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.

Volta Regional Minister James Gunu Backs 6th Inter-Regional Wheelchair Basketball Championship in Ho
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Volta Regional Minister James Gunu Backs 6th Inter-Regional Wheelchair Basketball Championship in Ho

The Volta Regional Minister, James Gunu, has formally committed his support to the upcoming 6th edition of the Inter-Regional Wheelchair Basketball Championship. The tournament, which is scheduled to take place at the Ho Sports Stadium from August 13 to 17, 2026, represents a significant milestone for the development of para sports within the region. Minister Gunu presented a donation comprising essential supplies and cash to the Volta Para Sports and Mobility Empowerment Association (VPMEA), the body responsible for hosting the regional event. During the presentation, which was received by VPMEA President Betty Gharbin, the Minister emphasized the regional government's dedication to inclusivity in sports. In addition to the initial donation of supplies and funds, Minister Gunu pledged further logistical assistance, specifically committing to coordinate with the Ghana Police Service for event security and Metro Mass Transit for the transportation of participants. This intervention addresses critical needs identified by the association, including the provision of wheelchairs and reliable logistics to ensure the tournament runs smoothly. The championship is expected to draw approximately 150 para-athletes from five different regions across Ghana. By hosting this multi-regional competition, organizers aim to bolster public interest and participation in para sports throughout the Volta Region. Minister Gunu commended the efforts of the VPMEA and urged them to maintain high professional standards in their preparations, noting that a successful event would serve as a catalyst for greater empowerment and visibility for persons living with disabilities. This upcoming tournament marks the sixth time the Inter-Regional Wheelchair Basketball Championship will be held, underscoring its growing importance on the national sporting calendar. As the region prepares to welcome athletes in August 2026, the collaboration between the Regional Coordinating Council and the VPMEA highlights a burgeoning support system for adaptive sports. The success of this edition is anticipated to pave the way for more integrated sporting initiatives and improved facilities for para-athletes in the Volta Region.

Women's World Cup trophy
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Black Queens Fall to Malawi in WAFCON Quarterfinals as Historic African Quartet Secures World Cup Spots

Ghana’s Black Queens suffered a devastating 2-1 defeat against Malawi in the quarterfinals of the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), ending their hopes for automatic qualification for the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Brazil. The match, held on August 9, 2026, saw Malawi secure a historic victory and their first-ever World Cup berth, while the Black Queens now face a precarious path to the global stage. This result highlights a seismic shift in African women’s football, as perennial powerhouses like Ghana and Nigeria failed to secure direct spots, allowing a new quartet—Malawi, Algeria, Morocco, and Cameroon—to emerge as the continent’s automatic representatives. The encounter began with promise for Ghana as Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah found the net in the seventh minute to give the Black Queens an early lead. However, the momentum shifted quickly when Malawi’s captain, Temwa Chawinga, equalized shortly after. Ghana struggled to regain control throughout the match and even saw a potential lead-taking goal by Doris Boaduwaa overturned for offside. In the 79th minute, Rose Kadzere struck the decisive blow for the Scorchers of Malawi, sealing the 2-1 comeback. Head coach Kim Lars Björkegren described the loss as the "worst feeling" of his 20-year coaching career, reflecting the deep disappointment of a squad that had aimed to return to the World Cup for the first time in two decades. The tournament in Morocco has been defined by major upsets and the rise of emerging nations. Alongside Malawi’s historic feat, Algeria secured their first World Cup qualification by defeating Côte d'Ivoire 2-1. Morocco continued their dominance as hosts with a victory over South Africa, and Cameroon produced perhaps the tournament's biggest shock by eliminating the reigning champions, Nigeria, with a 1-0 win. This marks the first time in history that Nigeria will not be among the automatic qualifiers for the World Cup, underscores the increasing competitiveness across the continent and leaving established giants to navigate a difficult playoff route. Despite the heartbreak in the quarterfinals, the Black Queens’ World Cup dreams are not entirely over. Ghana is scheduled to face Côte d'Ivoire in a crucial play-in match on August 13 in Casablanca. A victory in this fixture is required to stay in contention for the FIFA Intercontinental Play-off Tournament, which will decide the final spots for the 2027 World Cup in Brazil. The road ahead remains challenging, as the team must navigate high-stakes matches in late 2026 and early 2027. For a team that has not graced the world stage since 2007, the upcoming playoff represents a final lifeline to restore Ghana’s status among the elite of women’s football.

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FIFA Defends Gianni Infantino Against "Concerted Effort" to Undermine His Presidency

FIFA has issued a staunch rebuttal against what it describes as a "concerted and ongoing effort" to undermine the organization and its president, Gianni Infantino. In an official statement, the global football governing body condemned the persistent attempts to destabilize its leadership, characterizing the recent wave of criticism as a targeted campaign rather than objective scrutiny. This defensive posture comes at a time when FIFA is attempting to project an image of reform and stability following the scandals of previous administrations, making any new allegations against the current president particularly sensitive for the organization's public relations strategy. The latest friction stems from a report published by the Daily Telegraph, which brought to light allegations regarding Infantino's professional history. The British newspaper alleged that a woman, described as Infantino’s purported lover, received a severance payout from the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA) during his time as the organization's General Secretary. This period of Infantino’s career, prior to his election as FIFA President in 2016, has often been a point of interest for investigative journalists. FIFA’s response seeks to discredit these specific claims, framing them as part of a wider, malicious narrative intended to erode confidence in Infantino’s tenure and the broader governance of world football. By dismissing the report as an attempt to oust the president, FIFA is signaling a refusal to engage with the specifics of the UEFA-era allegations in a way that suggests legitimacy. Instead, the organization has chosen to highlight the perceived motivations behind the reporting, suggesting that external actors are working in tandem to disrupt FIFA's operations. This strategy reflects a broader trend in international sports politics where governing bodies frequently attribute negative press to institutional rivalries or personal vendettas. The mention of the UEFA context is also notable, as it touches upon the often-complex relationship between the global body and its powerful European confederation. Looking ahead, the fallout from these allegations remains to be seen in terms of institutional impact. While FIFA’s internal support for Infantino appears resolute, the persistence of such reports ensures that his leadership will continue to face scrutiny from the international media and transparency advocates. As football's governing body prepares for upcoming global tournaments and major policy decisions, the focus on Infantino's past conduct serves as a reminder of the challenges inherent in leading a multi-billion-dollar organization with a high public profile. Whether these criticisms will lead to more formal inquiries or simply remain a point of contention in the media landscape is a question that continues to hover over FIFA’s Zurich headquarters.

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Antoine Semenyo Delivers Two Assists as Manchester City Overcomes Atletico Madrid in Seoul Friendly

Ghanaian international Antoine Semenyo played a pivotal role in Manchester City’s pre-season victory over Atletico Madrid, providing two crucial assists in a high-profile friendly held in Seoul, South Korea. The match, which showcased City’s resilience and tactical depth, saw the English champions overturn a first-half deficit to secure a morale-boosting win as part of their international tour. Semenyo's creative contributions were the centerpiece of a dominant second-half resurgence that ultimately overwhelmed the Spanish giants. The game began with Atletico Madrid seizing the initiative, taking a lead shortly before the halftime whistle. The breakthrough came via 16-year-old Jorge Dominguez, who capitalized on a defensive lapse following a poorly cleared corner. Dominguez was clinical in his finish after being set up by Morten Hjulmand, leaving Manchester City trailing as they headed into the tunnel. Despite the setback, City maintained their composure, having tested the Atletico defense several times during the opening 45 minutes without success. The momentum shifted dramatically in the second half, largely due to the clinical partnership between Antoine Semenyo and Omar Marmoush. Semenyo demonstrated exceptional vision and precision, setting up Marmoush for an equalizer in the 57th minute. Not content with a single contribution, the Ghanaian forward provided a second assist shortly after, allowing Marmoush to find the net again in quick succession. This rapid double-strike effectively dismantled Atletico's lead and placed Manchester City firmly in control of the encounter for the remainder of the match. This performance underscores Semenyo’s ability to impact games against elite European opposition and highlights the attacking chemistry developing within the squad. For Manchester City, the victory in Seoul serves as a significant building block for the upcoming campaign, demonstrating their capacity for second-half adjustments and high-intensity offensive play. As the team continues its global pre-season preparations, Semenyo’s standout display is expected to strengthen his case for a regular role in the starting lineup.

Manchester City Midfielder Rodri Nears Barcelona Move as European Transfer Market Intensifies
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Manchester City Midfielder Rodri Nears Barcelona Move as European Transfer Market Intensifies

The European football landscape is bracing for a significant shift as Manchester City’s midfield maestro, Rodri, reportedly edges closer to a high-profile move to Barcelona. As clubs across the continent accelerate their recruitment efforts ahead of the new season, this potential transfer stands out as one of the most consequential developments in the current window. Negotiations between the two European powerhouses have progressed significantly, with reports indicating that the Spanish international has already reached an agreement on the principal terms of his contract with the Catalan giants, signaling a potential return to La Liga. The deal comes at a pivotal moment for both clubs. For Barcelona, securing a player of Rodri’s caliber and tactical intelligence represents a major step in their ongoing project to solidify their midfield and compete at the highest level. For Manchester City, the departure of a player who has been instrumental in their recent domestic and international successes would necessitate a strategic recalibration. While the main personal terms between the player and Barcelona appear to be settled, the two clubs are currently engaged in the final stages of discussions to iron out the remaining contractual details and the financial structure of the transfer. Beyond the headlines surrounding Rodri, the broader transfer market is witnessing a flurry of activity involving other prominent figures such as Ronald Araujo and Bradley Barcola. The movement of these players reflects a broader trend of elite clubs seeking to consolidate their squads and address tactical deficiencies before the competitive campaign begins. This period of intense negotiation highlights the strategic maneuvers typical of the European summer window, as teams look to balance their books while significantly upgrading their on-field personnel. As the final pieces of the Rodri deal fall into place, the focus will soon shift to how his arrival will transform Barcelona's midfield dynamics and how Manchester City intends to fill the void left by his potential absence. The ripple effects of this transfer are likely to be felt across the Premier League and La Liga, potentially triggering further movements in the market as other clubs respond to the strengthening of their rivals. With the start of the season approaching, the successful conclusion of these high-stakes negotiations will be critical for the strategic ambitions of all parties involved.

Rassie Erasmus Optimistic Over Siya Kolisi Injury Following Springboks' Hard-Fought Victory Over Argentina
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Rassie Erasmus Optimistic Over Siya Kolisi Injury Following Springboks' Hard-Fought Victory Over Argentina

South Africa's head coach, Rassie Erasmus, has offered a positive update on the condition of captain Siya Kolisi after the flanker sustained a hamstring injury during the Springboks' 17-10 win against Argentina. Kolisi, making his first Test appearance of the season, was forced to leave the field after just 25 minutes, sparking concerns among fans and technical staff ahead of upcoming fixtures. However, early assessments from the coaching staff suggest the setback may not be as severe as initially feared. Speaking in the aftermath of the physically demanding encounter, Erasmus noted that while the injury was disappointing, initial signs were encouraging. "It does not look too bad," Erasmus stated, while also taking the opportunity to praise the captain's leadership and impact during his brief time on the pitch. Kolisi himself expressed mixed emotions, balancing the frustration of another injury layoff with relief that the damage might be limited. The captain is scheduled to undergo a comprehensive medical scan to determine the full extent of the hamstring strain and establish a recovery timeline. The match itself was a stern test of South Africa’s resolve. Although the overall performance did not fully meet the high expectations of the coaching staff, Erasmus highlighted the team's character in overcoming a resilient Argentine side. He emphasized the importance of winning the physical battle, which laid the foundation for the seven-point victory. Despite the win, the prospect of losing Kolisi for the next high-stakes match remains a significant tactical concern for the Springbok management. Looking ahead, the Springboks are preparing for a crucial clash against New Zealand’s All Blacks. Should the medical scans rule Kolisi out, Paul de Villiers is expected to step into the starting lineup to fill the void. The coaching staff remains hopeful that their talismanic captain will be available, but they are already working on contingency plans to maintain the team's momentum. The outcome of the medical assessment in the coming days will be pivotal for South Africa’s strategies in the remainder of the international season.

Asante Kotoko Nears Deal for FC Samartex Rising Star Emmanuel Mamah
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Asante Kotoko Nears Deal for FC Samartex Rising Star Emmanuel Mamah

Asante Kotoko is reportedly closing in on the signing of Emmanuel Mamah, the standout forward from FC Samartex 1996. The Kumasi-based giants are currently leading the race to secure the services of the 21-year-old talent, who has emerged as one of the most promising prospects in the Ghana Premier League. With negotiations already in an advanced stage, the club is expected to finalize the transfer in the coming days, significantly bolstering their attacking options for the ongoing campaign. Mamah’s rise at FC Samartex has been nothing short of impressive, making him one of the most sought-after young players in the domestic top flight. His technical ability and consistent performances on the field have not only attracted the attention of local heavyweights like Kotoko but have also sparked interest from several clubs across Europe. The Porcupine Warriors' aggressive pursuit of the player underscores their current recruitment strategy, which focuses on identifying and securing top-tier young talent to maintain their competitive edge. The potential acquisition of Mamah represents a strategic move for Asante Kotoko as they look to sharpen their frontline and add depth to their squad. For FC Samartex, while losing a key asset like Mamah would be a significant blow to their tactical setup, it serves as a testament to the club's successful development program. The move highlights the trend of Samartex producing high-quality players capable of attracting interest from the nation's biggest teams and international scouts alike. As the deal approaches its final stages, football enthusiasts and the Kotoko faithful are closely monitoring official channels for an announcement. Finalizing personal terms and completing the necessary medical examinations remain the last hurdles before Mamah can be officially unveiled in the iconic red jersey. If the transfer is completed as expected, the young forward will face the immediate challenge of adapting to the high-pressure environment of the Baba Yara Stadium, where fans expect nothing less than immediate impact and excellence.

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Broadcaster Patrick Osei Agyemang and GOC President Osei Assibey Clash Over Ghana's Commonwealth Games Performance

A heated exchange took place on live television between the prominent broadcaster Patrick Osei Agyemang, widely known as Songo, and the President of the Ghana Olympic Committee (GOC), Osei Assibey. The clash centered on Ghana's performance at the 2026 Commonwealth Games, an event where the nation's sporting output was called into question. According to the discussion, the Ghanaian contingent consisted of approximately 40 athletes, yet they were only able to secure two medals, sparking a national debate regarding the efficiency and management of the country's sports programs. Songo, famous for his 'Fire for Fire' program and his uncompromising stance on sports administration, led the critique by highlighting the poor medal return relative to the size of the delegation. He expressed significant frustration over what he perceived as a waste of national resources and a lack of proper preparation for the athletes. The broadcaster's arguments focused on the need for accountability within the GOC, suggesting that the leadership must answer for the disappointing results on the global stage. In his defense, GOC President Osei Assibey countered Songo's assertions by providing context to the difficulties faced in international sports. While not denying the low medal count, Assibey emphasized the competitive nature of the games and the efforts made by the committee to support the athletes despite various challenges. The exchange reflected the high pressure on Ghanaian sports officials to deliver success, especially as the public becomes increasingly vocal about the standards of national representation. This intense confrontation underscores the broader challenges facing sports in Ghana under the current administration of President John Mahama. As the nation looks toward future international competitions, the debate between Songo and Assibey serves as a catalyst for a wider review of national sports policy. The incident underscores the urgent need for a more strategic approach to athlete development and administrative transparency to restore the nation's pride in its sporting achievements.

Global Football Community Mourns the Death of Jorge Messi, Father and Manager of Lionel Messi
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Global Football Community Mourns the Death of Jorge Messi, Father and Manager of Lionel Messi

The global football community is in mourning following the passing of Jorge Messi, the father and long-time representative of international superstar Lionel Messi. Jorge passed away at the age of 68 on August 7, 2026, in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, following a prolonged illness. As the man who guided his son from the streets of Rosario to the pinnacle of global superstardom, his death has resonated deeply with clubs, fans, and footballing institutions worldwide. Jorge Messi was a defining figure in his son's professional journey, famously helping to negotiate the early agreements with FC Barcelona that launched Lionel’s career. Serving as his son's primary agent and business manager for over two decades, Jorge was instrumental in shaping the commercial and competitive path of the multi-time Ballon d'Or winner. His strategic oversight and unwavering support were widely regarded as the backbone of the Messi brand, ensuring that the legendary forward could focus on his record-breaking performances on the pitch while his complex professional affairs were handled with familial dedication. Tributes have poured in from across the sporting spectrum, illustrating the significant impact Jorge had on the industry. Rivalry was set aside as Real Madrid issued a formal statement expressing their condolences, a gesture mirrored by Lionel's former club, FC Barcelona, and numerous other major football organizations. These institutions joined a chorus of voices from across the globe, all of whom recognized Jorge’s unique contribution to the sport through his management and mentorship of one of its most prominent icons. As the Messi family prepares for final rites in Rosario, the focus remains on the immense personal loss for the family. Beyond his role as a representative, Jorge was a constant fixture at his son’s matches, from the youth academies in Argentina to the largest stadiums in the world. His legacy will be remembered through the unprecedented success of his son—a career he nurtured from its infancy. The football world continues to offer support to Lionel Messi and his relatives during this difficult period of mourning.

Black Queens Chase Historic World Cup Return in WAFCON Quarter-Final Clash with Malawi
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Black Queens Chase Historic World Cup Return in WAFCON Quarter-Final Clash with Malawi

Ghana’s national women’s football team, the Black Queens, are on the verge of a historic milestone as they prepare to face Malawi in the quarter-finals of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) on August 9, 2026. Taking place at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, this high-stakes encounter represents more than just a path to the continental semi-finals. A victory for Ghana would secure an automatic ticket to the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup, marking the nation’s first appearance on the global stage since 2007. Star player Evelyn Badu has emphasized the necessity of a clinical performance from the opening whistle to ensure progress. The Black Queens’ journey to the knockout stage has been a mix of results; after a commanding 2-0 victory over Cape Verde, the team suffered a narrow 1-0 defeat to Cameroon and labored to a 1-1 draw against Mali. Badu’s rallying cry for a "strong start" underscores the team's need to rediscover the rhythm and efficiency that characterized their early qualifying rounds, as the margin for error narrows in the knockout phase. Tactically, coach Kim Lars Björkegren is expected to stick with a familiar core to maintain team chemistry during this critical fixture. Reports from the camp suggest that Cynthia Konlan will retain her spot between the posts, anchored by a consistent defensive line. In the offensive setup, Boaduwaa is widely anticipated to start, while Nyamekye is likely to begin from the bench. This continuity in selection suggests Björkegren trusts the seasoned core of the squad to deliver under the immense pressure of a World Cup qualifying match. For Ghana, the significance of this match cannot be overstated. After nearly two decades of missing out on the FIFA Women’s World Cup, the current squad carries the aspirations of a nation eager to see the Black Queens return to prominence. A win against Malawi would not only validate the recent investments and progress in the women’s game but also provide a platform for a new generation of stars to compete on the world stage. As the team steps onto the pitch in Casablanca, they are playing for both a trophy and a permanent place in Ghanaian football history.

Police Ladies Crowned Champions of Inaugural 2026 Women's Democracy Cup After Victory Over Army Ladies
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Police Ladies Crowned Champions of Inaugural 2026 Women's Democracy Cup After Victory Over Army Ladies

Police Ladies have etched their names into the history books by winning the maiden edition of the Women's Democracy Cup. In a highly anticipated encounter held on August 7, 2026, the team showcased resilience and tactical discipline to overcome their fierce rivals, Army Ladies. The match, hosted at the McDan Park in La, served as a landmark event in the Ghanaian women’s football calendar, celebrating both sporting excellence and the nation's democratic values through the medium of sport. The clash between the two security service teams lived up to its billing, characterized by a spirited performance from both sides. As traditional arch-rivals, Police Ladies and Army Ladies entered the pitch with high stakes, battling fiercely throughout the duration of the game for supremacy. The intensity of the competition reflected the growing standard of women's football in Ghana, with both squads demonstrating the physical and technical prowess that has come to define the rivalry between the Ghana Police Service and the Ghana Armed Forces sports wings. This victory marks a significant milestone for Police Ladies, establishing them as the premier champions of the Democracy Cup. The tournament, designed to highlight the intersection of sports and civic engagement, concludes with Police Ladies setting a high benchmark for future editions. As the maiden winners, they have not only secured a historic trophy but have also reinforced their position as a powerhouse in the local women's game, signaling their readiness for the upcoming football season.

Chelsea Dominates AC Milan with 3-0 Pre-Season Victory in Jakarta
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Chelsea Dominates AC Milan with 3-0 Pre-Season Victory in Jakarta

Chelsea secured a convincing 3-0 victory against AC Milan in Jakarta, Indonesia, providing a significant boost to the squad's morale as they approach the end of their international pre-season tour. Following recent disappointments against Tottenham Hotspur and Juventus, the Blues delivered a more disciplined and clinical performance at the Gelora Bung Karno Stadium. The win serves as a crucial signal of intent for the club as they look to finalize their preparations for the upcoming Premier League campaign. The scoring was opened by Joao Pedro, who rose highest to meet a corner with a powerful header just before the halftime whistle. Pedro maintained his momentum immediately after the break, striking again to double Chelsea's advantage. The victory was eventually put beyond doubt when Moises Caicedo struck a brilliant volley to make it 3-0. While the scoreline was emphatic, Chelsea could have added more to their tally, having hit the woodwork twice during a match where they largely controlled the tempo against the Italian giants. This result is particularly noteworthy given the pressure on the squad to find consistency before the competitive season begins. The defensive solidity shown against AC Milan marks a significant improvement from previous tour fixtures, while the clinical finishing of Pedro and Caicedo suggests the team is finding its rhythm in the final third. These tactical developments will be welcomed by the technical staff as they seek to integrate new signings and establish a clear playing identity. Looking ahead, Chelsea will conclude their pre-season schedule with a final match against Johor Darul Ta’zim. This fixture will serve as the last opportunity for the coaching staff to refine their starting eleven and tactical configurations. The ultimate test awaits on 24 August, when Chelsea is scheduled to officially open their Premier League season with a London derby against Fulham, hoping to carry this positive momentum into the domestic league.