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.

Universal Merchant Bank Vows to Dominate 2026 Citi Business Olympics as Wounded Lions
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Universal Merchant Bank Vows to Dominate 2026 Citi Business Olympics as Wounded Lions

Universal Merchant Bank (UMB) has officially signaled its intent to conquer the upcoming 2026 Citi Business Olympics, scheduled to take place on Saturday, September 26, at the Eden Heights Sports Complex. Following a performance that saw the bank secure three medals in the previous edition of the competition, UMB is entering this year's event with a renewed sense of purpose. The bank has set an ambitious goal to improve its standing and ultimately top the overall medal table against a field of corporate competitors. Peter Hall, UMB’s Unit Head for Branding and Events, underscored the bank's fierce determination, stating that the team is "coming like wounded lions" to reclaim sporting glory. This metaphorical stance highlights the institution's commitment to excellence and its drive to showcase the athletic prowess of its staff. The competition is expected to be diverse and intense, featuring a wide array of sporting disciplines including football, volleyball, and swimming, among others. These events provide a unique platform for corporate professionals to display their competitive skills and physical discipline outside of their traditional office environments. Beyond the quest for trophies and medals, the 2026 Citi Business Olympics is built around the central theme, "Bridging the Gap in Our Corporate World Through Sports." The event serves as a vital tool for fostering networking and team building among various corporate organizations in Ghana. For UMB, the focus also extends to the holistic health of its workforce. Hall emphasized the importance of employee well-being and the camaraderie gained through sports, noting that the spirit of unity developed on the field often translates into better collaboration within the professional sphere. As the corporate community prepares to converge at the Eden Heights Sports Complex, the Citi Business Olympics continues to be a premier annual gathering that balances competitive spirit with professional solidarity. With UMB's bold declarations setting a high-stakes tone for the event, the 2026 edition promises not only a showcase of athletic talent but also a significant opportunity for the Ghanaian business community to strengthen inter-industry relationships through the universal language of sports.

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China Secures 10th Asian Games Women’s Volleyball Title in Dominant Final Against Japan

China’s women’s volleyball team has successfully defended its Asian Games title, securing a historic 10th gold medal with a straight-sets victory over Japan. In a high-stakes final held in Nagoya, Japan, the Chinese squad demonstrated tactical superiority and mental toughness to sweep the hosts 3-0. The match concluded with set scores of 25-19, 25-20, and a hard-fought 25-23, solidifying China's reputation as a powerhouse in regional volleyball. The standout performer of the match was Wu Mengjie, who delivered a stellar 26-point performance to lead the Chinese offense. While China controlled the tempo during the first two sets, the third set proved to be a significant test of their resolve. Japan took an early, commanding 7-1 lead, but the Chinese team rallied back through disciplined play and clinical finishing to close out the match. Wu Mengjie credited her teammates for their unwavering support, noting that the collective effort was essential in navigating the game's more challenging moments. Chinese coach Zhao Yong praised the team’s performance, emphasizing that winning under pressure would provide a major boost to the squad's confidence and ongoing development. Conversely, the Japanese side entered the final with a notably different strategy; their coach acknowledged that they fielded a less experienced roster as part of a broader experimentation phase. By testing new players and positions throughout the tournament, Japan aimed to build depth, even while missing several key veterans who might have altered the final outcome. China’s journey to the gold medal included a pivotal semifinal victory over Thailand, which set up the final showdown and allowed them to avenge a recent loss in a previous championship. This 10th Asian Games crown not only adds to China's storied trophy cabinet but also serves as a benchmark for the team as they look toward future international competitions. The victory in Nagoya underscores the depth of China's volleyball program and its ability to maintain excellence across different tournament cycles.

La Liga President Javier Tebas Rejects Real Madrid's Refereeing Conspiracy Claims Following Derby Loss
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La Liga President Javier Tebas Rejects Real Madrid's Refereeing Conspiracy Claims Following Derby Loss

La Liga President Javier Tebas has publicly dismissed allegations of a refereeing "conspiracy" leveled by Real Madrid following their 2-1 defeat to Atletico Madrid. The controversy erupted in the aftermath of the high-stakes derby, where the integrity of officiating became the focal point of post-match discussions. Tebas’s intervention marks a firm defense of the league's officiating standards against what he perceives as an unfounded narrative from one of the world's most prominent footballing institutions. The catalyst for the dispute was a presentation by Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho during a post-match press conference. In a highly unusual move, Mourinho utilized screenshots and visual aids to highlight specific incidents involving Atletico Madrid players that he argued warranted red cards. By presenting these images to the media, the Real Madrid coaching staff sought to suggest a systemic bias or a series of deliberate oversights that influenced the outcome of the match and disadvantaged his side. Responding to these visual demonstrations, Javier Tebas hit out at the rhetoric emerging from the Santiago Bernabéu. The league president's rebuttal emphasizes that the use of isolated screenshots does not provide a complete or fair assessment of refereeing performance throughout the ninety minutes of play. The exchange highlights the deep-seated tensions between the league's administration and Real Madrid, particularly regarding the scrutiny of officials in high-profile fixtures where the stakes for the title race are at their highest. As the fallout from the derby continues, the incident underscores the ongoing challenges La Liga faces in maintaining a sense of impartiality amidst intense club rivalries. While Real Madrid continues to express its grievances through official and media channels, the league's leadership remains steadfast in its support of the refereeing body. This latest clash adds another chapter to the historical friction between Tebas and the Real Madrid hierarchy, serving as a reminder of the volatile intersection between sports performance and administrative politics in Spanish football.

Aduana FC Faces GFA Charges Following Alleged Post-Match Assault on Karela United Personnel
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Aduana FC Faces GFA Charges Following Alleged Post-Match Assault on Karela United Personnel

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has formally charged Aduana FC following reports of a violent encounter involving Karela United after their recent Ghana Premier League (GPL) fixture. The incident, which took place in Dormaa Ahenkro, has cast a shadow over the league’s efforts to promote a safe and family-friendly environment at match venues. The charges against the club come after a preliminary investigation into the events that transpired following the conclusion of the match at the Nana Agyemang Badu I Park, which has historically been a difficult ground for visiting teams. The specifics of the GFA’s charges cite significant breaches of the GFA Disciplinary Code and a failure to adhere to mandatory matchday safety and security protocols. Allegations suggest that Karela United players and technical staff were subjected to physical or verbal assaults by individuals identified as supporters of the home team. Additionally, the Karela United team bus was reportedly vandalized during the unrest, highlighting a breakdown in the security perimeter. Such incidents of stadium violence remain a critical issue for the GFA, which has previously vowed to take a zero-tolerance approach toward any club that fails to provide adequate protection for visiting teams and match officials. As the disciplinary process moves forward, Aduana FC will be required to submit a defense before the GFA Disciplinary Committee. The potential consequences for the club are severe, potentially including substantial monetary fines, the forfeiture of points, or a temporary ban from hosting matches at their home stadium in Dormaa. This case is being closely monitored by stakeholders in the Ghanaian football community, as it highlights the ongoing struggle to eradicate hooliganism from the domestic game and ensures that the focus remains on the athletic performance on the pitch rather than the conduct of fans in the stands.

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Kylian Mbappé reveals near-transfer to Liverpool during his early career at Monaco

French football icon Kylian Mbappé has provided a fascinating glimpse into a major turning point in his early career, revealing that he was remarkably close to signing for Liverpool back in 2016. During his breakout years at AS Monaco, the then-18-year-old forward was the subject of intense speculation and interest from various European powerhouses. According to Mbappé, the Merseyside club made a significant effort to bring him to Anfield, a move that would have fundamentally altered the landscape of the Premier League and European football at the time. A compelling aspect of this near-transfer was the influence of Mbappé's family, particularly his mother. The forward noted that his mother is a dedicated supporter of Liverpool and was particularly enamored with the club's historic stadium and the passionate atmosphere generated by the fans at Anfield. Despite her personal preference and the affection she held for the club, Mbappé ultimately decided to pursue a different trajectory. At that stage of his career, he was one of the most sought-after teenagers in the world, having played a pivotal role in leading Monaco to a surprise Ligue 1 title and the semi-finals of the UEFA Champions League. While the move to the Premier League did not come to fruition in 2016, the revelation underscores the high esteem in which Liverpool’s recruitment team held the young Frenchman. Mbappé would go on to join Paris Saint-Germain in a landmark deal in 2017, eventually becoming the club's all-time leading scorer and a World Cup winner with France before his recent high-profile move to Real Madrid. For Liverpool supporters, the news serves as a bittersweet reminder of a missed opportunity to pair one of the world's greatest talents with the club's modern era of success.

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Georgian Judoka Akaki Japaridze Handed Lifetime Bundesliga Ban After Violent Post-Match Attack

The German Judo Federation has issued a lifetime ban to Georgian judoka Akaki Japaridze following a violent post-match assault on German athlete Timo Cavelius. The decision, which prohibits Japaridze from ever again registering or competing in the Judo Bundesliga's top division, follows an incident that left Cavelius with a fractured jaw. Federation officials described the measure as a necessary step to uphold the integrity of the sport and send a clear message against physical aggression outside the bounds of competition. The swiftness of the ruling reflects the federation's zero-tolerance policy regarding conduct that undermines the spirit of martial arts. The confrontation reportedly occurred immediately after a bout between the two athletes, with Japaridze allegedly provoked by what he perceived as an insulting celebratory gesture from Cavelius. In the ensuing attack, Japaridze punched his opponent, causing a severe injury that required surgical intervention. As a result of the fracture, Cavelius is expected to be sidelined for approximately ten weeks, forcing him to withdraw from the upcoming World Championships. This forced hiatus is a significant blow to the German athlete's season, as he was slated to be a key competitor on the global stage. Pamela Bickendorf, a representative of the Judo Bundesliga, expressed satisfaction with the disciplinary action, emphasizing that sportsmanship is a foundational pillar of judo that must be protected. However, the lifetime ban from the German league may only be the beginning of Japaridze's professional and legal troubles. He currently faces additional disciplinary proceedings from both the Georgian Judo Federation and the International Judo Federation (IJF). Furthermore, criminal charges have been initiated in Germany regarding the physical assault, suggesting that Japaridze may face consequences far beyond the sports arena. This decisive action by the German authorities reflects a growing global trend of strict accountability for violence within combat sports. While the ban effectively terminates Japaridze's career within the Bundesliga, the international judo community continues to monitor the case to ensure such behavior is permanently discouraged across all jurisdictions. For Cavelius, the focus now shifts to a challenging recovery process and the eventual hope of returning to elite competition after his physical and psychological recovery from the unprovoked attack.

Christian Eriksen Departs Wolfsburg by Mutual Consent Following Health Scare
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Christian Eriksen Departs Wolfsburg by Mutual Consent Following Health Scare

Danish international Christian Eriksen has reached a mutual agreement with German club Wolfsburg to terminate his contract, effective immediately. This significant decision comes just over three months after the 34-year-old midfielder collapsed during a friendly match against Ukraine, an incident that raised immediate concerns regarding his health and future in the sport. Although his contract was originally scheduled to run until June 2027, the club and player have prioritized his recovery and personal welfare over competitive obligations. Eriksen, who previously enjoyed a high-profile stint at Manchester United, emphasized that the move is driven by a deep-seated need to be closer to his family in Denmark. In his statement regarding the departure, the veteran playmaker expressed satisfaction with the resolution reached with Wolfsburg, thanking the organization for their cooperation during a difficult period. During his time with the Bundesliga side, Eriksen made 34 appearances, establishing himself as a key figure in the squad's midfield before the medical emergency halted his participation. Wolfsburg’s managing director, Dieter Hecking, acknowledged the gravity of the situation and the impact Eriksen had on the team. Hecking stated that while the club is losing a player of immense quality and experience, they fully support his decision to put his family and health first. This departure marks the end of a brief but impactful chapter in Germany for the Dane. As Eriksen returns to his homeland, the focus remains entirely on his long-term stability and wellbeing outside the high-pressure environment of the Bundesliga, leaving his future in professional football an open question.

Emmanuel Adebayor Attributes Real Madrid's Early 2026/2027 Struggles to Player Egos
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Emmanuel Adebayor Attributes Real Madrid's Early 2026/2027 Struggles to Player Egos

Emmanuel Adebayor, the legendary Togolese striker who previously donned the famous white jersey of Real Madrid, has weighed in on the club's underwhelming start to the 2026/2027 football season. The former forward, known for his clinical finishing and veteran presence, attributed the team’s current lack of cohesion to the complex interplay of player egos within the dressing room. His remarks provide a rare insider-influenced perspective on the challenges facing one of the world's most scrutinized footballing institutions as they struggle to find their rhythm. In his analysis, Adebayor drew direct parallels between the current squad and the star-studded lineups he was part of during his tenure in the Spanish capital. He reminisced about sharing the locker room with iconic players such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Gonzalo Higua%%n, and Karim Benzema. Adebayor pointed out that while that era was also defined by massive personalities and potential ego clashes, the issues were managed with a level of efficacy that allowed the team to thrive. He suggested that the friction currently observed at the Bernab%%u is a recurring theme for teams of this caliber, but one that requires firm handling to prevent it from derailing the season. The former striker's reflections underscore a significant hurdle for the current management as they look to turn their fortunes around. Adebayor noted that the successes and trophy wins of his era were the direct result of successfully sublimating individual egos for the greater good of the club. As Real Madrid navigates the pressures of the 2026/2027 campaign, his insights suggest that the solution to their poor form may not be found in tactical drills alone, but in the delicate art of managing the world's most talented and ambitious athletes to ensure they function as a unified collective.

The image shows the outdoor tennis courts at the National Sports College in Winneba, Ghana, which appear to be in a state of disrepair with worn surfaces. A group of individuals is gathered on one of the courts, likely for an inspection or ceremony related to the announced renovation project. The area is surrounded by tall floodlights, fencing, and overgrown grass near a drainage ditch.
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National Sports College Launches Major Renovation of Four Tennis Courts to Boost Sports Excellence

The National Sports College (NSC) has officially commenced the renovation of four tennis courts at its facility, marking the beginning of a strategic effort to modernize Ghana’s sporting infrastructure. Under the leadership of Director Bawah Fuseini, the project was formally launched with a site-possession ceremony, signaling the start of construction aimed at transforming the college into a premier center of sports excellence. This initiative represents the first phase of a comprehensive renovation program designed to elevate the standard of training facilities available to the nation's sporting community. The upgrade is specifically geared toward enhancing the environment for athletes, students, and coaches, providing them with modern surfaces and equipment necessary for high-level competition and skill development. Director Fuseini emphasized that the project is central to the college’s mission of fostering talent and ensuring that Ghanaian tennis players have access to facilities that meet international standards. By improving these essential assets, the NSC hopes to revitalize interest in the sport and provide a more conducive atmosphere for both rigorous training and potential tournament play. To facilitate the construction work, the National Sports College has announced a temporary suspension of all tennis training activities on the affected courts. The college administration has asked for patience from the sporting public and the local community, promising to provide regular updates as the project progresses. Once the renovations are complete, the new courts are expected to significantly boost the college’s capacity to host national events and intensive training camps, reinforcing its role as a cornerstone of sports development in the country.

Hasaacas Ladies and Prisons Ladies Secure Opening Wins as 2026 Women's Super Cup Kicks Off
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Hasaacas Ladies and Prisons Ladies Secure Opening Wins as 2026 Women's Super Cup Kicks Off

The 2026 Women's Super Cup officially got underway on Wednesday, September 23, at the Ghana Soccer Centre of Excellence, delivering a series of high-stakes encounters across two groups. In a standout performance of the opening day, Prisons Ladies secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the defending champions, Dreamz Ladies. The result sets an early tone for the competition, signaling a fierce battle for supremacy among the nation's elite women's football clubs as they vie for the prestigious title. In Group A, FC Savannah surged to the top of the standings following a convincing 2-0 win over Fosu Royal Ladies. Their dominant display puts them in a strong position early in the tournament. Meanwhile, perennial powerhouses Hasaacas Ladies also began their campaign on a positive note. A single goal from Veronica Baah Kumah was enough to secure a 1-0 win over Jonina Ladies, showcasing the clinical finishing and defensive discipline that have become hallmarks of the Sekondi-based club. The opening day concluded with a dramatic comeback by Epiphany Warriors, who faced off against Army Ladies in the final match of the session. Trailing at halftime, the Warriors displayed remarkable resilience to overturn the deficit and eventually clinch a 2-1 victory. This gritty performance highlighted the competitive depth of this year's tournament, as teams fought for every advantage in the initial round of group stages. With the first round of games concluded, the focus now shifts to the upcoming fixtures scheduled for September 25. As the teams regroup and strategize, the early results have already created an intriguing dynamic within the groups. FC Savannah will look to maintain their momentum at the summit of Group A, while the defending champions, Dreamz Ladies, will be under pressure to bounce back in their next outing to keep their title defense alive.

GFA President Kurt Okraku Faces Public Backlash Over Dismissive Response to MP’s Football Reform Calls
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GFA President Kurt Okraku Faces Public Backlash Over Dismissive Response to MP’s Football Reform Calls

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has come under heavy fire from football enthusiasts following a public spat with the Member of Parliament (MP) for Manhyia South, Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah. The controversy erupted after the MP called for direct government intervention to reform the country's football administration, citing a consistent decline in the performance of various national teams. Okraku’s dismissive retort, which questioned the legislator's personal contributions to sports infrastructure, has sparked a heated debate regarding the accountability of the GFA and the role of the state in sports management. Nana Agyei Baffour Awuah’s critique focused on the perceived inefficiencies within the GFA, pointing to the string of failures by national teams to qualify for major international competitions or perform at their historical standards as evidence of a deeper crisis. The MP argued that these systemic issues necessitate a comprehensive overhaul, suggesting that the current leadership of the GFA requires external oversight to restore the nation's footballing glory. This call for intervention reflects a growing sentiment among some stakeholders who believe the GFA’s autonomy should not shield it from accountability when results are consistently poor. In response to these calls for reform, GFA President Kurt Okraku took a defensive stance, specifically challenging the MP’s own track record in supporting the sport at the grassroots level. Okraku reportedly countered by asking how many football pitches or stadiums the Manhyia South legislator had constructed for his constituents before criticizing the national governing body. This attempt to shift the focus from administrative performance to the infrastructure development efforts of individual politicians has been viewed by many as a diversionary tactic rather than a substantive engagement with the MP’s concerns. The exchange has triggered a wave of criticism from fans on social media and in public forums, with many slamming the GFA President for what they describe as an arrogant and irrelevant response. Critics have pointed out that it is not the primary constitutional or professional responsibility of a Member of Parliament to construct stadiums—a task usually falling under the Ministry of Youth and Sports or the GFA’s own development mandates. The fallout from this clash underscores a widening rift between the GFA leadership and the public, as pressure mounts for the association to address administrative failures rather than engaging in personal political battles.

The Ghana national football team, known as the Black Stars, posing for a group lineup photo on a stadium pitch. The players are wearing their yellow Puma jerseys featuring the iconic black star, with the goalkeeper standing on the far left in a purple kit.
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Carlos Queiroz’s Black Stars Face Ivorian "Derby" Amid Massive Injury Crisis

Ghana’s Black Stars have landed in Bouaké, Côte d’Ivoire, ahead of their crucial opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against the Elephants on Thursday, September 24. This high-profile encounter at the Stade de la Paix marks the first competitive assignment for head coach Carlos Queiroz, who takes over a squad significantly thinned by a wave of injury-related withdrawals. Despite the absence of world-class talent, the Black Stars are determined to secure a positive result in Group C to set the tone for their campaign, especially as they look to rebuild after missing the previous tournament in Morocco. The buildup to the match has been dominated by the loss of several key figures, including captain Jordan Ayew, vice-captain Thomas Partey, and attacking duo Mohammed Kudus and Antoine Semenyo. Ghana Football Association (GFA) President Kurt Okraku has addressed public skepticism regarding these absences, asserting that no player has intentionally refused a call-up. Okraku emphasized that injuries, such as Semenyo’s swollen foot and Kudus’ ongoing recovery at Tottenham Hotspur, are genuine medical concerns. In response to the crisis, Queiroz has bolstered his squad with nine late call-ups, including Brandon Thomas-Asante, Felix Afena-Gyan, and debutant Rockson Yeboah. However, the selection has faced criticism from veteran coach Joseph Sarpong, who lamented the minimal representation of Ghana Premier League players. On the other side of the touchline, Côte d’Ivoire enters the clash with the confidence of 2023 AFCON winners but remains wary of Ghana’s traditional strength. Ivorian captain Franck Kessié has labeled the match a "derby," underscoring the intense rivalry and the need to execute the tactical plan of their experienced head coach, Hervé Renard. Renard has cautioned his team against complacency, urging humility and stressing that qualification is a long journey. Queiroz remains undeterred by his team's setbacks, shrugging off the injury crisis by stating, "the most important players in our team are the ones who are here today." This match serves as a vital litmus test for Ghana’s squad depth and Queiroz’s tactical adaptability. A positive result in Bouaké is essential before the Black Stars host The Gambia on September 29, with a subsequent fixture against Morocco also looming. For the new call-ups, this crisis represents a rare opportunity to step out of the shadows and secure a permanent place in the national team. As the two West African giants prepare to meet, the focus remains on whether Ghana’s patchwork lineup can withstand the pressure of an Ivorian side eager to dominate their regional rivals on home soil.