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.

Hearts of Oak Put Unbeaten Run on the Line Against Karela United at Aliu Mahama Stadium
sports|

Hearts of Oak Put Unbeaten Run on the Line Against Karela United at Aliu Mahama Stadium

The 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season continues this weekend with a high-stakes encounter as Hearts of Oak travel to face Karela United at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium on Saturday, 26 September. The Phobians enter the fixture with significant momentum, remaining unbeaten after their first three matches of the campaign. With two wins and a draw under their belt, Hearts of Oak have demonstrated a high level of consistency and defensive discipline, a trend they have maintained across their last five competitive outings. However, they face a Karela side that has historically proven to be a difficult hurdle for the Accra-based giants. Karela United heading into the match with an urgent need to revive their season following a rocky start. The Pride and Passion have suffered two defeats in their opening three games, most recently falling to a last-minute heartbreak against Aduana FC. Despite this inconsistent form, the hosts are banking on their formidable home record to turn the tide. Statistics favor Karela in this specific matchup, as they have remained largely dominant against Hearts of Oak in recent years, securing three wins and two draws in their last six encounters at home. The tactical battle will likely center on whether Karela's defense can withstand the pressure of a confident Hearts of Oak attack, while simultaneously exploiting the home-ground advantage that has served them so well in the past. For Karela, this match represents a crucial opportunity to exit the lower rungs of the league table and regain the trust of their supporters. Conversely, a victory for the Phobians would not only break their recent winless streak at the Aliu Mahama Stadium but also solidify their position as genuine contenders for the league title this season. As the league begins to take shape, the outcome of this clash could set the tone for both clubs' trajectories in the coming months. Fans are expecting a fiercely contested match, with Karela fighting for redemption and Hearts of Oak looking to maintain their perfect start to the season. With both sides having much to prove, Saturday's fixture in Tamale is poised to be one of the highlights of the Ghana Premier League's early stages, potentially shifting the dynamics of the top half of the table.

Ghana, UK explore new partnership to transform sports development
sports|

Ghana and UK Forge Strategic Partnership to Transform Sports Infrastructure and Youth Development

Ghana and the United Kingdom have initiated high-level discussions aimed at forging a transformative partnership in the sports sector, focusing on infrastructure development, youth empowerment, and strategic investment. During a pivotal meeting between Ghana’s Minister for Youth and Sports, Kofi Iddie Adams, and the UK Trade Commissioner for Africa, Alastair Long, both nations expressed a mutual commitment to leveraging sports as a catalyst for economic and social development. The collaboration seeks to capitalize on Ghana's vibrant sporting talent while utilizing British expertise in technical training and infrastructure management to elevate the nation’s athletic profile on the global stage. UK Trade Commissioner Alastair Long underscored the profound potential of sports to foster community cohesion and national unity. He reiterated the United Kingdom’s readiness to partner with Ghanaian authorities to provide technical assistance and explore investment avenues for modernizing sports facilities. According to Mr. Long, the UK’s involvement would not only focus on physical structures but also on the soft power of sports—facilitating training programs that empower the youth and create sustainable career paths within the broader sports economy. Responding to the UK's interest, Minister Kofi Iddie Adams highlighted Ghana’s deep-rooted sporting heritage, noting that the country's passion for athletics must be matched by world-class infrastructure. He revealed that the government is actively planning the construction of new stadiums and the upgrading of existing facilities to meet international standards. This infrastructure drive is a core component of Ghana’s strategy to position itself as a premier destination for global sporting events, ensuring that the nation's athletes have the resources necessary to compete at the highest levels. A significant driver behind this renewed focus on infrastructure is Ghana’s preparation to host the 2027 Under-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The success of this upcoming tournament is seen as a litmus test for the nation’s developmental progress and its ability to manage large-scale international competitions. By aligning with the UK, Ghana aims to ensure that the legacy of the 2027 tournament extends far beyond the final whistle, creating a foundation for long-term growth, improved community health, and a robust pipeline of world-class sporting talent.

Klopp and Xavi Mark Managerial Returns as Germany and Netherlands Draw Amid Injury Concerns for Havertz and Brobbey
sports|

Klopp and Xavi Mark Managerial Returns as Germany and Netherlands Draw Amid Injury Concerns for Havertz and Brobbey

In a high-stakes Nations League encounter that marked the return of two of football’s most prominent managerial figures, Germany and the Netherlands played out a 1-1 draw that was ultimately overshadowed by significant injury concerns for both sides. The match saw Jurgen Klopp take charge of the German national team and Xavi Hernandez lead the Oranje, both making their first major appearances in the dugout since leaving Liverpool and Barcelona, respectively, in May 2024. While the tactical battle between the two modern greats lived up to expectations, the physical toll on the players became the central narrative by the final whistle. The scoring opened with Felix Nmecha finding the net for Germany, giving Klopp’s side a lead that they held for much of the contest. However, the Netherlands displayed late resilience, with Cody Gakpo striking in injury time to secure a hard-fought point for Xavi’s men. Beyond the scoreline, the match featured a sentimental moment for Dutch football as late substitute Ruben van Bommel continued his family's storied legacy within the national team. Despite the late equalizer, Jurgen Klopp expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, praising the players' execution in their first outing under his guidance. However, the draw came at a potential cost for the players' respective domestic clubs. Arsenal forward Kai Havertz was forced off the pitch with an injury, sparking concerns for the North London club’s upcoming league and European fixtures. Similarly, the Netherlands’ Brian Brobbey, currently playing for Sunderland, also suffered an injury that necessitated an early exit. These fitness setbacks will be closely monitored by club medical staffs as the international break concludes and domestic schedules resume. As both Germany and the Netherlands look toward their remaining Nations League fixtures, the integration of Klopp and Xavi into their new roles appears to be progressing smoothly. The tactical shifts and renewed energy brought by both managers suggest a competitive path ahead for these European giants as they rebuild for future tournaments. For now, the primary focus shifts to the recovery of key personnel like Havertz and Brobbey, whose availability remains critical for both their national ambitions and their clubs' season objectives.

sports|

Barcelona Sporting Director Deco Dismisses Transfer Links to Manchester United Starlet JJ Gabriel

Barcelona’s Sporting Director, Deco, has officially clarified the club's stance regarding Manchester United’s highly-rated teenager JJ Gabriel, stating that the Catalan giants are not currently pursuing the youngster. The announcement comes at a time of increasing uncertainty surrounding Gabriel’s future at Old Trafford, following reports that the player has expressed a desire to leave the Premier League club. Despite the buzz surrounding the teenager’s potential, Deco emphasized that Barcelona is not among the clubs actively seeking his signature at this stage, prioritizing clarity over his current situation in England. The speculation regarding Gabriel intensified after his standout performance in his UEFA Youth League debut on September 10, a match that reportedly caught the attention of several of Europe's elite scouts. However, the situation has grown complicated as the player has reportedly not returned to training with Manchester United since that appearance. While major rivals such as Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) are rumored to be keeping a close watch on the developing standoff, Deco pointed to the need for a definitive understanding of Gabriel's contractual status and his relationship with United before any formal interest could be entertained. Navigating a transfer for a player of Gabriel’s age also presents significant regulatory and logistical challenges. To facilitate a move to an EU-based club like Barcelona or Real Madrid, the youngster would likely need to wait until he reaches the age of 16 and potentially secure an EU passport to comply with international transfer regulations. These hurdles, combined with the lack of a clear exit path from Manchester United, appear to have influenced Barcelona's decision to remain on the sidelines for the time being. For Manchester United, the friction with one of their most promising academy prospects represents a significant challenge for their youth development hierarchy. While Gabriel's talent is undisputed, the current impasse leaves his immediate career progression in limbo. As the European football landscape waits for the next development in this saga, Deco’s comments serve as a reminder that even the world’s biggest clubs often require institutional stability and legal certainty before committing to high-profile youth recruitment.

A football player in a white Israel national team kit kneels on the pitch while holding a yellow corner flag. He is mimicking a shooting motion with his hands and the flag pole as part of a goal celebration against a backdrop of a blue digital advertising board.
sports|

Israel International Sayed Abu Farhi Sent Off After Mimicking Gun Celebration in Nations League Loss to Austria

Israeli forward Sayed Abu Farhi faced a dramatic dismissal during a recent UEFA Nations League fixture against Austria, after a controversial goal celebration led to a second yellow card. The 20-year-old Colorado Rapids player had momentarily secured hope for his side by scoring an equalizer, but the joy was short-lived. In the heat of the moment, Abu Farhi used the corner flag to mimic the action of firing a weapon, a gesture that the officiating team deemed a bookable offense. Having already been on a yellow card, the striker was promptly sent off, leaving his teammates to navigate the remainder of the match with only ten men. The incident significantly impacted the match's outcome, as Austria took full advantage of their superior numbers. Following Abu Farhi’s departure, the Austrian side asserted control, finding the back of the net through Romano Schmid, Phillipp Mwene, and Sasa Kalajdzic to seal a 3-1 victory. Beyond the tactical consequences on the pitch, the celebration sparked immediate debate due to the sensitive geopolitical environment surrounding the Israeli national team. With the conflict in Gaza drawing global attention, any perceived military or violent imagery in a sporting context is subject to heightened scrutiny from both fans and governing bodies. This controversy occurs as international pressure mounts regarding Israel’s continued participation in UEFA competitions. Recently, there have been vocal calls from various groups, including some within the Republic of Ireland, for a boycott of matches involving the Israeli national team. Sports governing bodies have traditionally sought to keep political statements off the field, and Abu Farhi’s actions are likely to be reviewed for potential further disciplinary measures. As Israel prepares for its upcoming fixtures, the focus remains on whether the team can distance itself from off-pitch tensions or if incidents like this will continue to define their international campaign.

Georgian footballer Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is captured waving to a crowd while holding a silver star-patterned trophy, likely a Player of the Match award. He is wearing a white long-sleeved jersey against a dark stadium backdrop with blurred lights.
sports|

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia Embraces Ballon d’Or Nomination and Comparisons to Football Legend George Best

Georgia’s Khvicha Kvaratskhelia has expressed immense pride after being named on the 30-player shortlist for the prestigious Ballon d’Or award. The 25-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger, who was recently honored as the Champions League player of the season, described the nomination as a realization of "something special" in his career. Ahead of the award ceremony scheduled for 26 October, Kvaratskhelia is being celebrated not just for his individual skill, but as a symbolic figure for football in smaller nations. Reflecting on his journey, the Georgian international emphasized the significance of his achievement for his home country. Kvaratskhelia noted that representing Georgia on such a global stage serves as a beacon of hope for young players from nations that are not traditionally viewed as footballing giants. His rise has drawn comparisons to Northern Ireland legend George Best, a parallel that the winger finds deeply humbling. Like Best, Kvaratskhelia is viewed as a generational talent capable of becoming a national icon through his flair and technical ability on the pitch. Despite the individual spotlight, Georgia national team coach Willy Sagnol has been quick to highlight the player's grounded nature. Sagnol praised Kvaratskhelia for maintaining a "team-first" mentality even as he garners global accolades. This blend of individual brilliance and collective commitment has been central to his success at both the club level with PSG and on the international stage. Sagnol’s comments suggest that Kvaratskhelia’s professional attitude is just as vital as his footwork in his pursuit of greatness. As the football world looks toward the October ceremony, Kvaratskhelia’s presence among the elite signals a shift in the landscape of European football, where talent from emerging nations is increasingly recognized. Whether or not he takes home the top prize, his nomination cements his status as one of the game's premier talents. For Georgia, he represents a new era of sporting excellence, inspiring a future generation of footballers to believe that global recognition is within their reach.

Andy Carroll Reveals 2021 Sexual Assault and Attacker's Conviction in New Autobiography
sports|

Andy Carroll Reveals 2021 Sexual Assault and Attacker's Conviction in New Autobiography

Former England international and current Dagenham & Redbridge player-owner Andy Carroll has disclosed that he was a victim of sexual assault in 2021. The harrowing revelation, featured in his newly released autobiography titled 'Owning It,' details how the incident occurred within the confines of his own home while he was asleep. This disclosure marks a significant moment of personal transparency for the striker, who has navigated much of his professional life under intense public scrutiny. Following the incident, a criminal investigation was launched which eventually led to the perpetrator being sentenced to three years in prison. In his book, Carroll reflects on the immense difficulty he experienced in processing the trauma and the challenges involved in discussing the event openly. He acknowledges the lasting impact the assault has had on his life, emphasizing that the vulnerability of such a situation transcends professional status or public persona. Currently balancing roles as both a player and a co-owner of Dagenham & Redbridge, Carroll explained that his primary motivation for sharing his story is the hope that it might help other survivors. By speaking out, he aims to challenge the stigma often associated with male victims of sexual assault, particularly within the historically hyper-masculine environment of professional football. His narrative joins a growing movement of athletes using their platforms to address sensitive and previously taboo subjects. As the sports community reacts to his revelation, Carroll’s story highlights the critical need for robust support systems and a culture that encourages victims to seek justice. The publication of 'Owning It' provides a broader context to the striker's career and personal journey, serving as a call for greater awareness and empathy regarding the private struggles of public figures.

Switzerland’s Breel Embolo and Granit Xhaka Dropped from Squad Over Forged COVID-19 Certificates
sports|

Switzerland’s Breel Embolo and Granit Xhaka Dropped from Squad Over Forged COVID-19 Certificates

Switzerland’s national football team has been rocked by scandal following the exclusion of striker Breel Embolo from the squad ahead of their upcoming Nations League fixtures. The decision comes as a direct result of sanctions imposed on the forward for his involvement in the use of forged COVID-19 test certificates during the global pandemic. This high-profile omission highlights a rigorous stance by Swiss football authorities regarding document fraud and health protocol violations that occurred during the height of the health crisis. Embolo’s removal follows closely on the heels of another major blow to the team’s lineup. Earlier in the week, captain Granit Xhaka was also dropped from the squad after it was revealed he used a fake certificate to evade mandatory vaccination requirements. While Embolo’s specific sanction relates to test certificates, Xhaka's admission involves the bypass of immunization mandates. The loss of both a primary attacking threat and the team's veteran leader creates a significant void in the Swiss roster as they prepare for high-stakes international competition. The disciplinary actions taken against these two pillars of the national team underscore the lasting consequences of pandemic-era misconduct. Although the specific events occurred in the past, the current sanctions demonstrate that international football federations are continuing to hold players accountable for ethical breaches and the falsification of official health documents. The Swiss squad will now have to navigate their Nations League campaign without the experience and tactical presence of Embolo and Xhaka, forcing the coaching staff to adjust their strategy and rely on alternative talent during this critical window.

GCB Bank Targets Historic Ninth Consecutive Championship at 2026 Business Olympics
sports|

GCB Bank Targets Historic Ninth Consecutive Championship at 2026 Business Olympics

GCB Bank is preparing to defend its long-standing dominance at the 2026 Business Olympics, scheduled for Saturday, September 26. The financial institution is eyeing a record-breaking ninth consecutive overall championship, reinforcing its status as a powerhouse in the Ghanaian corporate sporting arena. The event, which brings together various corporate entities for a day of athletic competition and networking, will be hosted at the Eden Heights Sports Complex starting at 8:00 a.m. Despite a condensed preparation window of only three days, the GCB Bank Sports Committee remains highly optimistic about their prospects for the upcoming games. Ruth Nana Ama Asamoah, an Executive Member of the committee, emphasized that the team’s extensive experience and previous successes provide the necessary motivation to compete at a high level. In the previous edition of the games, GCB Bank delivered a commanding performance, securing a total of 14 medals across various disciplines, a feat they hope to replicate or exceed this weekend. The path to a ninth title will not be without challenges, as Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) has emerged as a primary contender seeking to unseat the reigning champions for overall honors. This year’s competition is organized under the theme, “Bridging the Gap in Our Corporate World Through Sports,” highlighting the role of athletic competition in fostering collaboration within the business sector. The day will feature a wide array of sporting activities designed to test the physical prowess and teamwork of participants while strengthening professional ties outside the traditional office environment.

Manchester City Found Guilty of Financial Breaches as UEFA Warns of Premier League Spending Dominance
sports|

Manchester City Found Guilty of Financial Breaches as UEFA Warns of Premier League Spending Dominance

In a landmark moment for English football, an independent commission has reportedly found Manchester City guilty of 114 out of 115 charges related to breaches of Premier League financial regulations. The ruling, reported by high-level sources including The Athletic and BBC Sport, follows a multi-year investigation into the club's financial conduct. While the Premier League and Manchester City have declined to comment officially on the findings, the club is expected to appeal the decision. This verdict carries significant implications for the club's standing and the broader integrity of the league's financial framework. Simultaneously, a new report from UEFA has highlighted the staggering economic divide between the Premier League and the rest of European football. According to UEFA executive director Andrea Traverso, English top-flight clubs dominated the summer transfer market with an estimated spend of ‐4.6 billion (#4 billion). This figure exceeds the total combined spending of the next eight largest European leagues. The report notes that Premier League clubs accounted for over 60% of all deals, with an average expenditure of ‐24 million per incoming player, reflecting a widening gap in global purchasing power. UEFA's findings also raise alarms regarding the sustainability of current financial practices. The report identifies a "two-speed" transfer market where English clubs increasingly rely on selling academy products to meet financial regulations. Furthermore, the report pointed to the influence of multi-club ownership models, noting that more than half of the total transfer fees between clubs this summer arose from transactions involving Chelsea and the French club Strasbourg. UEFA expressed concern that rising transfer values and growing debt could lead to severe financial pressure on clubs if the market experiences a sudden correction. These dual developments depict a Premier League that is both at the pinnacle of global financial power and under intense regulatory scrutiny. As Manchester City prepares for a potential appeal process, the wider footballing world is left to contend with the sustainability of an economic model that UEFA fears may be reaching a breaking point. The eventual penalties imposed on Manchester City and the governing bodies' response to the widening wealth gap will likely define the structural future of European football for years to come.

Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah Declares Ghana Football "Collapsed" Under GFA President Kurt Okraku
sports|

Manhyia South MP Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah Declares Ghana Football "Collapsed" Under GFA President Kurt Okraku

Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah, the Member of Parliament for Manhyia South, has launched a scathing critique of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) leadership, asserting that the nation’s football sector has "collapsed" under the administration of President Kurt Okraku. Speaking in a series of interviews, the lawmaker highlighted a significant decline in the performance of national youth teams and the domestic league since Okraku assumed office in 2019. Awuah has formally appealed to President John Mahama to initiate urgent reforms within the GFA, warning that the sport’s status as a vital national passion is at stake without immediate government intervention to address what he describes as systemic failures. A central theme of the MP's criticism involves allegations of a "cabal" controlling the GFA and potential conflicts of interest. Awuah specifically pointed to Okraku’s ownership of four football clubs, questioning how an administrator with such vested interests can manage the national game impartially. "The FA President has four clubs; what do you think he would do?" Awuah remarked, suggesting that such structures hinder fair opportunities for players across the country. He cited specific concerns regarding national team selections and player development, referencing cases like that of former player Philemon Baffour to illustrate his point about the administration's impact on player opportunities. The exchange between the two figures has become increasingly personal, moving from administrative critiques to local performance records. In response to the MP’s criticisms, GFA President Kurt Okraku challenged Awuah’s own contributions to sports, questioning what infrastructure the lawmaker had provided for his constituents. Awuah countered this by highlighting the existence of three AstroTurf pitches within the Manhyia South constituency. The MP argued that while local infrastructure is important, the structural challenges facing Ghanaian football are "beyond" the current GFA leadership's ability to resolve, necessitating a deeper look into the association's core operations. The escalating tension between the GFA and political figures reflects a growing public dissatisfaction with the state of the "passion of the nation." While the GFA leadership maintains that it is working to improve the sport, the pressure from legislative figures for transparency and better performance remains high. As calls for President Mahama to take a more active role in addressing GFA issues grow louder, the football governing body faces a critical period where it must address these systemic allegations or potentially face more direct government oversight to restore the integrity and success of Ghanaian football on the international stage.

Football manager Carlos Queiroz is pictured during a press conference, wearing earpieces and speaking into a microphone. The background consists of a branded media wall featuring various sports and corporate sponsors.
sports|

Carlos Queiroz Slams ‘Joke’ Penalty as Ghana’s 2027 AFCON Qualifying Campaign Starts with Defeat

Ghana’s quest for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) began on a disappointing note as the Black Stars suffered a 2-0 defeat to Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix in Bouaké. Goals from Malick Yalcouyé and a second-half penalty from Franck Kessié secured the win for the hosts, leaving Ghana at the bottom of Group C after the first round of matches. Despite the scoreline, Ghana head coach Carlos Queiroz expressed pride in his team’s effort, arguing that the Black Stars created more scoring opportunities than their opponents but were undone by clinical finishing and a controversial officiating decision. Queiroz was particularly vocal in his criticism of the penalty awarded against Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, which led to the second goal. Describing the decision as a "joke," the coach claimed the incident fundamentally altered the match's momentum at a time when Ghana was still very much in contention. Issahaku himself later denied making contact with the Ivorian attacker, stating he did not kick his opponent. This frustration led Queiroz to formally call for the implementation of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology in AFCON qualifiers to ensure fair outcomes in high-stakes matches. In contrast, Côte d’Ivoire’s coach Hervé Renard sidestepped the controversy during post-match interviews, choosing instead to focus on the significance of the three points while acknowledging that the pitch conditions made for an imperfect performance from both sides. The defeat has sparked intense scrutiny of the team’s current form and individual performances. Midfielder Kwasi Sibo faced significant backlash on social media for his display in Bouaké, and statistical analysis reveals an alarming trend: the Black Stars have won only one of their last 11 matches, suffering eight defeats since November 2025. This run of form has heightened pressure on Queiroz, especially as comparisons are drawn to the tenure of his predecessor, Otto Addo. While the Black Stars struggled for midfield control in Bouaké, forward Brandon Thomas-Asante has urged the Ghanaian public to remain steadfast and rally behind the team as they attempt to navigate this difficult period. Ghana’s path to qualification has become significantly more complex following The Gambia’s 2-1 victory over Somalia, which puts the Scorpions level on points with Côte d’Ivoire at the top of Group C. Now sitting three points behind their primary rivals, the Black Stars face a must-win situation in their next fixture against The Gambia on September 29 at the Accra Sports Stadium. Despite the opening setback, Queiroz remains defiant, expressing "no doubt" that his side will level the historical head-to-head record when the Elephants visit Accra later in the campaign. For now, the focus shifts to the upcoming home fixture, where a win is crucial to keep their 2027 AFCON hopes alive.