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.

Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus Asserts Authority Amid Team Crisis and Cristiano Ronaldo Selection Tensions
sports|

Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus Asserts Authority Amid Team Crisis and Cristiano Ronaldo Selection Tensions

Portugal's national team head coach, Jorge Jesus, has taken a firm stance regarding team selection and his tactical authority as the squad navigates a reported internal crisis during the UEFA Nations League. Addressing the ongoing speculation surrounding the role of captain Cristiano Ronaldo, Jesus issued a clear reminder of the hierarchy within the team, stating emphatically, "I’m the coach." This assertion comes at a critical juncture for Portugal as they prepare for high-stakes fixtures against Norway and Denmark, with external pressure mounting over how the veteran striker is utilized on the pitch. While asserting his dominance over tactical decisions, Jesus was careful to balance his remarks by acknowledging Ronaldo's significant legacy. The coach described the five-time Ballon d'Or winner as an "icon" of Portuguese football, suggesting that while the player's status is undisputed, it does not grant him immunity from the coach's strategic oversight. Reports shared by sports journalist Fabrizio Romano indicate that the relationship between the manager’s tactical requirements and the superstar's expectations has become a focal point of the current national team camp, leading to what has been described as a "crisis" period for the squad. Looking ahead, Jesus has promised to provide a full explanation of the internal dynamics and the recent friction once the current international window progresses. He indicated that he would elaborate on the team’s situation following the conclusion of their match against Norway. This scheduled transparency is expected to occur before the team faces Denmark in their final group stage encounter, a timeline that suggests the coach is focused on maintaining stability until the immediate competitive objectives are met. The outcome of this power dynamic will likely define Portugal's trajectory in the UEFA Nations League and beyond. As the team transitions through a period of reported internal tension, the footballing world remains focused on whether Jorge Jesus can successfully integrate Ronaldo’s iconic presence into a cohesive tactical system. For now, the manager's priority remains clear: upholding his authority to ensure that team performance takes precedence over individual reputation during this challenging phase for the national side.

Medeama SC Takes Top Spot in Ghana Premier League as Asante Kotoko Names Hamza Obeng Interim Coach
sports|

Medeama SC Takes Top Spot in Ghana Premier League as Asante Kotoko Names Hamza Obeng Interim Coach

Medeama Sporting Club has ascended to the summit of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) 2026/27 standings following a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Port City in an outstanding matchday two fixture. The decisive moment came in the second minute of first-half stoppage time when Kelvin Nkrumah found the back of the net. Despite a spirited effort from Port City, their comeback hopes were dampened in the 66th minute when Ransford Lartey was sent off. The victory propels Medeama to eight points, placing them ahead of FC Samartex on goal difference and leaving Port City in fifth place after their first loss of the season. The league table remains exceptionally tight after four matchdays, with Medeama and Samartex leading the pack. However, the spotlight also turns to Kumasi, where traditional powerhouses Asante Kotoko are desperate to revitalize their campaign. Following a disappointing start that saw the club secure only one win in four matches—culminating in a 2-0 defeat to Aduana FC—the Porcupine Warriors have turned to Hamza Obeng to lead the team on an interim basis. Obeng takes the reigns following the departure of Eric Tinkler and will make his debut in the dugout against Karela United. Asante Kotoko's upcoming clash at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium is viewed as a critical turning point for the club. While Kotoko has struggled for consistency, they maintain a formidable home record against Karela United, remaining unbeaten in their last six encounters in Kumasi. Conversely, Karela United enters the match with mixed momentum; while they recently celebrated a victory over Hearts of Oak, they have struggled significantly on their travels, losing their last three consecutive away matches. As the GPL season progresses, the pressure continues to mount on the league's established giants to keep pace with the early leaders. With Medeama setting the standard at the top of the table, the tactical transition at Asante Kotoko represents a broader theme of volatility and high stakes in the current campaign. Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see if the coaching change can spark a resurgence for the Kumasi-based side or if the current leaders will continue to consolidate their advantage at the top.

Black Stars Crisis: Parliament and Stakeholders Demand GFA Accountability After Back-to-Back AFCON Qualifier Defeats
sports|

Black Stars Crisis: Parliament and Stakeholders Demand GFA Accountability After Back-to-Back AFCON Qualifier Defeats

Ghana’s national football team, the Black Stars, has plunged into a state of crisis following a disastrous start to their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign. After a 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire, the team suffered a humiliating 4-2 loss to The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium, leaving Ghana at the bottom of Group C with zero points. Head coach Carlos Queiroz has publicly accepted responsibility for the poor performances, but the fallout has extended far beyond the pitch, sparking national debates over the team's leadership, technical direction, and the management of the Ghana Football Association (GFA). In response to the declining performance, Parliament’s Select Committee on Sports, led by Chairman Ernest Henry Norgbey, has announced plans to 'interrogate' the situation by inviting the GFA and the Ministry for Sports and Recreation for a formal inquiry. The pressure on GFA President Kurt Okraku has reached a fever pitch, with former GFA Chairman Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe calling for his immediate resignation. This sentiment is echoed by the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG), which issued a stern statement urging the GFA leadership to implement urgent reforms or step aside, citing the failure to qualify for the 2025 AFCON and the current qualifying struggles as evidence of a systemic collapse in football administration. Critique of the team's technical setup has also intensified, with football analyst Christopher Nimley questioning the age and vibrancy of the coaching staff, noting that Queiroz is 73 and his assistants are in their 60s and 70s. This lack of modern leadership, according to Nimley, contributed to the players' low morale during the defeat to The Gambia. Beyond the technicalities, public figures like musician Keche Joshua have suggested the team may be suffering from a 'spiritual curse,' while veteran journalist Rosalind Koramah Amoh highlighted a seven-year decline in the emotional bond between the Black Stars and their fans. Even a touching reunion between legends Andre Ayew and Asamoah Gyan in the stands could not mask the growing disconnect between the team and a frustrated public. As calls for President John Mahama to intervene directly by dissolving the GFA or the national team gain traction among some fans and officials, the legal and international implications of such a move remain a subject of intense debate. The Black Stars now face a must-win fixture against Somalia to keep their qualification hopes alive. However, stakeholders agree that without a shift toward merit-based appointments and a comprehensive overhaul of the country's football structures, the path to recovery for the four-time African champions remains uncertain.

Ghana U-23 Defender Kelvin Lamptey-Mills Joins FC Cartagena on Free Transfer
sports|

Ghana U-23 Defender Kelvin Lamptey-Mills Joins FC Cartagena on Free Transfer

Ghana U-23 defender Kelvin Lamptey-Mills has officially joined Spanish club FC Cartagena, marking a pivotal transition in his professional football career. The talented youngster has been registered for the upcoming 2026/27 league season, following a successful negotiation process that saw him join the Spanish side on a free transfer from Greek side Kampaniakos. This move represents a significant milestone for the young Ghanaian international as he seeks to establish himself within the competitive landscape of European football. Lamptey-Mills makes the move to Spain after a brief tenure with the Greek outfit Kampaniakos, where he gained valuable experience during his limited period of play. While his time in the Greek league was relatively short-lived, it served as a crucial stepping stone that prepared him for the rigors of professional play in a more prominent league. By securing a spot at FC Cartagena, Lamptey-Mills joins a growing list of Ghanaian players who have utilized European leagues as a platform to refine their skills and gain the necessary experience to compete at the highest levels of the sport. As the 2026/27 campaign approaches, the registration of Lamptey-Mills provides FC Cartagena with a fresh defensive option as they aim to strengthen their squad depth for the challenges ahead. For the player, the move offers an invaluable opportunity to showcase his talent in one of the world’s most respected footballing nations. His performance in Spain will likely be closely monitored by the technical handlers of Ghana's national teams, as he remains a key figure within the U-23 setup. This transfer not only boosts his personal career prospects but also continues the narrative of Ghanaian defensive talent being recognized and recruited by clubs across the European continent.

Manchester City Found Guilty of Major Financial Breaches; Club Faces Points Deduction or Expulsion
sports|

Manchester City Found Guilty of Major Financial Breaches; Club Faces Points Deduction or Expulsion

Manchester City has been found guilty of serious and sustained breaches of Premier League financial regulations following a comprehensive independent investigation covering nine seasons from 2009/10 to 2017/18. The verdict, described by Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters as the most significant disciplinary case in the league’s history, centers on the club's use of "sham" contracts and deceptive sponsorship deals. These practices were allegedly designed to misrepresent the club’s true financial state to auditors and regulators, effectively inflating revenues by over £900 million to gain a competitive advantage while obscuring operational costs. The independent commission’s findings indicate a deliberate effort to circumvent the league's Profit and Sustainability Rules. By misrepresenting financial agreements, particularly those involving major sponsors, the club reportedly disguised the true source of its funding. In response to the ruling, Manchester City has vehemently denied all allegations of wrongdoing, asserting that the verdict is based on significant legal errors. The club has already signaled its intent to appeal the decision, maintaining its innocence despite the findings of the commission's extensive inquiry. The fallout from the verdict has sent shockwaves through English football, with senior officials from rival clubs reportedly calling for sanctions to be applied before the end of the current season. There is growing pressure to resolve the matter swiftly to maintain the league's competitive integrity, especially as City remains a perennial title contender. Meanwhile, major club sponsor Etihad Airways is reportedly considering its own legal action against the Premier League, citing the potential damage to its reputation following the commission's findings regarding the nature of their sponsorship deals. Beyond the pitch, the ruling has raised concerns regarding the broader socio-economic impact on the city of Manchester. Andy Burnham, the Mayor of Greater Manchester, has expressed concern over the potential for the club’s owners to sell their stake in light of the ruling. Burnham praised the current ownership for their significant investment in local infrastructure and urban development but cautioned against a rush to judgment that could destabilize the club’s relationship with the community. He drew parallels to the financial struggles of other historic clubs, emphasizing the high stakes for fans and the city alike. As the football world awaits the final resolution, the next phase of the process will involve a series of hearings to determine specific penalties. The range of potential sanctions is unprecedented, spanning from substantial financial fines and points deductions to the ultimate penalty of expulsion from the Premier League. Regardless of the final outcome, this case is expected to set a definitive precedent for financial governance in professional sports, signaling a new era of strict oversight for the world’s most-watched football league.

Carlos Queiroz Departs as Black Stars Head Coach After Short, Turbulent Tenure
sports|

Carlos Queiroz Departs as Black Stars Head Coach After Short, Turbulent Tenure

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz have mutually agreed to terminate their service agreement following a string of disappointing results. The decision, announced in October 2026, comes in the wake of the national team's poor start to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, which has left Ghana languishing at the bottom of Group C. The departure marks the end of a brief tenure that began with promise but ultimately succumbed to a lack of stability and inconsistent on-field performances. Queiroz’s exit followed a particularly bruising 4-2 defeat to Gambia, a match in which the Black Stars squandered a 2-0 lead. This result, combined with an earlier loss to Côte d'Ivoire, prompted immediate discussions between GFA leadership and the Portuguese manager regarding the lack of necessary conditions for progress. Statistically, Queiroz’s time in charge was marked by significant struggles; across seven matches including friendlies and competitive fixtures, he recorded only one victory, two draws, and four losses—a win rate of just 14.3%. While he did lead the team to the Round of 32 during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking his fifth consecutive appearance as a coach at the tournament, the team’s subsequent form failed to sustain that momentum. In his farewell statement, Queiroz expressed a mix of respect, gratitude, and pride regarding his time with the Ghanaian national team. He acknowledged that while he had hoped to strengthen the squad, the technical and sporting conditions required for success were not fully realized. Despite the termination, he remained optimistic about the future of Ghanaian football, urging fans to remain steadfast in their support. "Believe in these players," Queiroz emphasized, highlighting the inherent talent within the squad and the potential for success if provided with the right environment and guidance. Henry Asante Twum, the GFA's Communications Director, confirmed that the decision was reached after extensive discussions regarding the team’s technical direction and future plans. The GFA is now tasked with finding a successor who can navigate the remainder of the AFCON qualifying campaign and restore stability to a team that has seen frequent managerial changes in recent years. With the Black Stars facing a critical juncture in their quest for continental qualification, the association’s next appointment will be pivotal in determining whether the team can salvage its 2027 prospects and rebuild its reputation on the international stage.

Ghana Midfielder Thomas Partey Mourns the Passing of His Father, Jacob Teye Partey
sports|

Ghana Midfielder Thomas Partey Mourns the Passing of His Father, Jacob Teye Partey

Ghana national team midfielder Thomas Partey is in mourning following the death of his father, Jacob Teye Partey, who passed away on September 30, 2026. The news of the patriarch’s passing has cast a shadow over the Partey family, who are currently coming to terms with the significant loss. Jacob Teye Partey was a pivotal figure in Thomas’s life, famously supporting his son's early footballing ambitions in Ghana and playing a crucial role in his journey from local football to the international stage. Thomas Partey, who currently plies his trade for Al Shabab in the Saudi Pro League, has not yet made a public statement regarding his father's death. The midfielder’s career has seen him achieve great success in Europe and with the Black Stars, and he has often credited his father's guidance for his professional discipline. The family has requested privacy as they begin the grieving process, and specific details regarding the circumstances of Mr. Partey’s passing have not been released to the media. The Ghanaian football community, including the Ghana Football Association and Partey’s teammates, is expected to rally behind the player during this difficult period of bereavement. Jacob Teye Partey was widely respected for his dedication to his son's career, often sharing stories of the sacrifices made to ensure Thomas reached the pinnacle of global football. His passing is seen as a loss to the broader footballing fraternity that followed the inspiring story of the Partey family’s rise. As the family prepares to bid farewell to their patriarch, funeral arrangements and memorial services are yet to be finalized and announced. It is anticipated that the footballing world will pay its respects through various tributes in the coming weeks, both in Ghana and within the professional leagues where Thomas has made his mark. The Ghanaian public and sports fans across the continent continue to wait for official updates from the family regarding the final rites for the late Jacob Teye Partey.

President Mahama Removes NSA Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah Amid $600,000 World Cup Visa Scandal
sports|

President Mahama Removes NSA Director-General Yaw Ampofo Ankrah Amid $600,000 World Cup Visa Scandal

President John Mahama has terminated the appointment of Yaw Ampofo Ankrah as the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA). The decision follows an escalating controversy surrounding an alleged visa facilitation scheme for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which has prompted a criminal investigation. Professor Emmanuel Osei Sarpong, an expert in sports science and physical education with over two decades of experience, has been appointed as the Acting Director-General to lead the authority during this transition. The scandal centers on claims that approximately $623,000 was collected from individuals seeking assistance with travel and visa arrangements for the upcoming global tournament in North America. Investigations by the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) and the Bureau of National Investigations (BNI) suggest that some applicants were charged as much as $8,000 for these unauthorized services. This move by the presidency follows the dissolution of the NSA’s governing board on September 2, 2026, a step taken as part of broader governance reforms aimed at addressing systemic issues in the management of Ghana’s major sporting facilities. In his first public response, Mr. Ampofo Ankrah expressed deep disappointment over his removal, stating that he was not given an adequate opportunity to present his side of the story. Despite the allegations, he maintained a calm demeanor, asserting his innocence and noting that his primary focus had been on the urgent renovation of the Accra Sports Stadium and other venues for the Black Stars. His legal counsel, Jerry Avenorgbor, has also denied any wrongdoing on behalf of his client, dismissing the claims as false and expressing confidence that the ongoing investigation by the police will eventually clear Ankrah’s name. The leadership change at the NSA reflects the government's intensified efforts to restore accountability and improve infrastructure within the sports sector. Public frustration has mounted recently over the deteriorating state of national stadiums, leading to calls for more transparent and efficient administration. As the government prepares to reconstitute the NSA board, Professor Sarpong’s immediate mandate will involve overseeing the authority’s operations while ensuring full cooperation with law enforcement agencies to resolve the allegations surrounding the visa scheme.

Black Starlets Fall to Morocco in Rabat Friendly as Emmanuel City Secures Global Game Scouting Trophy
sports|

Black Starlets Fall to Morocco in Rabat Friendly as Emmanuel City Secures Global Game Scouting Trophy

The landscape of Ghanaian youth football saw significant action this week, ranging from international friendly engagements in North Africa to high-stakes talent scouting on home soil. While the national Under-17 team, the Black Starlets, narrowly missed out on a victory against Morocco in Rabat, the domestic scene celebrated the crowning of Emmanuel City as the champions of the inaugural Global Game Scouting Tournament in Labadi. These developments highlight the ongoing efforts to sharpen elite talent for regional competitions and provide grassroots players with essential exposure to professional scouts. In Rabat, the Black Starlets faced a resilient Moroccan U17 side in the second of a two-match friendly series. Despite an early lead by the hosts, the Ghanaian youngsters displayed remarkable grit, playing with only ten men for nearly half the duration of the match. Yaw Acheampong provided a moment of individual brilliance, curling in a free-kick to level the score and keep the Starlets in contention. However, the numerical disadvantage eventually told, as Morocco capitalized on a late counter-attack in the dying embers of the game to secure a 2-1 victory. The result leaves the friendly series tied at one win apiece, providing crucial lessons for the Starlets as they finalize preparations for the upcoming WAFU Zone B U17 Championship. Closer to home, the McDan Astro-turf in Labadi hosted the climax of the first-ever Global Game Scouting Tournament, where Emmanuel City emerged victorious. Following a hard-fought 2-2 draw in regulation time against Teshie Football Academy, Emmanuel City demonstrated superior composure from the penalty spot to win 3-1. Their journey to the podium included a challenging semi-final victory over Arimark FC. The tournament, organized by the Global Game Scouting Agency in collaboration with the UK-based ExcelsiorPro, served as a vital platform for young athletes to exhibit their technical and tactical prowess in front of international talent hunters. These parallel events underscore the dual track of football development currently underway in Ghana. While the Black Starlets' experience in Morocco offers high-level international exposure necessary for continental success, the Global Game Scouting Tournament addresses the need for structured pathways into professional football for academy players. By leveraging digital and social media to amplify player visibility and fostering partnerships with international agencies, these initiatives ensure that the next generation of Ghanaian football talent remains firmly in the spotlight of both national selectors and global clubs.

Prophet Brampa and NSA Officials Oppose Use of Ho Sports Stadium for Momofest Concert
sports|

Prophet Brampa and NSA Officials Oppose Use of Ho Sports Stadium for Momofest Concert

Stakeholders in the Volta Region, led by Prophet Bright Brampa, have raised strong objections to the scheduled use of the Ho Sports Stadium for the upcoming Momofest musical concert. The opposition centers on the preservation of the stadium's playing surface, with critics arguing that the venue is a specialized facility intended solely for sporting activities. As the premier sports ground in the region, there are growing fears that the influx of concert-goers and the installation of heavy equipment could lead to long-term degradation of the pitch. Prophet Brampa, the founder of Christ Power for All Nations, publicly urged organizers to reconsider their choice of venue to protect the state asset. He emphasized that the Ho Sports Stadium holds a unique importance for local athletes and the community at large, suggesting the Youth Resource Centre as a more appropriate alternative for the festival. This stance was echoed by Madam Jennifer Kokumah from the National Sports Authority (NSA), who highlighted the technical risks associated with hosting non-sporting events on professional turf. The NSA's involvement underscores a growing concern within the sports administration regarding the multi-purpose use of dedicated football pitches. Further complicating the situation, traditional leaders from the Asorgli State have voiced their support for the stadium's protection. The leaders indicated that they were not officially consulted or made aware of any formal arrangements for the concert to take place at the stadium. This lack of communication with local custodians has added a layer of administrative friction to the controversy. The collective pushback from religious, traditional, and sporting authorities presents a significant challenge to the event's planners, who must now weigh the logistical benefits of the stadium against significant community and institutional resistance. The controversy in Ho reflects a broader national debate in Ghana regarding the management of sports infrastructure. While musical concerts often provide much-needed revenue for stadium maintenance, the resulting damage to playing surfaces frequently leads to the suspension of league matches and increased renovation costs. As discussions continue between the National Sports Authority and the Momofest organizers, the outcome will likely set a precedent for how the region balances the promotion of the creative arts with the essential need to maintain high-quality sporting facilities.

Ghana Must Reform Sport Policy as Senegal Prepares for Africa’s First Youth Olympic Games
sports|

Ghana Must Reform Sport Policy as Senegal Prepares for Africa’s First Youth Olympic Games

The upcoming Youth Olympic Games (YOG) in Senegal represent a historic milestone as the first Olympic event to be hosted on the African continent. This landmark achievement signals Africa’s growing inclusion in global sports governance and provides a unique platform for youth empowerment. However, experts warn that for countries like Ghana to truly benefit from this momentum, significant reforms in sports policy and regulation are required. Dr. Frank Appiah Kusi of the University of Health and Allied Sciences emphasizes that while the YOG offers immense potential, the current landscape is often marred by fragmented frameworks that fail to support young athletes effectively. Central to the discussion is the need to address existing regulatory gaps and safety concerns within youth sports. Drawing on successful models from past hosts like Singapore and Argentina, Dr. Kusi argues that Africa must move beyond informal structures toward coherent, state-backed policies. A critical component of this transformation involves safeguarding the welfare of young participants and ensuring that sports environments are both supportive and secure. Without these protections, the potential for sport to serve as a tool for social development remains limited, and the barriers to entry for talented youth will persist. For Ghana specifically, the YOG in Senegal serves as a clarion call to restructure the national sport policy. The analysis suggests that sport should no longer be viewed merely as a recreational activity but as a legitimate and valuable pathway for education and career development. Integrating parental involvement and community engagement into the national strategy is seen as essential for building a sustainable sports culture. By fostering a collaborative environment between the state, families, and sporting bodies, Ghana can better equip its youth to compete on the world stage while securing their long-term personal and professional well-being. Looking forward, the success of the Youth Olympic Games in Africa could pave the way for the continent to host the main Olympic Games in the future. Beyond the prestige of hosting, the ultimate goal is to utilize sport as a catalyst for profound social change. By refining policies and strengthening regulatory oversight today, Ghana and its African peers can ensure that the legacy of the YOG extends far beyond the final whistle, creating lasting opportunities for the next generation of African leaders and athletes.

A close-up photograph of English footballer Harry Kane looking off-camera with a focused expression. He is wearing a white England national team training or match jersey with a thin red and black collar.
sports|

Thomas Tuchel Labels Harry Kane 'Irreplaceable' as England Explores Future Tactical Options

England manager Thomas Tuchel has declared it "impossible" to find a direct successor to captain Harry Kane, hailing the striker's unique contribution to the national team. With Kane solidified as the Three Lions' all-time leading goalscorer with 87 goals, Tuchel's comments highlight the immense challenge of planning for life after the veteran forward. Despite Kane’s continued excellent form, the managerial staff is beginning to weigh tactical alternatives to ensure the team remains competitive in the long term. Kane is currently closing in on Peter Shilton’s long-standing record of 125 international appearances, a testament to his longevity and importance to the squad. However, Tuchel noted that while Kane’s goal-scoring prowess and leadership are unmatched, the reality of age cannot be ignored. With several other strike options also approaching their thirties, the England coaching staff is under pressure to identify and develop younger talent or adapt the team’s formation to suit different types of attacking players. One such adaptation involves Jude Bellingham, whom Tuchel highlighted for his versatility in a more advanced attacking role during recent fixtures. This shift suggests that England may lean towards a more fluid attacking system if a traditional "number nine" of Kane’s caliber does not emerge. While the focus remains on maximizing Kane’s current peak years, Tuchel’s admissions underscore a pivotal transition period for the England national team as they seek to balance their reliance on a legendary figure with the necessity of future-proofing the squad.