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.

Gernot Rohr criticises Argentina over treatment during Messi farewell match
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Gernot Rohr criticises Argentina over treatment during Messi farewell match

Benin head coach Gernot Rohr has voiced strong dissatisfaction regarding the treatment his team received during an international friendly against Argentina. The match, which took place on October 6, 2026, was a high-profile occasion marking the farewell game of Argentine legend Lionel Messi. While the event was designed to celebrate Messi's illustrious international career, Rohr indicated that the experience for the Beninese delegation was marred by "poor treatment" from the host nation. On the field, Argentina secured a decisive 3-0 victory over Benin, with Lionel Messi delivering a performance befitting the occasion. The veteran forward was involved in every goal, scoring once and providing two assists to lead his side to a comfortable win. Despite the competitive nature of the fixture, the focus in the aftermath has shifted toward the logistical and hospitality concerns raised by the Benin technical team. Rohr’s frustrations highlight potential lapses in the protocols expected for visiting national teams during major international assignments. Although the specific nature of the grievances was not fully detailed, the public nature of the coach's criticism suggests that the conditions provided for the Cheetahs did not meet the standards required for such a prestigious match. The contrast between the celebratory atmosphere in Argentina and the complaints from the Benin camp has sparked discussions regarding the hosting obligations of national associations. As the football community reflects on Messi’s final contribution to the Argentine national team, the allegations of mistreatment provide a sobering counter-narrative to the festivities. For Benin, the match served as a significant test against the world champions, but the off-field issues have clearly left a negative impression on the squad and its management. There has been no immediate official response from the Argentine Football Association regarding Rohr's comments.

Berekum Chelsea seek win against Debibi United to end winless streak
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Berekum Chelsea seek win against Debibi United to end winless streak

Berekum Chelsea is set to host league newcomers Debibi United at the Golden City Park on October 11, 2026, in a critical encounter for the home side. This Week 6 fixture of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season comes at a time when Chelsea is desperate to reverse a disappointing run of form. The Berekum-based club aims to use the home advantage to secure a much-needed victory and stabilize their campaign early in the season. The 'Bibires' enter the match facing significant pressure, having failed to secure a win in their last three outings. Through the first five matches of the campaign, Berekum Chelsea has recorded just one victory, alongside one draw and three losses. This sequence of results has left the team in a precarious position in the league standings, making the upcoming clash against the top-flight debutants a vital opportunity to regain momentum and satisfy their local supporters. Debibi United, playing in their first-ever Ghana Premier League season, represents a fresh challenge for the established Chelsea side. For the hosts, taking all three points is essential to climbing out of the lower rungs of the table and avoiding an early-season relegation scrap. As the 2026/27 season progresses, the outcome of this match will likely be seen as a defining moment for Berekum Chelsea's aspirations as they look to re-establish themselves as a competitive force in Ghanaian football.

Enzo Maresca says Manchester City squad remains positive despite charges
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Enzo Maresca says Manchester City squad remains positive despite charges

Manchester City head coach Enzo Maresca has affirmed that the squad's morale remains high as the team prepares for their upcoming Premier League fixture against Liverpool. Despite the ongoing scrutiny surrounding 115 financial charges levelled against the club by the Premier League, Maresca described the atmosphere within the camp as "fantastic." The team has returned from the international break with a clear focus on maintaining their competitive form on the pitch, rather than being distracted by off-field legal developments. The investigation into Manchester City’s financial dealings has gained significant attention following reports of improper contracts that allegedly concealed more than £830 million in funding. These charges, which span several years, have cast a shadow over the club's recent successes, but the coaching staff is determined to shield the players from the controversy. Maresca emphasized that the primary responsibility of the squad is to perform in their professional capacities, urging them to prioritize their footballing duties over the external discourse surrounding the club's administrative history. Striker Erling Haaland reinforced this sentiment of optimism, noting a strong bond between the players and the club's supporters. Haaland highlighted the positive energy during training sessions and the collective drive to achieve results in the league. As the squad resumed full training this week, the focus has shifted entirely to the tactical preparations required for their high-stakes encounter with Liverpool. The star forward indicated that the team is looking forward to the challenge and remains undeterred by the administrative investigations. While Manchester City remains focused on their sporting objectives, the broader Premier League community is closely watching the situation. Several managers from rival clubs have called for a swift and transparent resolution to the 115 charges to ensure the long-term integrity of the competition. For now, City’s management appears intent on maintaining a business-as-usual approach, with the immediate goal being a victory in their next league outing. The outcome of the legal proceedings remains a long-term concern, but for Maresca and his players, the immediate priority is the pitch.

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Inaki Williams vows to finish his playing career at Athletic Club

Inaki Williams, the 32-year-old forward for Athletic Club, has officially announced his intention to finish his professional playing career with the Basque side. The Ghana international made it clear that he does not plan to play for any other team before retiring, reaffirming his deep-seated loyalty to the club that has been his professional home for over a decade. This commitment effectively ends any speculation regarding potential transfers as he enters the final stages of his career. Having joined the Athletic Club academy in 2012, Williams has risen through the ranks to become one of the most significant figures in the club's modern era. To date, he has made 515 official appearances for the senior team, a tally that ranks him fifth in the long and storied history of the institution. His journey from the Lezama academy to becoming a mainstay in the first team has been characterized by remarkable consistency and durability, qualities that have made him a fan favorite at the San Mams. The striker's decision to remain with the club until retirement ensures he will remain a central pillar of the squad. By pledging his future exclusively to Athletic Club, Williams solidifies his status as a "one-club man" in an era where such loyalty is increasingly rare. His presence is expected to provide continued leadership and stability for the team as they look toward future domestic campaigns and mentor the next generation of academy talents.

KGL Foundation U17 Colts Championship enters final group stage
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KGL Foundation U17 Colts Championship enters final group stage

The 2026 KGL Foundation Inter-Regional U17 Colts Championship is reaching a decisive juncture as the final round of group-stage matches takes place today, October 8, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram. This concluding set of fixtures will settle the standings and determine which regional teams advance to the highly anticipated semi-final stage of the competition. The tournament has served as a critical platform for emerging talent from across the country to showcase their skills at the national level. Teams from various regions have gathered at the national technical centre, showcasing the best of Ghana's youth football development. The matches on the final day are expected to deliver high-intensity football as several groups remain open, with semi-final qualification and group seeding still at stake. The Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence has provided a professional environment for these young athletes to demonstrate their technical abilities and tactical discipline before observers and technical directors. As the tournament progresses beyond the group phase, the focus shifts toward identifying standout performers who may eventually transition into the national youth team structures. The KGL Foundation’s continued sponsorship of this inter-regional championship remains a cornerstone of the Ghana Football Association's talent identification strategy. Following the conclusion of today's fixtures, the successful semi-finalists will begin preparations for the knockout rounds, moving one step closer to the 2026 championship title.

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Premier League clubs fear political interference in Manchester City appeal

Several Premier League clubs have voiced significant concerns over potential political interference in Manchester City’s ongoing appeal against financial rule breaches. The unease follows public comments made by Andy Burnham, which club officials fear could compromise the integrity of the independent hearing process. Manchester City was recently found guilty of breaching the league's financial regulations, a ruling the club continues to deny and is currently contesting through official channels. The scrutiny surrounding Burnham’s involvement stems from his perceived relationship with the club’s Abu Dhabi-based ownership. While Burnham emphasized that his remarks were not intended to suggest that any entity is above the established rules, the timing and nature of his statements have sparked alarm across the league. Club officials are reportedly worried that such high-profile political commentary could exert undue pressure on the judicial process, potentially impacting the final outcome of the appeal following a lengthy independent hearing. This development highlights broader anxieties regarding the relationship between the Premier League's regulatory framework and the broader political landscape. As the league seeks to maintain its brand and operational independence, the possibility of political figures influencing sporting sanctions is viewed as a significant threat to the competition's governance. The resolution of this appeal is now seen as a critical test for the Premier League’s ability to enforce its financial regulations without external pressure.

Black Queens defeat Mauritius 3-0 in 2028 Olympic Games qualifier
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Black Queens defeat Mauritius 3-0 in 2028 Olympic Games qualifier

Ghana’s women’s national team, the Black Queens, took a significant step toward qualifying for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games with a dominant 3-0 victory over Mauritius. Playing at the Côte d’Or National Sports Complex, the Ghanaian side secured a comfortable first-leg advantage in the second round of the qualifiers. This victory marks a strong start for Coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren’s team as they seek their first-ever Olympic appearance after receiving a bye in the opening round of the tournament. The Black Queens established their authority early in the match, breaking the deadlock in the 16th minute through Abigail Kim. Ghana maintained control of the game throughout the first half, with Alice Kusi and Benedicte Simon also finding the back of the net to seal the 3-0 scoreline before the break. Despite continuing to apply pressure and creating several opportunities in the second half, the Queens were unable to add further goals, but their defensive discipline ensured they kept a clean sheet away from home. Coach Bjorkegren named a 24-player squad for this encounter, including several players who were instrumental in the team's recent Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) campaign. The tactical superiority of the Black Queens was evident as they dominated possession and effectively neutralised the host nation's offensive threats. Mauritius, coming off a successful earlier qualification round, found it difficult to match the intensity and organization of the Ghanaian side. The two teams will meet again for the second leg of the qualifier, which is scheduled to take place on October 13 at the Accra Sports Stadium. With a three-goal cushion and three away goals to their credit, Ghana is in a commanding position to advance to the next stage of the qualification process. The team will look to finalise their progress in front of a home crowd as they continue their journey toward the historic goal of competing in the 2028 Olympic Games.

A medium close-up photograph of former footballer Ramon Vega speaking at a public event. He is dressed in professional attire, including a dark suit and striped tie, while gesturing with his hand against a branded backdrop featuring various logos.
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Ramon Vega declares candidacy for FIFA presidency in next election

Ramon Vega, the former Tottenham Hotspur defender, has officially declared his intention to run for the FIFA presidency in the upcoming election scheduled for next year. Vega’s announcement sets the stage for a direct challenge to the incumbent president, Gianni Infantino, as the international football governing body prepares for its leadership contest. The former Swiss international player, who also featured for Celtic and Watford during his career, is positioning himself as a reform-minded candidate dedicated to restoring trust in the organization. Highlighting the urgency of his bid, Vega has expressed significant concern over the current state of global football governance. He remarked that "Football is in the emergency room, on life support," emphasizing a perceived crisis in how the sport is managed at the highest levels. His campaign platform is built on the pillars of reform, stability, and enhanced credibility. Vega argues that the governing body requires a fresh perspective and improved transparency to navigate its current challenges and ensure the long-term health of the game. The challenge comes at a time when Gianni Infantino has faced intense scrutiny and backlash from various stakeholders within the footballing world. A primary point of contention has been Infantino’s controversial proposal to sell stakes in the FIFA World Cup and other commercial rights to external investors. Critics have argued that such a move could undermine the sovereignty of the tournament and prioritize commercial interests over the spirit of the sport. Vega intends to capitalize on this dissatisfaction by offering an alternative vision for FIFA’s commercial and structural future. The political landscape within FIFA remains complex as the organization approaches its next council meeting scheduled for next week. While Vega pushes for fundamental reform, other influential figures, such as Sheikh Salman bin Ibrahim Al Khalifa, president of the Asian Football Confederation, have signaled a preference for internal governance reviews. Sheikh Salman recently distanced himself from calls for an external oversight body, suggesting that reforms should be handled from within. These divergent views on how to improve FIFA's administration will likely take center stage as the election cycle intensifies.

Joe Abu Salam defends Black Starlets' 20-hour road trip to Burkina Faso
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Joe Abu Salam defends Black Starlets' 20-hour road trip to Burkina Faso

The Leader of Delegation for Ghana’s U17 national team, Joe Abu Salam, has defended the decision to transport the Black Starlets to Burkina Faso by road, stating that the move was a pre-planned component of their tournament strategy. Addressing concerns regarding the 20-hour journey, Salam clarified that the arrangement was not a result of neglect or a lack of support from the Ghana Football Association (GFA). Instead, the road trip was integrated into the team's training schedule to optimize their final preparations for the upcoming WAFU Zone B U17 Championship. According to Salam, the travel itinerary included a strategic stop in Bolgatanga, where the squad utilized a training facility to maintain their fitness and tactical focus before crossing the border. This approach allowed the technical team to manage the players' transition into the regional environment more effectively than a direct flight might have allowed. The delegation leader emphasized that the logistics were carefully coordinated to ensure the players remained in peak physical condition, countering public suggestions that the long distance would negatively impact their performance on the pitch during the tournament. The Black Starlets are set to compete in Group B of the WAFU Zone B U17 Championship, where they will face competition from Togo, Benin, and the host nation, Burkina Faso. This tournament serves as a crucial qualifying stage for the 2027 U17 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). By arriving in Burkina Faso via the planned road route, the team aims to establish a strong presence in the group stages and secure their progression toward the continental championship, fulfilling the GFA's broader objectives for youth football development and international success.

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Ghana Black Stars drop five places to 70th in latest FIFA rankings

Ghana's national football team, the Black Stars, has fallen five places to 70th in the latest FIFA Men’s World Ranking released on October 7, 2026. This decline follows a difficult start to the team's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign, where poor results led to a significant loss of ranking points. Previously ranked 65th, the team saw a reduction of 25.73 points, a slide that has also seen them drop to 14th place within the African continent. The drop in ranking is primarily attributed to two recent defeats in the AFCON qualifiers. The Black Stars suffered a 2-0 loss against C$te d’Ivoire and a subsequent 4-2 defeat at the hands of The Gambia. These results were part of the 338 international matches considered by FIFA in this ranking cycle, which covers the period following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The loss of points reflects the team's ongoing struggle to maintain consistency against regional rivals during the current international window. In the wake of these poor performances, the national team has undergone significant changes in leadership. Head coach Carlos Queiroz has mutually parted ways with the team as the Ghana Football Association seeks a new direction to stabilize the side's qualifying campaign. Furthermore, a scheduled friendly match against Morocco, who currently hold the position of the highest-ranked African nation at 7th in the world, has been cancelled amid the technical restructuring. Looking ahead, the Black Stars will attempt to regain their footing in the upcoming qualifiers under new management. Their next fixture is against Somalia, a team currently ranked 200th in the world. This match is viewed as a critical opportunity for the team to secure a win and begin the process of climbing back up the global standings while securing their path to the 2027 AFCON tournament.

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is seen signing a contract extension while flanked by club executives Richard Garlick and Edu Gaspar. Arteta is wearing an orange training kit, and they are positioned in front of a maroon wall featuring the club's crest and the Sobha Realty Training Centre logo.
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Mikel Arteta signs new contract with Arsenal until 2030

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has committed his long-term future to the club by signing a new contract extension that keeps him at the Emirates Stadium until 2030. The agreement follows a period of significant success for the North London side, culminating in their first Premier League title in twenty years. The new deal is seen as a major endorsement of Arteta’s leadership and tactical vision by the club's board of directors. Under the terms of the new agreement, the Spaniard will receive a substantial salary increase, reportedly earning £10 million per year plus performance-related bonuses. Since his appointment in December 2019, Arteta has overseen a comprehensive transformation of the squad and the club’s culture. During his tenure, he has added an FA Cup and a Premier League trophy to the club’s honors list, successfully returning Arsenal to the pinnacle of English football after a long period of rebuilding. Arteta stated that the contract extension is only the beginning of a journey toward establishing sustained dominance in both domestic and European competitions. Club executives have expressed total confidence in his ability to maintain the high standards required for continued success. With his future secured for the next six years, the focus now turns to building on the recent title win and ensuring the Gunners remains a perennial contender for major silverware.

Former Manchester City midfielder David Silva is captured smiling while walking on a football field holding a soccer ball. He is wearing a blue athletic kit with several logos, set against a background of blurred spectators in a stadium setting.
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David Silva joins Hong Kong side Sha Tin after coming out of retirement

David Silva, the legendary former Manchester City and Spain midfielder, has made a surprise return to professional football at the age of 40. The playmaker has officially signed with Sha Tin, a club competing in the Hong Kong Premier League, effectively ending a two-year hiatus from the sport. Silva's return marks a remarkable comeback after he was forced into retirement in 2023 following a severe knee injury while playing for Real Sociedad. Silva's career is defined by extraordinary success at both the club and international levels. During his decade-long tenure at Manchester City, he won 11 major trophies, including four Premier League titles, and established himself as one of the most celebrated creative midfielders in the history of English football. For the Spanish national team, Silva was a vital component of the squad that dominated global football, winning the 2010 FIFA World Cup and consecutive European Championships in 2008 and 2012. The midfielder had initially hung up his boots in July 2023 after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury during pre-season training in Spain. At the time, the severity of the injury was expected to be career-ending. However, after a successful rehabilitation process, Silva has expressed his enthusiasm for this new chapter in Asia, stating that he is eager to experience life in Hong Kong and contribute to his new team's campaign. Sha Tin currently occupies eighth place in the Hong Kong Premier League standings and looks to Silva to provide a significant boost to their creative output and global profile. The veteran midfielder is expected to join the squad for training immediately to prepare for his competitive debut. His first appearance for the club is anticipated to take place on October 18, when Sha Tin faces off against the Hong Kong Football Club.