive power. From the start of the first round, Nortey controlled the pace, utilizing a sharp jab and disciplined footwork to neutralize Ogunbunmi’s reach. By the second round, the Ghanaian's aggression proved too much for his Nigerian opponent, leading to a swift conclusion that sent the Bukom crowd into a frenzy. This victory serves as a significant milestone in Nortey’s career as he seeks to transition from a local prospect to a global contender. Looking toward the future, Nortey has already mapped out a strategic path for his professional development. He is currently slated to face Indian boxer Harsh Saroha in a high-profile international bout scheduled for December 25, 2026. In addition to his global aspirations, Nortey has voiced a strong desire to take on fellow countryman Jerry Lartey. Such a domestic clash would not only settle local rankings but also provide the kind of high-stakes theater that has been a hallmark of the Accra boxing scene. While his individual success is mounting, Nortey is also campaigning for broader structural improvements within the Ghanaian boxing fraternity. He has urged stakeholders, including the government and private investors, to provide more robust support for the sport to help nurture the next generation of world-class fighters. By anchoring his victories to significant national holidays and historical figures like Kwame Nkrumah, Nortey is positioning himself as both a sporting champion and a cultural ambassador for Ghanaian excellence.