Ghana Football Momentum: National Raffle Launched as FA Cup Semis and Youth Championships Take Center Stage

Ghana’s football landscape is witnessing a surge of activity ranging from national team support initiatives to grassroots development. The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, alongside the Ghana World Cup Fundraising Committee, has officially launched the Ghana World Cup Raffle at the Ministry of Finance in Accra. This initiative, designed to garner national support for the Black Stars ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, allows fans to contribute by dialing *899#. Participants stand a chance to win travel packages, memorabilia, and sponsored trips to the tournament. The launch featured high-profile appearances by musicians Shatta Wale, Stonebwoy, and Akwaboah, with Committee Chair Hon. Ampem Nyarko emphasizing that every ticket purchased represents a 'vote' for the national team’s success and broader sports development in the country.

In tandem with national fundraising, the Black Stars' technical preparations are underway with upcoming international friendlies against Austria and Germany. GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum recently addressed the selection of Benjamin Asare as the sole Ghana Premier League (GPL) player in the squad. He clarified that the decision followed a comprehensive performance analysis, ensuring that the team remains competitive for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. Meanwhile, on the domestic front, the MTN FA Cup has reached its penultimate stage. Following a series of intense quarter-final matches, the semi-final lineup is now set, featuring Aduana FC, Medeama SC, Nations FC, and Dreams FC. Notable results included dominant 3-0 victories for both Aduana and Medeama, while Nations FC and Dreams FC both advanced through high-stakes penalty shootouts against Berekum Chelsea and Heart of Lions, respectively.

Youth and university-level football are also seeing significant investment through the inaugural Honda Football Championship and philanthropic efforts. Scheduled for March 24-28, 2026, at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, the Honda championship will feature eight universities, including the University of Ghana, KNUST, and UDS. Managing Director of Overseas Union Limited, F. Yao Dawson, highlighted the tournament's goal of fostering leadership and teamwork among the youth. The event will also include a curtain-raiser with top senior high school teams, providing a free platform for the Tamale community to celebrate burgeoning local talent.

Finally, the spirit of sportsmanship extends to international advocacy through the Fafali girls’ football team, which is preparing for the Street Child World Cup in Mexico this May. To support their journey, Winston Yeboah Danso, CEO of the East Legon Football Academy, donated GH₵10,000 to kickstart the 'Fafali Mexico Club 1000 Campaign.' This fundraising drive seeks 1,000 donors to contribute GH₵500 each to cover the team’s travel and logistical needs. By participating in this global tournament, the Fafali girls aim to advocate for children’s rights and inspire underserved communities back home. Collectively, these initiatives from the Ministry of Sports, the GFA, corporate sponsors, and private philanthropists underscore a unified effort to elevate Ghanaian football at every level.