Ibrahim Tanko explains Jeffrey Schlupp snub

Schlupp was excluded from the Black Stars squad against Kenya

Deputy coach of the Black Stars Ibrahim Tanko has lifted the lid on why in-form Crystal Palace attacker Jeffrey Schlupp was left out of the 18-man squad for the forthcoming 2019 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Kenya.

Schlupp, who has been in scintillating form for Crystal Palace in the ongoing Premier League, was excluded from the Black Stars squad that will engage the Harambee Stars of Kenya on Match Day 2 of the 2019 AFCON qualifiers - which is set to come off on September 8 at the MISC Kasarani Stadium in Nairobi.

Several pundits have expressed shock over Schlupp's exclusion following his explosive start to the campaign for the Eagles.

“Jeffery Schlupp is playing more offensive for Crystal Palace now but we felt we had enough wingers or wingbacks now so yes he is playing well but we will consider him for the future,” he said.

Below is the list of defenders who made the list:

Defenders: Harrison Afful (Columbus, USA) Daniel Opare (Antwerp, Belgium) Kassim Nuhu (1899 Hoffenheim, Germany) John Boye (FC Metz, France) Daniel Amartey ( Leicester City, England) Andy Yiadom (Reading Football Club, England)

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website.

Deputy Attorney General Joseph Kpemka explains new decision on Ghana FA

FIFA President, Gianni Infantino with Ghana President, Akufo-Addo

The Deputy Attorney General of Ghana Joseph Kpemka has explained government's new agreement with the world governing body FIFA to discontinue its planned liquidation of the Ghana Football Association.

The authorities were given an ultimatum by the world football's governing body to withdraw an attorney general's petition to an Accra High Court seeking to dissolve the FA after an investigative documentary exposed corrupt and match-fixing activities of top officials and referees.

The government had initially stated its stance not to "bow" to any contrary international order but further considerations after Fifa issued an August 27 deadline saw the liquidation plan rescinded after a delegation held a successful meeting with Fifa in Switzerland.

"We are living not as an island, but we live by a comity of nations and our membership of international organizations are predicated on principles, on rules, on regulations, and on law," Kpemka said on 3 FM.

“And so far as you subscribe to an international organization, then you must again agree with the principles, rules, and regulations governing that international organization.

"That’s a basic fact, so fundamental to any agreement that anybody can actually reach.”

He also spoke on government's decision to liquidate the FA after the scandal rocked the country in June.

"We invoked the appropriate sections of law which is the legal system in our country.

"We decided that by the official Liquidations Act, we could actually invoke certain sections of it to say that the company formed was being used for a purpose either than what it was intended for, and so we then petitioned the court to order a dissolution," he added.
Source: footballghana.com

Kotoko management to finally compensate accident victims

The newly formed management of Asante Kotoko has decided to compensate the accident victims that petitioned the club’s Secretariat and Manhyia Palace to seek what’s due them.

The previous management of the club contacted a consultancy firm called Synergy to do an investigation on the accident before paying the compensation fee.

“From afar we have realized the massive public interest in this case so management has decided to pay them so we can concentrate on our various jobs but unfortunately I can’t disclose the amount” He told Oyerepa fm in Kumasi.

“We are sorry for any inconveniences caused, but we promise to redeem our promise to them”

Footballmadeinghana.com investigations has shown that the management has decided to give ¢40000 to the victims to share. This will be done after the Kotoko vs Hearts friendly match on Sunday.
Source: Footballmadeinghana.com

Kingsley Fobi signs for Spanish side UD Ibiza

Ghana defender Kingsley Fobi

Spanish lower tier side Unión Deportiva Ibiza have acquired Ghana defender Kingsley Fobi on loan.

The 19-year-old spent the past season at fellow Segunda División B outfit SD Formentera where he played 23 matches.

And the Watford FC player has accepted to continue his development in the third level of the Spanish football league system with the famous Ibiza Town-based club for the entire 2018/19 season.

Fobi was reported to have joined SD Ejea last month but has now been announced to have settled with UD Ibiza who play at Estadi Municipal de Can Misses as home grounds.

The former Ghana U-20 skipper will be hoping to make his debut when manager Antonio Mendez’s side travel to face Sevilla II in the opening match of the season on Sunday,

 Source: starrsportsgh.com

Atsu to start for Newcastle against Chelsea

Atsu is likely to start against his former club on Sunday

Newcastle manager, Rafa Benitez, could be forced to start Ghanaian winger, Christian Atsu, in their game against Chelsea on Sunday.

The decision to introduced Atsu has become necessary because playing his regular player and Chelsea loanee, Kenedy, against his parent club would violate the rules of the English Premier League.

Per the rules of the game, players who are on loan cannot play against their parent club which means the Newcastle boss must fill the void that would be created by Kenedy’s ineligibility.


Jacob Murphy and Christian Atsu are his other options but Benitez is likely to favour the former Chelsea and Ghanaian international because he is a natural left-footed player.

During their first game against Tottenham, the 26-year-old Ghanaian was given the nod ahead of Murphy but had to sit on the bench for the former Norwich winger during their game against Cardiff at the weekend.

Last season, Benitez used the services of Murphy a number of times on the left-hand side including their last game against Chelsea which they won 3-0.

When Atsu gets the nod, he would be playing against the club that transferred him to the St James’ Park and would hope to impress to ensure he captures the left-wing position.

Christian Atsu joined Newcastle United in August 2016 on a one-year loan deal with an option to buy clause in the contract and in May 2017, Newcastle United confirmed that it had permanently signed the winger on a four-year deal for an undisclosed fee.

For more news go to: www.graphic.com.gh

Playing for Hearts comes with more pressure than Kotoko - Amankwa Mireku

Hearts of Oak legend Yaw Amankwah Mireku

Former Hearts of Oak captain Amankwah Mireku says there is more pressure on players who play for Hearts than their rivals Kotoko.

The former defender in an interview on Asempa FM's sports show insisted that players at Hearts are mostly under pressure to perform, unlike Kotoko.

"There is more pressure on players who play for Hearts of Oak than Kotoko"

"Supporters at Hearts do not pamper players and will always put you on your toes unlike the Kotoko supporters who have patience for their players"

The ex-player, however, added that Kotoko pay more attention to their former players and normally give them administrative roles in the club as compared to Hearts of Oak.

Amankwah Mireku played for Hearts of Oak from 1997 to 2007.
 Source: primenewsghana.com

Women in Sports Network to train young girls

Women in Sports Network Ghana in collaboration with the Ghana Tennis Federation is organizing a 12-day tennis training and knowledge enhancement program for girls between the ages of 10 and 16 at the Accra sports stadium.

The event dubbed The Girls’ Camp , under the theme “Mentoring the Next Generation of Women Achievers through Sports and Education” will commence on Monday, August 20th 2018 and end on Friday, August 31, 2018.

According to Philippina Frimpong, “young girls will develop high aspirations when they are exposed to other women who have overcome all challenges and made it” she went on further to say that “through sports girls can receive education, develop self esteem and other life skills that would come in handy some day in their lives” it is understood that the Network of women seek to address some of the misconception that surround women and young women participating in sports.

It is a widely held view shared by mostly parents that sports is not an avenue for women to progress and become successful. She indicated that some adverse effects of growing up, such as teenage pregnancy and other unfavourable situations are being faced by quite a large number of girls in the nation can be addressed with sports.

It is in view of this that the Women in Sports Network in collaboration with Just Because Fitness, J Initiative, McDan Group of Companies, Tennis Foundation Ghana, Tenof and the Ghana Tennis Federation have joined forces to organiz the training and knowledge enhancement program to prove to these young ones that indeed women can make it even in the field of sports.

The knowledge enrichment aspect of the Camp will see the participating girls take and educational trips to institutions where women have risen to the top and participate in decision making. Institutions such as the Ghana Naval Base in Tema will hopefully expose the girls to Service women who work on the ships and the Air Force Base should bring our girls face to face with female pilots in the service. The girls will visit media houses to interact with some female sports journalist.

Also there will be speakers from the University of Ghana, Legon who will educate the girls on scholarship opportunities within and outside the country that are available to women in sports. The other session will comprise tennis training to enhance the skills of those who are already into tennis and to also build up those who have the interest in playing tennis but have not yet started learning to play.

It is hoped that the misconception that sports is not an avenue of progress for women will be cleared by the end of the fourteen-day residential program.

Organisers have assured that next years’ event will feature girls from a different region.
Source: Ghana Tennis Federation/GHANAWEB

Elmina Sharks to play Hearts of Lions on Thursday

Elmina Sharks will engage Hearts of Lions in a friendly

Heart of Lions will play Elmina Sharks in a friendly game on Thursday in Accra.

The second-tier side will use the friendly to fine tune amid the suspension of football matches in Ghana.

Lions, who are leaders in zone three of the Ghana National Division One League, will engage the Premier League side at the Legon Ajax Park on Thursday August 23, 2018.

Local football had grind to a halt after an investigative piece by controversial journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas revealed widespread corruption.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more news.

Jersey numbers don't guarantee success - Kwadwo Asamoah's father

Kwadwo Asamoah's dad has backed his son to do well against Kenya

Asamoah decided against wearing the iconic jersey number 10 again few weeks to the start of 2012 Africa Cup of Nations tournament and reverted to his favourite number 20.

The 29-year-old first wore the number 10 jersey at the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations on home soil in the absence of then captain Stephen Appiah and it became his preferred number after Appiah announced his retirement from international football in 2010.

Last month, the Inter Milan midfielder expatiated on reasons behind his decision to drop the shirt because he prefers wearing number 20.

"I've heard stories about the No 10 jersey as one of the reasons my son didn't want to return to play for Ghana. Let me put it on record that jerseys and jersey numbers don't determine a player's performance," Agya Asamoah told Sikka FM.

Asamoah has been recalled into the team after being named in Coach Kwesi Appiah 18-man squad for next month's 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Harambee Stars of Kenya.

Father of Ghana midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah, Agya Asamoah has stated that jersey numbers do not determine player's performance with a team following reports that his son went on hibernation because of the Black Stars number 10 jersey.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more news.

Joe Dodoo hopes to build on performance against Coventry City

Joe Dodoo scored against Coventry City

Joe Dodoo hopes that Blackpool’s 2-0 victory over Coventry City proves to be a catalyst that gets the season firmly up and running.

The forward, on loan from Rangers, wrapped up Pool’s first three points of the season with the second goal at Bloomfield Road and believes the side can take a lot of confidence moving forward.

“It was brilliant, obviously we played really well and I thought we dominated the game. It was good to get the two goals and obviously put the game to bed,” he said.

“It was important (to get the win) because we drew twice and obviously won in the cup game. We’re a good side and we just need to get going and a win can obviously set the foundation for us to go on and do more.”

The goal Dodoo scored was his first competitive one for the club, coming off a long punt upfield by Michael Nottingham.

“We tried a couple of clearances and they fell a bit short, I gambled on the third one because it just needed to be overhit. It went over and I managed to get on the end of it and put it in,” he insisted.

Blackpool’s other goalscorer on the night was Mark Cullen, and Dodoo happy with the link-up play with his fellow striker.

“In pre-season we played a lot together so we got to know each other a lot. We’ve obviously not played together for a while but we’ve got a good chemistry together. It went well and I’m happy,” he added.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more news.

Fly TV directors cited for contempt over unauthorized EPL broadcast

Fly TV directors cited for contempt over unauthorized EPL broadcast

The Directors of Nour Vision Ltd, operators of Fly TV in Ghana have been cited for contempt of court for the unauthorised airing of Premier League (EPL) football matches in disregard of a pending injunction application.

Multichoice and SuperSport initiated a case against Fly TV at the Commercial Court in Accra relating to the unauthorized broadcasts of the FIFA World Cup 2018, the PL and other television content rights violations.

On June 20, this year, the High Court granted an injunction order against Nour Vision Ltd, restraining them from further airing of the football matches and the station subsequently stopped the broadcasts in compliance with the court order.

Following from that, lawyers for SuperSport filed an application for interlocutory injunction to restrain Fly TV from broadcasting the football matches of the EPL.

On July 3, when the application was due to be heard by the court, lawyers for Nour Vision Ltd pleaded with the court for more time to enable them to file an affidavit in opposition.
With the start of the EPL on August 10, Fly TV began airing the EPL football matches despite the pending injunction application which had not been moved because of their repeated pleas for adjournments.

The two directors of the company namely Rabih Fahs and El Akhrass Akoghe have, therefore, been cited for contempt of court before a vacation court in Accra.

The application which is seeking the imprisonment of the two directors is to be heard on August 28, 2018.

SuperSport Africa holds rights to major sports events including FIFA World Cup, Premier League, La Liga, Serie A, Europa League, and Champions League which are distributed by Multichoice Ghana through the DStv and GOtv platforms across Sub Sahara Africa.

Cecil Sunkwa Mills, General Manager of MultiChoice Ghana said they will continue to collaborate with the necessary authorities to protect their content from illegal broadcasting/re-broadcasting.

For more news, go to myjoyonline.com

Confederation Cup: Aduana Stars eliminated after defeat to ASEC

Aduana Stars are reigning Ghana Premier League champions

Ghanaian Champions, Aduana Stars have been eliminated from the CAF Confederation Cup after suffering a 2-0 to Asec Mimosas of Cote d’Ivoire.

Zao Gbagnon Badie converted a 24th-minute penalty before Willy Ta Bi’s brilliant finish ten minutes later, put the Ivorians in firm control of the match before the break.

After the break, Kenichi Yatsuhashi’s efforts were not enough to claw them back in the game as they succumbed to their 3rd defeat out of the five matches they have played so far.

The game was Aduana’s last home game in the competition, with Raja Casablanca to come in a fortnight.

Aduana needed to win to stand any chance of progressing from the group stage of the competition.

The defeat now leaves Aduana bottom of Group A with 4 points while Asec move to 6 points with the last round of matches to come.

In Group A’s other game, Congolese side AS Vita Club moved top of the table after beating Raja Casablanca of Morocco 2-0 at home. Vita are now guaranteed a top two finish and progress into the next round with their 10 points while Raja (8 points) and Asec (6 points) still have a chance to progress.

Raja host Aduana and Asec visits Vita in the last round of matches.

Number 12: Anas deserves a national award - David Duncan

David Duncan

Former National Black Meteors coach, David Duncan has urged the government to consider awarding ace international undercover investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas with a national award for his impeccable contribution to the nation through his unique and result-oriented style of journalism.

According to Duncan, who once coached the national Under 17 team, the Black Starlets to the World Cup in Peru, the Tiger Eye PI latest project, “Number 12” has succeeded in exposing the age-long perception of rot in football in Ghana, thereby giving the nation the opportunity to fix the endemic canker of corruption that has over the years bedeviled the sport in Ghana.

Adding that, “Anas must be awarded by the nation for his works, which ultimately will change the game for the better for good”.

The Former Kumasi Asante Kotoko SC and Accra Hearts of Oak Coach who is noted to have fought corruption by openly criticized the FA over the years believes that, but for the frantic and keen efforts of Anas in the Number 12 project, Ghana would still be wallowing in corruption in football.

Since number 12 was premiered, the coach who also coached Obuasi-based Ashantigold SC has been very vocal, throwing his support behind the project because, according to him, at last, the game will be purged of the devil called corruption which had eaten the fabric of the game to the core.

Duncan thinks that, “Number 12” is unmatched and only comparable to independence in Ghana.

“Number 12 is only next to Ghana’s independence in 1957” he said in an SMS message to the ultimate Sports show on an Accra-based radio station, Asempa FM.

Government and FIFA met last week to fashion out a roadmap towards returning Ghana football to normalcy after football activities grounded to a halt with government suspending all football activities following the massive revelations of corruption shown in the Anas “Number 12” project.

Accra Hearts of Oak appoint new physiotherapist

Hearts' new physio Fowad Mohammed

Fowad previously worked with Heart of Lions, Red Bull Academy-Sogakope, the University of Ghana and Sudanese topflight side El-Nasul FC.

Fowad joins Aliu Adjetey (Ozee Ozaa) as one of the two physiotherapists for the club.

Fowad brings along over 10 years of working experience and has promised to bring his expertise to bare on the success story of the club.

Everyone at Accra Hearts of Oak wish him the best of success in his new role.

Accra Hearts of Oak have appointed Fowad Mohammed the club's new physiotherapist.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more news.

FIFA fines Thomas Partey's Atletico Madrid

FIFA has fined Atletico Madrid

FIFA says the transfer for an unnamed player included a contract which “enabled a third party to influence the club’s independence in employment and transfer-related matters.”

Atletico, who beat Real Madrid 4-2 in the European Super Cup on Wednesday, was fined 52,500 Swiss francs ($52,720).

FIFA cracked down on third-party ownership of players in 2015. Until then, investors were able to buy shares in players in some countries, raising questions over possible conflicts of interest.

It’s not the first time FIFA and Atletico have tangled over transfer issues. In 2016, FIFA banned Atletico from signing players for two transfer windows in a dispute over transfers involving players under 18.

FIFA has fined Atletico Madrid for third-party interference in a player transfer.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more news.

Kotoko confirms friendly match with Barcelona

Kotoko will play Barca on Otumfuo's birthday

Director of Comunications for Kumasi Asante Kotoko Lawyer Sarfo Duku has confirmed receiving a proposal from a firm to play Spanish giants Barcelona next year 2019 to honor club owner Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on his 20th anniversary as king and over lord of the Ashanti Kingdom.

Lawyer Sarfo Duku also stated that management want to be circumspect about this because information about it is scanty as same firm KK Royals, who have partners in Turkey have shown interest in investing in their Adako Jachie project so due diligence will have to be done.

“Information about this proposal is very scanty as of now but we want to due diligence about the company especially on their proposal to invest in our Adako Jachie project, their track record and others” He told Oyerepa fm in Kumasi.

“They have sought our consent if we will be available to play such a match to honor His royal majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and I can say we are ready and the rest is with them.”

Sarfo Duku also affirms that, the club will communicate to the fans about any developments in the proposals.

“Going forward more information will be given as and when it flows in, these talks are at the initial stages and nothing concrete has been reached.” He added.
 Source: footballmadeinghana.com

Asamoah Gyan continues to warm bench at Kayserispor

Asamoah Gyan is yet to feature for Kayserispor this season

Asamoah Gyan is yet to make his first appearance in the new Turkish Super Lig season after warming the bench for Kayserispor on Saturday night.

The Ghana captain, who has regained full fitness and was sleek during pre-season, was no kept on the bench in the 0-0 draw at Bursaspor.

Head coach Ertugrul Saglam could be sending signals that the experienced forward will not feature in his plans.

Gyan is determined to roll back the years after shaking off his injury worries which restricted him to 12 appearances last season.

His countryman and fellow Ghana international Bernard Mensah lasted the entire duration.
 Source: GHANAsoccernet.com

Journalists share their views on Normalisation Committee

Ghana and FIFA have agreed to form a Normalisation Committee

After a lot of ups and downs to Zurich by government officials, Ghanaians received a welcome news after a four men government delegation met FIFA to dialogue about the warning FIFA issued on Tuesday threatening to ban the country for what they perceived as government Interference.

In a statement released by the World football governing body to the effect, FIFA and the Government of Ghana reached a compromise to introduce a Normalization committee to temporary run Football activities of the country. The introduction of the normalization committee means they will replace the current Executive committee of the Ghana football Association. The government has also agreed to discontinue with the process of winding up of Ghana Football Association.

Footballmadeinghana.com caught up with some football analyst who shared their opinion on the latest developments.

Hans Mensah Andoh (Multimedia)

“I believe government’s decision to liquidate the FA wasn’t properly thought through. The decision wasn’t made with a full grasp of the bigger picture. People who were supposed to know better knew very little. Case in point was the sector minister who wants FA dissolved. Clearly he wasn’t aware the FA was a registered company and that it would require a court process to dissolve it. But we cannot be too hard on government. Something needed to be done and in as much as they chose the wrong approach, they at least took a step. Also the calls to dissolve the FA came from the masses in the aftermath of the number 12 expose. Government merely sorts to do the bidding of the people. They exercised poor judgment but they acted.

FIFA knows only one set of rules…its own rules. The government will never win in a straight battle with FIFA and under the circumstances, they’ve negotiated a sensible compromise”
 Fiifi Anaman(Football writer and Kwesse Sports)

“I think that it is the practical way to go. Dissolution would have resulted in reconstruction, and I don’t think we had a plan for that. A suspension or subsequent ban would have been equally as disastrous”.

Felix Romark (freelance journalist)

“The decision by FIFA and Government to do away with the EXCO was a good one, the members of the executive committee gave Kwesi Nyantakyi too much power and we are where we are partial because of that. I have never been in favour of government decision to dissolve the FA and clearly, FIFA didn’t give in on that. I hope to see better reforms through the normalization committee”

Muftawu Nabila (Kwese Sports)

“Simply put, both parties had to compromise on certain rules and regulations that govern them. The two parties met in the interest of Ghana football at a short notice and had to let go some of their stands. The government had earlier stated categorically that the GFA cannot exist for its purpose and that members were “rogues” and dissolving the FA was the best route, however, they had reneged on this commitment and withdraw it.

FIFA also allowed its members to be replaced by a normalization committee. The best solution was to let go and that they did”.

Nana Kweku Agyemang (Football coach/ Journalist)

“The most important aspect is that the Government will no longer pursue the option of dissolving the GFA. It was a poor decision to begin with and ramifications of pursuing this option would have caused more long term harm than short term good”

In the end, Ghana football will always be the ultimate winner. Almost three months after the Number 12 expose, there is now a way forward and a glimmer of hope for Ghana football.
Source: footballmadeinghana.com

Countryman Songo grabs doctorate degree

Adom TV’s Fire 4 Fire presenter, Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly known as Country Man Songo has proven that he just doesn’t talk but also impacts society, thus receiving an honorary doctorate degree from an American College.

The award was given to him for his contribution to Ghana’s media and towards social change.

Songo was awarded a doctorate degree in humanity by the Riches Theological College and Clergy Council which has its headquarters in the United States.

This means that Countryman Songo, as affectionately called by his viewers and listeners, will soon be addressed as Doctor.

Patrick Osei Agyemang is renowned for winning the ‘Best TV sports show host of the year’award in the Radio and Television Personality awards for three consecutive years.

Baby Jet soccer rocks Accra

The invitational tournament will feature clubs from Ghana, Cote d’Ivoire, Togo and Nigeria.

It will run from August 20-26 at the Accra Academy Astro-Turf.

The 16 teams include Nigerian sides ATFA FC (Lagos) and Campos Football Academy (Owerri).

Togolese side Pison Divine Royals Int. Foundation Academy and Academy Ro Mario will be joined by Ivorian duo; All-Stars FC and Zenox FC.

The local teams will feature Great Somas, Cheetah FC, Bolga Soccer Masters, Star Madrid FC, Cedar Stars Academy and Charity Stars.

Asamoah Gyan’s BabyJet Promotions has announced it will organize an U-16 tournament for football academies in Africa.
Source: dailyguideafrica.com

Kotoko confirm proposal to play Barcelona in 2019

The match will be played to honour the life Patron of the club Otumfuo Osei Tutu II

Communications Director of Asante Kotoko Lawyer Sarfo Duku has disclosed that his outfit has received a proposal from a firm to play an international friendly against Spanish giants FC Barcelona in 2019.

According the club's scribe, the match will be played to honour the life Patron of the club Otumfuo Osei Tutu II on his 20th anniversary as king and overlord of the Ashanti Kingdom.

"Information about this proposal is very scanty as of now but we want to due diligence about the company especially on their proposal to invest in our Adako Jachie project, their track record and others," Lawyer Duku confirmed on Oyerepa FM 1007.

"They have sought our consent if we will be available to play such a match to honour His royal majesty Otumfuo Osei Tutu II and I can say we are ready and the rest is with them."

"Going forward more information will be given as and when it flows in, these talks are at the initial stages and nothing concrete has been reached."

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more

Ghana shoots up on FIFA ranking

Ghana is now ranked the 45th best team in the World having moved two places up on the latest FIFA ranking.

The Black Stars were previously ranked 45th in the World but added up their points to move up.

The former Africa Champions dropped into the top five in Africa as they now occupy the fourth spot on the continent behind Tunisia, Senegal and DR Congo.

France, after winning the FIFA World Cup have been recognized as such as the shoot up to the first position on the ranking, followed by Belgium and Brazil who occupy the second and third positions.

Croatia and Uruguay completes the top five ranked teams in the World.
Source: Ghanasportsonline.com

Joseph Paintsil expresses delight after Genk debut

Paintsil joined Genk from Hungarian side Ferencvaros this season

Ghana international, Joseph Paintsil, has expressed his delight after returning from an injury to help KRC Genk beat KV Oostende in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League on Sunday, August 12.
Paintsil marked his debut for the club since signing for Genk due to an injury he sustained during pre-season in July which forced him out of his team’s 4-0 win over Sporting Lokeren in their opening league fixture.

In a post-match interview, the former Tema Youth player revealed that he was no long feeling pains in his right foot and was delighted to return to action.


"I no longer feel any pain in my right foot, the hunger in me is great and delighted to be able to contribute to the first team. I am happy to return to the pitch." he said.

The 20-year-old forward enjoyed full action as the visitors grabbed maximum points at the Versluys Arena against Oostende.

Paintsil, who joined Genk from Hungarian side Ferencvaros, is hugely talented forward who is expected to take the Belgian top-flight by storm in his debut season.

The Ghana had an impressive campaign with Ferencvaros where he appeared 25 times and scored 10 goals in just a single season.

For more news go to: www.graphic.com.gh

Afriyie Acquah finalizes loan move to Empoli

Afriyie Acquah has joined Serie A returnees Empoli on a season-long loan

Ghana midfielder Afriyie Acquah has sealed his season-long loan move to Serie A returnees Empoli.

The deal has been announced by the player's management company ArthurLegacy.

Acquah has been playing with Torino since 2015 and his contract was due to expire next summer.

The hardworking midfielder will be player for his fourth Serie A club after representing Palermo, Sampdoria and Parma.

Torino are reported to have pocketed a loan fee as compensation believed to be in excess of €1,000,000.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football

FIFA’s decision to form Normalization Committee is flawed – Wilfred Osei

Wilfred Osei Palmer is owner of Tema Youth FC

Ghana FA Executive Committee member Wilfred Osei says FIFA’s decision to put in place a Normalization Committee is an error.

The world football governing body following a meeting with a delegation from the Ghana government on Thursday in Zurich has resolved to establish the Normalization Committee to replace the Executive Committee.

Ghana football has been in crisis for the past two months following the publication of an undercover documentary by Anas Aremeyaw Anas that exposed widespread corruption in the administration of football in the country.

In the documentary titled Number 12; When Greed Becomes the Norm, senior officials of the Ghana FA including former President Kwesi Nyantakyi and a host of referees were caught receiving alleged bribes.

This huge public uproar that greeted the expose saw government commence legal action seeking to liquidate the GFA.

But FIFA earlier this week stepped in to issue an ultimatum for the state to withdraw its lawsuit by August 27 or get banned.

Government in response requested a meeting with FIFA which was held on Thursday and amongst other things a decision was taken to replace the Executive Committee with a Normalization Committee.

But Wilfred Osei who is set to lose his position as an Executive Committee member says this is a mistake.

“There are loopholes in the decision of FIFA,” he told Asempa FM.

“In all the discourse, only one side has been heard. A decision has been arrived at by listening to only one side.

“The Executive Committee has not been given the opportunity to state their side of the story and yet still this decision has been taken.”

FIFA in its release detailing the decisions taken on the Ghana FA says it will collaborate with the Ghana government and CAF in their bid to return the administration of football to normalcy.

This is a condition precedent for the Ghana government to withdraw its lawsuit seeking to dissolve the Ghana FA.

Kwadwo Asamoah set to replace Gyan as new Ghana captain

Kwadwo Asamoah is set to be named new Ghana captain with coach Kwesi Appiah expected to call time on Asamoah Gyan's era, widespread media reports have claimed in the West African nation.

Asamoah, who plays for Serie A giants Inter Milan, is expected to be handed the armband as he marks his return to the Black Stars after a four-year absence.

The 29-year-old has been named in Ghana's 23-man squad for next month's 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Kenya, a leaked document has revealed.

Circling media reports claim Black Stars coach Kwesi Appiah has made up his mind to make Asamoah the leader of his team - and will wear the armband for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Harambee Stars in an audition role.

Gyan's troubles with injuries and the decision to axe brothers Andre and Jordan Ayew from his squad in recent matches, means he will build his team around the former Juventus versatile man.

Atletico Madrid midfielder Thomas Partey has been handed the role on an interim basis but the 25-year-old has downplayed his chances of replacing the iconic Asamoah Gyan.

Partey has also enjoyed the backing of former Chelsea legend Michael Essien for the leadership role, but it appears Appiah is determined to build a crack team devoid of 'premadonnas' who threaten harmony in his bid to end the country's 37-year wait for an African Cup of Nations title.

Coach Kwesi Appiah sees Asamoah as a leader who can inherit the armband from record goal-scorer Asamoah Gyan.

Details are sketchy as officials remain tight-lipped on the mounting reports in the West African nation.

Appiah has kept to his earth-shattering decision of dropping brothers Andre and Jordan Ayew from his squad since the 2018 World Cup qualifier against Uganda in October last year.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more news.

FIFA Ranking: Ghana 45th, moves 2 places up

Ghana moved two places up in the latest FIFA Ranking released on Thursday, 16 August 2018 with total points of 1424.

The Black Stars are now ranked 45th in the world and 4th in Africa despite missing out in the FIFA World Cup tournament between June and July 2018.

Tunisia tops the pack in Africa followed by Senegal with both countries ranked 24th in the World.

Congo DR is ranked 3rd in Africa and 37 in the World. Morocco, who participated in the recent World Cup, are ranked 5th in Africa and 46th in the World.

World Cup winners, France, top the world ranking with Belgium, who were second runners-up in the World Cup placed 2nd. Brazil is placed third and Croatia who were first runners-up in the World Cup ranked 4th.

The 5th position is occupied by Uruguay; and England have moved six places up to the 6th

Withdraw court case to liquidate GFA - Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe appeals

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe, former GFA Chairman

Dr Nyaho-Tamakloe, a director of Accra Hearts of Oak, believes government and the league clubs can reach an amicable resolution by agreeing to reforms without any form of liquidation of the football governing body.

In an interview with Accra-based Asempa FM on Wednesday, he explained that many footballers in the country risked suffering unduly should the current impasse between clubs and GFA continue.

"The government should withdraw the case from court so we can have a peaceful resolution and allow football to return in the interest of the sport. "Many careers will suffer should the current impasse continue and I think government must act fast to put things in order," he said.

All football activities have been suspended by government after it filed a suit to liquidate the GFA, following an exposé by investigative journalist, Anas Aremeyaw Anas, on alleged widespread corruption in Ghana football involving leading officials of the Ghana FA and many referees, most of whom have been suspended after investigations by the local referees body and the Confederation of African Football.

In pursuit of the government's commitment to dissolve the football governing body, the Ghana FA secretariat was cordoned off by the police on June 8 and designated a crime scene. On June 12, the government, though its Attorney General, obtained an injunction on activities of the GFA and its officials, planing a ban on organised football in the country.

Following a meeting in Zurich with football's world governing body, FIFA, the government appointed a two-man liaison team comprising Dr Kofi Amoah and Francis Oti Akenteng, to coordinate national team activities and facilitate the participation of Ghana in the ongoing FIFA U-20 Women's World Cup in France.

On Monday, FIFA in a letter to Dr Amoah, gave the government an August 27 deadline to withdraw a high court petition to initiate processes to liquidate the Ghana FA or risk Ghana being suspended from all football activities worldwide.

FIFA's letter signed by its Secretary-General, Fatma Samoura, described the government's action "undue influence in the affairs of the GFA in contravention of FIFA Statutes".

"If the petition to start the liquidation process of the GFA is not withdrawn by Monday, August 27, the GFA will be suspended with immediate effect."

Former chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Dr Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has called on the government to withdraw an impending liquidation case in court to pave way for a peaceful resolution of the problems facing administration of the game.

For more news go to: www.graphic.com.gh

Dissolving the GFA-Andy Mac-Carthy

The other day l was discussing with my sister recent developments in Africa as has been the norm all the time. We spoke about the numerous problems bedeviling the continent especially, Ghana and Nigeria.

She was of the opinion that Africans, especially, our leaders are not able to make good choices and the right decisions because of the effect of the sun. She said the heat messes up with the brains of the leaders in Africa and as such, they are not able to think right.

I laughed the whole day because of what she said and since then l have been thinking about it, perhaps she is right.

Recently, l heard about the Anas exposé which implicated the ex-GFA President Kwesi Nyantakyi and a few others. In the said exposé, Mr Nyantakyi boasted of having the ability to bribe the President and Vice President of Ghana with the aim of influencing them. As a developing nation looking to fight corruption and abuse of power, the best thing to do is to set up an investigative body to look into the matter. Perhaps the man truly can influence the President and the vice.

Maybe, it was the President and his vice that encouraged him to go and look for the opportunity for their mutual benefit. It can also be that the three of them has done something similar in the past and that is why he had the confidence and boldness to say what he said.

Instead of doing a proper investigation to ascertain the truth, the government of the NPP is trying to sweep it under the carpet. They hurriedly took the entire “GFA” (Corporation) to court to dissolve it. What l don’t understand is this, suppose a group of friends come together to form a company, namely “The Sun Is Burning Our Brains Inc” and they decide to go into the business of selling Solar Energy.

Maybe after two years in the business, one of the partners manages to get himself in a similar situation like that of the disgraced forcefully retired GFA President, would the government come in and dissolve the company because one of the partners has been compromised? NO! If there is any wrongdoing on the part of that partner, then a criminal case would have to be brought against him and not to dissolve the business.

A competent court would not allow a business to be dissolved because of such an issue. The other part l don’t understand is that the “GFA” Presidency as a position is not part of the “Corporation” (GFA), the club owners are the “Corporation” in this case.

If the “Corporation” which is the “GFA” hires an executive to run the affairs of the “Corporation” and the executive gets himself into a compromising position, the entire “Corporation” is not dissolved because of that.

Let’s look at another example, supposing the President of Ghana dips his hands into the coffers of Ghana and is caught, would the entire NPP government be booted out of office?

It is the President alone who would be booted out and per the Constitution of Ghana, the vice would take his place. It is only a government with an ulterior motive that would take such an action.

Things like these are what the opposition NDC should take up and make noise about. Rather, they are focused on what JJ Rawlings is eating at his residence.

Something like this deserves a press conference so that the whole nation would know that there is a smell of a cover-up. No right thinking people would dissolve a company this way or take such a decision if the sun is not beating their brains. As of yesterday, FIFA has instructed the government to withdraw the case from court and look for a different approach or they would ban the nation.

If the case is not withdrawn by the government, then Ghana should look forward to that ban. If FIFA entertains this and does nothing to stop the government then they are biased.

My fingers are crossed . . .
Source: Andy Mac-Carthy

Akufo Addo phones FIFA President Infantino over looming ban

FIFA President Infantino and Akufo-Addo

Ghana leader Nana Akufo Addo has phoned FIFA President Gianni Infantino in a desperate bid to avoid a global ban on the country for governmental interference in football.

Mr Addo phoned the leader of world's football governing body on Wednesday just 24 hours after FIFA fired a warning to government over its activities on the local federation.

FIFA said that Ghana will be banned on August 27 if the decision dissolve the Ghana FA is not withdrawn from court, sparking a political frenzy in the country.

Government’s petition to the High Court court to dissolve the Ghana FA came following Anas Aremeyaw Anas' documentary on corruption in Ghana football which captured top FA officials and referees taking bribes to influence the outcome of certain games.

On Monday, August 13, 20018, FIFA wrote to the Government of Ghana to withdraw the petition to dissolve the Ghana FA from court by August 27 or an international ban will be handed to Ghana for government interference.

With Nana Addo sensing that it could prove to be a hot political disaster for him if the country is banned, he phoned Infantino in a bid to avoid a ban.
The Ghana government and has started engagements to finalise arrangements that will see the continuation of football activities in the country.

This was agreed by both parties for the purpose of finding common measures to resolve the recent challenges facing the football administration in Ghana.

In the documentary, some referees were seen to be taking a bribe with the then Ghana Football Association president, Kwesi Nyantakyi found in a compromising position.

Mr Nyantakyi who is under police investigations subsequently resigned from his post both in Ghana and FIFA.

Government's move was part of its measures of wiping out corruption from football administration in the country.

However, FIFA notified government in a letter dated August 13, of its disagreement for government to liquidate the Association stating that it is an act of undue influence in the affair of the GFA contrary to Article 14 Paragraph 1(i) and Article 19 Paragraph 1 of FIFA statutes.
Both government and FIFA are of the view that the infractions exposed in the documentary which saw some officials of the GFA and administrators of football involved in widespread corruption, bribery, match-fixing and other forms of illegality should be dealt with.

But, government believes that the GFA as constituted is not fit for purpose because of the actions of its leadership and members thus should be dissolved to allow for the constitution of a new body that will see oversee the administration of football in the country.

FIFA, on the other hand, does not agree in government’s decision to liquidate the GFA emphasising on the ban of the GFA boss which is temporarily pending further investigation and substantive action.

Government and FIFA upon agreement will meet on Thursday at the FIFA headquarters in Zurich to explore means by which they can finalize arrangements on a mutually acceptable route for the final and phase of resolving the observed infractions in football administration in Ghana.

Government determined to clean up the unethical and criminal acts reported in Ghana football and will not renerge on all legal efforts to achieve this objective.

Courtesy of GHANAsoccernet.com - Ghana's leading football news website. Click for more news.

6000 footballers to be jobless - Lawyer Ntow Fianko

Former Chairman of Division One League Board of the Ghana Football Association Lawyer Ntow Fianko indicated that lots of footballers will lose their jobs if the government continues with its approach to dissolve the FA following FIFA’s ultimatum on Monday.

FIFA has ordered government to withdraw its case in court to dissolve the Ghana Football Association.

Several Ghanaian clubs have broken camp after football activities in the country came to a halt over Anas expose’.

FIFA has issued a threat that government’s move to put all football activities on hold contravenes with its status that frowns on undue influence in football matters.

“I expected government to start the process of prosecuting individuals who were captured in the video receiving bribes and leave the Ghana Football Association as an institution. I think that is why FIFA has threatened to ban Ghana,” he told Ghana Crusader Radio.

“FIFA has no issue with prosecuting individuals caught on camera in the expose’. Its problem is about the direct interference into football activities.

“Government needs to do the right thing, else about 6,000 Ghanaian footballers, will lose their jobs if Ghana suffer a ban from FIFA.”
Source: ghanacrusader.com

Partey instrumental as Atletico Madrid beat Real Madrid to win UEFA Super Cup

Thomas Partey

Atletico secure the bragging rights over their city rivals when they edged them 4-2 to set their season on the right path.

Diego Costa’s early strike was cancelled by Karim Benzema after 27minutes. Sergio Ramos shot Real Madrid into the lead from the penalty spot before Diego Costa pulled parity with his second on the night.

Thomas Partey was however introduced into the game in extra time and made wonders by setting up Saúl with a tailored measured pass for the latter to volley to register his side’s third.

Koke wrapped up victory with the fourth for the Los Rojiblanco as Atletico Madrid clinched their third UEFA Super Cup title having previously won in 2010 and 2012.
Source: Ghanasportsonline.com

Football cannot suffer, the bad official must

The football fraternity encompassing its commentary, journalism, playing and field action, cheering is a full package on its own that affects many lives.

This football, is the source of livelihood of the families of each of the stakeholders involved especially the playing body and the business people who invest huge sums of money into football.

In the heat of these football controversies in our beloved country, Ghana, personally, I think grabbing 'everything football' by the neck and squeezing it to death is not the best solution. This would be just like dissolving the Ghana Education Service when only a handful of their officers have faulted and ought to be punished.

Similarly, dissolving the dissolving the Football Association would exactly be like dissolving the Ghana Health Service, Ghana Medical Association, banning the practice of medicine and delivery of their services when some of the officials have faulted.

The Ghana Football Association's own may be a bit skewed from this comparism because their own involve many people whose absence seemingly may affect the game.

However, if about eighty percent of the stakeholders in the game are banned and sanctioned accordingly, the remaining twenty percent would have a good example to be guided with when they are also allowed to govern our football.

New Referees can be trained, new Executives can be elected.

Mr. President, please let us allow football to be: it is the source of livelihood for many families and the investment of others.

The bad officials must face the deserving sanctions according to the laws of Ghana: and let us allow our sweet game of football to be.

This is from the Wisdom's pot. A word to the wise is ... God bless Ghana
Source: Samoa Mensa/GHANAWEB