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.

Black Queens Arrive in Mauritius to Kickstart LA 2028 Olympic Qualifying Campaign
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Black Queens Arrive in Mauritius to Kickstart LA 2028 Olympic Qualifying Campaign

Ghana’s senior women’s national football team, the Black Queens, have officially commenced their quest for Olympic glory after arriving in Mauritius for the first leg of the LA 2028 Olympic Games qualifiers. The team touched down on October 5, 2023, and immediately shifted their focus to training and acclimatization. This early arrival is seen as a strategic move by the technical team to ensure the players are well-prepared for the unique conditions in the island nation ahead of the opening fixture. The initial contingent of players in camp includes ten members of the squad, featuring notable names such as Rose Teye Baah, Margaret Agyapomaa, and Diana Amoako. These early arrivals have already begun intensive training sessions to sharpen their tactical execution and fitness levels. The remainder of the squad is expected to join the camp in the coming days, providing the head coach with a full complement of talent as they finalize their strategy for the Mauritian side. The qualifying tie is structured as a two-legged affair, with the first leg scheduled to take place in Mauritius on October 8. Following this away encounter, the Black Queens will return to Ghana to host the second leg at the Accra Sports Stadium on October 13. The team is under significant pressure to deliver a convincing performance in both legs to ensure a smooth progression to the next stage of the qualification process, carrying the hopes of a nation eager to see its women’s team compete on the world's biggest sporting stage. Securing a spot at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games is a high-priority objective for the Ghana Football Association and the Black Queens' technical staff. With the hashtags #ShineBlackQueens and #MoreThanAble trending on social media, the campaign has already generated substantial public interest and support. A successful outing against Mauritius will not only bolster the team’s confidence but also serve as a foundational step toward ending Ghana's Olympic football drought and establishing the Queens as a dominant force in continental women’s football once again.

Rahim Ibrahim train with Black Stars
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Rahim Ibrahim Extends Slovan Bratislava Stay to 2030 as Malik Pimpong Emerges as Youth Leader in Europe

Ghanaian football continues to make significant strides on the international stage, highlighted this week by major developments for two promising talents: midfielder Rahim Ibrahim and rising star Malik Pimpong. In a significant show of faith from his club, 25-year-old Ibrahim has secured his long-term future at Slovan Bratislava with a contract extension through 2030. Simultaneously, 18-year-old Malik Pimpong is carving out his own legacy in Germany and Scandinavia, carrying forward a family name deeply rooted in Ghana's footballing history. Rahim Ibrahim’s extension comes on the back of an impressive start to the 2024/25 season. Since joining the Slovakian giants in 2025, the midfielder has established himself as a pivotal figure in the squad, making seven appearances and netting two goals this term. His rise was further punctuated by a high-profile UEFA Champions League debut against French titans Paris Saint-Germain. These performances have earned Ibrahim a call-up to the Black Stars for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers against Somalia. Although he is yet to earn his first senior cap, the November international break represents a crucial opportunity for him to cement his place in the national setup under the current administration. In Germany, Malik Pimpong is generating considerable buzz as a forward for Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt. The 18-year-old is the son of Razak Pimpong, the former Black Stars striker who was a key member of Ghana’s historic 2006 FIFA World Cup squad. While Malik is eligible to represent Ghana, he is currently gaining valuable leadership experience on the international stage as the captain of Denmark’s U19 national team. His development at one of Germany’s most prestigious academies marks him as a high-potential talent to watch for both club and international scouts. These dual developments reflect the diverse paths Ghanaian players are taking to reach the pinnacle of the sport. While Ibrahim is making his mark in the competitive landscape of the Slovakian league and elite European competition, Pimpong represents the next generation of dual-heritage talents emerging through top-tier European systems. As Ibrahim prepares for potential national team duty and Pimpong continues to lead the Danish youth ranks, the depth of talent available to Ghanaian football remains a point of national pride.

Louanges Kous Mang to Represent Ghana at Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup Grand Final in Antalya
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Louanges Kous Mang to Represent Ghana at Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup Grand Final in Antalya

Louanges Kous Mang, a Congolese-born golfer who has made Ghana her home, is set to fly the Ghanaian flag on the international stage this November. Following a decisive victory at the national qualifying tournament, Mang secured her place at the Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup Grand Final, scheduled to be held in Antalya, Türkiye. Her qualification marks a significant milestone for Ghana's amateur golf scene, highlighting a unique intersection of individual talent and international representation. The Turkish Airlines World Golf Cup is recognized as one of the world's most prestigious and expansive corporate amateur golf events. The tournament series attracts a massive global following, with over 60,000 participants competing across more than 750 individual tournaments in over 85 countries annually. In the Ghanaian leg of the qualifiers, Mang demonstrated exceptional skill and perseverance by outperforming a diverse field of both male and female competitors. Her victory underscores the high competitive standards of the sport in Ghana and the rigorous path required to reach the global stage. For Mang, the upcoming trip to Antalya is more than just a sporting competition; it is a celebration of her personal journey and the inclusive spirit of her adopted country. She has expressed deep gratitude for the opportunity to carry the Ghanaian flag while simultaneously honoring her Congolese heritage. Her success is seen as a testament to the diverse nature of the Ghanaian golfing community, showcasing how the nation provides a platform for athletes of various backgrounds to excel and represent the country internationally. As she prepares for the Grand Final, Mang carries the expectations of a nation that is increasingly making its mark on the global amateur golf circuit. The event in Antalya will provide a high-profile platform for her to showcase Ghana’s burgeoning golfing talent against top-tier amateur players from around the world. Beyond individual accolades, her participation signals a growing recognition of West African golf and underscores the potential for further international success and growth within the sport for Ghana.

Prempeh Elite Academy Dominates KGL U17 Colts Championship Ahead of Crucial Greater Accra Showdown
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Prempeh Elite Academy Dominates KGL U17 Colts Championship Ahead of Crucial Greater Accra Showdown

Prempeh Elite Academy has emerged as the team to beat in the ongoing 2026 KGL Foundation Inter-Regional U17 Colts Championship, maintaining a perfect record after three matchdays. The academy recently solidified its status as a title favorite with a commanding 5-0 victory over the Volta Region at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram. This clinical performance has propelled the team to the summit of Group A, where they remain the only side with maximum points, showcasing the high level of talent being nurtured through the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) youth development initiatives. The Group A standings have set the stage for a highly anticipated Matchday Four encounter between Prempeh Elite Academy and Greater Accra. While Prempeh holds the top spot with nine points, Greater Accra remains a formidable challenger, trailing the leaders by just a single point. This upcoming top-of-the-table clash is expected to be a decisive moment in the tournament, as both teams vie for supremacy and a guaranteed path toward the knockout stages. Meanwhile, other Group A contenders, including the Upper East Region and Volta Region, continue to battle for relevance despite trailing the two frontrunners. In Group B, the competition is equally intense, with Brong Ahafo leading the pack. As of the completion of the second round of matches, Brong Ahafo held six points, closely followed by the Western Region and Elite Academy BIG Boss, both of whom remained within striking distance with four points each. The tournament has also seen significant shifts in momentum, notably the Eastern Region's recent resurgence where they thrashed Ashanti Region to climb the table. These results highlight the competitive depth of the regional selections participating in this year's edition. Sponsored by the KGL Foundation, the Inter-Regional U17 Colts Championship serves as a cornerstone of the GFA’s Talent Development Scheme. The competition aims to provide a platform for the country's most promising young footballers to showcase their skills under the observation of national scouts and technical directors. As the tournament continues at Prampram, the focus remains on identifying and refining the next generation of Ghanaian football stars, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent for the various national youth teams.

Black Starlets Endure 20-Hour Road Journey to Burkina Faso for WAFU Championship Amid GFA Criticism
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Black Starlets Endure 20-Hour Road Journey to Burkina Faso for WAFU Championship Amid GFA Criticism

Ghana’s National Under-17 team, the Black Starlets, have arrived in Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, after a grueling 20-hour road journey to compete in the WAFU Zone B U17 Championship. The decision by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to transport the young athletes by bus rather than air has sparked significant backlash from sports administrators and stakeholders. While the team has successfully reached its destination to begin final preparations, the travel arrangements have raised serious questions regarding the safety and welfare of Ghana's emerging football talents in a region currently grappling with security challenges. The Starlets’ journey to the Burkinabe capital followed a four-day training camp in Bolgatanga, which served as a transition point after the team returned from high-profile friendly matches in Morocco. During their Moroccan tour, the squad showed competitive promise by securing one victory and suffering one loss. Now situated in Group B for the regional tournament, Ghana faces a challenging path against Togo, Benin, and the host nation, Burkina Faso. The stakes are particularly high for this cohort, as the top two finishers in the championship will secure coveted spots in the 2027 U17 Africa Cup of Nations. However, the logistical choice to travel by road has drawn sharp criticism from high-ranking officials, including a former Board Chairman of the National Sports Authority (NSA). Critics have expressed deep disappointment in the GFA leadership under President Kurt Okraku, arguing that subjecting teenage athletes to such an exhausting journey exposes them to unnecessary physical fatigue and potential security risks. This perceived neglect is being framed by some as a failure to properly value the next generation of Ghanaian football stars, contrasting the current treatment of junior teams with the historical prestige the Black Starlets once held on the global stage. While no security incidents were reported during the Starlets' transit, the regional football landscape remains complex. In the host nation, President Ibrahim Traor recently announced plans for government intervention in Burkina Faso’s football affairs to address systemic concerns, despite the risk of FIFA sanctions for political interference. For Ghana, the immediate focus remains on the pitch as the Starlets seek to reclaim their dominance. Nevertheless, the controversy surrounding their travel highlights a growing demand for better logistical support and administrative accountability to ensure the development of junior talent is not compromised.

Cristiano Ronaldo Denies Retirement but Faces Disciplinary Action After Rift with Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus
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Cristiano Ronaldo Denies Retirement but Faces Disciplinary Action After Rift with Portugal Coach Jorge Jesus

Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has broken his silence following a high-profile departure from the national team camp, confirming that he has no intentions of retiring from international football. Despite his exit during the recent Nations League cycle, the Al-Nassr forward issued a lengthy statement clarifying that his commitment to the Seleção remains intact. However, the legendary striker acknowledged that his actions warrant accountability, stating he deserves "punishment" for walking out on his teammates and the coaching staff before matches against Norway and Denmark. The core of the controversy stems from a breakdown in the relationship between Ronaldo and head coach Jorge Jesus. Ronaldo accused the manager of a significant breach of trust, alleging that Jesus failed to honor specific promises regarding his playing time during the Nations League tournament. While the 39-year-old veteran—who boasts an unprecedented record of 146 goals in 234 international appearances—admitted that leaving the camp was a mistake, he maintained that the professional environment had become untenable due to the coach's handled communications. Despite the friction, Ronaldo expressed a strong desire to continue representing his country, provided he maintains his physical fitness and goal-scoring form in the Saudi Pro League. He offered a formal apology to his teammates and the Portuguese supporters for the disruption caused by his sudden departure. Reports from some outlets, including CNN Portugal, suggest the situation remains volatile, with claims that Ronaldo may boycott future call-ups if Jorge Jesus remains in his current position, though his official statement focused more on personal accountability and the desire for a resolution. The future of the five-time Ballon d'Or winner now rests with the Portuguese Football Federation (FPF), which is expected to review the incident and determine the appropriate disciplinary measures. As Portugal looks toward future international fixtures, the resolution of this standoff between their greatest-ever player and the technical leadership will be a defining moment for the squad's cohesion and their upcoming qualifying campaigns.

Dr. Kwame Baah-Nuakoh Asserts Government Must Invest to Gain Control of GFA Governance
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Dr. Kwame Baah-Nuakoh Asserts Government Must Invest to Gain Control of GFA Governance

Dr. Kwame Baah-Nuakoh, Chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Club Licensing Committee, has stated that the Ghanaian government lacks the structural authority to dictate terms to the association without significantly increasing its financial commitment to local clubs. Invoking the adage "he who pays the piper calls the tune," Baah-Nuakoh argued that the current autonomy of the GFA is rooted in the fact that club officials, rather than the state, carry the primary financial and voting weight within the association's governance framework. He emphasized that the government cannot expect to control decisions while remaining on the periphery of the clubs' daily operations. These remarks come at a time of heightened tension within Ghanaian football, as calls for the resignation of GFA President Kurt Okraku and the dissolution of the current administration intensify. The backlash follows a disastrous start to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, where the Black Stars currently sit at the bottom of Group C with zero points. A recent 4-2 defeat to The Gambia has served as a catalyst for public and political frustration, leading many to demand a complete overhaul of the sport's leadership ahead of the next scheduled GFA elections in 2027. Baah-Nuakoh pointed out that the GFA's democratic structure heavily favors club representatives, who hold the power to elect leadership and determine policy. He suggested that unless the government takes over the financial responsibilities and operational costs of these clubs, it remains nearly impossible to influence voting behaviors or force administrative changes from the outside. This structural reality, according to the former Asante Kotoko official, complicates any immediate attempts at government-led intervention or the proposed dissolution of the football governing body. Adding to the complexity of the relationship between the state and the GFA is a growing dispute over recent funding provided to top-flight teams. While Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams recently confirmed governmental financial support for the 2026-2027 season, Takyi Arhin, General Manager of Aduana FC, has publicly countered this claim. Arhin asserts that the GH"1 million provided to each Ghana Premier League club was actually a loan from the GFA, rather than a direct government grant. This discrepancy highlights the ongoing friction and lack of clarity regarding the financial ties between the state and the footballing fraternity. As the national team struggles to regain its footing, the debate over investment versus accountability remains at the forefront of the sporting discourse. The intersection of poor results on the pitch and disputes over financial transparency suggests that the struggle for control over the nation's most popular sport will continue until a more defined partnership is established. For now, the GFA leadership maintains its stance that state influence must be earned through consistent investment in the domestic league's infrastructure and club stability.

GFA President Kurt Okraku Faces Growing Backlash Over Allegations of Intimidation and Political Collusion
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GFA President Kurt Okraku Faces Growing Backlash Over Allegations of Intimidation and Political Collusion

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is facing a storm of criticism as prominent figures in Ghanaian football voice concerns over the leadership of President Kurt Okraku. Amid a disappointing 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, stakeholders have raised serious allegations ranging from the intimidation of domestic clubs to unholy alliances with government officials. The mounting pressure comes at a time when the performance of the national teams and the management of the domestic league are under intense scrutiny from both the public and former internationals. Alhaji Karim Grusah, the bankroller of King Faisal, has been particularly vocal, alleging that a culture of fear permeates the GFA. According to Grusah, domestic clubs—including giants like Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak—are hesitant to criticize the GFA for fear of victimization, specifically the threat of being relegated from the league. Grusah claims that this environment of intimidation has silenced necessary dialogue regarding the perceived mismanagement of the sport, further exacerbated by the Black Stars' recent poor results. He has gone as far as calling for the immediate resignation of the GFA leadership and suggesting public demonstrations to force reform. Adding to the internal pressure, former Ghana international Nii Odartey Lamptey has directed his critique toward the circle of advisors surrounding Kurt Okraku. Lamptey argued that those currently influencing the President are hurting his legacy rather than helping him navigate the challenges of the role. Simultaneously, sports journalist Saddick Adams has alleged an unholy alliance between the GFA and government ministers. Adams suggests that decisions within the football administration are often driven by political interests, with appointments frequently used to reward political allies with travel opportunities and other perks rather than being based on merit or competence. The controversy is further complicated by reports that government officials have advised Kurt Okraku not to seek a third term in office. While recent GFA constitutional amendments removed the two-term limit for the presidency, allowing for a potential third term, the reported government pushback suggests a lack of confidence in the current administration's ability to revitalize the nation's footballing fortunes. As the debate over the future of Ghanaian football intensifies, the GFA leadership faces the dual challenge of improving on-field results while addressing deep-seated concerns about transparency, accountability, and the integrity of its governance.

Black Stars Crisis: Carlos Queiroz Departs Following Dismal Start to AFCON 2027 Qualifiers
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Black Stars Crisis: Carlos Queiroz Departs Following Dismal Start to AFCON 2027 Qualifiers

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has parted ways with Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz following a disastrous opening to the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign. The 73-year-old manager’s tenure came to an abrupt end after just six months, as the national team finds itself at the bottom of Group C with zero points. Recent defeats—a 2-0 loss to Côte d'Ivoire followed by a 4-2 loss to The Gambia—have left Ghana’s qualification hopes in jeopardy and sparked a heated debate regarding the direction of the national team. Queiroz’s short stint, which began in April 2026, was marked by significant challenges and missed opportunities. Despite his extensive international experience, his tenure concluded without him having the chance to utilize key squad members such as Mohammed Kudus and Mohammed Salisu in a competitive winning environment. Reports suggest that Queiroz may not remain out of work for long, as he is already being linked to the vacant coaching position in Bahrain just days after exiting his role with the Black Stars. Ghanaian football legend Mohammed Polo has reacted strongly to the fallout, labeling suggestions that the Black Stars should withdraw from the qualifiers as "senseless." Polo, a member of the 1978 AFCON-winning squad, emphasized that the solution to the team's woes lies in internal reassessment rather than abandonment. He urged the GFA to "go back to the drawing board" and prioritize the appointment of a technical coach capable of enhancing individual player performance. Polo argued that while the start has been poor, the talent within the current setup remains capable of turning the tide if managed correctly. Adding to the internal critique, former international Laryea Kingston questioned the team’s long-term consistency and identity. Kingston noted that frequent changes to the squad and coaching staff before major tournaments have prevented the development of a cohesive unit. As the GFA begins its search for a successor, the pressure is mounting; the Black Stars face a critical must-win match against Somalia in November. This upcoming fixture is being viewed as the final opportunity for the team to salvage its qualifying campaign and avoid the humiliation of missing out on the continental showpiece.

Elizabeth Betty Robinson Secures Historic Victory in Inaugural Women's Olympic 100m Final
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Elizabeth Betty Robinson Secures Historic Victory in Inaugural Women's Olympic 100m Final

The 1928 Olympic Games in Amsterdam served as a monumental turning point in the history of international athletics, hosting the inaugural women’s 100 metres final. This event represented a breakthrough for female athletes who had previously been excluded from track and field competitions on the Olympic stage. Amidst high anticipation and a global audience, American sprinter Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Robinson rose to the occasion, securing her place in history by winning the first-ever gold medal awarded in this prestigious category. Robinson became a pioneer for women in the sporting world, demonstrating that the pinnacle of athletic achievement was attainable for women. Robinson’s victory was not merely a personal triumph but a symbolic milestone for women’s sports worldwide. As the first woman to be crowned the Olympic 100m champion, her performance in Amsterdam demonstrated the competitive capability and athletic prowess of female sprinters to a global audience. The introduction of the 100-metre dash for women at these Games challenged the prevailing social norms of the early 20th century and established a foundational discipline that remains a centerpiece of the Summer Olympics today. Her success provided a definitive answer to critics who questioned the inclusion of women in high-intensity track events. Looking back at this historic moment, the legacy of Elizabeth Robinson continues to resonate through the decades of Olympic history. Her achievement paved the way for generations of female athletes to pursue excellence on the track, leading to the highly competitive and widely celebrated women's athletics programs of the modern era. Today, as the world celebrates the speed and skill of elite sprinters, Robinson’s pioneering win in 1928 remains a vital chapter in the story of sports, marking the definitive start of a new era for women in the Olympic movement. Her name remains synonymous with the courage required to break barriers in international competition.

UAE Warns UK Government of Investment Withdrawal Over Manchester City's 115 Charges
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UAE Warns UK Government of Investment Withdrawal Over Manchester City's 115 Charges

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has reportedly issued a stern warning to the United Kingdom government, suggesting that significant investments could be withdrawn if Manchester City Football Club faces severe penalties regarding its 115 alleged breaches of financial regulations. This high-level diplomatic intervention underscores the growing intersection between international sports governance and global economic relations. The warning, which was reportedly communicated to UK officials, highlights the potential for a significant shift in the bilateral investment landscape if the Premier League's heavyweights are subjected to what the UAE deems excessive punishment. The 115 charges against Manchester City involve allegations of failing to provide accurate financial information, particularly concerning club revenue and operating costs over a nine-year period starting in 2009. The Premier League’s investigation has been exhaustive, and the potential sanctions range from massive fines to points deductions or even expulsion from the league. Reports indicate that these concerns were brought to the attention of UK leadership figures, including communication involving officials such as Andy Burnham, reflecting the deep-seated worry that a harsh verdict could damage the strategic partnership between the two nations. This development places the British government in a complex position, as it seeks to maintain the independence of football regulatory bodies while safeguarding foreign direct investment. The UAE has been a major investor in UK infrastructure, real estate, and technology, and any cooling of this relationship could have broader economic implications. The situation is further complicated by the UK's ongoing efforts to introduce an independent football regulator, a move that aims to improve transparency but must now navigate the geopolitical pressures exerted by state-backed club ownership. As the independent commission deliberates on the charges, the football world remains in a state of suspense. Manchester City has consistently denied any wrongdoing and has expressed confidence in its position. However, the reported threats of investment withdrawal suggest that the eventual ruling will have consequences that extend far beyond the football pitch, potentially reshaping the economic ties between London and Abu Dhabi. The resolution of this case will serve as a landmark moment for the enforcement of financial fair play and the autonomy of national sports leagues in an era of globalized ownership.

Seth "Freezy Macbones" Gyimah Secures WBO Africa Title as Ghana Rugby Union Restructures Management
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Seth "Freezy Macbones" Gyimah Secures WBO Africa Title as Ghana Rugby Union Restructures Management

Ghanaian sports have seen significant developments occurring on October 1, encompassing both individual triumph in the boxing ring and a major administrative transition within the rugby community. Seth "Freezy Macbones" Gyimah has officially been crowned the new WBO Africa Light Heavyweight champion following a rigorous encounter in Lagos, Nigeria. Simultaneously, the Ghana Rugby Football Union (GRFU) has initiated a leadership overhaul, announcing the departure of two key management figures as part of a board-led restructuring effort. These events together underscore a period of evolution for Ghanaian athletes and sports governing bodies alike. In the boxing arena, Gyimah secured his championship status by defeating Nigeria’s Godday ‐Zodsolo‑ Appah via a majority decision. The bout, held as part of Nigeria’s independence celebrations, saw Macbones dominate the early stages with an explosive start. Although Appah mounted a comeback during the middle rounds, Gyimah regained his composure and finished the fight strongly. This victory not only elevates Macbones’ international standing but also sets the stage for a title defense scheduled for December, opening new doors for his professional career on the African continent and beyond. Away from the ring, the GRFU Board announced the immediate termination of General Manager Samira Mensah’s appointment following a meeting on October 1, 2026. The union also confirmed the departure of Racheal Abena Nyarkoa Ankomah, who served as the Director of Communications. While the organization expressed gratitude for the outgoing officials' contributions to the sport, the focus has now turned to establishing a new management framework. The union indicated that further details regarding new management arrangements will follow, signaling a strategic reset for the sport's administration in Ghana. These dual developments reflect the dynamic and often challenging landscape of Ghanaian sports today. For Macbones, the win is a testament to perseverance and skill, promising more high-stakes matches in the near future. For the GRFU, the administrative changes provide an opportunity to reset and strengthen their institutional foundation. As both the boxing and rugby communities look forward, the emphasis remains on maintaining the momentum of Ghanaian excellence through both athletic performance and effective governance.