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.

sports|

Kwasi Sibo to debut for Al-Swehly in CAF Champions League clash

Ghanaian international Kwasi Sibo is set to make his competitive debut for Libyan club Al-Swehly in a crucial CAF Champions League fixture this Sunday. The midfielder, who moved to the North African side during the summer transfer window, is expected to be a central figure in the team's second preliminary round clash. They are scheduled to face Tunisian powerhouse Espérance Sportive de Tunis, one of the most decorated clubs in the history of the competition. Sibo’s move to the Libyan league followed a tenure in European football, and his arrival at Al-Swehly was viewed as a strategic acquisition to bolster the club's continental ambitions. Despite the anticipation surrounding his signing, Sibo was not part of the matchday squads during the first preliminary round of the tournament. His return to full availability comes at a critical juncture, as the Libyan side prepares for the formidable task of overcoming a Tunisian opponent with extensive experience in high-pressure CAF matches. The upcoming match in the second preliminary round serves as the final hurdle before the lucrative group stages of the CAF Champions League. For Sibo, the debut provides an immediate platform to demonstrate the skill set that earned him a place in the Ghana national team. A strong performance against Espérance would solidify his position in the Al-Swehly starting lineup and provide the Libyan side with the momentum needed to advance further into the tournament, marking a significant start to his career in North Africa.

DR Congo calls Formula One plans for Rwandan Grand Prix indefensible
sports|

DR Congo calls Formula One plans for Rwandan Grand Prix indefensible

The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) has officially protested Formula One’s plans to host an African Grand Prix in Rwanda, describing the decision to race in the neighboring country as "indefensible." DRC Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner raised concerns that the sporting event, currently slated for the early 2030s, would be used to bolster the international reputation of an authoritarian administration. The protest highlights the growing intersection of global sports and regional geopolitics in East Africa. The planned race was recently announced following discussions between Rwandan President Paul Kagame, Formula One Chief Executive Stefano Domenicali, and FIA President Mohammed Ben Sulayem. The event is expected to take place at a new, yet-to-be-built circuit located near the Rwandan capital, Kigali. For Formula One, the project represents a long-awaited return to the African continent, which has not hosted a Grand Prix since the 1993 race at Kyalami in South Africa. However, the DRC government argues that bringing such a high-profile global event to Rwanda constitutes a form of "sportswashing." Minister Wagner suggested that the race is a strategic move to enhance the image of President Kagame’s government despite ongoing regional criticisms. This diplomatic friction follows years of tension between Kinshasa and Kigali over security issues and allegations of cross-border interference in eastern DRC. Despite the formal protest from the DRC, Formula One leadership has remained focused on its goal of establishing a permanent presence in Africa to ensure the championship is truly global. While the Kigali circuit is still in the planning stages, the project remains a key part of the sport's expansion strategy for the next decade. The situation underscores the challenges sports organizations face when selecting venues in regions marked by complex political rivalries.

sports|

Kwesi Nyantakyi declines to comment on Ghana football's current state

Kwesi Nyantakyi, the former President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), has declined to offer public commentary on the current state and challenges facing the sport in Ghana. Approached by members of the press as he arrived at a court premises, Nyantakyi was asked to weigh in on the perceived declining fortunes of the national game. Despite the persistence of the media personnel seeking his expert perspective, the former football administrator chose to remain silent and did not engage in any discussion regarding the ongoing issues within the GFA or the performance of the national teams. The attempt to gather Nyantakyi's views comes during a period of significant public debate concerning the administrative and competitive health of Ghanaian football. Journalists at the scene were particularly interested in his assessment of the current struggles facing the sport, given his extensive experience at the helm of the GFA. However, Nyantakyi moved past the media scrum without providing any soundbites or reactions to the specific questions posed about the association's leadership or the national team's recent results. Nyantakyi’s decision to avoid the spotlight on this matter reflects a continued distance from active football administration and public discourse since his departure from office. While the footballing community remains divided on the solutions required to restore the country's dominance on the continent, the former president's refusal to comment leaves the current GFA leadership to face ongoing scrutiny without the public input of their predecessor. The silence maintained at the court venue underscores a deliberate choice to separate his legal appearances from the broader controversies currently surrounding the sport in Ghana.

Marvin Senaya resumes on-pitch running after World Cup injury
sports|

Marvin Senaya resumes on-pitch running after World Cup injury

Black Stars fullback Marvin Senaya has reached a significant milestone in his recovery process by returning to light training on grass. The AJ Auxerre defender, who has been sidelined since the start of the European season, resumed on-pitch running this week as he enters the final stages of rehabilitation for a hamstring injury. Senaya’s absence has been notable for his French club, as he was forced to miss the opening seven league matches of the current campaign while undergoing intensive medical treatment and physical therapy. The injury was sustained during a high-stakes encounter while representing Ghana on the international stage. Senaya suffered the hamstring tear during a Round of 32 match against Colombia, a game that marked a pivotal moment in the national team's tournament run. Since returning to his club, the defender has focused on a structured recovery program designed to ensure long-term fitness and prevent a recurrence. His transition from indoor gym work to individual sessions on the pitch indicates that his body is responding well to the increased physical workload. While a definitive timeline for Senaya’s return to competitive action has not yet been established by AJ Auxerre, his progress is a welcome development for both his club and the Black Stars coaching staff. As the season progresses, his availability will provide essential depth and versatility to the defensive line for upcoming domestic and international fixtures. The player is expected to continue his individualized training regimen in the coming days before being considered for a return to full-contact team sessions.

Everton honors Ghanaian midfielder Alex Nyarko on his 53rd birthday
sports|

Everton honors Ghanaian midfielder Alex Nyarko on his 53rd birthday

English Premier League club Everton has paid tribute to former Ghanaian international Alex Nyarko on the occasion of his 53rd birthday. The club, where Nyarko played during the early 2000s, shared a celebratory message across its social media platforms on October 15, 2026, to mark the milestone. The gesture highlights the enduring bond between the Merseyside club and one of the prominent Ghanaian players to have graced the English top flight. Nyarko joined Everton in 2000 from French side Lens for a then-significant transfer fee. His tenure at Goodison Park was part of a transformative era for the club as it sought to establish itself as a consistent competitor in the Premier League. Known for his technical ability and composure in the heart of the midfield, Nyarko remains one of the notable African players to have represented the Toffees during the turn of the millennium. Beyond his club career in Europe, Nyarko is a celebrated figure in Ghanaian football history. He was a pivotal member of the Black Meteors squad that secured an Olympic bronze medal at the 1992 Barcelona Games, a historic achievement as it was the first Olympic football medal won by an African nation. Everton’s public recognition of his birthday serves as a reminder of his contribution to both the club and his national team, reinforcing his legacy as a pioneer for Ghanaian footballers in the Premier League.

sports|

Gareth Southgate rules out return to Premier League management

Former England manager Gareth Southgate has officially ruled out a return to the Premier League, signaling a significant shift in his professional focus. Following his departure from the national team after the Euro 2024 final defeat to Spain, Southgate revealed that he no longer finds the same enjoyment in football management that once drove his career. This decision marks a definitive end to speculation regarding his potential move to various top-flight English clubs, as he seeks fulfillment outside the traditional managerial cycle. Southgate’s last experience in club management was with Middlesbrough, a tenure that ended in 2006. Since then, he spent nearly a decade within the England national team setup, serving as the under-21 manager before taking the senior role in 2016. The toll of elite management appears to have influenced his decision, as he noted a loss of enjoyment in the day-to-day pressures of the dugout. Instead of pursuing another high-stakes coaching position, he is exploring diverse interests that take him away from the touchline. The 54-year-old has transitioned into several non-coaching roles, including media appearances and academic engagements. Notably, Southgate has taken on lecturing responsibilities at Harvard University, a move that highlights his interest in leadership and management beyond the confines of a football pitch. He indicated that these new ventures have provided a different kind of satisfaction, allowing him to apply his extensive experience in high-performance environments without the specific stresses of competitive professional football. Beyond his personal career path, Southgate also addressed broader issues within the game, including the ongoing legal and financial complexities involving Manchester City’s alleged breaches of Premier League regulations. He remarked that such protracted disputes result in no clear winners for the sport. As Southgate moves forward, his career shift underscores a growing trend of former managers seeking alternative ways to contribute to the sporting world through consultancy, education, and media.

Bibiani Gold Stars CEO says GFA has not paid promised GH₵1m to clubs
sports|

Bibiani Gold Stars CEO says GFA has not paid promised GH₵1m to clubs

Bibiani Gold Stars Chief Executive Officer, Kwasi Adu, has disclosed that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has yet to fulfill its commitment to pay a promised sum of GH₵1 million to clubs in the Ghana Premier League. The announcement highlights ongoing concerns regarding the financial relationship between the nation's football governing body and the individual teams that comprise the top-flight division. The GH₵1 million pledge was originally intended to alleviate the significant operational costs incurred by clubs during the league season. However, Mr. Adu confirmed that the funds have not yet been disbursed, leaving many clubs to manage their expenditures without the expected support. The delay in payment has prompted calls for greater transparency regarding the GFA’s financial obligations to its member clubs. In response to the current situation, a strategic meeting is being organized between GFA officials and representatives from the various Premier League clubs. This meeting will serve as a platform to discuss the specific modalities of the payment and to clarify the reasons behind the delay. Club leaders are expected to use the opportunity to seek assurances on when the money will finally be transferred into their respective accounts. This development comes at a time when Ghanaian clubs are increasingly vocal about the need for better sponsorship and financial backing to improve the quality of the local game. The resolution of this payment issue is seen as a vital step in maintaining the trust between the GFA leadership and the club executives. As the league progresses, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the outcome of the scheduled discussions to see if the GFA will honour its financial promises.

Joseph Agbeko decries lack of recognition from Ghana boxing community
sports|

Joseph Agbeko decries lack of recognition from Ghana boxing community

Joseph Agbeko, a former two-time world champion, has expressed his deep disappointment and hurt regarding what he describes as unappreciative treatment from members of the boxing fraternity in Ghana. Despite achieving significant international success throughout his career and bringing global attention to the nation, the retired pugilist feels that his contributions to the sport remain largely unrecognized and undervalued by those within the local circle. Agbeko noted that this lack of appreciation has been a source of personal pain, especially given the sacrifices he made to represent Ghana at the highest levels of professional boxing. The core of Agbeko’s grievance lies in the perceived indifference or lack of respect shown to him by stakeholders and peers within the domestic boxing community. Having reached the pinnacle of the sport twice, Agbeko believes his legacy warrants a level of recognition that he has not yet experienced in his home country. He characterized the treatment from some members of the fraternity as unfair, suggesting that his world titles and international accolades have not translated into the stature or respect he expected to maintain within the Ghanaian sporting landscape after his active years in the ring. Agbeko’s public admission of these feelings highlights a broader conversation regarding the legacy and treatment of former sports champions in Ghana. By speaking out about his personal hurt, the former champion draws attention to the emotional toll that a perceived lack of acknowledgement can take on veteran athletes. His comments may serve as a catalyst for a wider discussion among boxing administrators and fans about the necessity of preserving the legacies of those who have achieved international glory for the country, ensuring that their efforts are formally celebrated and respected by future generations.

sports|

Kofi Adams mandates next Black Stars coach must reside in Ghana

Minister for Sports and Recreation Kofi Iddie Adams has issued a clear directive regarding the appointment of the next Black Stars head coach, mandating that the successful candidate must be based in Ghana full-time. This requirement marks a significant shift in the Ministry’s approach to managing the senior national team following a period of instability and disappointing results on the pitch. The Minister emphasized that the practice of foreign coaches visiting the country only for match windows is no longer acceptable, as the government seeks a more committed technical leadership. Speaking on the criteria for the new appointment, Adams highlighted that the next manager must be fully integrated into the national football development programme. He argued that the coach's physical presence in the country is essential for monitoring local talent and engaging with the domestic league. According to the Minister, the previous "fly-in, fly-out" model has hindered the team's progress and failed to foster a deep connection between the technical leadership and the local football ecosystem. This new residency condition is intended to ensure that the head coach is actively involved in day-to-day scouting and development efforts. The search for a new coach follows the departure of Carlos Queiroz, whose tenure ended after a series of underwhelming performances during a disappointing qualifying campaign. Ghana recently suffered setbacks with losses to Ivory Coast and Gambia, which have placed the nation’s continental ambitions under scrutiny. In response to these challenges, a five-member committee has been established to identify a suitable replacement who can meet the Ministry's strict residency requirements and restore the competitive edge of the Black Stars. While the search committee continues its work, the Ghana Football Association has implemented an interim technical arrangement to handle immediate responsibilities. Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren has been appointed to lead the team on a temporary basis, supported by former players Ibrahim Tanko and Godwin Attram. This interim technical bench will oversee the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Somalia, as the authorities work toward a permanent appointment that aligns with the new mandate.

Nathaniel Adjei expects tough test against Ligue 1 leaders AS Monaco
sports|

Nathaniel Adjei expects tough test against Ligue 1 leaders AS Monaco

Ghanaian defender Nathaniel Adjei is bracing for a significant challenge as FC Lorient prepares to host Ligue 1 leaders AS Monaco at the Stade du Moustoir this Sunday. The upcoming fixture is a critical test for Lorient, who are looking to maintain their momentum against the most consistent side in the French top flight this season. Adjei has highlighted the match as a major milestone in their campaign, requiring peak performance and high levels of focus from every member of the squad to secure a positive result. To successfully compete against the league leaders, Adjei believes a disciplined and unified team performance will be essential. He emphasized that the Lorient squad must remain strictly committed to their tactical plan to neutralize Monaco's potent attacking threats. As a key figure in the Lorient backline, Adjei’s role will be pivotal in maintaining structural integrity at the back while transitioning play effectively under pressure from the visitors' high-pressing system. A positive outcome on Sunday would serve as a major confidence booster for Lorient as they navigate the complexities of the current Ligue 1 season. For Adjei, the match represents an opportunity to prove his mettle against elite international competition and help his side climb the league standings. The focus remains squarely on defensive organization and collective execution as the team finalizes their preparations for the high-stakes showdown at the Stade du Moustoir.

Malik Jabir leaves Asante Kotoko match over stadium entry fee
sports|

Malik Jabir leaves Asante Kotoko match over stadium entry fee

Asante Kotoko legend Malik Jabir reportedly walked away from the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi during the club’s Premier League fixture against Aduana FC. The former player and coach chose to leave the venue after ticketing officials requested that he pay an entry fee to access the stadium. This incident has sparked discussions regarding the treatment of veteran players and club icons within the Ghanaian football ecosystem, particularly those who have dedicated decades to their respective teams. Jabir, who served Asante Kotoko both as a prolific player and later as a manager, expressed significant disappointment over the encounter. According to reports, he had arrived at the stadium expecting to watch his former side compete, but the demand for payment was perceived as a lack of recognition for his long-standing contributions to the Porcupine Warriors. Rather than complying with the request to purchase a ticket, Jabir opted to depart the premises immediately, choosing to forgo the match entirely rather than accept what he viewed as a disrespectful gesture. The situation highlights a recurring issue in Ghanaian sports concerning the protocol for honoring legends and former internationals at match venues. While stadium management and the National Sports Authority often implement strict ticketing policies to maximize revenue, many fans and analysts argue that individuals of Jabir's stature should be granted honorary access. The event has led to calls for Asante Kotoko and the relevant football authorities to establish clearer guidelines to ensure that former stars are accorded the respect their legacies deserve at national sporting facilities.

sports|

National Sports Authority and Sports Ministry face World Cup visa scrutiny

The Ministry of Youth and Sports and the National Sports Authority (NSA) are facing intense scrutiny following allegations of irregularities in the visa arrangements for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The scandal involves coordinated actions between several government agencies and a private entity, TRIBE Culture Fest, raising serious concerns about the integrity of official travel facilitation processes. Experts warn that the controversy could undermine the credibility of Ghana’s sports and tourism institutions on the international stage. The allegations link the National Sports Authority, the Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA), and the Ministry of Youth and Sports to suspicious visa processes intended for the upcoming tournament. By involving a private organization like TRIBE Culture Fest in the official delegation and travel logistics, the state bodies have opened themselves up to accusations of procedural violations. This lack of transparency has sparked a broader debate about the management of international sporting events and the oversight of public institutions. There are significant fears that this scandal will negatively impact ordinary Ghanaians who seek to travel abroad. If foreign embassies and international partners lose confidence in the verification and vetting processes of Ghanaian state institutions, it may lead to increased visa restrictions and higher rejection rates for all citizens. The actions of these agencies could make future travel and international sporting arrangements significantly more difficult for the general public, who are currently far removed from the administrative controversy. As calls for accountability grow, the focus has shifted to the long-term institutional damage caused by these irregularities. Restoring Ghana's reputation will require a clear and transparent investigation into the roles played by the NSA, GTA, and the Ministry of Youth and Sports. Without decisive action to address these systemic failures, the country’s ability to coordinate large-scale international sporting delegations and maintain diplomatic trust in travel matters remains at risk.