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.

Tottenham Hotspur Secure Brazilian Winger Savio in £85m Deal from Manchester City
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Tottenham Hotspur Secure Brazilian Winger Savio in £85m Deal from Manchester City

Tottenham Hotspur have completed the high-profile signing of Brazilian winger Savio Moreira de Oliveira from Manchester City for an initial fee of £75 million. The deal, which could rise to £85 million with performance-related add-ons, represents a significant statement of intent for Spurs as they continue their aggressive summer recruitment strategy. The 22-year-old, who previously played under the moniker "Savinho," has officially reverted to his full name as he begins his tenure in North London under the guidance of head coach Roberto de Zerbi. This move follows a period of heavy investment for Tottenham, whose total summer spending has now reached a staggering £312 million. Savio moves to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium seeking more consistent game time after a stint at Manchester City where he made only seven Premier League starts last season. Despite his limited starts under Pep Guardiola, Savio has amassed 84 appearances for City in total, contributing seven goals and 16 assists. His reputation as a creative powerhouse was solidified during a highly successful loan spell at Girona, where he recorded nine goals and eight assists in La Liga. With 13 international caps for Brazil, the winger is expected to bring both flair and clinical efficiency to the Spurs attack. The player expressed great enthusiasm for the project, noting that the opportunity to work with De Zerbi offers the ideal platform to reach new heights in his professional career. As the transfer deadline approaches, Tottenham shows no signs of slowing down, with the club reportedly pursuing Egyptian forward Omar Marmoush to further strengthen their offensive options. For Spurs fans, the arrival of Savio signals a bold era of ambition as the club looks to challenge the Premier League's elite for silverware this season.

Ethiopian Football Federation Submits Official Bid to Host 2028 Africa Cup of Nations
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Ethiopian Football Federation Submits Official Bid to Host 2028 Africa Cup of Nations

Ethiopia has officially entered the race to host the 2028 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), marking a determined effort to return the continental showpiece to the nation for the first time in over five decades. The Ethiopian Football Federation (EFF), with full backing from the national government, submitted the formal proposal to the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in October 2023. If successful, this would be the fourth time Ethiopia hosts the tournament, having previously staged the event in 1962—the year they clinched their only title—1968, and 1976. The move signals Ethiopia's intent to revitalize its sporting legacy and elevate East Africa's profile in international football. Despite the country’s rich heritage as a founding member of CAF, the bid faces significant scrutiny regarding current infrastructure. For a modern 24-team tournament, CAF requires multiple high-standard venues, yet Ethiopia currently has only one stadium—the Bahir Dar Stadium—previously approved for international use. To bridge this gap, the government is highlighting the construction of the Adey Abeba International Stadium and a larger sports complex in Addis Ababa, which is expected to meet international standards upon completion. However, skeptics point to the fact that the national team, the Walia Ibex, has recently been forced to play home qualifiers at neutral venues due to a lack of compliant facilities. Beyond the pitch, the bid must navigate complex regional security challenges and immense logistical demands. While Addis Ababa remains a stable hub, ongoing unrest in various regions has raised concerns regarding the safety of visiting teams and international supporters. Hosting a tournament of this magnitude requires more than just stadiums; it demands a robust network of world-class training facilities, high-quality accommodation, and efficient transport systems. The EFF remains optimistic, asserting that the government’s commitment will ensure all safety and logistical benchmarks are met through substantial investment over the coming years. Ethiopia faces stiff competition for the 2028 hosting rights, most notably from a formidable joint bid by Southern African nations including Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. With the 2027 edition already slated for a regional "Pamoja" bid by Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda, CAF’s decision-making process will likely weigh regional rotation alongside technical readiness. For Ethiopia, currently ranked 143rd in the world, a successful bid would serve as a vital catalyst for domestic infrastructure development and economic growth, potentially ending its long absence from the center stage of African football.

Prince Tagoe Appointed Sporting Director at JP FC as Manchester City and United Target High-Profile Transfers
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Prince Tagoe Appointed Sporting Director at JP FC as Manchester City and United Target High-Profile Transfers

Former Black Stars forward Prince Tagoe has been appointed as the Sporting Director for Joseph Paintsil (JP) Football Club, a significant leadership move for the academy ahead of the 2026/2027 season. Tagoe, a veteran striker known for his storied career with the Ghanaian national team and various international clubs, will take charge of essential football operations at the outfit founded by current LA Galaxy star Joseph Paintsil. The appointment is seen as a strategic effort to bring high-level professional experience to the club’s administrative and technical departments. In his new capacity, Tagoe will be responsible for overseeing the club’s development path and managing the technical staff to ensure the academy's growth. The collaboration between Tagoe and Paintsil represents a bridging of generations within Ghanaian football, as a former national icon assists a current star in building a sustainable sporting institution. This administrative restructuring is expected to enhance the club's competitive edge and talent identification processes in the coming years. While domestic football focuses on administrative growth, the international transfer market is experiencing a surge in activity as major English Premier League clubs finalize their squads. Manchester City is reportedly intensifying efforts to secure the signatures of Enzo Fernandez and Cody Gakpo. The pursuit of these high-caliber players indicates City’s intent to maintain their dominance by raiding domestic and European rivals. Simultaneously, Manchester United has entered the fray for Arsenal’s promising youngster Myles Lewis-Skelly, signaling a competitive hunt for emerging English talent. These developments across the local and international stages highlight the diverse nature of modern football, where administrative appointments are as crucial to long-term success as high-stakes player acquisitions. As Prince Tagoe begins his tenure at JP FC to shape the next generation of Ghanaian talent, the global football community remains focused on the closing stages of the transfer window, which will dictate the competitive landscape for the remainder of the season.

Serena Williams and Carlos Alcaraz are applauded by the crowd at the US Open
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Carlos Alcaraz and Serena Williams Partnership Highlights Revamped US Open Mixed Doubles

The US Open witnessed an electric atmosphere as tennis legend Serena Williams made a surprise return to competitive play, partnering with world number one Carlos Alcaraz in a star-studded mixed doubles draw. Williams, returning from a four-year hiatus, joined forces with the young Spaniard in front of approximately 15,000 fans at Arthur Ashe Stadium. This high-profile pairing provided one of the tournament's most captivating storylines, marking a significant experiment in the competition's attempt to elevate the profile of the mixed doubles event. The duo began their campaign with a victory over Lloyd Glasspool and Erin Routliffe, a result that signaled a promising start for the veteran-and-prodigy pairing. For Alcaraz, the doubles matches served as critical preparation as he worked his way back from a recent wrist injury, allowing him to gain vital court time in a competitive environment. Williams herself expressed astonishment at being back on the grand stage of Arthur Ashe Stadium, noting her surprise at returning to the professional circuit after such a lengthy break. However, their run ultimately ended in the quarter-finals following a defeat at the hands of Flavio Cobolli and Belinda Bencic. The inclusion of top-tier singles stars was part of a revamped mixed doubles format intended to attract larger audiences, though the move has faced criticism for sidelining established doubles specialists. The tournament saw mixed results for other high-profile entrants as well, with marquee players such as Novak Djokovic and Aryna Sabalenka suffering early exits in the competition. Despite these varied outcomes, the Alcaraz-Williams partnership underscored the enduring drawing power of Serena Williams and the evolving strategy of Grand Slam organizers to integrate singles champions into broader tournament categories.

Maradona's Iconic 'Hand of God' World Cup Ball Sells for $3.3 Million at Auction
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Maradona's Iconic 'Hand of God' World Cup Ball Sells for $3.3 Million at Auction

The legendary football used by Diego Maradona to score his infamous 'Hand of God' goal during the 1986 FIFA World Cup has been sold at auction for $3.3 million. The sale, conducted by Heritage Auctions, marks a significant moment in the high-stakes market for sports memorabilia associated with the late Argentine superstar. While the multi-million dollar price tag is substantial, the final figure fell notably short of the loftier expectations set by experts and auction houses prior to the event, marking a curious turn in the valuation of such historic sporting artifacts. The item, an Adidas Azteca ball, is the primary physical relic from one of the most debated matches in the history of international football. During the quarter-final clash between Argentina and England, Maradona used the ball to score a goal with his hand, a move he later attributed to 'the hand of God.' Because of this historical association, the ball has been treated as a prestigious collector's item for decades. Its sale at Heritage Auctions drew international attention from sports historians and wealthy collectors alike, all eager to secure a piece of the 1986 tournament's legacy. Despite the ball's immense cultural and historical weight, the $3.3 million closing price was significantly lower than the pre-auction estimate of $10 million. This discrepancy highlights the often unpredictable nature of the sports memorabilia market, where even the most iconic items may not always reach their highest projected valuations. Nevertheless, the successful sale ensures the ball remains one of the most expensive pieces of footballing equipment ever sold, underscoring the enduring global fascination with Diego Maradona and his controversial yet brilliant performance on the world's biggest stage.

Antoine Semenyo Makes History as First Ghanaian Named in PFA Premier League Team of the Year
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Antoine Semenyo Makes History as First Ghanaian Named in PFA Premier League Team of the Year

Ghanaian international Antoine Semenyo has etched his name into footballing history by becoming the first player from the West African nation to be named in the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA) Premier League Team of the Year. The prestigious accolade was confirmed during the PFA Awards ceremony held on August 25, 2026, following a stellar 2025/26 campaign. This recognition places Semenyo among the absolute elite of English football, marking a watershed moment for both the player's career and the broader profile of Ghanaian athletes in the global game. Semenyo’s inclusion in the season's Best XI follows a period of exceptional consistency and offensive prowess that saw him dominate defenses across England. At the awards ceremony, he was honored alongside top-tier talent from the league's heavyweights, including standout performers from Arsenal, Manchester City, and Manchester United, as well as Brentford. Being voted into the team by his fellow professionals—the defining characteristic of the PFA awards—serves as a powerful testament to the respect and admiration he has earned from opponents and teammates alike across the league. This achievement carries significant weight for Ghanaian football, which has a long and storied relationship with the Premier League. Despite the legendary status of icons like Michael Essien, Tony Yeboah, and Asamoah Gyan, none of Semenyo's predecessors managed to secure a spot in the PFA’s seasonal Best XI during their respective tenures in England. By breaking this long-standing barrier, Semenyo has set a new benchmark for Ghanaian excellence abroad. As the footballing world looks toward the next season, the forward's historic milestone is expected to serve as a catalyst for other Ghanaian talents striving to make their mark on the international stage.

Xabi Alonso Secures Winning Debut as Cole Palmer Leads Chelsea to Thrilling 3-2 Victory Over Fulham
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Xabi Alonso Secures Winning Debut as Cole Palmer Leads Chelsea to Thrilling 3-2 Victory Over Fulham

Xabi Alonso’s tenure as Chelsea manager commenced with a pulsating 3-2 victory over Fulham, marking a successful start to a new era at Stamford Bridge. In a match defined by attacking flair and high drama, Cole Palmer emerged as the undisputed protagonist, orchestrating the Chelsea offense and delivering the decisive blow. The win is a significant milestone for the club, representing their first opening-day triumph in the Premier League since the 2022-23 season, providing an immediate injection of optimism for the Blues' faithful following the appointment of the Spanish tactician. The contest ignited almost immediately when Joao Pedro found the back of the net in the first minute, capitalizing on a brilliant assist from Palmer. This early breakthrough set the tone for an end-to-end encounter that tested both managers' tactical resolve. While Chelsea looked dangerous going forward, Fulham proved to be resilient opponents, equalizing through Josh King to momentarily silence the home crowd. The back-and-forth nature of the game continued as Morgan Rogers enjoyed a dream start to his Chelsea career, netting a goal on his debut to restore the lead, only for the visitors to strike back again via Gonzalo Garcia. Ultimately, it was Cole Palmer who sealed the three points with a moment of clinical finishing, scoring the winning goal to cap an outstanding personal performance. His ability to influence the game both as a creator and a finisher proved to be the difference-maker for Alonso’s side. The manager’s tactical setup appeared to favor a high-tempo, expansive style of play, though the two goals conceded to a persistent Fulham side suggest that defensive cohesion remains a primary area for improvement as the season progresses. As Chelsea moves forward, this victory serves as a vital foundation for their campaign under new leadership. The immediate impact of debutant Morgan Rogers and the continued excellence of established stars like Palmer suggest that the squad is adapting quickly to Alonso's philosophy. While the competitive nature of Fulham's performance serves as a reminder of the Premier League's difficulty, Alonso’s winning start provides the momentum and breathing room necessary to refine his system in the coming weeks.

Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams Calls for Football System Rebuild Amid Accra Turf Club Demolition Crisis
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Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams Calls for Football System Rebuild Amid Accra Turf Club Demolition Crisis

Ghanaian sports is currently navigating a period of significant turmoil and urgent calls for structural reform, highlighted by a violent demolition at the Accra Race Course and a ministerial mandate for a total overhaul of the nation’s football ecosystem. The Accra Turf Club has formally petitioned President John Mahama for intervention following the destruction of its Borteyman facility, while Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, has demanded a fundamental shift in how the country's most popular sport is managed. Together, these developments underscore a critical juncture for both heritage sports and modern football administration. The situation at the Accra Turf Club reached a crisis point on August 22 when approximately 200 armed men, reportedly led by individuals identified as Clement Dzato and Azuma and accompanied by police, forcefully entered and demolished the Race Course. The raid resulted in the destruction of about 100 horse stables and the immediate eviction of horses and jockeys. Turf Club officials have condemned the action as a land grab, emphasizing that the facility is vital to Ghana’s horse racing heritage and supports over 30,000 livelihoods. The Club has vowed to use all lawful means to defend its property rights while seeking protection from President Mahama to preserve the equestrian sector. Parallel to these infrastructure concerns, Minister Kofi Iddie Adams has issued a stern call for a complete rebuilding of Ghana’s football system. Speaking at the 32nd Ordinary Congress of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Adams criticized previous government interventions for failing to produce lasting results. He advocated for a sustainable, long-term development model that prioritizes grassroots talent and women's football over the current trend of clubs focusing primarily on player sales. Adams emphasized that improving stadium safety and fan engagement are essential pillars for a five-year vision aimed at restoring the health of the Ghanaian football ecosystem. The internal challenges within the football sector are further illustrated by recent disciplinary and selection controversies. Aduana FC recently faced financial penalties after walking off the pitch during a pre-season Nsenkyire Cup match against Etoile Filante in protest of refereeing decisions. Meanwhile, former GFA Vice President George Afriyie has ignited debate over player incentives, questioning the rewards given to Black Stars goalkeeper Benjamin Asare while suggesting that local Ghana Premier League standouts, such as Medeama SC’s Salim Adams, deserve greater recognition. These incidents collectively highlight a pressing need for improved officiating, fair recognition, and the systemic reforms championed by the Sports Ministry to ensure the future stability of Ghanaian athletics.

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Ghanaian Footballers on the Move: Oscar Naasei Nears Real Madrid as Kwasi Sibo Finalizes $10m Libyan Deal

Ghanaian football talent is making significant waves in the international transfer market, highlighted by 21-year-old defender Oscar Naasei's imminent move to Real Madrid and Kwasi Sibo's high-stakes transition to North African football. These developments underscore the growing global demand for Black Stars players, with careers ranging from the heights of European football giants to lucrative opportunities in emerging regional powerhouses. Both moves signify a pivotal moment for the players involved as they seek to elevate their professional standings and international profiles. Oscar Naasei, a rising centre-back currently with Granada, is reportedly on the verge of joining Real Madrid. The 21-year-old is expected to initially join the Spanish club's reserve team to further his development within one of the world's most elite footballing infrastructures. Negotiations have accelerated rapidly, with Real Madrid currently leading the race against several other interested parties. Naasei’s stock has risen sharply following two appearances in La Liga 2 this season and his recent senior debut for the Ghana national team during the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification rounds. In a separate but equally dramatic development, Ghana international Kwasi Sibo is finalizing a move to the Libyan champions, Al-Swehly. Sibo’s transfer path has been a complex saga; an initial deal in Turkey collapsed, paving the way for a massive financial offer from Libya reportedly worth an estimated $10 million. The transition was reportedly influenced by intensive family consultations and a last-minute ultimatum that forced a resolution to the transfer talks. This mega-deal represents a significant financial milestone for the midfielder as he joins the reigning champions of the Libyan league. These transfers reflect the diverse career paths currently available to Ghanaian internationals in the modern game. While Naasei's move represents a pursuit of European prestige at one of the world's most successful clubs, Sibo’s journey highlights the increasing financial power and ambition of North African leagues. For the Ghana national team, both moves provide the Black Stars' technical staff with more players competing in high-pressure environments as the nation continues its preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Asante Kotoko Overhauls Squad with 12 New Signings and Foreign Leadership Ahead of Democracy Cup Clash
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Asante Kotoko Overhauls Squad with 12 New Signings and Foreign Leadership Ahead of Democracy Cup Clash

Asante Kotoko is undergoing a significant transformation as the club prepares for the upcoming Ghana Premier League season and the highly anticipated Democracy Cup clash against rivals Hearts of Oak. The Porcupine Warriors have bolstered their ranks with 12 new signings and a strategic shift in technical leadership, signaling a clear intent to reclaim their dominance in domestic football. This massive overhaul follows a period of reflection on team discipline and performance, aiming to blend international experience with local talent. Central to this squad revamp is the return of 23-year-old goalkeeper Ibrahim Danlad. Following a two-season stint with Ethiopia’s Coffee SC, Danlad expressed his readiness to impact the team with newfound maturity and international experience. He is expected to play a pivotal role in the upcoming fixture against Hearts of Oak on August 28. In addition to his return, Kotoko has aggressively recruited talent from across the continent, signing six foreign players from Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Morocco, and the Democratic Republic of Congo to strengthen various departments of the pitch. The club's leadership has also opted for a foreign technical direction, a move specifically addressed by the Chairman of the Asante Kotoko National Circles Supporters, Solomon Ofosu-Ware. According to Ofosu-Ware, the decision to look beyond local coaching talent was driven by a need for stricter discipline within the squad. He noted that local coaches often find it difficult to maintain the necessary level of authority over players, which has previously impacted the team’s performance. This change reflects a commitment to professionalizing the club’s environment as they enter a demanding new season. These preparations coincide with the intensifying buildup to the Democracy Cup, which recently saw its trophy showcased during a tour of the National Police Headquarters and the National Commission for Civic Education (NCCE). A parliamentary delegation, led by Clerk Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror, presented the trophy to Inspector General of Police Christian Tetteh Yohuno, who has pledged full security support for the match. The event will feature inaugural champions Kotoko against defending champions Hearts of Oak, serving not only as a sporting spectacle but also as a promotion of democratic values, complete with a curtain-raising match between a Parliamentary XI and a Judiciary XI.

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin Declines FIFA Presidency Run as Global Stars Clash Over Gianni Infantino's Future
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UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin Declines FIFA Presidency Run as Global Stars Clash Over Gianni Infantino's Future

UEFA President Aleksander Ceferin has officially ruled himself out of the race to succeed Gianni Infantino as FIFA President, despite persistent speculation regarding a potential bid. The announcement comes at a time of heightened scrutiny for Infantino, who has faced significant backlash over a failed initiative to involve private investors in a proposed "selloff" of the FIFA World Cup. While Ceferin confirmed he will not contest the leadership at the FIFA Congress scheduled for March 2027, he notably suggested that Infantino may still face a formidable challenge from other candidates as discontent grows within the international football community. The pressure on the current FIFA administration has been intensified by a group of prominent former footballers who are demanding a structural change in the organization’s leadership. Premier League winners Emmanuel Petit and Mikael Silvestre, alongside Olivier Dacourt, have publicly voiced their concerns following the collapse of the private investment proposal. These former stars expressed a lack of confidence in the current leadership's ability to separate personal interests from the broader needs of the global game. They argue that the failed attempt to monetize the World Cup through private investors highlights a fundamental disconnect between FIFA's executive branch and the footballing community. However, the embattled FIFA President still maintains support among key figures in the sport, most notably from African football legend Samuel Eto’o. Defending the incumbent, Eto’o urged stakeholders to support Infantino, asserting that the President has "not done anything wrong" despite the controversy surrounding the investment plans. This divide highlights the growing polarization within the sport’s governing bodies, as established officials and former players weigh the merits of Infantino's aggressive commercial strategies against the traditional stewardship of international tournaments. As the road to the March 2027 FIFA Congress begins, the focus shifts to whether a viable challenger will emerge to test Infantino’s mandate. While Ceferin has stepped aside, his public prediction of a contested election suggests that the internal dissent within UEFA and other continental confederations remains potent. The coming years will likely be defined by a struggle to balance FIFA's commercial ambitions with the concerns of players and fans who fear the over-commercialization of the world's most prestigious sporting event.

Carlos Baleba signs his Manchester United contract
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Carlos Baleba Joins Manchester United in £70m Midfield Overhaul Following Brighton Exit

Manchester United has finalized the signing of 22-year-old Cameroonian midfielder Carlos Baleba from Brighton & Hove Albion in a deal worth a total of £70 million. The agreement consists of an initial £65 million payment with an additional £5 million in potential performance-related add-ons. Baleba has committed his future to Old Trafford with a five-year contract, which reportedly includes an option for a sixth year, as the club moves aggressively to address midfield vulnerabilities identified early in the Premier League campaign. The move comes at a critical juncture for United following a disappointing opening match loss against Hull City. Baleba, who originally moved to Brighton from Lille and has since made 112 appearances, is expected to provide the physicality and defensive dynamism that the Red Devils have lacked in recent outings. Despite his young age, the midfielder brings significant Premier League experience to Michael Carrick’s side. Upon signing, Baleba described the transfer as a "dream come true," expressing his eagerness to play at the iconic Old Trafford stadium and contribute to the club's storied history. However, United supporters may have to wait to see their new marquee signing in action. Baleba is currently sidelined with an ankle injury sustained during pre-season training, which has delayed his immediate integration into the matchday squad. Once fit, his versatility and defensive prowess are expected to be cornerstones of the team's tactical setup. His acquisition brings Manchester United’s total summer expenditure to approximately £153 million, signaling the board's clear intent to provide the necessary resources to compete at the highest level domestically and abroad. As United prepares for a highly anticipated return to the UEFA Champions League, the arrival of Baleba is seen as a strategic investment in both the club's immediate stability and its long-term future. By securing one of the league's most promising young talents, the club aims to stabilize its midfield core and build a more resilient foundation for the challenges of a demanding multi-competition season. The focus now shifts to his rehabilitation as the club's medical staff works to ensure he is ready for the rigors of the upcoming European and domestic fixtures.