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.

Dominic Adiyiah Reveals Early Career Frustrations at Feyenoord Academy and Potential Asante Kotoko Move
sports|

Dominic Adiyiah Reveals Early Career Frustrations at Feyenoord Academy and Potential Asante Kotoko Move

Former Ghana international striker Dominic Adiyiah has opened up about a pivotal and disappointing moment early in his career, revealing how he was allegedly blocked from participating in an international tournament in France by the Feyenoord Academy. During the 2006/2007 Ghana Premier League season, Adiyiah was a rising star at the academy but was unexpectedly left out of the squad traveling to Europe. The former U-20 World Cup winner believes the exclusion was a strategic move by the club to prevent him from being scouted or signed by foreign teams before they could secure a specific transfer arrangement. Adiyiah expressed lingering uncertainty regarding who exactly orchestrated the decision to keep him in Ghana. While he remains unsure if the directive came directly from the late legendary coach Sam Arday or the academy's board of directors, he described the experience as "deeply disappointing." He suggested that as he emerged as a significant talent with interest from overseas, the club’s management might have feared losing control over his professional future or missing out on a substantial financial windfall if he were to be scouted independently during the tour in France. The frustration resulting from this exclusion was so profound that Adiyiah seriously contemplated leaving the academy environment altogether. In the aftermath of the snub, the striker revealed he considered a high-profile move to Ghanaian giants Asante Kotoko to revitalize his career. Although he eventually moved on to achieve international acclaim—most notably winning the Golden Boot and Golden Ball at the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup—this early career obstacle remains a significant point of reflection, highlighting the complex dynamics between local academies and developing talents.

sports|

Carlos Queiroz Faces Uncertain Black Stars Future as GFA Contract Talks Reach Impasse

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is currently at a crossroads regarding the future of Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz. Despite leading the national team to a successful knockout stage appearance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, reports indicate that the GFA is unlikely to extend his current contract. The impasse stems from significant challenges in reaching a mutual agreement on contract terms, leaving the coaching position for Ghana's senior national team in a state of flux. Queiroz was appointed in April 2026, just months before the World Cup hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Initially brought in on a short-term basis to stabilize the team and navigate the tournament, his tenure was marked by a notable achievement: guiding the Black Stars into the knockout rounds. This performance sparked a wave of public support, with many fans and pundits calling for the veteran tactician to be handed a permanent or extended role to build on the momentum gained during the global showpiece. However, the transition from a temporary arrangement to a long-term partnership has hit a snag. Sources suggest that the GFA is struggling to meet specific demands set by Queiroz, which are reportedly threatening the association's broader coaching plans. As the GFA races against time to solidify the technical bench for upcoming international commitments, the likelihood of Queiroz departing is increasing. The inability to bridge the gap between the coach's requirements and the association's offer has forced the GFA to begin considering alternative candidates. The potential departure of Queiroz presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Ghana's football governing body. While the search for a successor may disrupt the continuity established during the World Cup, it also allows the GFA to reset its long-term strategy for the Black Stars. As the football community awaits an official statement, the focus remains on whether the GFA can secure a coach capable of maintaining the standards set during Queiroz's brief but impactful stint or if the search for a new leader will further delay the team's preparations for the next competitive cycle.

sports|

World Number One Jannik Sinner Withdraws from Cincinnati Open Due to Knee Injury

World number one Jannik Sinner has officially withdrawn from the upcoming Cincinnati Open, citing a knee injury that has hampered his preparations for the final stages of the hard-court season. The 24-year-old Italian, who currently sits at the pinnacle of the ATP rankings, announced his decision just days before the tournament's commencement. While the news serves as a significant setback for both the player and the event organizers, Sinner remains optimistic about his recovery timeline as the tennis world turns its focus toward the final Grand Slam of the year in New York. The injury comes at a time of remarkable form for Sinner, who recently secured his fifth career Grand Slam title at Wimbledon. In a statement regarding his withdrawal, the Italian star expressed his profound disappointment at being unable to compete in Cincinnati, a key warm-up event for the US Open. The Cincinnati Open, which is scheduled to run from August 13 to 23, will still feature a high-caliber field including top competitors such as Alexander Zverev and Novak Djokovic, but Sinner’s absence undoubtedly shifts the tournament's competitive landscape. Looking ahead, Sinner’s primary objective is to ensure he is at full physical capacity for the US Open, which is slated to take place from August 30 to September 13. The world number one is reportedly focusing on a dedicated recovery program to address the knee issue and regain his match fitness. As one of the dominant forces on the tour this season, his health remains a central storyline heading into Flushing Meadows, where he will aim to add another major trophy to his collection and maintain his lead in the global rankings.

Boca Juniors players hold a minute's silence for Jorge Messi
sports|

Lionel Messi Mourns Death of Father and Longtime Agent Jorge Messi

Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi has returned to his native Argentina following the passing of his father, Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68. The Inter Miami captain was notably absent from his side's Leagues Cup fixture against Monterrey as he prioritized family during this difficult time. Jorge Messi was far more than a paternal figure; he was a central pillar in his son’s legendary career, having served as his primary representative and agent since Lionel's early days in youth football at Rosario and throughout his historic rise to global superstardom. In a poignant show of solidarity, Inter Miami players wore black armbands and observed a minute of silence before their match against the Mexican side Monterrey. The tribute served as a mark of respect for the man who played an instrumental role in navigating the complexities of the superstar's career, including his recent move to Major League Soccer. Support has poured in from across the global football community, with significant tributes coming from the Argentine Football Association and his former club, FC Barcelona, both of which acknowledged the profound influence Jorge had on the sport through his management and guidance of his son. The passing of Jorge Messi marks the conclusion of one of the most successful family-led partnerships in sporting history. Over more than two decades, Jorge oversaw his son's transitions between the world’s biggest clubs, ensuring stability behind the scenes as Lionel broke numerous world records on the pitch. While Inter Miami faced a challenging match in his absence, the focus remains on the Messi family as they conduct a private funeral in Argentina. The club has not yet announced a timeline for the captain's return to competitive action, allowing him the necessary time to mourn his closest advisor.

Ghana’s Golden Arms Head to World Armwrestling Championship as Nairobi Bids for Historic 2029 World Athletics Hosting Rights
sports|

Ghana’s Golden Arms Head to World Armwrestling Championship as Nairobi Bids for Historic 2029 World Athletics Hosting Rights

Ghana's national armwrestling team, the Golden Arms, is set to represent the nation on the global stage at the upcoming World Armwrestling Championship in New Delhi, India. Scheduled to take place from October 26 to November 7, 2026, the tournament is expected to draw approximately 1,500 elite armwrestlers from across the globe. This significant competitive opportunity for the Golden Arms underscores the growing profile of specialized sports in Ghana and provides a platform for the team to challenge the world's best under the auspices of the World Armwrestling Federation. On the continental front, Nairobi has officially submitted a landmark bid to host the 2029 World Athletics Championships. If successful, the Kenyan capital would become the first African city to host the prestigious event, marking a transformative moment for sports on the continent. Nairobi faces stiff competition from major European hubs, including London, Rome, and Munich. However, the Kenyan government has pledged full support for the bid, citing the city's successful history of hosting international events such as the 2007 World Cross Country Championships and the 2021 World Under-20 Championships. The final host city announcement is expected from World Athletics this September. In the world of club football, Spain’s LALIGA has officially kicked off its 2026/27 season with the launch of the 'Welcome to our Fútbol' campaign. Following a highly successful FIFA World Cup, the league is highlighting its dominant position in global football, noting that 24 players featured in the World Cup final were rostered by LALIGA clubs. This season’s matches will feature the new PUMA STELLAR NITRO official match ball, as the league seeks to build on the momentum of the summer's international successes. Together, these developments highlight a busy and ambitious period for international sports. From Ghana's quest for armwrestling glory in India to Kenya's pursuit of a historic athletics milestone, African nations continue to assert their influence on the world stage. As global leagues like LALIGA return to action, the sports world remains focused on both traditional powerhouses and the emerging talent and hosting capabilities within the African continent.

sports|

Virtual Security Africa and Sapholda Ventures Join Growing Lineup for 2026 JoySports Invitational Tournament

The 2026 JoySports Invitational Tournament is gaining significant momentum as Virtual Security Africa Ltd and Sapholda Ventures have officially confirmed their participation. Scheduled to take place on August 29, 2026, at the University of Ghana Stadium, this premier corporate sporting event continues to attract top-tier public and private institutions. The tournament serves as a prestigious platform for Ghanaian businesses to showcase their athletic prowess while fostering a spirit of healthy competition and professional networking outside the traditional boardroom environment. Participants can look forward to a diverse range of competitive activities designed to promote teamwork, inclusivity, and physical fitness. Highlights of the event include the Women’s Penalty Shootout and the Mixed 4x100m Relay, which emphasize collective effort across gender lines. Beyond traditional track and field athletics, the tournament will also feature various board games and e-games, ensuring that employees with different interests and skill sets can contribute to their company’s success. For companies like Sapholda Ventures and Virtual Security Africa, the event is a vital opportunity to enhance employee wellness and strengthen workplace relationships through shared experiences. As the list of participating institutions grows, the JoySports Invitational is cementing its reputation as Ghana's most anticipated corporate sports festival. The organizers have emphasized that the event is more than just a series of games; it is a networking hub where professionals from across various sectors can interact in a relaxed and vibrant atmosphere. Corporate institutions interested in joining the 2026 edition are encouraged to register early to secure their spot. Potential participants can reach out to the coordination team by contacting Sleven via WhatsApp or direct call at 0242 376 445 to begin their journey toward the podium at the University of Ghana Stadium.

Alexander Isak and Florian Wirtz
sports|

Liverpool FC Braced for £1.35 Billion Investment as Manager Andoni Iraola Faces Pre-Season Hurdles

Liverpool Football Club is entering a transformative era as reports emerge of a massive investment deal alongside a period of significant transition on the pitch. A high-profile consortium, led by Amit Bhatia and featuring Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Facebook co-founder Eduardo Saverin, is reportedly nearing an agreement to acquire a one-third stake in the club. The deal, valued at approximately £1.35 billion, would place the overall valuation of the Merseyside club at £4.4 billion. Fenway Sports Group (FSG), the current controlling shareholder, is expected to announce the partnership shortly, providing a substantial financial boost as the club seeks to regain its footing among Europe’s elite. While the boardroom prepares for this influx of capital, manager Andoni Iraola is navigating a challenging start to his tenure. In his first home match at Anfield, a pre-season friendly against Monaco, the team displayed flashes of brilliance but ultimately disappointed fans by squandering a two-goal lead for the second consecutive game. The result has raised immediate concerns regarding the squad's physical conditioning and tactical discipline. Iraola expressed frank reservations about his team’s depth and their ability to maintain high intensity after making tactical substitutions, noting that the squad is currently unable to sustain the desired performance level for a full 90 minutes. Despite the defensive lapses, there are reasons for optimism within the squad. New signings Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak have already begun to show the quality that justified their arrivals, offering a glimpse of a more potent attacking threat for the upcoming campaign. To address ongoing defensive concerns, the club is reportedly finalizing a loan deal for Barcelona’s Ronald Araujo, while medical staff continue to monitor Jeremy Jacquet’s recovery from injury. These reinforcements are seen as critical given the team’s recent inability to protect leads and the looming pressure of the Premier League calendar. As the club transitions from a disappointing fifth-place finish last season into this new chapter, the pressure is mounting to resolve these lingering issues quickly. With only two pre-season matches remaining, Iraola must solidify his defensive partnerships and improve the team's stamina before the competitive season begins. Liverpool is scheduled to kick off their Premier League campaign against Newcastle United on August 23, a fixture that will serve as the first major test of whether the club's new financial backing and tactical shifts can translate into on-field success.

Ghanaian Stars Gideon Mensah and Antoine Semenyo Feature in Pre-Season Victories as Trevoh Chalobah Secures Como Move
sports|

Ghanaian Stars Gideon Mensah and Antoine Semenyo Feature in Pre-Season Victories as Trevoh Chalobah Secures Como Move

Pre-season football activity intensified this weekend as Ghanaian internationals took center stage in high-profile fixtures across Europe and Asia. In Seoul, South Korea, Manchester City secured a 3-1 victory over Atletico Madrid, highlighted by a rapid double from Omar Marmoush. The forward's success was largely attributed to the creative play of Ghanaian attacker Antoine Semenyo, who provided the assists for both of Marmoush's goals after City had initially fallen behind to a strike from Jorge Dominguez. This victory marks a successful conclusion to City's Asian tour as they prepare for their upcoming Community Shield clash against Arsenal on August 16. In Germany, Black Stars defender Gideon Mensah made his unofficial debut for Bundesliga side FC Koln in a friendly against Real Sociedad. The 28-year-old left-back, who recently joined the German club on a free transfer from Auxerre, played a pivotal role in the team's 2-1 win over the Spanish opponents. Mensah’s arrival and immediate impact are seen as vital steps for Koln as they look to integrate his experience into their defensive line ahead of the new league campaign. His performance on Saturday has already drawn positive attention from fans and coaching staff alike. The European transfer market has also seen significant movement, with Italian side Como completing the signing of defender Trevoh Chalobah from Chelsea. The deal, valued at over £30 million including add-ons, sees the 27-year-old commit to a five-year contract in Serie A. Chalobah, who spent nearly two decades at Chelsea and secured five major trophies, expressed his excitement about joining a club with Champions League ambitions. He cited the opportunity to work with manager Cesc Fabregas again as a primary motivation for the move, which marks a significant transition in his professional career. Elsewhere, transfer speculation continues to surround key figures at Spain’s top clubs. Barcelona’s Ferran Torres is reportedly attracting interest from several elite European sides, despite reports suggesting he had reached an agreement with Paris Saint-Germain. Additionally, Real Madrid’s young Brazilian talent, Endrick, is being linked with a potential move to Aston Villa in the English Premier League. With competition for places intensifying at the Bernabeu, rumors of Endrick’s departure highlight the fluid nature of the current transfer window as clubs across the continent finalize their squads for the 2025 season.

Hearts of Oak Unveil New Kits as Local Coaching Dominance and Women’s Football Milestones Define Ghana’s Sports Landscape
sports|

Hearts of Oak Unveil New Kits as Local Coaching Dominance and Women’s Football Milestones Define Ghana’s Sports Landscape

As the 2026/2027 football season approaches, Ghana’s top-tier clubs are intensifying their preparations through high-profile branding and strategic recruitment. Accra Hearts of Oak recently unveiled their official jerseys for the upcoming campaign, produced in partnership with The Hope Brand. The new kits, which feature the iconic club crest on the left chest, are designed to reflect the club’s identity as they seek to reclaim domestic glory. Meanwhile, arch-rivals Asante Kotoko are reportedly bolstering their defensive options by targeting Ivorian centre-back Koffi Bini. The 24-year-old left-footed defender, standing at 1.96 metres, brings significant international experience to the Porcupine Warriors despite a year-long hiatus from professional club football. While the 'Big Two' and other Premier League sides are increasingly looking toward foreign technical expertise for the new season, historical data suggests that domestic success remains firmly rooted in local talent. A review of the past decade in the Ghana Premier League (GPL) reveals a remarkable trend: every league title from the 2013/14 season to the 2025/26 campaign has been won by a Ghanaian coach. This period of local dominance began with Mas-Ud Didi Dramani’s triumph with Asante Kotoko and was most recently extended by Ibrahim Tanko, who led Medeama SC to the 2025/26 title. This ten-season streak highlights a significant paradox as clubs continue to hire foreign managers despite the proven track record of local tacticians in securing the nation's top football prize. Beyond the top flight, the development of Ghanaian football is being reinforced through competitive lower-league tournaments and youth initiatives. The XI Division One League (DOL) Super Cup recently launched at the Len Clay Stadium in Obuasi, featuring a thrilling 3-3 draw between Attram De Visser and the newly-promoted Debibi United. Attram De Visser staged a resilient comeback from 3-1 down, with Man of the Match Abdul Majid Maswud playing a pivotal role. Supporting this competitive growth, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has appointed 16 officials from its 'Catch Them Young Referees' initiative to handle matches in the tournament's fifth edition. This programme remains a cornerstone of the GFA’s strategy to nurture young officiating talent and ensure the long-term integrity of the game. In the women’s game, a historic milestone was reached as Police Ladies were crowned the inaugural champions of the Women’s KGL Democracy Cup. In a closely contested final held at McDan Park in La, Police Ladies secured a 1-0 victory over Army Ladies, thanks to a decisive first-half strike by Fidus Yakubu. The tournament, which drew prominent dignitaries, serves as a significant platform for promoting women's sports and national unity. These collective developments across the GPL, the Division One League, and women’s football signify a dynamic period of growth and transition for the sport in Ghana as teams and officials prepare for the challenges of the 2026/2027 season.

GFA Progresses Black Stars Coaching Search as Youth National Teams Prepare for Continental Duty
sports|

GFA Progresses Black Stars Coaching Search as Youth National Teams Prepare for Continental Duty

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is currently navigating a pivotal period for the nation’s football development, balancing a high-stakes search for a new Black Stars head coach with intensive preparations for upcoming youth continental championships. Following recent technical shifts, GFA Executive Council Member Nana Oduro Sarfo has confirmed that the association is actively vetting candidates to lead the senior national team back to its competitive best. Simultaneously, the junior ranks—specifically the U-20 Black Satellites and the U-23 Black Meteors—are hitting key milestones in their respective qualification and tournament preparation cycles. Regarding the senior national team, Nana Oduro Sarfo revealed that the GFA is in ongoing discussions with several coaching prospects to assess their availability and specific requirements for the role. The association appears committed to a thorough selection process, prioritizing a technical leader who can manage the high expectations of the Ghanaian public while overseeing the squad's development. This strategic search is aimed at ensuring the Black Stars have the leadership necessary for upcoming international assignments and a return to dominance on the continent. On the youth level, Ghana’s status as a continental powerhouse was reaffirmed as the nation prepares to host the 2027 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in February 2027. While Burkina Faso recently secured the WAFU Zone B championship title with a 4-1 victory over Nigeria, the Black Satellites have automatically secured their place in the tournament as hosts. Despite finishing third in their group during the zonal qualifiers, the Ghanaian side is now focused on final preparations for the 2027 tournament, which will also serve as a qualifying path for the U-20 World Cup. Concurrently, the U-23 national team, known as the Black Meteors, has intensified its training for the U-23 AFCON qualifiers under the guidance of head coach Desmond Ofei. In early August 2026, Ofei began evaluating a diverse pool of talent from both the Ghana Premier League and the Division One League during sessions at the University of Ghana Stadium. This initial phase of training is crucial for identifying local stars who can strengthen the squad ahead of their competitive qualifiers and ensure a robust representation of domestic talent. These multi-tiered developments highlight a concerted effort by the GFA to revitalize Ghanaian football across all age groups. As the search for the Black Stars' technical leadership nears a conclusion, the success of the youth programs will be vital in providing a sustainable pipeline of talent for the senior team. Stakeholders remain optimistic that this period of restructuring and preparation will yield a new era of success, starting with the U-20 AFCON on home soil in 2027.

sports|

Ghana Exim Bank Commissions Awoamefia Togbui Sri III Astro Turf Park in Anloga to Drive Youth Development

Ghana Exim Bank has officially inaugurated the Awoamefia Togbui Sri III Astro Turf Park in Anloga, located in the Volta Region. The commissioning of this modern sporting facility forms a central part of the Bank’s 10th-anniversary celebrations and reflects its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR). Situated at the historic Hogbe Park, the new facility is designed to provide a high-standard venue for local athletes and the community at large, serving as a modern replacement for the previous aging infrastructure. Speaking at the ceremony, the Deputy Chief Executive of Ghana Exim Bank, Mr. Sylvester Adinam Mensah, emphasized the strategic importance of the project. He noted that the initiative is rooted in the Bank’s vision to empower the youth and enhance community development through sports. By providing a professional-grade pitch, the Bank aims to facilitate year-round sporting activities, which were previously hindered by seasonal weather and poor field conditions. Furthermore, the facility is expected to reduce long-term maintenance costs compared to traditional grass pitches and serve as a catalyst for local economic growth by creating various job opportunities within the community. The project has been met with significant enthusiasm from local leaders and residents of Anloga. Traditional authorities and local officials expressed their gratitude, hailing the investment as a transformative milestone for the Volta Region. They lauded the Bank for prioritizing youth-centered development, noting that such infrastructure is vital for talent discovery and social cohesion. Mr. Mensah further assured the community that Ghana Exim Bank would maintain ongoing oversight to ensure the sustainability of the park, stressing the importance of effective management to preserve the facility for future generations. The commissioning of the Awoamefia Togbui Sri III Astro Turf Park underscores a growing trend of institutional investment in Ghana’s grassroots sports infrastructure. As the Bank celebrates a decade of operations, this project serves as a tangible legacy of its broader impact beyond financial services. By bridging the gap in quality sporting facilities in rural and suburban areas, Ghana Exim Bank is setting a precedent for how corporate entities can contribute to national development through the promotion of healthy lifestyles and professional sports development at the local level.

Emmanuel Akwanor Wettey: From Osu Ball Boy to Rising Star on the International Tennis Stage
sports|

Emmanuel Akwanor Wettey: From Osu Ball Boy to Rising Star on the International Tennis Stage

Emmanuel Akwanor Wettey, a name increasingly synonymous with resilience in Ghanaian tennis, has transitioned from a humble ball boy in Osu, Accra, to a burgeoning force in the United States collegiate tennis circuit. Born and raised in Ghana, Wettey’s ascent is marked by significant personal sacrifices and a relentless pursuit of excellence that has seen him secure historic victories for his nation and academic honors abroad. His journey began at the age of seven, but his dedication to the sport was solidified when he committed three years to full-time training, a decision that required him to temporarily step away from his junior high school education to focus entirely on his athletic development. This early dedication bore fruit in 2019 when Wettey made history by winning Ghana’s first-ever International Tennis Federation (ITF) doubles gold medal alongside his partner, Richmond Armaah. During his junior career, he maintained an impressive 71% win rate in doubles, signaling his potential as a high-level competitor. By 2022, Wettey's prowess led him to represent the University of Ghana at the FASU Africa University Sports Games, where he clinched two medals and further established his reputation as one of the country's most promising young talents. Wettey’s success on the continental stage served as a springboard for his transition to the United States on an academic and athletic scholarship. His collegiate career in the U.S. has been marked by consistent growth, spanning stints at Lewis and Clark Community College and Southwestern Illinois College (SWIC) before he joined Tuskegee University. Throughout this journey, he has not only won conference tournaments and earned NCAA All-Conference Doubles honors but has also maintained an impressive GPA, demonstrating a disciplined balance between high-stakes athletics and academic rigor. Currently competing at Tuskegee University, Wettey remains focused on refining his game for the professional stage. While he continues to build his profile in the NCAA, his ultimate goal remains making a significant mark in the international tennis arena for Ghana. As he works toward his professional aspirations, Wettey stands as a testament to the transformative power of sports and the potential of Ghanaian athletes to excel on the global stage through hard work and perseverance.