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.

Yaw Ampofo Ankrah suspended as NSA director over $600,000 visa scandal
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Yaw Ampofo Ankrah suspended as NSA director over $600,000 visa scandal

The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has suspended the Director-General of the National Sports Authority (NSA), Yaw Ampofo Ankrah, following allegations of a visa racketeering scandal. The suspension is intended to facilitate a comprehensive and transparent inquiry into illegal activities reportedly linked to Ghana’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Minister Adams clarified that the move is not a formal dismissal but a necessary administrative step to ensure the investigation proceeds without interference. The investigation centers on claims that significant sums of money were collected from individuals under the guise of securing visas for the upcoming World Cup. According to Minister Adams, Nana Boateng Gyimah, the CEO of TRIBE Culture Fest, allegedly collected over $600,000 from victims without providing the promised services or issuing refunds. The Ministry has called on national security and law enforcement agencies to take action against those responsible for the financial exploitation of prospective travelers. The case gained traction after the former Chief Operating Officer of the NSA, Yaw Gyamfi Kusi Awere, began providing information to authorities. Awere reportedly implicated both Ankrah and Gyimah in the scheme, which involved unauthorized payments and logistical promises. In response to potential legal challenges from the TRIBE Culture Fest CEO, Minister Adams maintained that the priority of the state is to ensure accountability and the protection of the victims' interests. This development highlights ongoing efforts by the Ministry of Sports and Recreation to sanitize sports administration in Ghana. As the investigation continues, the NSA is expected to cooperate fully with the probe to restore confidence in the management of international tournament preparations. The outcome of the inquiry will determine whether further disciplinary or legal actions will be taken against the suspended director and his alleged associates.

Vinicius Junior receives four-match ban after Villarreal red card
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Vinicius Junior receives four-match ban after Villarreal red card

Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior has been handed a four-match suspension by the Spanish Football Federation following a red card incident in a recent La Liga fixture against Villarreal. The disciplinary action comes after the Brazilian international was sent off for violent conduct, with the penalty being extended due to subsequent dissent shown toward the match officials. The decision leaves the Spanish giants without one of their most influential attacking players during a critical stretch of the domestic season. The suspension is officially divided into two distinct components: a two-match ban for the initial act of violent conduct on the pitch and an additional two-match penalty for the player's reaction and language directed at the refereeing team after the dismissal. This rigorous application of the rules reflects La Liga's ongoing efforts to curb aggressive behavior and confrontations between players and officials. The forward's absence presents a significant tactical challenge for manager Carlo Ancelotti as he prepares his squad for upcoming high-stakes encounters. The most notable consequence of the ruling is that Vinicius Junior will be forced to miss the highly anticipated El Clásico against Barcelona, currently scheduled for October 25. In addition to the clash with their arch-rivals, the Real Madrid star is also set to be unavailable for league fixtures against Sevilla, Racing Santander, and Valencia. These absences are expected to put a strain on the team's offensive depth as they look to maintain their position at the top of the table. According to current scheduling, Vinicius Junior is expected to make his return to competitive action against Celta Vigo on November 22. While Real Madrid has not yet officially confirmed if they will appeal the severity of the four-match ban, the player will remain sidelined for the immediate future. The club will now have to look toward its other attacking options to fill the void left by their talismanic winger during this month-long absence.

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Gifty Oware-Mensah charged over GH₵38.4m state financial loss

Gifty Oware-Mensah, a prominent member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council, has been formally charged with stealing and causing financial loss to the state. The charges involve the alleged misappropriation of GH₵38,458,248.87 over a two-year period. This development has sparked significant controversy within the sporting community, given her influential role in the country's football governing body and her high-profile status. The legal action, initiated by Attorney-General Dr. Dominic Ayine, centers on financial activities occurring between February 2022 and March 2024. During this timeframe, Oware-Mensah is alleged to have diverted substantial state funds for unauthorized purposes. The specific nature of the theft and the mechanisms used to cause the financial loss are expected to be detailed as the court proceedings commence. The sum involved—exceeding GH₵38.4 million—makes this one of the most substantial financial misconduct cases involving a high-ranking sports official in recent years. The news has generated intense debate and scrutiny within the Ghanaian sports fraternity. As an Executive Council member, Oware-Mensah holds a position of trust and responsibility in the management of national football affairs. Observers have noted that these charges come at a time when the GFA is under increased pressure regarding financial transparency and governance standards. Stakeholders, including football fans and anti-corruption advocates, are calling for a thorough and fair legal process to ensure accountability. As the case progresses through the legal system, the GFA leadership faces questions regarding the status of its council member during the trial. The outcome of these judicial proceedings could have significant implications for the future of football administration in Ghana and the enforcement of financial regulations within sports organizations. For now, the focus remains on the state's efforts to recover the allegedly misappropriated funds through the court system.

PFAG condemns Takyi Arhin for comments about André Ayew
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PFAG condemns Takyi Arhin for comments about André Ayew

The Professional Footballers Association of Ghana (PFAG) has issued a public condemnation of Takyi Arhin, the General Manager of Aduana FC, following remarks made concerning Black Stars captain André 'Dede' Ayew. In a formal statement, the association described Arhin’s recent commentary as both disrespectful and inappropriate. The PFAG, which acts as the representative body for professional footballers in the country, expressed deep disappointment that such sentiments were voiced by a senior football administrator. The controversy arose from comments where Arhin reportedly suggested that Ayew would be unable to attain the presidency of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) as long as the incumbent, Kurt Okraku, remains in power. Furthermore, Arhin’s remarks allegedly included a derogatory reference to "goat farming" in relation to the veteran forward’s career prospects. The PFAG maintains that these statements undermine the dignity of the player and the professional standards expected within the Ghanaian football fraternity. In its defense of the national captain, the PFAG highlighted Ayew’s long-standing dedication and his status as one of Ghana's most decorated international players. The association emphasized that players who have committed significant portions of their lives to the national team deserve to be treated with honor rather than public ridicule. They urged all football stakeholders to exercise restraint and maintain a level of decorum that preserves the integrity of the game and its participants. The backlash from the PFAG signals a broader call for respect within the sport’s administrative circles, particularly regarding the future ambitions of active players. As the domestic football scene navigates various leadership discussions, the association’s stance serves as a reminder that personal attacks have no place in professional discourse. The PFAG has called on administrators like Arhin to focus on the development of the sport rather than making dismissive comments about the aspirations of national icons.

Kwasi Adu handed three-match ban and GH₵10,000 fine by GFA
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Kwasi Adu handed three-match ban and GH₵10,000 fine by GFA

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) Disciplinary Committee has officially announced a series of sanctions against Kwasi Adu, the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Bibiani Gold Stars. The ruling follows an investigation into incidents that occurred during a competitive fixture between Bibiani Gold Stars and Accra Hearts of Oak. For his actions during the encounter, Adu has been handed a three-match suspension from all football-related activities and a financial penalty of GH₵10,000. The disciplinary action stems from two primary breaches of conduct during the match. According to the committee's findings, Adu made an unauthorized entry into the inner perimeter of the stadium, a restricted area reserved for players, technical staff, and authorized officials. Furthermore, the CEO was found to have engaged in the verbal abuse of match officials, undermining the authority of the refereeing team and violating the standards of behavior expected from high-ranking club executives. This ruling serves as a significant signal from the GFA regarding its commitment to maintaining order at match venues. By imposing both a suspension and a heavy fine, the association aims to enforce stadium discipline and ensure the safety and professional integrity of match officials. The suspension will prevent Adu from having any official presence during his club’s next three matches, while the GH₵10,000 fine must be settled as part of the disciplinary requirements to uphold the GFA's regulations on match-day conduct.

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Benjamin Asare leads GPL clean sheets race with four shutouts

Benjamin Asare, the Hearts of Oak goalkeeper, has emerged as the standout performer in the early stages of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League (GPL) season. After six matchdays, Asare currently leads the race for the most clean sheets, having successfully prevented opponents from scoring in four of his five appearances. This impressive start has established him as a key figure in the Phobians' defensive setup as they navigate the opening weeks of the campaign. The statistical breakdown of Asare’s performance highlights a remarkable level of consistency and focus. Despite the league reaching its sixth matchday, the shot-stopper has only conceded one goal across his five outings. His ability to marshal the defense and produce critical saves has provided a sense of security to a Hearts of Oak side that is looking to improve upon previous seasons and mount a serious challenge for the domestic title. Asare's influence extends beyond just shot-stopping; his presence has been pivotal in stabilizing a backline that has shown significant organization early on. By maintaining four clean sheets in such a short span, he has not only boosted the confidence of his teammates but has also sent a strong signal to rivals across the Ghana Premier League. His composure under pressure and command of the penalty area have been frequently cited as essential components of the team's early success. Looking forward, the challenge for Benjamin Asare will be to maintain this high standard throughout the remainder of the 2026/27 season. As the competition intensifies and other top-tier goalkeepers look to close the gap, the race for the Golden Glove award is expected to be closely watched by fans and analysts. For Hearts of Oak, ensuring their goalkeeper continues this form will be crucial for their aspirations of sustaining a top-of-the-table position in the months ahead.

Dad’s Army/African Polistas wins 2026 Accra Polo Club Trustees’ Cup
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Dad’s Army/African Polistas wins 2026 Accra Polo Club Trustees’ Cup

Dad’s Army/African Polistas emerged victorious in the 2026 Accra Polo Club Trustees’ Cup, defeating DSGHOB in a tightly contested final on October 10. The match, held at the prestigious Accra Polo Club, ended with a score of 6 to 5.5 in favor of Dad’s Army, marking a significant victory in the club's annual sporting calendar. The final was characterized by a high-intensity exchange of goals as both teams demonstrated exceptional equestrian and athletic skills. Dad’s Army maintained a slim lead throughout much of the encounter, but DSGHOB remained a persistent threat until the final whistle. The competition reached its peak in the final chukka, where DSGHOB pressed hard to close the narrow gap. Despite their efforts to find an equalizing goal in the closing moments, Dad’s Army held firm to secure their half-goal margin victory. A standout performer in the match was Dantani Sahnoon, whose strategic play and pivotal contributions for Dad’s Army earned him the Most Valuable Player award. Sahnoon's performance was central to the team's ability to navigate the pressure from DSGHOB and maintain their lead during the most critical phases of the match. The event not only highlighted individual brilliance but also the collective spirit of the teams involved, drawing a significant crowd to witness the high-level polo action. The Trustees’ Cup remains one of the most anticipated events at the Accra Polo Club, celebrating the sport's traditions and the competitive nature of the local polo community. This year's final further cemented the reputation of the club as a premier venue for the sport in Ghana. The victory for Dad’s Army/African Polistas adds another chapter to their competitive history as they celebrate their achievement as the 2026 champions.

Black Starlets defeat Benin 3-1 to reach WAFU Zone B semifinals
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Black Starlets defeat Benin 3-1 to reach WAFU Zone B semifinals

Ghana’s national under-17 football team, the Black Starlets, have officially secured their place in the semifinals of the WAFU Zone B U17 Championship. The qualification follows a dominant 3-1 victory over Benin in their second Group A match, played with high intensity. This win marks the second consecutive triumph for the Starlets, ensuring they progress to the knockout stages of the regional tournament with a game to spare in the group phase. The match saw a standout performance from Issah Alidu, who found the back of the net twice to lead the Ghanaian charge. Alidu’s clinical finishing was complemented by a strike from Nii Tawiah Odoi, who netted the third goal to consolidate the victory. The Starlets’ attacking prowess and tactical discipline on the pitch highlighted their status as strong contenders in the competition, following an equally impressive opening performance earlier in the week. Beyond the immediate glory of the regional tournament, the WAFU Zone B Championship serves as a critical pathway for the 2027 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). For Ghana, a successful campaign here is essential for securing a spot in the continental tournament. Having already booked their semifinal ticket, the technical team and players are now shifting their focus toward their final Group A fixture, which will determine their final standing in the group and their subsequent opponent in the semifinals.

Francis Adjetey Sowah and two others receive lifetime bans from High Court
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Francis Adjetey Sowah and two others receive lifetime bans from High Court

An Accra High Court has handed lifetime bans to Francis Adjetey Sowah and two other individuals associated with the Ghana Amputee Football Federation (GAFF). The ruling, delivered on July 30, 2026, follows a protracted legal dispute with the National Paralympic Committee of Ghana (NPC-Ghana) over the administration of the sport. The court cited unethical conduct as the primary reason for the severe disciplinary action against the three officials. In addition to the personal bans, the court issued a permanent injunction against GAFF, legally barring the federation from representing itself as the governing body for amputee football in Ghana. The judgment discredited GAFF's claims to sole administrative rights, noting that the federation's objective to manage the sport was only formally established in 2014. This finding raised significant doubts about the organization's legitimacy compared to the established authority of the National Paralympic Committee. The court's evaluation of the case highlighted specific instances of misconduct, including Sowah's use of GAFF resources while simultaneously holding a position with the Ghana Amputee Football Association. Such actions were found to have undermined the integrity of the sport's governance. The ruling effectively settles the leadership crisis by confirming NPC-Ghana as the only authoritative body responsible for the management and oversight of amputee football in the country. This landmark decision arrives at a critical juncture for the sport as stakeholders prepare for upcoming international competitions. By resolving the long-standing jurisdictional conflict, the court aims to provide much-needed stability and clarity to the administration of the game. Moving forward, all official activities, representative duties, and international correspondences regarding Ghanaian amputee football must proceed exclusively under the direction of the National Paralympic Committee.

A joyous group of young footballers from the Greater Accra regional team celebrates winning the KGL Inter-Regional U-17 Colts Championship 2026. The players are seen cheering and holding a trophy on a victory podium decorated with banners acknowledging them as champions.
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Greater Accra Region defeats Western Region 5-4 to win KGL U17 Colts title

Greater Accra Region has secured its first-ever KGL Foundation Inter-Regional U17 Colts Championship title after a hard-fought victory over Western Region. The final, held at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, concluded in a 5-4 penalty shootout win for the capital region side after the match ended in a goalless draw during regulation time. This victory marks a significant milestone for Greater Accra, which had been seeking its maiden trophy in this prestigious youth competition. The match itself was a display of tactical discipline and defensive resilience from both sides. Despite several close chances and periods of sustained pressure, neither team could break the deadlock during the 90 minutes of play. In the subsequent shootout, Greater Accra maintained their composure to edge out their opponents. A standout performer throughout the tournament, Desmond Asare, was honored as the competition's Most Valuable Player for his pivotal role in leading his team to the championship. While Greater Accra celebrated their triumph, Western Region faced the disappointment of a second consecutive defeat in the tournament's final. Despite their previous history as champions, the side was unable to convert their opportunities into goals. In the bronze medal match, Prempeh Elite Academy secured third place with a convincing 3-0 victory over Brong Ahafo, demonstrating the high level of competition present among the regional representative sides. The 2026 KGL Foundation Inter-Regional U17 Colts Championship serves as a vital component of the Ghana Football Association's Talent Development Scheme. By providing a platform for the nation's best young players to showcase their skills, the tournament aims to bridge the gap between grassroots football and professional career paths. The success of this year's edition reinforces the GFA's commitment to identifying and nurturing the next generation of Ghanaian football talent through structured regional competition.

Gianni Infantino received undisclosed $1.72m payment for 2026 World Cup
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Gianni Infantino received undisclosed $1.72m payment for 2026 World Cup

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has come under intense scrutiny following revelations that he received an undisclosed payment of $1.72 million from the entity responsible for managing the 2026 World Cup operations. The payment, which was not declared in the global football governing body's internal financial reports, has sparked significant concerns regarding governance and financial transparency at the highest levels of the organization. While the funds were documented in United States tax filings, their absence from FIFA's official compensation disclosures suggests a potential breach of the organization’s established reporting protocols. Financial experts and governance observers point out that the omission of this payment may violate specific FIFA statutes that mandate full transparency regarding executive compensation. These rules were designed to ensure that all remuneration for top officials is clearly accounted for and subject to oversight. The discovery that a substantial sum was processed through an operational entity rather than being reported through standard channels raises questions about how executive pay is managed and whether other similar payments have gone unreported to the organization's stakeholders. This development adds to the mounting pressure on Infantino, who is already navigating a period of increased criticism over his leadership style and several controversial commercial partnerships. Critics argue that the lack of disclosure undermines recent efforts to reform FIFA’s image following past corruption scandals. The discrepancy between the U.S. tax records and internal FIFA documentation provides further ammunition for those calling for more rigorous accountability and a comprehensive review of the president's financial dealings with World Cup host entities. The fallout from these revelations is expected to be a primary focus of the upcoming FIFA Council meeting in Zurich. Council members will be tasked with addressing the governance implications of the $1.72 million payment and determining whether any formal disciplinary actions or internal audits are required. As the organization prepares for the expanded 2026 World Cup in North America, the clarity of its financial leadership remains a critical issue for member associations and international partners who demand absolute transparency.

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Antoine Semenyo credits early career setbacks for building mental resilience

Ghana international forward Antoine Semenyo has highlighted how the adversity he faced earlier in his career has been instrumental in developing his current mental fortitude. Semenyo, who is currently playing for Manchester City, noted that his journey through various levels of English football was marked by periods of significant struggle. These challenges, he explained, ultimately shaped his professional outlook and provided the determination required to succeed at the highest level. The forward's path to his current professional status was not without significant hurdles. Semenyo reflected on his time at clubs such as Newport County, Bristol City, and Sunderland, where he often found it difficult to maintain consistent form or secure a regular spot in the starting lineup. These spells of inconsistent playing time and performance dips served as a testing ground for his character, forcing him to adapt and push through professional disappointment during the formative years of his career. Describing himself as "strong-minded and resilient," the Black Stars player emphasized that overcoming these various challenges has contributed directly to his current strength of character. By navigating the pressure of losing his place in the team and the mental strain of poor form at previous clubs, he cultivated a mindset that allows him to handle the demands of elite football. Semenyo’s reflections provide a clear insight into the psychological development of a professional athlete, suggesting that his past failures were necessary steps toward his present success.