Gyan Having Medicals With Al Ahli (Photos)

Ghana captain, Asamoah Gyan is having medicals with United Arab Emirates side, Al Ahli.

 

The 31 -year old was on the verge of joining Championship side, Reading but a purported medical failure led to the deal falling through.

Gyan during his previous exploits with Al Ain scored 95 goals in 83 league matches from 2011-15 helped Al Ain clinch three top-flight titles, he also won won three Golden Boot awards and scored the winner in the 2014 President’s Cup final against Ahli.

 

Gyan will fly to Ghana tomorrow to  lead the Black Stars in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations final Group H qualifier against Rwanda on September 3, 2016.

Gyan Having Medicals With Al Ahli (Photos)

I Don"t Have Issues Against Local Players, But... - Grunsah

Founder and bankroller of King Faisal FC, Alhaji Karim Grunsah, has shared his thoughts on the use of local players for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda to be played at the Accra Sports Stadium, as suggested by Minister of Youth and Sports (MoYS), Honourable Nii Lantey Vanderpuye.

Recently, the MoYS was keen on the need to use local players for the said game because of the availability of funds but, the Ghana Football Association (GFA), on the other hand, deemed it inappropriate, considering the processes involved in the invitation of players to the national team and, the upcoming 2018 World Cup qualifier against Uganda next month.

In an interview with Sportscrusader.com after Black Stars’ first training session, Alhaji Grunsah said; “I’m not against local players playing this match against Rwanda, but I think the MoYs should have done this some months earlier, considering the procedures involved in players’ call-up to the national team.

He added; “I have personally instructed the GFA to meet with MoYS as soon as possible because of the impending World Cup qualifiers which I think is very paramount among many Ghanaians.”

The Black Stars will play Rwanda on Saturday, September 3, 2016 before traveling to Moscow to face Russia in an international friendly match.

I Don"t Have Issues Against Local Players, But... - Grunsah

Stoke City Sign Man City Striker Bony On Loan

Stoke City have signed striker Wilfried Bony on a season-long loan deal from Premier League rivals Manchester City.

Ivorian Bony, 27, has made 15 league starts since joining City for £28m from Swansea in January 2015, but had not featured under new boss Pep Guardiola.

The Potters have also signed Derby goalkeeper Lee Grant, 33, on loan until January.

Meanwhile, Porto and Netherlands defender Bruno Martins Indi, 24, is in talks with the club over a move.

“Bringing Wilfried in was a no-brainer for us,” said Potters manager Mark Hughes. “He has power, speed and very good physical attributes.”

Stoke targeted Ivory Coast international Bony as there had been no development in their attempt to sign West Brom forward Saido Berahino.

Last week, West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic said he was interested in signing Bony, who has three years left to run on his contract at Etihad Stadium.

BBC

Stoke City Sign Man City Striker Bony On Loan

Hearts In Crucial Stakeholders Meeting On Saturday

The National Chapters Committee (NCC), the leadership of the supporters union of Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club Limited, will hold a crucial stakeholders meeting at the Club’s Secretariat in Accra on Saturday.

Sportcrusader.com can confirm that the main agenda for the meeting will be issues affecting the club in these last few months.

Representatives from all the main organs of the club namely the old players association, regional supporters unions and Hearts Ladies, are expected to be present at this meeting.

Hearts have slummed from potential winners of this seasons Ghana Premier League (GPL) title and could finish outside the top four at the end of the campaign.

Since the club parted ways with the Japanese-American Kenichi Yatsuhashi, results have been dwindling, and, with three games to end the campaign, Hearts are six points behind the leaders.

This has not gone down well with majority of the supporters and Saturday’s meeting has been called to address these issues and many more.

On Tuesday, the club asked their Portuguese caretaker coach Sergio Traguil to revert to the position for which he was brought in for (to coach their youth side, Auroras) and placed Yaw Preko who was assistant to Kenichi, in charge for the rest of the season.

Hearts of Oak will need to win the remaining three games of the GPL to stand in with a chance of winning the title at the end of the campaign.

When the league resumes on the weekend of September 10 and 11, the Phobians will play Ebusua Dwarfs in Accra with another home game against Medeama SC following before they play New Edubiase United in their final game of the season.

Hearts In Crucial Stakeholders Meeting On Saturday

Abednego Tetteh Eyes MTN FA Cup Glory With Bechem United

Bechem United leading marksman Abednego Tetteh is eyeing winning the MTN FA Cup to as a compliment for the season he has had with the Hunters.

Tetteh has scored 12 goals in the ongoing Ghanaian top-flight league which has here games to go, and, will on Sunday lead the line when Bechem United takes on Okwawu United in the final of the MTN FA Cup competition.

That game is scheduled to come off at the new Cape Coast Stadium where Bechem United will look to win their first major silverware in Ghanaian football.

And Tetteh, who scored a hat trick in his side’s last league game against Accra Hearts Oak at Bechem last Sunday, hopes to replicate that form in Cape Coast on Sunday.

“We want to win this MTN FA Cup on Sunday, and, we will do everything possible to get our hands on the trophy at the end of the day”, he said.

Tetteh added: “This Sunday’s game means so much to us as players as it represents a great opportunity for us to write our names in the history of this football club (Bechem United) and we will go all out to win the cup at stake.”

Bechem United will come up against an opposition that has won this competition before when in 1986; Okwawu United beat Real Tamale United 1-0 to win the competition.

However, Tetteh insists that will have no effect on Sunday’s encounter as they hope to make their premiership status count when they play the second tier opponents.

 

Abednego Tetteh Eyes MTN FA Cup Glory With Bechem United

Ghana’s World Cup Qualifying Group Opponents Held In Friendlies

Egypt and Uganda failed to win their friendlies ahead of the start of the final round of qualifying to the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia as they were held to draws on Tuesday.

Both Egypt and Uganda are in Ghana’s group for the qualifiers which starts in October and, were looking to put their teams in shape ahead of those encounters.

Seven-time African champions Egypt were held to a 1-1 draw at the Alexandria’s Borg El Arab stadium in front of a packed house.

Uganda were also held to a stalemate as they drew goalless with their neighbours and bitter rivals Kenya at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole.

Mahmoud Hassan put the Pharaohs ahead seven minutes before break but, Bangoura Alhassane equalized for the Guineans midway through the second half in a game largely dominated by the hosts.

Egypt are also set to play another friendly with South Africa on September 6 as their new Argentine coach Hector Cuper puts his team together ahead of the final round of qualifiers to the next FIFA World Cup.

The Pharaohs will play Congo Republic on October 3 in their opening campaign with the Cranes of Uganda facing Ghana in the other group opener that same weekend.

The top nation after the round robin of the qualifying campaign will advance to the tournament in Russia in 2018.

Ghana’s World Cup Qualifying Group Opponents Held In Friendlies

Afcon 2017 Qualifiers: Ofori Tipped To Make Debut

Wa All Stars goal keeper, Richard Ofori, has been tipped to make his debut appearance for the senior national team when the Black Stars host Rwanda in Accra.

The talented custodian has been touted by many as the future number one for the Black Stars after an impressive form with Wa All Stars.

Goal keeper’s trainer for the National Under 20 side, Mohamed Issah Najahu, who doubles as Ofori’s trainer at the club, remains confident his young goal keeper will man the post for the Black Stars in the final qualification fixture.

Richard had been earning consistent call-ups in recent times but has yet to get a taste of the action.

Speaking to Sports Crusader ahead of the Black Stars’ home clash with Rwanda in Accra, Issah Najahu, remains optimistic Ofori will come good when given the platform.

“Richard Ofori has been one of the reliable safest pair of hands in Ghana in recent times.

“His natural posture as a goal keeper is an added advantage even before we talk of his God-given talent.

“Against Rwanda and, with qualification already sealed, I see no reason why Ofori cannot keep the post for the national team.

” A look at his form this season sums up his readiness for the biggest stage, once entrusted.

“The most important thing however is the decision of the Black Stars technical bench to pick the right choice for Ghana when they take on Rwanda”, Najahu told Sports Crusader exclusively.

The Black Satellites goalkeeper’s trainer has earned a reputation for himself as regards identifying several top-notch custodians in his career.

Robert Dabuo, Lawrence Atti Ziggi, Kwame Baah, Mutawakilu Seidu and Richard Ofori are just some examples of goal keepers discovered by Najahu Issah.

Afcon 2017 Qualifiers: Ofori Tipped To Make Debut

Leicester City Involved In A £68.5m Move

Leicester City have agreed a deal to sign Algerian forward Islam Slimani and have agreed to activate teammate Adrien Silva’s £38.5 million release clause

 

Sky Sports report that the Premier League champions have come to an agreement with Sporting CP for Islam Slimani, after an initial bid of £25 million was rejected by the Portuguese club on Tuesday morning. Both parties have since agreed on a fee of around £30 million which will see Slimani move to Leicester City after his medical.

The report further states that Slimani has been allowed to leave the Algerian training camp and will undergo a medical in the coming hours. The Foxes broke their club transfer record earlier in the summer by signing Ahmed Musa for a reported  £16.6 million, but this deal would see them smash their transfer record for the second time in the same transfer window.

Slimani has gone on to score 56 goals for Leões in 108 appearances since joining them from CR Belouizdad on a free transfer in 2013, and his 27 league goals in 33 appearances last term helped them to a second-placed finish in Primeira Liga.

Leicester City Involved In A £68.5m Move

Hearts Is Suffering From Instability - Ernest Thompson

Ernest Thompson, former Hearts of Oak Board Secretary, has blamed poor managerial decisions and instability for Hearts of Oak’s current poor run of form in the 2015/16 Ghana Premier League (GPL) season.

The Phobians have not won any of their last six league games with their best result being three drawn matches and, their recent 3-0 humiliating defeat against Bechem United saw their league title chase blown off.

Thompson, who was a leading member of the club’s legal department in an interview with Happy FM, said the team’s abysmal performance can be attributed to nothing than ‘instability’.

He said; “As a fan of the club, I remain loyal to the club. Though not a board member as before, I remain a fan. Hearts is suffering from instability and that has had adverse effect on the team’s performance on the field of play.

“If you look at the various components of the team – the management and coaching department, there’s so much instability. Cast your mind back to the number of coaches the team has had [numerous] for a while now.

“The sacking of Kenichi, obviously has negatively affected the rhythm of the team. The same players who did so well under the previous coach, are the ones who appear lost under the new one [Coach Sergio Traguil].

He added; “He (Sergio) being a new coach has also affected the team as he needs time to bond with the players and for the players to understand his philosophy too and that is why in football, it is rare to see a club change manager half-way through the season.”

Hearts Is Suffering From Instability - Ernest Thompson

Nyantakyi Urges Black Stars To Keep Focus

President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kwesi Nyantakyi, has urged the players of the Black Stars to keep their focus ahead of their two crucial encounters against Rwanda and Russia and overlook all issues surrounding the team.

The Black Stars are due to play the Amavubi of Rwanda in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier on 3 September, 2016 and will play 2018 World Cup host, Russia on September 6, 2016.

After their first training session which lasted for an hour, Nyantakyi said; “I will like appeal to you to focus on the preparations. Let us put all the issues that confronted us behind us.

“The upcoming matches as per the coach’s program, will serve two purposes, thus; to confirm our participation to the Africa Cup of Nations and also as the last competitive match before the 2018 World Cup qualifier against Uganda in October.”

Meanwhile, 13 players have arrived so far and it is expected that by Thursday, all the players will arrive.

Nyantakyi Urges Black Stars To Keep Focus

SWAG GS Questions MoYS" Direction And Mandate

Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) General secretary, William Ezah, has shared his thoughts on the wrangling between the Minister of Youth and Sports (MoYS), Hon. Nii Lantey Vanderpuye and the Kwesi Nyantakyi-led Ghana Football Association (GFA), branding it as a ‘needless confrontation’.

Both Kwesi Nyantakyi and Hon. Nii Lantey Vanderpuije have been embroiled in verbal exchanges since the latter assumed office as sector minister of sports.

Nii Lantey, in a radio interview, accused Nyantakyi of disrespecting him after the latter branded his comments on media platforms as being similar to those of a ‘serial caller’.

The minister suggested that, since the state can’t afford the cost of airfare for the Black Stars first team players, ‘local’ players should be invited to play the last AFCON 2017 qualifier match against Rwanda.

Ezah, who appears to have had enough of the impasse,took to his official Facebook post to pour out his frustration over what he terms ‘needless’ arguments between the two most important personalities in Ghana football.

“Over the years, all youth and sports ministers have been failures…. A sports minister must lead policy issues and programmes and give directions and outline strategies on talent identification and grooming, infrastructural development, development of human resource base, sports administrators, doctors, and all, specialization or general sports.

 

 

He writes further; “For me, dabbling in administrative issues such as players’ bonuses, technical issues such as player selection, purchase of air tickets, especially in the open, makes me think Ghana sports is just hanging in an open air.

“We have over 30 sporting disciplines… We have no idea what to specialize in so we can commit resources and excel or engage in all so the youth can have varieties. These are the issues sports ministry should be supervising.

The post concludes; “I really don’t see the sense in open confrontation between the GFA and Minister. It’s just needless….”

SWAG GS Questions MoYS" Direction And Mandate

Video: Black Stars Train Ahead of Rwanda Clash

Coach Avram Grant led the Black Stars in training for the first time ahead of their meeting with Rwanda at the Accra Sports Stadium on Saturday.

The Israeli had thirteen out of the 23 players report for training for the first day ahead of the ultimate game of the qualifiers after sealing qualifciation with just a game to spare.

Wa All Stars goal keeper, Richard Ofori is the only available goalie whilst John Boye, Baba Rahman and Ashgold centre-back, Mohammed Kadri complete the defenders present.

Panathinaikos midfielder, Mubarak Wakaso leads the midfield contingent comprising Afriyie Acquah, Yaw Yeboah, Frank Acheampong, Edwin Gyimah and Alfred Duncan.

Major League Soccer attacker, David Accam, Kotoko’s Dauda Mohammed – who received a late call-up due to an injury Ebenezer Assifuah suffered.

https://youtu.be/9nwGaTpfYo8

Video: Black Stars Train Ahead of Rwanda Clash

Adomah To Be Involved In Swap Deal

Middlesbrough have offered Ghana international, Albert Adomah, to Aston Villa for Adama Traore, who is reported to be having his medical this morning, according to the Press Association.

Last week, the winger rejected a move to Aston Villa after they failed to reach an agreement with Boro on the player

Former Barcelona winger, Traore, made it clear to Villa boss, Roberto Di Matteo earlier this summer that he wants to quit the Villa Park.

Winger, Adomah, joined Middlesbrough from Bristol City in 2013, helping Boro earn promotion from the Championship to the Premier League last season.

Adomah was not part of Avram Grant’s 23-man Squad to face Rwanda in the last match of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier to be played on September 3, 2016 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Adomah To Be Involved In Swap Deal

Live Update: Transfer Deadline Day

Follow Sportscrusader.com live update as the player transfer period closes today. The major European clubs are looking to finalise deals before the 10:59pm deadline time.

Live Update: Transfer Deadline Day

Chelsea Finally Acquire £23million Defender

Chelsea will complete the £23million acquisition of Fiorentina full-back Marcos Alonso today.

He was at the club’s training ground this morning to undergo a medical and has already agreed personal terms.

The 25-year-old arrives at Stamford Bridge following the departure of left-back Baba Rahman to Schalke on loan earlier this month and he started following the club on Twitter on Tuesday.

Alonso is expected to be the first of a possible three deadline day deals as Conte plots a £50million spree.

Marcos Alonso follows Chelsea on Twitter ahead of £23m move

One player heading back out of Chelsea is Juan Cuadrado, who has been granted his wish to return to Juventus on loan.

Conte wanted the Colombia winger to be in his squad this term only for the 28-year-old to make it clear he wants to play in Italy.

Juventus have agreed to pay a loan fee worth £4.2m, as well as accede to Chelsea’s demand that they make the move permanent should he play a certain amount of games.

Chelsea Finally Acquire £23million Defender

Gyan"s Camp Debunks Failed Medical Reports

Spokesperson for the Asamoah Gyan Group of Companies, Samuel Anim Addo, has debunked suggestions that Asamoah Gyan’s move is off due to medical failure.

Various media outlets reported earlier that Shanghai SIPG and Black Stars striker, Asamoah Gyan has failed a routine medical at the club’s medical facility ahead of his imminent transfer to the Championship side.

 

However, Samuel Addo has declared that it is propaganda by some of the media outlets to drag the name of Asamoah Gyan in the mud, but has vowed to release a press statement in due time to clear the air.

 

 

Speaking on Happy FM to explain the situation, Samuel Addo said; “I can assure every follower of Asamoah Gyan that there is no iota of truth in what’s been making rounds in the media. We are yet to fathom what constituted this lie, but we’re treating it as propaganda against Asa.

“We are being begged by the club’s chief executive officer to sign for them and Asamoah Gyan has even posted something in regards to the issue on twitter.

 

 

“We’ll be releasing a press statement on the issue in due time to clarify the issue. I can emphatically say that there is no truth that Gyan has failed a medical and therefore his move to the club has collapsed.

“The President and his son has flown in from Cyprus to see that the move goes through, and even the technical director has been on our neck to sign, but Asamoah Gyan has personally told them to wait. I have all the evidence with me here, but you can follow the issue on Gyan’s twitter handle and you’ll understand the situation better.”

 

 

Asamoah Gyan was declared as surplus to requirement by his parent club, Shanghai SIPG, after the club signed Brazilian striker Hulk for 50m pounds from Zenit St. Petersburg.

Gyan"s Camp Debunks Failed Medical Reports

Hearts Slammed By Ernest Thompson

Former Board Secretary of Accra Hearts of Oak, Ernest Thompson has slammed the club for the timing of Kenichi Yatsuhashi’s sacking.

Japanese tactician, Kenichi Yatsuhashi, was sacked by the club at the latter part of the first round of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) after guiding the club to the top of the log, but can boast of being the first expatriate coach in the club’s history to leave his post without tasting defeat away from home.

Despite his fine record, he was alleged to have clashed with the club’s management board due to interference in his team selection from the strategic board, which was constituted by the club’s management board to see to the day-to-day affairs of the team.

“The club is suffering from incapability because there’s no stability at the coaching department and this has affected the club in their pursuit to win this season’s league. I think they’ve lost the plot.

“The coach they brought in, doesn’t know much about the team, and in football, you hardly change a coach when the league is still on, you rather manage what you have to the end especially when the coach is churning out good results,” Ernest Thompson declared on Happy FM.

 

“Though I don’t think they will win the league, I expect them to finish in the top four but it looks as if the team is going down and, again, I will attribute it to the decision they took in changing the coach.

“However, I will wish they place an appreciable position because once a Phobian, always a Phobian and it hurts to see my club in this dire situation.”

Hearts Slammed By Ernest Thompson

I"ve Been Treated Unfairly - Sergio Traguil

Hearts of Oak former head coach, Sergio Traguil has said the club’s decision to demote him to the youth team is unfair.

The Phobians, yesterday released a press statement stating that the Portuguese has been re-assigned to his position of managing the U20 side of the club, just as was initially agreed before the club hit a snag agreeing a solution with Kenichi Yatsuashi – who was embarking a 25-day coaching refresher course in his native Japan.

Traguil has failed to impress the management of the club since he was confirmed as interim coach with his record, detailing three wins, seven draws and two heavy defeats.

Speaking for the first time since the news broke of his demotion, the tough-talking tactician said; “If the management had made a fair analysis on my team’s performance they will notice I have been treated unfairly.

“They have to make fair analysis and not comparison on this or that as you cannot compare the work of two coaches because it is not the same [as in work]. It is that simple, they [Hearts management] have not been fair to me, most them, I mean,” he added.

Hearts has named assistant coach, Yaw Preko as interim head coach for the remaining three games to the climax of the 2015/16 season.

I"ve Been Treated Unfairly - Sergio Traguil

Mexican Senator To Run in Millennium Marathon

Mexican Senator and former track and field athletes, Ana Guevara will participate in the 2016 Accra Millennium Marathon, SportsCrusader.com has gathered.

The 39-year old retired sprinter is one of many high profile international athletes who will line up for the September 3 showpiece.

Ana began her career in 1996 carrying out diverse tours, participating in her first international competitions.

Two years later, she won two silver medals in the

Central American and Caribbean Games in the 400 and 800 meters .

Her first major victory was the gold medal in the 400m at the 1999 Pan American Games in Canada a year before she qualified to the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Ana Guevara qualified for a second successive Olympic game in Athens in 2004, winning a silver medal in 400m.

She retired from active sports in 2008 and entered into politics a year later, standing as the PRD candidate for Miguel Hidalgo Delegation in Mexico City losing to Demetrio Sodi.

Ana Guevara became a Mexican Senator for the 2012-2018 term having been postulated by the Democratic Revolution Party (PRD), the Labor Party (PT), and Citizen Movement Party.

Mexican Senator To Run in Millennium Marathon

Ghana Youth Cricket Team Departs For South Africa

The U-19 boys’ Cricket team left the shores of the country  for South Africa on Tuesday, August 30, 2016 for the ICC Africa division 2 tournament in Benoni.

The 10-day tournament,  which is also the International Cricket Council Cricket World Cup Qualifier (ICC CWCQ), starts from Wednesday September 10, to Monday September 19, 2016.

Ghana will join six other countries in Rwanda, Zambia, Tanzania, Botswana, Sierra Leone and Nigeria for the continental showdown.

The competing countries will compete in an ODI round robin game for the sole slot to the  ICC World Cup, slated for New Zealand in 2018.

The early departure will allow team Ghana to acclimatize with the whether and pitch from 1st to 8th before heading to the tournament Hotel (Garden Hotel).

Ghana plays her first 50 overs with Botswana on the 10th of September 2016, continue with Sierra Leone and Zambia on 11th and 12th before resting on 13th. They will Play Rwanda and Tanzania on 14th and 15th with their last match on 17th against Nigeria.

Ghana’s best record at this tournament has been 3rd place in Zambia 2014, and winners of the 2103 edition which was hosted by South Africa and are poised to win it again.

The team, over a year now, has been training every weekend and in four weeks before their departure, won all four trial matches with Everest, BGC, Supermax and the senior team.

Team Manager for the U-19 side, Henry Benjamin Ackom believes they none of the countries poses a threat in the tournament ahead of their trip to South Africa.

“We don’t have any threat at all. Of course, with the kind of preparations we have had, if we don’t win it, I will be very much disappointed.

“We won it in South Africa the last time and we are ready to win it again. We have only lost to Tanzania and Zambia previously but not ready to lose to them again.

Head Coach Francis Kofi Bakiweyem and Team Manager, Henry Benjamin Ackom, together with 14 players, left on the trip with one eye on the sole ticket to battle for.

Ghana Youth Cricket Team Departs For South Africa

Patrick Kpozo Revels In European Football Experience

Ghanaian defender,  Patrick Kpozo, has singled out his Europa league debut as the most important moment of his career.

The AIK Solna utility defender made his European bow in the preliminary stages of the 2016/17 season and has already highlighted his continental adventure  as the best moment of his young career.

The Ghanaian import rued the missed chance of making it into the group stages of the tourney but remains hopeful the experience will come in handy in the future.

“It was a very happy moment in my career  as a footballer to play in European ties.

“In the Europa league, you get to meet different types of players, and the experience is something you cannot describe.

“My debut game was a moment I can never forget as a young footballer”, Kpozo  told Sports Crusader.

The Sweden-based defensive stalwart has been an ever-present feature at the back for ALK Solna until his recent injury setback.

He is however expected back in league action  soon, having returned to the side in the domestic cup action.

The youngster featured in back-to-back European ties against Bala, Europa and a solitary clash with Panathinaikos.

Patrick Kpozo Revels In European Football Experience

Official: Daniel Sowatey Inks One-Year Deal With Xaghra

Ex-Ghana Youth defender, Daniel Sowatey, has signed a one-year deal with Maltese second tier side Xaghra United after a successful 2-week trial.

Sports crusader initially reported on the proposed deal tabled by Xaghra United for the services of the Ghanaian import who was hoisting high the flag of Ghana in Bulgaria.

Exclusive information gathered by Sports Crusader suggests the former Nandom Black Bulls centre-back has been a long term target for the Maltese side in their quest to seal top flight football.

The stoutly-built centre-back parted ways with Shumen 1929 at the end of the 2015/16 European season after a stellar career in Bulgaria.

He is expected to make his debut for his new club on September 3, 2016 in an FA Cup tie.

Official: Daniel Sowatey Inks One-Year Deal With Xaghra

FA President Welcomes Black Stars

President of the Ghana Football Association(GFA), Kwesi Nyantakyi has welcomed a section of the Black Stars players who have been able to purchase their tickets, in order to honour the last match of the African Cup of Nations qualifier against the Amavubi of Rwanda.

A total of 13 players have arrived so far arrived in camp, including three local players namely Richard Ofori, Daniel Amartey, Kadri Mohammed, Baba Rahman, John Boye, Edwin Gyimah and Mubarak Wakaso,Frank Acheampong, Alfred Duncan, Afriyie Acquah, Yaw Yeboah, Dauda Mohammed and David Accam.

After their first training session which lasted for an hour, Nyantaki said; “We welcome and wish you a good stay during the preparations towards the two matches against Rwanda and the friendly match against 2018 World Cup host, Russia.

“I know some of you had difficulties in coming down to honour the match because of the ticketing issues we had, but nonetheless, I want to thank you for showing your high sense of patriotism and I will applaud you for that.

“We are hoping to have a full house for the second training session which is scheduled for tomorrow so as to facilitate a smooth training programme  for the coach ahead of the two crucial encounters”, he ended.

 

FA President Welcomes Black Stars

Hearts Demote Mourinho To Youth Team

---

Hearts of Oak have demoted their Portuguese trainer, Sergio Traguil to their youth side, Auroras.

The Portuguese, nicknamed, “Port-Alegre Mourinho” has had a torrid time since his appointment as Kenichi Yatsuashi’s replacement.

In a press release, the club said Sergio has been reassigned to his previous post as academy head coach with immediate effect.

Assistant coach and former player of the club, Yaw Preko has been named as head coach until the end of 2015/16 season.

Hearts have lost their best chance to win the league title since the 2008 season as they’ve recorded three draws and two defeats in their last five league games.

Hearts Demote Mourinho To Youth Team

Nii Lantey - FA "Feud" Excites Me

Member of the Black Stars Management Committee, Mr. Ernest Thompson has expressed his happiness about the current conflict between the Minister of Youth and Sports (MoYS), Honourable Nii Lantey Vanderpuije and the Ghana Football Association, describing it as a blessing, because a conflict is a desirable phenomenon.

The past few months have seen some harsh exchanges between the two, using subtle jibes. Many have deemed it unhealthy for the progress of the senior national team, the Black Stars

Ernest Thompson

He told Accra-based Radio Station, Happy Fm, that; “conflicts in itself, is not an undesirable occurrence, but I hope along the line, equal grounds will be reached to solve the situation around, so I’m happy about the on-going conflict.”

He added: “The angle the minister is coming from, considering the cost perceptive of inviting the local players which is very reasonable, but the point of departure arose with the timing of his request because the procedures involved in calling-up foreign players to a match involves a lot.”

The head of the Legal Committee of the GFA, also reiterated the pros and cons of this whole debate and suggested the need for series of intensive meetings between the two bodies so that issues could be resolved amicably.

 

Nii Lantey - FA "Feud" Excites Me

Ernest Thompson On GPL Packaging

Former Hearts of Oak board secretary Ernest Thompson has prescribed solutions to the on-going debate as to whether the Ghana Premier League is attractive or not.

Youth and Sports minister, Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuije, recently in a radio interview, branded the GPL ‘unattractive’ hence the reason why the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has laboured to get it [the league] a headline sponsor.

But in a swift response, the GFA president, Kwesi Nyantakyi, rebuffed those claims insisting the GPL is the most attractive sports brand in Ghana and they [football administrators and football loving fans] have toiled to make it as such.

And this, the lawyer cum football administrator, apparently to give his take on what makes the league attractive or unattractive.

Speaking on Happy FM’s Anopabosuo Sports show, the soft-spoken Thompson said; “We need dual matches – colts and division one games to be played as curtain-raisers as well as musical concerts to make match day packages an attractive one.

“Football is like any other product, it needs to be marketed well and surely it will sell.

“We need to get the National Lottery Authority (NLA) involved and draw a bet and win event just for the GPL.

“From my personal perspective, we need to enlarge the Ghana Football Association like the English Football Association has – the premier league board run and manage the league on their own whilst other administrative duties are handled by the FA themselves and that will improve the game here in Ghana.”

The 2015/16 GPL season has been arguably the most interesting. With just three games to end the season, Wa All Stars lead the log with 48 points, three points away from second-placed Aduana Stars whilst the relegation battle has never been this interesting.

 

Just five points separates Ashgold in 10th position and Sekondi Hasaacas in 15th position.

Ernest Thompson On GPL Packaging

Arsenal Confirm Signing of Spanish Striker

Arsenal have completed the signing of Spanish striker Lucas Perez from Deportivo La Coruna for €20 million.

 

The 27-year-old moves to the Emirates following a two-year spell at Estadio Riazor that started as a loan from Greek side PAOK. The Greeks will share in the spoils of Lucas’ move to England having included a sell-on clause in his contract a year ago.

It’s fair to say Lucas has enjoyed something of a nomadic career so far. Youth football for Alavés, Montañeros and Órdenes was followed by reserve action at Atletico Madrid and Rayo Vallecano. He then moved to Ukraine in 2011, first to Karpaty Lviv before a short ‘nightmare’ loan with local giants Dynamo Kiev.

PAOK rescued Lucas with the offer of a three-year permanent deal in 2013, paying €700,000 for the privilege, then loaned him to Depor within 12 months. The Spanish side then snapped him up for €2 million last summer and he’s since scored 24 goals in 58 league appearances.

Arsene Wenger said of the new arrival, “He’s not only a goalscorer, he’s a guy who combines well with partners, who can give a final ball and makes good runs. He’s got a good eye for goal and had an outstanding season last year.”

Arsenal Confirm Signing of Spanish Striker

Done Deal : Crystal Palace Sign Chelsea Striker

Chelsea striker Loic Remy has completed a loan move to Crystal Palace, bringing his time with the Blues to a temporary end after two seasons.

Remy moved to Stamford Bridge in 2014 after impressing with Queens Park Rangers and Newcastle United on loan, becoming the primary back-up behind star striker Diego Costa.

The France international made the most of his opportunities in his first season at Stamford Bridge, scoring seven Premier League goals while starting just six matches.

But despite his solid performances, former manager Jose Mourinho gave the 29-year-old few chances to show he could be a starter, even when Costa struggled for form early in the 2015-16 campaign.

Done Deal : Crystal Palace Sign Chelsea Striker

Gyan Fails Reading Medicals?

Reports coming in from the UK, have suggested that Championship side, Reading are not interested in signing Ghana striker, Asamoah Gyan after the latter reportedly failed a medical at the former’s, resulting in the deal reportedly falling through.

Asamoah Gyan leading the Stars

 

According to Sbnation, the deal had divided Reading fans in recent days, with some calling the move ‘the definition of insanity’ and others hoping the club had pulled off another great signing.

 

Whatever your view, it seems like the club have deemed this one a no-no, as an eight-week fitness programme would leave Gyan unavailable for around a month before he reports in for duty at the Africa Cup of Nations.

 

Meanwhile, Gyan will fly to Ghana tomorrow to  lead the Black Stars in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations final Group H qualifier against Rwanda on September 3, 2016.

Gyan Fails Reading Medicals?

These Two Should Put Egos Aside

Member of the Black Stars Management Committee, Mr. Ernest Thompson has offered a word of advice both to the President of the Ghana Football Association(GFA), Kwesi Nyantakyi and the Minister of Youth and Sports(MOYS), Honourable Nii Lantey Vanderpuije on the ‘cold war’ between them, as it does not serve the common interest of the nation.

Recently, the pride of the nation, The Black Stars has been a ‘bone of contention’ between these two leaders, who have not found an amicable way of resolving issues pertaining to the management of the team.

He told Accra-based Radio Station, Happy Fm that; “I think both of them have to understand that, if they have any personal conflicts, they still have national duties to discharge and work in the best interest of the nation. They both occupy very sensitive positions in the country, at this stage, they both need to sit down and find a solution to recent happenings.

 

“They may disagree about the way to go about things, but each of them should be able to manage each other within the circumstances.

Reports gathered by Sportscrusader.com have revealed that there is a scheduled meeting between the MOYS and the GFA this morning and we would bring you up to speed with what transpired in that meeting.

These Two Should Put Egos Aside

England: Christian Atsu Completes Newcastle Switch

Black Stars winger, Christian Atsu, has officially joined Newcastle United on a season-long loan spell.

The Chelsea star spent last season on loan at AFC Bournemouth and Spanish side Malaga but has since struggled to get playing time in the opening three fixtures under Antonio Conte.

The former FC Porto tricky wide man will be heading for his sixth loan spell in four years after spells at Vitesse Arnheim,  Everton and Rio Aves.

His switch to Newcastle will see him join Jordan  Ayew in the Championship with the possible arrival of Albert Adomah from Middlesbrough.

Atsu enjoyed a stellar career at the Estadio Dragao in Portugal but has been turned into a nomadic footballer since his arrival at the Stamford Bridge in the summer of 2013.

England: Christian Atsu Completes Newcastle Switch

Afcon Qualifier: Dauda Mohammed Replaces Injured Assifuah For Rwanda Clash

Kumasi Asante Kotoko attacking prodigy, Dauda Mohammed has been given a late call-up to replace the injured Ebenezer Assifuah for the Rwanda clash.

The in-form attacker becomes the third player to join the senior national team from the domestic  league after the inclusion of Richard Ofori and Kadri Mohammed.

The Black Stars take on their Rwandan opponents in the final round of qualifiers for next year’s continental football showdown.

Dauda registered 8 goals in his 19 appearances for the Reds in Kumasi to take his growing reputation to another level.

The much talked about final round of qualifier between Ghana and Rwanda has seen Andre Ayew foot the airfare bills of some selected players for their trip to Ghana.

Afcon Qualifier: Dauda Mohammed Replaces Injured Assifuah For Rwanda Clash

Black Stars Begin Training Today Ahead of Rwanda Clash

The Senior national team of Ghana, Black Stars, would commence training today ahead of their 2017 Africa Cup Nations final Group H qualifier against the Amavubi of Rwanda.
 

Fourteen players out of the 23 invited have arrived and are expected to have their first training session at 4pm today at the Accra Sports Stadium.

After their training today, the players, as well as, technical team would be available for interview, the Communications Directorate of the Ghana football Association has revealed.

Coach Avram Grant is expected to have a full house by tomorrow in other to intensify his preparation for the game against the Amavubi.

Black Stars Begin Training Today Ahead of Rwanda Clash

Confirmed : Burnley Sign Chelsea Striker

Burnley have completed the signing of Chelsea striker Patrick Bamford on a season-long loan deal.

The Clarets announced Bamford’s arrival this morning via their official Twitter account.

Bamford, aged 22, impressed during loan spells in the Championship with Derby County in 2013/14 and Middlesbrough in 2014/15. But he struggled to make his mark during stints with Crystal Palace and Norwich City in which he failed to find the net in a total of 13 Premier League appearances.

The England Under-21 international joined Chelsea from Nottingham Forest in 2012, but is yet to make a first-team appearance for the Blues during his four-and-a-half years on their books.

Burnley boss Sean Dyche had indicated that Bamford’s signing was close to completion after Saturday’s 3-0 defeat to the striker’s parent club at Stamford Bridge.

The Clarets are 14th in the Premier League table, with one win and two defeats from their first three games since winning promotion to the top-flight.

Confirmed : Burnley Sign Chelsea Striker

Bright Adjei Confident Of CNN Award

Aduana stars attacker, Bright Adjei, is confident of winning his second CNN Goal of The Week, following his nomination.

Bright got nominated for the CNN weekly poll for his wonder strike away to Sogakope-based WAFA SC  on match day 27.

The Dormaa-based attacker, inked his name into the record books as first home-based attacker to win the global accolade for his efforts against Kumasi Asante Kotoko in the first half of the season.

The former Tema Youth attacker credited his team mates for his global fame and remains confident he will annex the ultimate after the poll.

“It is always good to score and even better when your goals win you other side way awards.

“I don’t score goals to win individual glory but for collective efforts, so when I get nominated for anything, I credit my team mates.

“Having won one already in the first half, it will be another milestone to win as well. Hopefully, I add that to my trophy cabinet”, Adjei briefed Sports Crusader.

The youngster has been a revelation for the Dormaa-based top flight side since his arrival.

Bright Adjei Confident Of CNN Award

Bright Addae Tips All Stars For GPL Trophy

Ghana youth International, Bright Addae, has tipped WA All  Stars for ultimate glory in the Ghana Premier league with three rounds of matches remaining.

The Italy-based midfielder, rallied his former side to eschew complacency in the title run-in, as they bid to win their first-ever topflight trophy.

The former national U-20 Star commended the mental strength of the playing squad of his former side despite their geographical disadvantage.

Speaking from his Italian base ahead of the final round of matches, Bright remains hopeful his former side will emerge winners.

“I am tipping WA All Stars to win their first-ever trophy at the end of the season.

“They have been very consistent all season and deserve the league trophy by all standards.

“When you look at their location and the distance they travelled, you are made to love them.

“There is  no other premier league club close to them but their mindset have been super all while.

“I am sure they will win the league if they avoid any complacency”, Addae told sports crusader.

Wa All Stars currently lead the division with 48 points, ahead of the final 3 rounds of matches in the domestic championship.

The Wa-based side will win the championship if they win at home to second-placed Aduana Stars.

Bright Addae Tips All Stars For GPL Trophy

No Disrespect To MoYS Intended - Dede

Black Stars attacking midfielder, Dede Ayew, has disclosed in an exclusive interview with Sportscrusader.com that his, and other players’, move to fund their airfare to Accra is not to meant to spite the Youth and Sports Minister, Edwin Nii Lantey Vanderpuije.

Ayew, in collaboration with a couple of his national teammates, are paying for the airfares of some members of coach Avram Grant’s 23-man squad after news broke of a reported financial difficulty facing the ministry, making it difficult to fly the players from their various European bases to Accra.

The uniBank brand ambassador, who will not be involved directly in the game due to an injury picked up against Chelsea in his debut game for new side, West Ham United said; “This act is not to dishonour the minister or anyone, but rather, to show our desire and love to wear the national colours and do battle for Ghana.”

uniBank’s brand ambassador will be with the team to offer morale support and advise when called upon.

No Disrespect To MoYS Intended - Dede

Ghana"s Paralympic Failure

‘Promises’, ‘Promises’, ‘Promises’ a recurrent term that encapsulates the affection government and corporate entities have been to disabled athletes whenever they are to embark on an international assignment for Ghana.

Largely, it has been the lack of funds/sponsorship which leads to inadequacy in preparations.

Ghana’s Rio 2016 Paralympics contingent are in a limbo over their participation in this year’s mega sports event after the National Paralympic Committee (NPC) revealed last week, their failure in securing funds for the games and further appealed for funds accordingly.

Many of its athletes had difficulty in participating in various Olympic qualifiers on the African continent which made the target of at least, 10 athletes unachievable.

Ghana had three of its athletes qualifying for the games, namely; Alem Mumuni, Charles Narh and Yussif Amadu,but investigation by Sportscrusader.com indicates that Alem and Narh are in USA training for the games on personal sponsorship whilst Amadu is in Ghana hoping to join his colleagues if the NPC acquires sponsorship.

Disabled sports in Ghana, is in a downward spiral over the difficulty in securing funds for the development of disabled sports and, considering the large pool of disabled athletes across the country, it might seem a bit disheartening considering the number of talents available.

Another clear case of how Ghana has failed disabled sport was when Ghana Amputee Football Association, suffered expulsion from the World Amputee Football Federation, for non-payment of affiliation fees.

Considering the large pool of disabled athletes across the country, why has it been so difficult for the country to unearth talents for the games, so that medals could be won, since the able-bodied athletes have failed in their quest to win honors for the country.

With barely 10 days to the start of the Paralympic games, I hope Ghana’s Paralympic dream will be saved and hopefully, the country will win its first medal in Paralympic sports.

Ghana"s Paralympic Failure

Afcon Qualifiers: Dede To Be Part Of Black Stars

Ghana Black Stars deputy captain and uniBank (Ghana) Limited’s brand ambassador, Dede Ayew, has confirmed in an interview with Sportscrusader.com that he will be part of the Black Stars contingent in Accra for Ghana’s last AFCON 2017 qualifier vs Rwanda.

The West Ham United record signing picked up an injury during his debut game against Chelsea.

But the uniBank brand ambassador, whose level of patriotism, has never been in doubt, will be flying to Ghana to offer morale support to the team as they vie to complete the qualifiers with a 100% record.

 

The Hammers have failed to reveal the date for his comeback, despite having confirmed Dede will not need surgery to heal the injury.

Afcon Qualifiers: Dede To Be Part Of Black Stars

CNN Selects GPL Striker"s Goal For Honours

Aduana Stars’ attacking midfielder, Bright Adjei’s goal has been selected yet again by international television news network, CNN for their Goal of The Week show.

Adjei scored a beauty of a goal against West African Football Academy (WAFA) when he slotted home an overhead kick to give the Adansi side the lead.

This is the second time this season CNN has selected a goal from the Ghana Premier League and, all have been ones scored by Adjei who has been an influential player for Aduana who are in a two-horse race to the title with leaders, Wa All Stars.

CNN Selects GPL Striker"s Goal For Honours

GPL: FA DC Awards Techiman City Points And Goals

New Edubiase United FC have been declared losers of their Ghana Premier League (GPL) Match day 25 match against Techiman City FC for fielding an unqualified player.

This means Techiman City have been awarded three points and goals and have moved to the 10th position of the GPL standings.

The Disciplinary Committee upheld Techiman City’s protest in respect of the said match which has seen New Edubiase FC also fined GHC5000.00

New Edubiase player, Christopha Agbashie ,was found ineligible in the said game after accumulating a number of yellow cards, but evidence of the player being fielded in the match made the decision upheld.

Below is the full verdict

Decision – Misconduct Case 45- PLB – Two Players & Two Mgt Members of New Edubiase

GPL: FA DC Awards Techiman City Points And Goals

Adomah Turns Down Purported Championship Move

Middlesbrough and Ghana winger, Albert Adomah has rejected a move to Championship side, Aston Villa, according to HITC Sport.

Aston Villa and Boro had not agreed terms on the player, but the talks had begun and the player and his representatives were given permission to talk terms, but Adomah – whose current deal is due to expire next summer – decided against the switch.

Negotiations between Boro and the player are set to continue, amid speculations of interest coming from Premier League sides, Burnley and Crystal Palace.

The Ghana international turned down Boro’s offer of a new three-year deal last week because the offer was below his expectations.

Adomah was not part of Avram Grant’s 23-man Squad to face Rwanda in the last match of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier to be played on September 3, 2016.

Adomah Turns Down Purported Championship Move

Afcon Qualifier: uniBank Brand Ambassador Rallies Players To Pay For Airfare

UniBANK brand ambassador, Andre Morgan Dede Ayew, is leading a campaign for Black Stars players to personally fund their airfare from their various foreign bases to Accra, to honour the team’s last Afcon qualifier against Rwanda.

The Sports Minister is reported to have clearly stated that, his outfit is cash-strapped and as such, advised the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to consider giving call-ups to some locally based players – considering the fact that, Ghana has already sealed qualification to Gabon 2017.

Dede, who is recovering from an injury, has taken the initiative to pay for a number of the first team’s players.

Teammates, Baba Rahman, Afriyie Acquah and others have also opted to fund their return trips to Accra.

The uniBank Brand Ambassador, in an interview with sportscrusader, mentioned that, his gesture is not to suggest that, the domestic players are not good enough to represent Ghana in the qualifiers.

Afcon Qualifier: uniBank Brand Ambassador Rallies Players To Pay For Airfare

Ghana’s World Cup Qualifying Group Opponents Set-Up Friendlies

Ghana’s group opponents in the qualifiers for the 2018 FIFA World Cup, Egypt and Uganda have lined up friendlies ahead of the start of the campaign in October.

Seven-time African champions Egypt will play Guinea tomorrow (Tuesday, August 30, 2016) at home as they continue with their preparations for the Russia 2018 qualifiers.

The Pharaohs are also set to play another friendly with South Africa on September 6 as their new Argentine coach Hector Cuper puts his team together ahead of those encounters.

Uganda will also play Kenya at Mandela National Stadium, Namboole with the Cranes seeking to be in good shape before they face Ghana in the first of those qualifiers in October.

Coach Cuper has admitted that he has been forced to win all friendly matches ahead of the start of the FIFA 2018 World Cup qualifiers after their recent defeat to Jordan in a similar exercise.

The 1-0 warm-up loss to Jordan at Aswan Stadium was followed by two 2-0 friendly victories over Libya and Burkina Faso but the Egypt FA was not satisfied.

“After losing a previous friendly to Jordan I was subject to intense criticism despite it being just a friendly,” Argentine boss Cuper said at a press conference last Friday.

“After that, I understood that I should be focusing on winning friendly games, even though playing these games is only intended to prepare the team.”

Egypt were drawn in a tight group at the qualifiers’ final round alongside Ghana, Congo and Uganda in June and will kick off their qualifying campaign against Congo on October 3.

The Pharaohs have made only two World Cup appearances, both in Italy in 1934 and 1990 and are desperate for a third to go with their status in the African game.

Tuesday’s meeting between Uganda and Kenya is also meant to fine tune the 1978 losing AFCON finalists ahead of a must win tie against Comoros on Sunday, September 4 with Kenya scheduled to play Zambia in group E on the same weekend – though both have no chance of qualification.

Uganda will face the Black Stars of Ghana in their opening qualifier and will hope these games will build them up ahead of that encounter.

Ghana’s World Cup Qualifying Group Opponents Set-Up Friendlies

Video : Ghana"s Para- Higher Jumper in a Training Session

Ghana’s sole representative in the track and field department of the Paralympics in Rio, Yussif Amadu is vigorously preparing for the the Paralympic Games in Rio that kick-starts on September 7, 2016.

 

The video below is a training session he had in Wa, and has since moved to Accra for camping, with the hope of joining his colleagues, Alem Mumuni and Charles Teye Narh, who are preparing for the games in San Diego, USA.

 

 

Video : Ghana"s Para- Higher Jumper in a Training Session

I Have Unfinished Business In England - Gyan

Captain of the Black Stars, Asamoah Gyan has vowed to prove himself in English Football ahead of a proposed move to Championship side, Reading.

Gyan, who is currently undergoing a medical at Reading ahead of a season-long loan move from Shanghai SIPG.

The 30-year-old has been criticized by some local fans, who think he has not been at his best since his departure from Sunderland to UAE club, Al Ain, in 2012.

He told Sky Sports News HQ; “I have a lot of options. Me and my agent are here to evaluate them and get the work done.

“And then, I can continue doing what I do best, which is, scoring goals and playing well.

“I am confident I will have a club in England. There are good options to think about, so we had to fly in quickly.

“Me being in England means there is something concrete, so we need to evaluate the options and do the work.

“I heard about Sunderland and Fulham but we will see what happens. There might be surprises.

“Football is full of them. The people around me are trying to benefit me.

“It doesn’t matter if it is Championship or Premier league, it’s about being comfortable where I am.

“Sunderland is a good club. It was unfortunate I didn’t play for many years there. I had to leave and that is football.

“Sometimes, you stay for a long time at a club and then other times you go. I just want to prove myself again in England. I am ready to go.

“I went to the Middle East but I was scoring goals for the national team and in the world cup. I don’t regret it at all and now, I am back to prove myself again.

“Maybe it is my destiny to be back to the Premier League or the Championship.

“Maybe we will make a decision tonight, or tomorrow.”

Gyan will lead the Black Stars in the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations final Group H qualifier against Rwanda on September 3, 2016.

I Have Unfinished Business In England - Gyan

Athletics: Olympic Champion Jebet Breaks Steeplechase World Record

Olympic champion Ruth Jebet smashed the world record for the women’s 3,000 metres steeplechase by more than six seconds at the Paris Diamond League meeting on Saturday.

The 19-year-old, who was born in Kenya and runs for Bahrain, clocked eight minutes and 52.78 seconds, more than nine seconds ahead of Olympic silver medallist Hyvin Kiyeng Jepkemoi of Kenya who finished second.

The previous record of 8:58.81 was set by Russian Gulnara Galkina at the Beijing Olympics eight years ago.

Jebet narrowly missed out on the world record when she won Bahrain’s first-ever Olympic gold medal in Rio de Janeiro this month.

It was clear that the world record was in danger after Jebet completed the first kilometre in 2:56.36.

She went through the second kilometre in 5:54.16 compared to Galkina’s split time of 6:01.20 in her record-breaking run in Beijing.

“I tried many times to beat the world record and today we decided to push each other to go for a good time,” said Jebet.

“I was not expecting such a big difference with the record. I think I finished my season today.”

Times of Oman

Athletics: Olympic Champion Jebet Breaks Steeplechase World Record

Southampton Sign Boufal For A Club Record Fee

Southampton have announced the signing of Sofiane Boufal for a club-record fee of £16m from Lille.

 

The 22-year-old attacking midfielder has signed a five-year deal at St Mary’s after scoring 11 goals last season to help Lille finish fifth in Ligue 1 and qualify for the Europa League

 

Southampton’s previous transfer record was the £15m they paid Roma for forward Dani Osvaldo in 2013.

 

Southampton spent £10m to sign Nathan Redmond from Norwich City while Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg arrived for £12m from Bayern Munich.

Southampton Sign Boufal For A Club Record Fee

Salomon Kalou To Miss Ivory Coast"s AFCON Qualifier

Ivory Coast forward Salomon Kalou is set to miss the Africa Cup of Nations qualifier with Sierra Leone after suffering two family bereavements.

The 31-year-old Hertha Berlin player lost his father Antoine to a heart attack two weeks ago and is now also mourning the loss of his aunt Fernande.

He will fly home to spend time with his family during the international break.

Ivory Coast need only a draw with Sierra Leone on 3 September to qualify for the 2017 finals in Gabon.

“I’m travelling home to support my family,” Kalou told German daily Bild.

“Of course, I am unbelievably sad and feel empty,” he added.

“Football is a therapy for me at the moment. It will take a while to get over this.”

After last weekend’s opening round of Bundesliga matches, Berlin’s next German league game is on 10 September at Ingolstadt, but no date has been fixed for Kalou’s return.

Kalou was Berlin’s top scorer last season with 14 goals in 32 league games.

BBC

Salomon Kalou To Miss Ivory Coast"s AFCON Qualifier

Sierra Leone Camping In Accra Ahead Of Ivory Coast Game

Sierra Leone have set up a training camp in Accra ahead of their 2017 African Cup of Nations qualifier against Ivory Coast this weekend.

This move by the country’s Football Association, is to avoid pressure from home fans as they prepare for this final qualifier.

The Ivorians will host this Group I encounter in Bouake on Saturday, September 3 and Sierra Leone need to win to qualify for the tournament next year.

Should they achieve that, itwill be the first time they have made it to the finals in 20 years.

Ivory Coast need only a draw to secure the chance to defend their title in January’s finals in Gabon.

“We are taking the team to Accra to reduce the pressure and tension from the fans at home who would like to see the team succeed in the historical match,” Leone Stars Ghanaian born coach, Sellas Tetteh told the BBC.

“In the process we’ll create a conducive atmosphere for the boys to concentrate on the task ahead.

“This is a very important match for the country and for the team of young players who have never played in the Afcon finals.

“We are going to do our best and come out of the match with our heads raised up.

Sierra Leone provisional squad:

Goalkeepers: Solomon Zombo Morris (Quevilly, France), Unisa Koroma (East End Lions), Alhaji Dauda Conteh (Diamond Stars FC)

Defenders: Mohamed L. Bangura (Ports Authority FC), Umaru Bangura (FC Zurich, Switzerland), Ibrahim A. Kamara (Mighty Blackpool), Abu Kanu (FC Johansen), David Simbo (Krumkachy Minsk Belarus), Mohamed Kamanor (Unattached), Gibril Sankoh (Meizhou Kejia, China), Yeami Dunia (FC Johansen), Abu Suma (FC Johansen), Kemson Fofanah (East End Lions)

Midfielders: Prince Barrie (Kallon FC), Kwamie Quee (FC Johansen), Ibrahim Kabba (FC Kallon), Hassan Sesay (FC Lahti, Finland), Mohamed Kamara (Kuwait FC, Kuwait), Khalifa Jabbie (FC Sheriff, Maldova), Alfred Sankoh (Denizlispor, Turkey), John Bankole Kamara (Riga Latvia), Julius Woobay (Olimpija, Ljubljana, Slovenia)

Forwards: Mohamed Bangura (Dalian Yifang, China), Abdul Sesay (OPS, Finland), Sheka Fofanah (Vejle BK, Denmark) George Davies (Greuther Fürth, Germany), Donald Wellington (East End Lions), Christian Moses (Lion Pride FC), Abu Bakarr Mansaray (Old Edwardians), Ibrahim Sorie Barrie (FC Johansen)

Sierra Leone Camping In Accra Ahead Of Ivory Coast Game

AFCON 2017 : Rwanda Intensify Preparation Ahead of Ghana Clash

The Amavubi of Rwanda have stepped up their preparations for the 2017 Africa Cup Nations final Group H qualifier against Ghana, which is scheduled for September 3, 2016 at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Newly-appointed head coach Jimmy Mulisa, has called-up seven young players to his squad with the aim of revamping the national team for the future.

Their national team, yesterday moved to the Amahoro National Stadium(natural grass) after starting training last Wednesday at Kigali Regional Stadium(artificial grass), in case of any venue change.

Despite being out of contention for a place in the 2017 Africa Nations Cup finals in Gabon, the Amavubi would be aiming for a win against the Black Stars in order to improve their FIFA rankings; in which they are currently ranked 121st.

The Black Stars lead Group H with 13 points, having already booked a place to the finals of the tournament while Rwanda, despite those two defeats, remain in second place with six points, level with Mauritius, who would host bottom-placed Mozambique (4 points) also on September 3, 2016.

AFCON 2017 : Rwanda Intensify Preparation Ahead of Ghana Clash

Confirmed: Gyan To Have Reading Medical Today

Asamoah Gyan will have a medical with Reading today ahead of a season-long loan move from Shanghai SIPG, according to Sky sources.

The 30-year-old Ghana striker, flew into the south-east of England on Sunday to evaluate a number of offers from English clubs including Fulham.

Gyan has been of interest to several other Championship sides and, reportedly, his former club Sunderland, whom he left in 2012, as well as Turkish side Besiktas.

Gyan was named by Avram Grant in his 23-man squad for their last Africa Cup of Nations Qualifier against the Amavubi of Rwanda on 3 September, 2016.

More to follow…

Confirmed: Gyan To Have Reading Medical Today

FIFA Seeks "Good Solution" To Olympics

FIFA president Gianni Infantino wants to address the “sensitive issue” of football at the Olympics.

Brazil won the men’s tournament for the first time at Rio 2016, beating Germany at the Maracana Stadium.

However, while Infantino feels the women’s game has developed due to its inclusion in the Olympics, he says problems remain to be solved.

“The men’s game, which is primarily for under-23 players with a few added, is not a good solution,” Infantino said.

“The tournament is neither fish nor bird in this form. Also, the football calendar is too tight.”

Apart from 1896 and 1932, football has been in every summer Olympics, with the women’s tournament added in 1996.

Sixteen teams contested the men’s tournament in Brazil, with 12 sides in the women’s competition in which Germany beat Sweden in the final.

Following legal action by Barcelona, Werder Bremen and Schalke in 2008, clubs are no longer required to automatically release their players because the competition falls outside the recognised FIFA international calendar.

BBC

FIFA Seeks "Good Solution" To Olympics

I Won"t Tolerate That - GFA Veep Warn

Ghana Football Association (GFA) veep, George Afriyie, has mentioned that his absence will be sorely missed when he quits his position.

Media reports lately, has suggested that a distant and tense relationship exists between Kwesi Nyantakyi (GFA president) and his veep.

Though the former has denied (rift), the latter, is his latest post, appears to have affirmed a suspicion that his relevance has been undermined.

“When I leave the FA, they would know that they had someone like George Afriyie,” he said in a radio interview on Joy FM.

“Some of us were not poor when we got into football. Some of us were well to do before we became football people.

“I won’t sit there (FA) for people I have worked with, for people we’ve come this far to question my honesty and integrity at the association.”

I Won"t Tolerate That - GFA Veep Warn

SPORTS CRUSADER TEAM OF THE WEEK.

The Sports Crusader Team of the Week is an initiative introduced by the fastest growing sports web portal in Ghana to demonstrate how Ghanaian players perform for their various clubs abroad.

To set the records straight, as we have always done, players are selected based on the following criteria:

1. The Coefficient of the league they play
   
   2. The competition they are in (If they are not playing league matches)
   
   3. Consistency
   
   4. The competition they face from other players playing for the same position.
   
   5. The positions they play
   
   6. The number of minutes played in the game, and
   
   7. The contribution of the player to the success of the game.

 

Daniel Amartey played down the absence of Ngolo Kante for the reigning English Champions with a five star performances at the heart of the pitch for the Foxes. The versatile defender bossed possession from deep lying midfield to earn his place in Claudio Ranieri’s set and out TOTW. He is joined at the back though by the returning Nana Akwasi Asare who scored a late equaliser to earn Gent a  fully deserved point.

Kwadwo Asamoah, Frank Acheampong and Innaki Wiliams leads the attack after their respective efforts over the weekends whiles Kelvin Prince Boateng highlights the rich midfield trio.

 

1. Adam Larson Kwarasey 90’ Rosenborg


2. Emanuel Adjie Sowah-46’ Anderlecht


3. Harrison Afful-90’ Columbus Crew


4. Nana Akwasi Asare-40’ Gent


5. Daniel Amartey- 90’ Leicester City FC


6. Emmanuel Agyemang Badu- 90’ Udinese


7. Kelvin Prince Boateng-90’ Las Palmas


8. Alfred Duncan-90’ US Sassoulo


9. Innaki Williams-90’ Athletic Bilbao


10. Kwadwo Asamoah-90 Juventus’


11. Frank Opoku Acheampong-90’ Anderlecht

Subs

12. Jordan Ayew-90’ Aston Villa


13. Nasiru Mohammed-90’ BK Hacken


14. Alhassan Wakaso-90’ Rio Aves


15. Majeed Waris-90’ Lorient


16. Yaw Yeboah-90’ FC Twente


17. Mohamed Abubakari-90’ BK Hacken


18. Joseph Aidoo-90’ Hammarby

SPORTS CRUSADER TEAM OF THE WEEK.

Ghanaian Players Round Up: Amartey Dazzles, Yeboah Opens Account

Ahead of the international break for the upcoming AFCON 2017 final qualification lapses, Ghanaian players continue to dazzle for their respective clubs across the planet. From the lightening strike by Yaw Yeboah to the goal-scoring return for Nana Akwasi Asare, Sports crusader’s Saani Abacha takes a look at the exploits of Ghanaian players in one link.

England

Jordan Ayew and his Villa colleagues slumped to a 3-1 defeat at Bristol City FC, with the Ghanaian lasting the full throttle for the London side. Jordan turned out powerless away to a City side that came back from an early setback to win the game in grand style.

Nomadic and loan expert, Christian Atsu,  was missing in action for Chelsea FC as they eased to a 3-0 win over Burnley. The former Poro FC man continues his search for a new club ahead of the closure of the European market.

Crocked WestHam United hitman, Andre Morgan Ayew, watched from the treatment table as the Hammers slumped to a 3-1 defeat at the Itihad.

Aitor Karanka left the door wide open for Albert Adomah with an imminent departure, as the Teesiders earned a priceless point at the Hawthorns. The Boro man is reportedly close to joining Aston Villa in the championship.

Daniel Amartey hijacked media limelight of the British press with a MOTM performance for Leicester City at home to Swansea City FC. The former Copenhagen central defender dazzled fans who might forget about their lost hero, Ngolo Kante very soon. Jeff Schlupp remains sidelined for the Foxes.

Jay Emmanuel Thomas registered two goals for Gillingham in a 2-3 away win for his side over Shrewsbury Town. The Gillingham forward capped an impressive night with two goals to his name.

Italy

Emmanuel Agyemang Badu put aside any transfer rumors to steer Udinese to a 2-0 win over Empoli. The Stade fruili-based defensive midfielder, lasted the full throttle for the Zebratas in the Italian top flight after an opening defeat last week.

Alfred Duncan powered Sassoulo to a 2-1 win over Pescara  that had Ransford Selasi benched for the visitors.

Kwadwo Asamoah followed up his MOTM performances with another stupendous outing for the Bianconeris in a 0-1 away win at SS Lazio. The Black Stars attacker remains an experimental replacement for Paul Pogba in Turin.

Afriyie Acquah  came on in the final 21 minutes for Torino as they mauled Bologna by 5-1.

In the Serie B, Moses Odjer kicked-off the new season with a 1-1 drawn game away to Spezia. The former U20 star lasted 73 minutes for the second tier side.

Patrick Kwadwo Asmah lasted 90 minutes for Avellino, who snatched a crucial point at Brescia.

Isaac Donkor  enjoyed another dream start to his Avellino career as well.

Kingsley Boateng suffered a home reverse loss at the hands of new comers, Cittadela. The Bari defensive guard watched from the sidelines in the opening round of the new season.

Rahman Chibsah featured for Benevento in a 2-1 win over SPAL. The Benevento central midfielder sealed his place in the team ahead of the latter stages of the season with his five star performance at home.

Nelson Atiagli missed the match day squad for Latina whiles Acosty Boadi and Richmond Yiadom suffered a humiliating defeat with Latina in a 4-1 loss at Verona.

Bright Christopher Addae came off the bench with 15 minutes to play in a 2-1 defeat for Ascoli at Pro Vercerli.

Spain

Kevin Prince Boateng opened his scoring account for LAS PALMAS in a 5-1 thumping of Granada. The summer arrival from AC Milan, bagged his season-opener just 51 minutes into the tie to cap an impressive debut in Spain.

He becomes the only active footballer to have scored in England, Italy, Spain and Germany.

Inaki Williams showed his worth at home to FC Barcelona in a 0-1 defeat for Athletic Bilbao. The Ghanaian wove his way into the hearts of the home team with his explosive burst of pace.

Leganes piled the pressure on an Atletico Madrid side who played without Thomas Partey in their ranks.

In the Segunda division, neither Mohamed Fatawu nor Razak Braimah found their way into their respective clubs. Braimah watched from the bench for Cordoba whiles Mohammed remains a long term absentee for Almeria.

Netherlands

Manchester City on-loan Ghanaian forward, Yaw Yeboah, opened his account for FC Twente  in a 3-1 win for the Dutch side.

The former U20 star unleashed a half volley just outside the box to give Twente a clear lead at home to Sparta.

Leeroy Owusu was glued to the benched for his Excelsior side that got spanked 4-1 by Feyenoord. The Dutch-born Ghanaian right-back joined from Ajax II in the summer but has yet to feature for the club.

Asumah Abubakari Ankra enjoyed 28 minutes for Wilhem II in the Erste league to continue his resurgence whiles Kevin Owusu Asare saw his 90 minutes for Volundem end in defeat.

De Graafshaft lost 0-2 at home to VV Venlo in the second tier league but Jonathan Opoku could not recover in time for VV Venlo.

Thomas Agyepong managed 15 minutes for NAC Breda in a 0-0 home clash with Den Bosch.

Attacker, Rodney Antwi, lasted the entire duration for Utrecht II  in a 2-0 loss at PSV II. Raymond Gyasi slipped to a 1-0 defeat at Helmond with his  SC Cambuur side as Frank Wiafe Danquah debuted for Sittard in a 3-2 win over Dordrecht.

Quincy Owusu Abeyie and Reagy Baah Fosu kept their cool in a 0-0 drawn game for NEC Nemegin away to AZ Alkmaar. The duo featured 63 and 88 minutes respectively for NEC.

Belgium

Midfielder, Eric Ocansey, lasted 90 minutes for EUPEN in a 3-2 painful defeat to Charleroi in the Belgium PRO league.

The attacking midfielder set his side’s second goal of the clash up in the five-goal thriller.

Ben Tetteh remains a long term absentee for Standard Liege in a 2-2 drawn game at Clubbe Brugge. The lanky ex-Dreams FC player endured an indifferent start to the season checkered by injuries.

Nana Akwasi Asare, however made up for his lost time with a point-salvaging goal for Gent in a 2-2 drawn game at Anderlecht. Compatriot, Frank Opoku Acheampong lasted the full 90 minutes for Anderlecht as Emmanuel Adjei Sowah saw-off the entire second half.

Asare  came on in the 58th minute but thumped home a last gasp equalizer to deny Anderlecht a win.  Bernard Yaw Kumordzi pocketed the last 3 minutes for Genk in a 1-0 win over ZW.

Sweden

Kwame Bonsu lasted 90 minutes for Gefle in a 2-1 loss at Djurgarden. The Ghanaian import and his club mates slipped to their 13th defeat in 20 matches with relegation looming.

Ghanaian trio of Nasiru Mohammed, Baba Mensah and Mohammed Abu, set Hacken BK on its way to a 3-1 win in the Allsvenkan league.

Nasiru Mohammed’s 51st minute stunner headlined the game for a rejuvenated Hacken side at home to Oostende FK.

Patrick Kpozo missed out for AIK Solna in a 0-0 stalemate with Hammarby but, Ebenezer Ofori clashed with Joseph Aidoo in a ‘Ghanaian derby’.

Enock Kwakwa lasted 90 minutes for Falkenborg in a 3-2 loss at Orebo.

Sabah Lawson enjoyed 73 minutes for IFK Goteborg whiles Prosper Kassim monitored the full time results of Inter Allies on the bench for IFK Goteborg.

Norway.

Mahatma Osman Otoo and Gilbert Koomson snatched a point for Sogndal in a 1-1 drawn game at home to Staebik. Otoo enjoyed the last 14 minutes whiles Koomson spanned the full duration of the game.

Black Stars goal keeper, Adam Larson Kwarasey, shipped one goal in a 3-1 triumph for Rosenborg at home to Tronto in the Norwegian top tier league.

MLS

David Accam featured in the second 45 minutes for Chicago Fire as they suffer a 6-2 defeat at DC United.

Oduro came on at the start of the second half for John Gooson. Joshua Yaro and Charles Sarpong lasted 90 minutes each for Philadelphia Union but Emmanuel Appiah missed the train for Sporting Kansas in the 2-0 loss.

Dominic Oduro lasted 13 minutes for Montreal Impact in a 0-1 away win at Toronto FC. Ignacio Piati got the only goal of the night. Harrison Afful showed his worth at the back for Columbus in a 2-0 win over Earthquakes.

Ghanaian Players Round Up: Amartey Dazzles, Yeboah Opens Account