Friday 30 September 2016

Fury Tests Positive For Cocaine

Tyson Fury was facing fresh questions about his boxing future on Friday as his promoters refused to comment on reports the world heavyweight champion has tested positive for cocaine.


A spokesman for Hennessy Sports declined to discuss the claims, which originally came from ESPN. When contacted by Press Association Sport, the spokesman said the Fury camp would not be making a statement.


The US-based sports broadcaster reported Fury tested positive after giving a urine sample on September 22.


Fury had been due to fight Wladimir Klitschko in Manchester on October 29, defending the WBA and WBO heavyweight belts he took off the Ukrainian last November.


One attempt at a rematch had already been abandoned because of an ankle injury sustained by Fury, and his management cited medical reasons behind the latest cancellation, in an announcement on September 23.


A source close to the planned fight told Press Association Sport he had been informed “traces” of cocaine were found in Fury’s system. The 28-year-old fighter’s camp would not confirm that.

ESPN reported Fury was tested by the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA), which is based in Las Vegas, as part of the routine agreed by both fighters before the fight.



Fury Tests Positive For Cocaine

Caf Sets Three-Term Limit On Presidency

The Confederation of African Football president will be limited to three terms in office from next year’s election in March 2017.


Junior Binyam, Caf’s media spokesman, confirmed to BBC Sport that the new ruling was approved at Thursday’s Extraordinary General Assembly.


It is a major change for the governing body, whose incumbent president Issa Hayatou has been in power for 28 years.


The limit will also apply to the members of Caf’s Executive Committee.


In February, football’s world governing body Fifa limited its presidency to three terms in office as it aimed to recover from a corruption crisis.


Binyam told BBC Sport: “The main reason of this amendment of Caf statutes was to align them with Fifa ones. But more reforms and amendment can be expected.”


In 2015 Caf voted to change the statutes which previously stopped officials serving past the age of 70, which paved the way for Hayatou, who turned 70 in August, to stand in the next presidential election.


The latest change to the statues means Hayatou could extend his tenure by a maximum of 12 years – each term is four years – when he would be aged 82.


He has yet to announce if he will contest the election.


However, he appears to be in a strong position to remain his post following the rejection on Thursday of Djibouti Football Federation’s proposal to end the rule that restricts potential candidates for the Caf presidency only to members of its 15-man executive committee.


That rule was introduced just four years ago and critics have argued it allows Hayatou to continue unopposed and also to handpick his successor when the time comes.


Source : BBC



Caf Sets Three-Term Limit On Presidency

Photos : Nyantakyi Returns Home After FIFA Triumph

The President of the Ghana football Association (GFA), Mr. Kwesi Nyantakyi received an overwhelming and heroic welcome when he touched down at the Kotoka International Airport around 14 : 00 GMT following his election onto the Fifa council.


nyantakyi-arrival


Mr. Nyantakyi interacted with the media and proceeded to the headquarters of the GFA, where executives and staff of the association are to hold a brief welcome ceremony in his honour.


nyantakyi-arrival-1


Mr.Nyantakyi is the first Ghanaian to be elected onto the Fifa council after clinching the second spot after polling 31 votes at the General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football.


More to follow….




Photos : Nyantakyi Returns Home After FIFA Triumph

EPL : Huge Blow For Chelsea Ahead of Hull Trip

Chelsea have suffered a setback with defender John Terry ruled out of their game with Hull City this weekend


Terry Returns To Chelsea Training


The Blues visit Hull on the back of consecutive defeats in the Premier League and will have to make do without their captain, according to the Times.


The newspaper reports that the experienced defender trained with the first-team for the past four days, but he hasn’t passed his fitness test meaning the Blues will be without their skipper.


Terry sustained an ankle injury in Chelsea’s 2-2 draw at Swansea City a moment that became a turning point for Antonio Conte’s men.


 


Subsequent defeats to Liverpool, at Stamford Bridge, before their humbling at the Emirates, leaves them eight points behind leaders Manchester City.


In their last two games, they’ve conceded five goals the same amount with Terry across their first four matches this season.


“I can’t even put into words how much being injured and missing today’s game hurts,” Terry wrote on Instagram after watching Chelsea lose 3-0 at the Emirates last weekend.




EPL : Huge Blow For Chelsea Ahead of Hull Trip

Former FA Boss Salutes Nyantakyi

Former chairman of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Dr. Nyaho Nyaho-Tamakloe, has congratulated Mr Kwesi Nyantakyi, incumbent president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) after his successful election onto the  Executive Council of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).


Mr. Nyantakyi secured one of two spots available for Africa after polling 31 votes, whilst Almamy Kabele Camara of Guinea, polled 37 votes to pick the first slot.


Dr. Tamakloe highlighted the glamorous personality traits of Mr. Nyantakyi and was not surprised as to how he has gained recognition and built an enviable constituency at the CAF and FIFA levels.


“Mr. Nyantakyi is a very competent person, he is hardworking as well, which made me relinquish my position as the chairman of the Black Stars management committee to him.


“With this appointment, I believe he is going to raise the flag of Africa high at the FIFA level.”


The Former FA boss, expressed his readiness to render his unflinching support to Nyantakyi in order for him to succeed and become the most decorated football administrator the country has ever produced.




Former FA Boss Salutes Nyantakyi

U17 World Cup: Japan Will Be Tough But - Ghana Coach

Ghana coach, Evans Adotey has tipped their Japanese counterparts to be a very tough opponent but has his priority set on avoiding defeat in tommorrow’s 2016 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup opener.


Japan are the defending champions of the tournament, but the Black Maidens would seek to cause an upset when the two heavyweights lock horns at the Prince Mohammed Stadium in Al Zarqa, Jordan.


Coach Adotey highlighted how crucial the first match would be to their survival in the tournament.


At the pre-match press conference organized by FIFA at the match venue, he said: “I respect Japan a lot. Of course they are defending champions, but my aim in this match will be to avoid defeat through any means available.


“Perhaps, winning my first two matches or staying out of defeat could help us secure a second round spot which is very paramount.”


The match is scheduled to kick-off at 16:00pm local time (1:00pm GMT).




U17 World Cup: Japan Will Be Tough But - Ghana Coach

Bekoe Not Ruling Out Kotoko Return

Hasaacas striker Eric Bekoe has expressed his thought over a possible return to his beloved club, Kumasi Asante Kotoko, after his team suffered demotion from the 2015/2016 Ghana Premier League (GPL).


bekoe
Bekoe celebrating a goal in his Kotoko days

 


Bekoe ended up with eight goals in this seasons’ league which was not enough to help Hasaacas survive the GPL.







 


Bekoe is now a free agent after he signed a year deal with Hassacas with expired at the end of the season and he has indicated his uninterested in renewing his contract with club.


 


In an interview with Sportscrusader.com, the former goal king, reiterated his desire to explore new challenges from all endeavors and has decided not to be selective this time round.


 


“I’m open to offers across all teams including Kotoko, in the past i have made mistakes as to being selective in my career by this team time round if the offer from any club is good, why not !!!!.”


 


With his experience as a prolific striker, clubs will certainly be looking forward to secure a deal for the striker ahead of the 2016/2017 GPL season.


 




Bekoe Not Ruling Out Kotoko Return

Revealed : Sports Minister Set To Welcome Nyantakyi

Youth and Sports Minister, Honourable Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye, is set to welcome President of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, following his historic election onto the Fifa Council by the General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football yesterday.


 


 


Sources close to Sports Ministry have revealed to  Sportscrusader.com that, the Sports Minister will take time of his busy schedule to welcome Nyantakyi who is expected to touch down at the  Kotoka International Airport in Accra at exactly  12:30 p.m today.


 


Yesterday, the Sports Ministry sent a congratulatory message to Mr. Nyantakyi where they acknowledged the positive impact he has made to Ghana’s football.


 


This news will come as a healthy one as the relationship between the two bodies has deteriorated over the past few months and probably a new rehabilitation process will kick start as the Black Stars are due to begin their 2018 World Cup qualifiers against Uganda next week.



Revealed : Sports Minister Set To Welcome Nyantakyi

Thursday 29 September 2016

GN DOL : Zone One Matchday 30 Date Announced

The Division One League Board (DOLB) has announced that Zone One Day 30 matches have been rescheduled to Sunday, 9 October, 2016 at exactly 15:00hrs.


This is because RTU’s home venue will be unavailable for their match due to the upcoming Black Stars World Cup qualifier against Uganda which will be played at the Tamale Stadium.


The Stadium will not be available to RTU till Saturday October 8.







The Board has directed that all Match day 30 games should kick off at exactly 15:00hrs without failure at all match venues on Sunday 9 October.




GN DOL : Zone One Matchday 30 Date Announced

Nii Lante Congratulates Nyantakyi

The Minister of Youth and Sports (MoYS), Hon. Nii Lante Vanderpuye, on behalf of His Excellency, President John Dramani Mahama and  Government of Ghana has sent  congratulatory message to Mr. Kwesi Nyantakyi, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), on his election as a member of the Executive Council of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).


The Sports Minister acknowledged the contribution of Nyantakyi to the development of Ghana’s football as well as the African continent as a whole.


A statement released by the MoYS reads :


“The Ministry has received the news of your election to the high office of FIFA with joy, and we believe you would bring your diverse experience to bear on your new position.


“Furthermore, it is our hope that as an Executive Council member of FIFA, you would help to institute the necessary reforms needed to improve the game in the country”.


Mr. Nyantakyi came second  after polling 31 votes  in a closely-contested election, which was topped by Guinea’s Almamy Kabele, who polled 37 votes. The duo therefore are the two Africa representatives to the FIFA Counci until March 2017 where they will seek re- election


 




Nii Lante Congratulates Nyantakyi

Nyantakyi Returns Home On Friday

Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kwesi Nyantakyi will arrive home from Egypt tomorrow (Friday September 30) following his historic election onto the Fifa Council by the General Assembly of the Confederation of African Football.


The GFA President is expected to touch down at 12:30 p.m. at the Kotoka International Airport in Accra, where he will briefly interact with the media before proceeding with the welcome entourage to the headquarters of the Ghana Football Association at 2:00 p.m.. At the GFA, a short welcome ceremony will be held in his honour by the football fraternity, including staff of the GFA.


Nyantakyi etched his name in the history books by becoming the first Ghanaian to be elected onto the executive level of world soccer governing body, FIFA.


In a closely-contested elections held on Thursday in Cairo to elect two new African representatives to Fifa Council, Nyantakyi polled  31 votes to go through alongside Guinean Almamy Kabele, who polled  37 votes. Madagascar’s Ahmad missed out narrowly with 30 votes whiles Senegal’s Augustin Senghor polled 9 votes.


The new FIFA Council replaces the erstwhile Fifa Executive Committee, which was disbanded following the recent reforms in FIFA.


 




Nyantakyi Returns Home On Friday

Inquiry: Does Nyantakyi"s Appointment Constitute Change?

Ghana erupted with joy when history was made earlier on Thursday, with the election of president of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, onto Fifa’s Executive Council at the General Assembly of the Confederations of African Football (CAF) in Cairo, Egypt.


Many football enthusiasts have already raised questions as regards the relevance of Nyantakyi’s appointment to the highest decision-making body of world football governing body to Ghana’s football, from grassroots to the professional level.


Even though Nyantakyi’s position at FIFA is temporary, many Ghanaians hope he will turn around the fortunes of Ghana football which has somehow dwindled in recent years.


Nyantakyi has been widely tipped to replace Issah Hayotou as CAF boss, but many of his critics have blamed him for the downward spiral of Ghana football in pursuit of his personal gains which has not fostered the development of the sport locally.


But firstly, let’s do a quick probe how Nyantakyi fared when he was elected to serve on the CAF Executive Committee, back in 2011 and his 11-year reign at the helm of affairs of Ghana FOOTBALL.


Grassroot Football


Described as one of the pillars of Ghana’s football, youth football, which is also known as colts football, has been on a downward surge in recent years.


The GFA has largely been blamed for the collapse of grassroot football by majority of football fanatics, despite significant initiatives by the FA to revive the competition which is considered the foundation of Ghana’s football.


The Ghana FA has made various donations to the lower tier of Ghana football which has kept it alive, just recently, the GFA launched the National U15 Championship as part of its youth development program.


National Teams


Undoubtedly, the most successful aspect of Nyantakyi’s reign as president, has been chalked in the arena of the various national teams, especially, the Black Stars, which is considered the pride of the nation.


Other national teams, which include the respective national male and female teams, have been given adequate attention and have qualified for major events across the continent.


Professional Football


The Ghana Premier League, which is considered a ‘problem child’ for the GFA in recent years, has not been able to reach the standard of play fans witnessed in the late 1990s and the early 2000s.


It’s massive decline in recent years, has been the cause of feuds among members of the football fraternity who simply cannot see the way forward. Women’s football has improved massively under the tenure of president Nyantakyi, especially with the introduction of the National Women’s League.


In conclusion, president Nyantakyi has to make Ghana the biggest beneficiary of his success in continental and global football administration to reinforce his status as the most decorated football administrator Ghana has ever produced.




Inquiry: Does Nyantakyi"s Appointment Constitute Change?

Black Maidens Hold Training Session At Prince Mohammed Stadium

The Black Maidens had the official training session at the Prince Mohammed Stadium in Al Zarqa ahead of the 2016 FIFA Women’s World Cup in Jordan.


The tournament I’ll begin on Friday September 30 with the Ghana U-17 female national team set to take on their Japanese counterparts on Saturday.


Coach Augustin Evans Adotey who took the team through Thursday evenings training session at the match venue, says that his team is still preparing for the game against the defending Champions.


“Ghana is here for a purpose and we still continuing preparations for the tournament and for our opening match against Japan who Aretha defending Champions” , Coach Adotey said at the pre-match press conference organized by FIFA at the match venue.


Ghanaian youngster Fuseina Mumuni, who was amongst the youngest players at the 2014 edition of the U-17 World Cup also expressed her happiness for making a second appearance at the competition.


“Am so proud to be at my second World Cup and to represent my country again. I hope this second time is going to be the best for me. My colleagues and I are going to do our best to make Ghana proud at this World Cup”, the Lepo Ladies midfielder said.


Japanese coach Nyoki Kusunose who was also at the press conference admitted that though he knows very little about the Ghanaian team, we will try to do our best against them on Saturday.


The match is scheduled to kick off at 16:00pm local time (1:00pmGMT).


Source : GFA




Black Maidens Hold Training Session At Prince Mohammed Stadium

Cristiano Ronaldo"s Plane Involved In An Accident

Cristiano Ronaldo’s private plane was involved in an accident at the Barcelona airport. The incident took place on Monday night when it was landing at the El Prat Airport.


ronaldo


The landing gear of the Gulfstream G200 broke down on impact with the runway and that led to the accident. The incident forced airport authorities to close one of the runways to clear the same.


 


The Real Madrid star was not on the plane when the incident took place nor were any of his family members. It is believed that the plane was rented out by the Real Madrid star to a private company.


 


SPORT are reporting that only the pilot suffered minor injuries and that nobody else was hurt in the crash. Sources confirmed to Mirror Football that the player nor his family was on the plane when the incident happened.


 


“The plane is normally rented by companies and it was in use by one of them. Cristiano Ronaldo, his family or friends were not on the plane. The incident had no major consequences.” said the source.


It is very clear that Cristiano Ronaldo was not involved in the accident as he was in Germany at the time of the incident. Ronaldo was scheduled to represent Real Madrid at


Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday night in the Champions League, in a match which ended in a 2-2 draw with the Portuguese star scoring the first goal of the game.


 




Cristiano Ronaldo"s Plane Involved In An Accident

Nyantakyi"s FIFA Seat Temporary

Despite his victory onto the Fifa Executive Council, President of  the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, will face re-election at the CAF Congress in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on March 17,2017.


 


Nyantakyi polled 31 votes, the second highest to pick the second slot reserved for Africa, whilst Almamy Kabele Camara of Guinea polled 37 votes to pick the first slot on the continent, with Ahmad of Madagascar Polling 30 votes and Augustine Senghor of Senegal polling 9 votes.


 


Camara and Nyantakyi are joined by Sandra Fruean, vice-president of Football Federation American Samoa, who  was elected as the OFC’s female Council member last month.


 


Meanwhile, the new members of the council will attend the FIFA Council meeting next month in Zurich as the former FIFA Executive Committee, was disbanded following reforms in FIFA.


 


 








Nyantakyi"s FIFA Seat Temporary

SWAG Congratulates Nyantakyi

The Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG) has congratulated Mr Kwesi Nyantakyi, President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for his election onto the  Executive Council of the Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).


 


Mr. Nyantakyi polled 31 votes, the second highest to pick the second slot reserved for Africa, whilst Almamy Kabele Camara of Guinea polled 37 votes to pick the first slot on the continent, with Ahmad of Madagascar Polling 30 votes and Augustine Senghor of Senegal polling 9 votes.


 


Mr. Nyantakyi will remain on the Executive Council of FIFA till March 2017.


 


A statement from the secretariat of SWAG said, Mr Nyantakyi’s commitment to the development of football in Ghana and Africa has been duly rewarded with his election onto the Executive Council of FIFA.


 


It said the achievement marks another significant milestone in his career as a football administrator on the global platform.


 


“Having restored Ghana’s name on the Executive Committee of the Confederation of Africa Football (CAF) after a long absence, you have extended your administrative prowess to the corridors of FIFA and the entire nation is proud of you.


 


“It is our hope that you will bring your rich experience to bear on the Executive Council of FIFA and contribute positively to the development and promotion of football in the world and Africa in particular.


 


“SWAG is indeed proud of your achievements and we urge you to continue with your exploits to the highest level,” the statement noted.




SWAG Congratulates Nyantakyi

A Historic Day In Ghana"s Football As Nyantakyi Triumphs

Today,the 29th October 2016, will be a historic one in Ghana’s Football as President of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, has been onto the FIFA Council by the General Assembly of the Confederations of African Football (CAF) in Cairo.


After being cleared by FIFA to contest in the race, Nyantakyi thus becomes the first ever Ghanaian to be elected to the highest board of world football governing body, FIFA.


 


In a closely-contested elections held today in Cairo to elect two new African representatives to FIFA Council, Nyantakyi polled  31 votes to go through alongside Guinean Almamy Kabele, who pulled  37 votes. Madagascar’s Ahmad missed out narrowly with 30 votes whiles Senegal’s Augustin Senghor pulled 9 votes.


Various congratulatory messages has been uttered to the President after his landmark victory and has surely made his mark as decorated football administrator Ghana has ever produced.


This means Nyantankyi will attend the FIFA Council meeting next month in Zurich as the former FIFA Executive Committee, was disbanded following reforms in FIFA.




A Historic Day In Ghana"s Football As Nyantakyi Triumphs

Ghana"s FA Boss Voted Onto The FIFA Council

President of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, has been elected onto the Executive Council of  World’s football governing body, FIFA.


nyantakyi-2


Nyantakyi was second in the contest after accumulating 31 votes from electorates on Thursday at the CAF headquarters in Cairo.


President of the Guinea Football Association Almamy Kabele Camara topped after pulling 37 votes.


Ahmad of Madagascar come close to equally Nyantakyi vote but his 30 votes was not enough to secure a second round.


Nyantakyi surpassed Ahmad from Madagascar with just one vote to get the slot on the FIFA Executive Council.


Camara and Nyantakyi will only have a temporary seat on the Council, however, as they will face re-election at the CAF Congress in the Ethiopian capital of Addis Ababa on March 17.




Ghana"s FA Boss Voted Onto The FIFA Council

Wednesday 28 September 2016

Mourinho Backs Disgraced Allardyce

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho admits he feels sympathy for former England manager Sam Allardyce and insists his respect for the former England boss hasn’t been damaged.


Allardyce left his post on Tuesday after only 67 days in charge having being caught making unguarded comments in a sting by the Daily Telegraph.


The 61-year-old was filmed talking to undercover reporters posing as businessman about how to get around Football Association rules on third-party ownership and making derogatory remarks about the FA and high-profile figures in the game.


Mourinho accused Allardyce of playing “19th century football” when he was in charge of West Ham but subsequently backtracked and praised his appointment as England boss this summer.


Talking ahead of Manchester United’s Europa League clash with Zorya Luhansk, Mourinho said: “The only thing I can say is that I like Sam, I feel sorry for that because I know that it was the dream job.


“The second thing is what happened obviously is not going to interfere in any way with my relationship with him. I liked him and I respected him before and that is not going to change.


“The third thing is this is between him and the Football Association and I have nothing to say about it.”


Source: AAP



Mourinho Backs Disgraced Allardyce

Tyson Fury "Will Fight Again In Early 2017"- Trainer Claims

Tyson Fury’s trainer has laughed off reports that the heavyweight world champion will never fight again.


 


Peter Fury, who is also the boxer’s uncle, spoke to the Bayloric TV Boxing channel and is quoted in the Daily Mirror saying that his man will not be back before the end of this year, since he is still dealing with the physical and mental health issues which caused him to pull out of an already-rescheduled rematch with Wladimir Klitschko next month.


But the trainer is totally confident that boxing’s most controversial champion will be back in the ring before long.


“I don’t want to see him set foot in that ring until I see 100 per cent Tyson Fury back mentally and physically – until that, the best place is at home,” said Peter Fury.


 


“It certainly won’t be this year, it will probably be early next year. He will be back.


The trainer went on to rubbish the suggestion, made last week by Anthony Joshua’s promoter Eddie Hearn, that Fury will never box again, and that he should be stripped of his titles.


“Eddie is now a promoter, a doctor, a psychiatrist, a psychologist, all rolled into one,” he said in sarcastic tone. “




Tyson Fury "Will Fight Again In Early 2017"- Trainer Claims

Revealed : Manchester United Key Players To Miss Zorya Europa Clash

Luke Shaw will sit out Manchester United’s Europa League tie against Zorya Luhansk through illness.


After being criticised by manager Jose Mourinho following the defeat to Watford, Shaw missed the wins over Northampton and Leicester with a groin injury.


He had been expected to return to the matchday squad for the visit of Zorya Luhansk but he was unable to take part in Wednesday’s training session due to ill health.


“He’s ill – temperature, fever, bad throat,” Mourinho told his pre-match press conference. “He arrived this morning and immediately the doctor sent him home because one player like this in the middle of the other ones can affect others so he went home.”


Captain Wayne Rooney could also miss Thursday’s game with Mourinho ‘not sure’ whether to include him.


Having been dropped for United’s win over Leicester last weekend, Rooney was tipped to feature in the Group A tie, but Mourinho admits he could miss out due to a back problem.


“He is selected. I didn’t decide yet if I start with him,” Mourinho explained. “He didn’t train yesterday, he did just a little bit of a session on Monday. He had a back problem, so today was the first time he did anything with the other players.


“I was completely convinced of playing him tomorrow. I’m not sure if I do that because with the situation you can create to him I think he really can’t afford to have a performance that is not really good and I am here to protect him and have to analyse the best thing for him,” Mourinho said.


“If he is not totally ready for it, I will discuss that with the medical staff.”




Revealed : Manchester United Key Players To Miss Zorya Europa Clash

FIFA President Arrives In Egypt

FIFA president Gianni Infantino arrived in Cairo on Wednesday for a two-day visit where he is planned to attend the annual meeting of the Cairo-based Confederation of African Football (CAF), state news agency (MENA) reported.


infantino


The FIFA official also aims to congratulate the newly elected board of the Egyptian Football Association (EFA), according to MENA.


Infantino  was received by a host of Egyptian officials at Cairo International Airport, including youth and sports minister Khaled Abdel-Aziz, FIFA executive committee member and Egypt’s football association president Hani Abu Reida and CAF’s president Issa Hayatou.


Infantino replaced In February fellow Swiss Sepp Blatter as president of the world football governing body for a term that runs until 2019.


Source : Kingfut




FIFA President Arrives In Egypt

DOL Represents "Wilderness" Of Ghana Football - Olympics Coach

Great Olympics coach, Godwin Attram, has expressed how tough the Division One League(DOL) is, claiming it represents the ‘wilderness’ of Ghana’s football, after successfully securing promotion to the Ghana Premier League.


Godwin-Attram


The ‘Oly Dade’ Boys secured the only spot in Zone 3 after defeating Tudu Mighty Jets by 2-1 thereby topping the group, four points off Hearts of Lions who are in second place.


Attram was very excited with their promotion, but couldn’t forget the thrills in the Division One league which he described as a very tough one.


 


He told Sportscrusader.com: “The DOL is part of Ghana’s football but I must really admit that it represents the most toughest football competition in Ghana despite the poor facilities at most league centres. It’s very competitive because every team is desperate for qualification.


“Nonetheless, it has been a great experience for the playing body and for me as a coach and, I am really happy for our qualification.”


Olympics are returning to the top tier league after just a season in Division One and are joined by Elimina Sharks who have also secured qualification.




DOL Represents "Wilderness" Of Ghana Football - Olympics Coach

Kotoko-Hearts Fans Are Happy - Attram

Great Olympics coach, Godwin Attram, has indicated that fans of Kotoko and Hearts fans are the most happy, after Great Olympics earned promotion back to the Ghana Premier League (GPL).


The trio are considered giants of Ghana football, having been engaged in all forms of rivalry which has existed for a number of years.


Attram didn’t hesitate to express his joy about their qualification but also mentioned the joy of their rivals’ fans as their inclusion in the league will rejuvenate the excitement that comes along with it.


In an interview with Sportscrusader.com, Attram said: “We definitely represent the biggest club in the history of football and, I believe Hearts and Kotoko fans are very happy of we returning back into the GPL and, I really appreciate every support they have given to us and I cant wait for us to renew our rivalry.”


Olympics spent a season in the Division One League after being relegated from the 2014/15 GPL season.




Kotoko-Hearts Fans Are Happy - Attram

2018 AWCON : Ghana Declared Host

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has selected Ghana to host the 2018 Africa Women’s Cup of Nations.


Ghana were awarded the rights due to the successfully hosting of previous CAF tournaments in recent times which includes the 2009 African Youth Championship and the 2000 and 2008 Africa Cup of Nations and also after emerging as the only country to bid for the tournament.


Meanwhile the Black Queens are in camp vigorously preparing for this years’ tournament scheduled to be staged in Cameroon from November 19 to December 3.




2018 AWCON : Ghana Declared Host

2016 FIFA U-17 WC : Injured Black Maidens Goalkeeper Replaced

Real Upper Ladies’ Berikisu Issahaku has been called in to replace Ghana U17 goalkeeper Martha Annan Koffie who has been ruled out of the FIFAU-17 Women World Cup due to injury.


Martha who was highly tipped to keep the post for Ghana in the World Cup opener against Japan, suffered an injury to her knee during the team’s training session on Monday.


Initial checks from the medical team indicates that the injury could take up to three weeks to heal, ruling the Bafana Ladies goalkeeper out of the tournament which will be staged from September 30 – October 21.

Berikisu Issahaku is set to join the team in Jordan on Wednesday afternoon where she will take part in preparations for the opening  group game.


Speaking on the injury, Management Committee Chairman, Mr. Augustine Asante says they are confident any of the remaining two goalkeepers will be ready to keep the post for Ghana if given the nod by coach Evans Adotey.


“Somehow it will affect us but we will keep faith in the goalkeepers who are available.From what I see in training, I believe who ever comes in will put up good performance for the team”, Mr. Asante told Ghanafa.org.


The injured goalkeeper is expected to return to Ghana by Friday.




2016 FIFA U-17 WC : Injured Black Maidens Goalkeeper Replaced

Championship: Jordan Ayew Opens Season Account For Villa

England-based Black Stars forward, Jordan Ayew, officially opened his season’s account for Aston Villa in a 1-1 drawn game at Barnsley.


The tricky attacker handed his struggling side a 61st minute lead to cap an explosive performance for the London-based side before Sam Winnal denied Aston Villa on the stroke of full time.


Ayew rounded off one of his personal best performances for Aston Villa with a fully deserved goal after a series of near misses.


The former Olympique Marseille attacker made a promising start with a flurry of goals in the off-season but has since failed to replicate that form in the Championship.


Aston Villa extended it’s worst start to any league season with one win in the opening 10 matches played.


London-born Ghana international, Albert Adomah, enjoyed 87 minutes for Roberto Di Matteo’s men before making way for the fast improving Rudy Gestede




Championship: Jordan Ayew Opens Season Account For Villa

UCL :Amartey"s Foxes Tame Dragons At The King Power

Daniel Amartey guided Leicester to their second win of the UEFA Champions League group stages in their first-ever European tie at home.


The 21-year-old versatile player maintained his recent fine run of form for the Foxes as they pipped 2004 European Masters by a lone goal.


Amartey showed his value for Claudio Ranieri’s charges with another classy display to keep alive their continental hopes.







Algerian pair of Riyad Mahrez and Islam Slimani teamed up to score the game’s only goal, half way through the first department of the game to make it two-out-of-two for the reigning English champions.


Ghanaian full back, Jeff Schlupp, could not make the starting XI of the over-achieving Foxes as they embark on yet another mysterious journey.




UCL :Amartey"s Foxes Tame Dragons At The King Power

UW Regional U15 Ready For Opening Match

The Upper West(UW) Regional U15 football team, has intensified training ahead of their debut game at home to their Northern regional counterparts.


The newly-assembled youth side upped their training programmes at the Wa Sports stadium annex with one eye on the weekend’s clash against their Tamale-based visitors.


A trip to the training grounds saw the excited young footballers fine-tuning the game plans for the inaugural fixtures in the newly created National Under 15 league.


Star forward for the Upper West representatives, Salifu Abdallah “Bobilah”, remains optimistic of his side’s chances in the opening matches of the season.


“We couldn’t have asked for a better platform to market ourselves than this league.







“It will give us the chance to tell Ghanaians what we can do as footballers in our youthful ages.


“The main objective here is not about winning alone, but telling the organisers what they have been missing all along.


“I thank the organisers on behalf of my colleagues and urge all football fans in the region to throw their weight behind us when we host Northern region on Saturday”, Abdallah told Sports Crusader.


The Ghana Football Association, in consultation with the football family, officially launched the inaugural national U15 football league to be played in two zones.


The three northern regions are joined by Brong Ahafo and Ashanti region in zone one whiles Greater Accra leads the remaining regions with two teams in the competition.


The Upper West Regional team is being handled by Ahmed Polo and Iddrisu Polibu.




UW Regional U15 Ready For Opening Match

Tuesday 27 September 2016

84th Airtel Ghana Golf Open Slated For October 6, Brand New BMW X1 up For Grabs

The 84th edition of the Airtel Ghana Golf Open will be held at the Celebrity Golf and Country Club from 6th – 9thOctober, 2016.


The field is expected to be filled to capacity with some 60 professionals looking to participate for the first time in 4 years. Players from as far as Sweden, Great Britain, Senegal, Nigeria, Togo and the Ivory Coast numbering over 200 are billed to take part in the flagship tournament of the Ghana golfing calendar.


The tournament is headlined for the third year running by Airtel Business – Ghana’s leading provider of end-to-end Communications, Connectivity and Collaborative solutions for Small, Medium and Large enterprises.


Speaking to newsmen in Accra, the President of the Ghana Golf Association Mr. Mike Aggrey stated that the event promises to be very exciting with a possible hole-in-one  prize of a brand new BMW X1 2017  model sponsored by Mechanical Lloyd, and  a couple of  return Business Class tickets to any destination in the world are up for grabs. This will be in addition to the Giant Winner’s Trophy and many other juicy prizes.


Speaking about Airtel Ghana’s involvement in the competition over the years, Richard Adiase, Head of Airtel Business said “ We have been part of this prestigious tournament over the last three years as headline sponsors and we have no doubt this year’s competition will be the most exciting and rewarding for both professional and amateur golfers.


Our partnership with the Ghana Golf Association enables us to support the development of golf in Ghana and offers a platform for our Premier and Business customers to participate in the prestigious competition. This platform enables us to extend the benefits of Airtel Business’ consummate enterprise solutions to participating golfers from different sectors of the economy. The networking opportunities this competition provides is second to none and we will be there to engage and provide patrons a truly memorable experience as well as make available our suite of Communication, Connectivity and Collaborative solutions to drive their dreams and businesses”.


The tournament is supported by the following sponsors: Awake Mineral Water, City Investment Ltd, Citi Fm, Emirates, Garmin Ghana Ltd., Groupe Ideal, Holiday Inn, Huawei, Johnny Walker, KEK Insurance Brokers, Mechanical Lloyd, Mobus Ghana, Oak Plaza, Rendevour, Royal Sweet Ltd, Sahel Sahara, Samsung, Stanbic Bank, Tang Palace, TV3, Vanguard Assurance, and Waterstone Realty.


Meanwhile the Celebrity Golf and Country Club is undergoing major refurbishment on both the course and club house in anticipation of the competition.


The event will also for the first time play host to over 500 non-paying spectators who will be entertained and given lessons in rudiments of golf whilst watching golfing talents unfold in Ghana.




84th Airtel Ghana Golf Open Slated For October 6, Brand New BMW X1 up For Grabs

Revealed : Manchester United Scouting Ghana"s Talented Youngster

Manchester United are keeping a close eye on Ghana’s Bernard Mensah, according to reports in Portugal.


 


The Ghanaian youngster joined Atletico back in 2015 amid interest from a variety of big clubs, and currently finds himself on loan at Portuguese club Vitória de Guimarães.


 


The 21-year-old has been tipped for a big future and he still has five years to run on his current contract with Atletico Madrid but according to Mundo Deportivo’s Chema Fuente, Jorge Mendes – agent for the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, David De Gea, Diego Costa and many more, is willing to give Jose Mourinho priority over Mensah.


 


However, according to A Bola, Manchester United have dispatched scouts to run the rule over the talented youngster decimate defenders in a variety of ways.


 




Revealed : Manchester United Scouting Ghana"s Talented Youngster

Kwadwo Asamoah Undergoes Successful Surgery

Juventus have confirmed that Kwadwo Asamoah’s knee surgery was a success and expect the player to return to action in six weeks.


The 27-year-old ruptured his meniscus cartilage in a 1-0 win away to Palermo this past weekend yet another setback for a player who has spent most of the last two years on the sidelines due to injury.


 


The versatile Ghanaian midfielder was earlier reported of staging a possible comeback for the Black Stars as they are due to play Uganda Cranes in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers next month.







“Kwadwo Asamoah today underwent successful meniscectomy surgery on his right knee,” Juventus confirmed on their official website.


“The operation was conducted by Professor Cugat in Barcelona in the presence of Juventus club doctor Claudio Rigo.


“The midfielder will begin his rehabilitation programme immediately and the time frame for his return to action remains the same as originally estimated, namely around 45 days.”




Kwadwo Asamoah Undergoes Successful Surgery

Hearts To Decide On Yaw Preko"s Future

Management of Accra Hearts of Oak will decide on the future of Yaw Preko, who was named as the interim coach of club with three games to end the 2015/16 Ghana Premier League season.


Preko won two out of three matches which was able to earn Hearts a top four spot which is considered as a below par performance to many of its fans.


The Communications Director of the club, Opare Addo, has highlighted the plans of his management on an immediate decision that will determine the fate of Yaw Preko before the commencement of the preseason.


He said: “Management is deliberating on the season’s reports, after which, recommendations will be made.


“We will give him(Preko) mandate as substantive coach if we think he is the right person to lead the club.


“Nonetheless, if there is a need to bring an individual who would assist them in their technical duties, it will be discussed and a consensus will be reached to ensure support across board.”


Opare reiterated that any decision that will be taken at the club will be of the best interest to the team.



Hearts To Decide On Yaw Preko"s Future

Kotoko Players Plead For Forgiveness

Kumasi Asante Kotoko defender, Ahmed Adams has, on behalf of the players, pleaded for forgiveness from fans of the club for their failure, in not being able to win the 2015/16 Ghana Premier League trophy nor securing a top four spot.


Ahmed_Adams_2-kotoko
Ahmed Adams

Kotoko finished the league in fifth position, which is considered as a disappointment to many of its fans, especially after being in pole position to win the league at a point in the season.


The 23-year-old who played a crucial role in Kotoko’s setup, admitted the failure on the side of his playing mates.

Much was expected of them in the just-ended season after recording a splendid preseason.


He said: “It’s very painful, not being able to enter into the top four spot.


“I plead with the fans to forgive us after a very poor showing in this year’s league. Nonetheless, we promise them a better season next year and, we will definitely not let them them down.”


Adams also reiterated the need for continuous support from their fans as they represent the biggest shareholders of the club and their interest is very paramount to the playing body.



Kotoko Players Plead For Forgiveness

This Hearts Player Is The Toughest - Kotoko Defender

Kumasi Asante Kotoko defender, Ahmed Adams, has named Accra Hearts of Oak striker, Cosmos Dauda, as the toughest striker he came across in the 2015/16 Ghana Premier League season.


Ahmed Adams in action for Kotoko against bitter rivals, Accra Hearts of Oak
Ahmed Adams in action for Kotoko against bitter rivals, Accra Hearts of Oak

The 23-year-old was a significant player for Kotoko in the just-ended GPL, even though injury ruled him out of action in the latter stages of the season.







Adams expressed his admiration for Hearts top marksman who scored eight goals in last season’s campaign for Hearts to help them secure a spot in the top four.


He said: “Cosmos Dauda was one of the strikers that tormented me in this year’s league.


“I remember when we played Hearts at the Accra Sports Stadium, he was on top of his game and made things very difficult for me, he is a very good player”, he told Ashh Fm.


Adams was voted the 2014/15 Ghana Premier League Player of the Year by sports fans.




This Hearts Player Is The Toughest - Kotoko Defender

2018 WCQ: Confusion Rocks Uganda Camp

The Cranes of Uganda head coach, Milutin ‘Micho’ Sredojevic, has slammed the local football governing body over the delayed payment of his salary for the last five months.


The Cranes are due to play the Black Stars of Ghana in a 2018 World Cup qualifier at the Tamale stadium on October 7.


“I am really frustrated because the Ugandan FA is not taking me seriously, yet I continue to work,” the Serbian.


Micho, after helping Uganda qualify for the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon 2017), is unhappy that the Federation of Uganda Football Association (Fufa) is not taking him seriously by delaying payment of his outstanding salary arrears.


“The FA president, Moses Magogo and, the CEO, Edgar Watson, went to Egypt for the CAF assembly without sorting me out,” added the coach.


Micho however reaffirmed his commitment to work despite the tough challenges and is waiting to see what happens before the end of the month.




2018 WCQ: Confusion Rocks Uganda Camp

Man United"s Playmaker Returns To Training

Henrikh Mkhitaryan is set to make his Manchester United comeback against Zorya Luhansk this week after returning to training today.


mkhitaryan







But Jose Mourinho could be without striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic as the United manager looks to get their Europa League campaign back on track.


Mkhitaryan, who suffered a thigh injury playing for Armenia earlier this month, has not featured since he was replaced at half-time during the 2-1 derby defeat to Manchester City on September 10.


The 27-year-old has missed United’s last four games but returned to training ahead of the 4-1 win over Leicester at Old Trafford on Saturday.


And he is in line to be part of Jose Mourinho’s squad for Zorya, currently second in Ukraine’s Premier League, when they visit Old Trafford on Thursday.


However, Mourinho could be without Ibrahimovic, Anthony Martial and Luke Shaw.




Man United"s Playmaker Returns To Training

Zidane Denies Cristiano Ronaldo Rift

Zinedine Zidane has dismissed suggestions of a fall-out between himself and star player Cristiano Ronaldo after the Real Madrid forward reacted angrily to being substituted against Las Palmas.


RONALDO


Ronaldo was brought off in the 71st minute with Real 2-1 up in the La Liga fixture but after failing to score from six attempts the 31-year-old showed his frustration to Zidane’s decision, appearing to swear as he left the pitch.


Real went on to concede an equaliser for a second-successive draw in the league, but after the match the focus was firmly on Ronaldo, who has endured a difficult start to the season after picking up an injury at Euro 2016.


Everything is normal. It is not just Cristiano – all players can be angry when they leave the pitch,” Zidane told a press conference ahead of Real’s trip to play Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League on Tuesday.


“We’re already thinking about tomorrow’s game. I took the decision for the good of the player.


“Nothing has changed. All this talk [about the incident], more than about tomorrow’s game, well we must live with that. We are relaxed. I’m not stupid, and he is intelligent. We are all here for the same thing.”




Zidane Denies Cristiano Ronaldo Rift

AWCON 2016 : Black Queens Squad Announced

Black Queens coach,Yusif Basigi, has invited 34 players for camping ahead of Africa Women Nations Cup of Nations to be staged in Cameroon from 19th November – 3rd December 2016.


The players are to report at the Ghanaman Soccer Center of Excellence- Prampram Tuesday 27th September 2016 4pm.


GOALKEEPERS:


1.Nana Ama Asantewa -Police ladies


2. Fafali Dumehisi -Police ladies


3.Patricia Mantey – Immigration ladies


4 . Beatrice Ntiwa -Hasaacas ladies


DEFENDERS:


5 Hillia- Kobblah – Hasaacas ladies  


6.Cynthia Adobea -Prisons.


7 Rosemary Ampem -Immigration


8.Agnes Quaye – Immigration


9.Regina Antwi -Hasaacas ladies


10.Fauzia Mustapha -Faith ladies


11.Mabel Baffoe Eshun -Hasaacas ladies


12.Cynthia Adjei – Police ladies.


 MIDFIELDERS:


13. Safia Abdul Rahman -Lipo


14 . Alice Kusi -Fabulous .


15 Mary Essiful -Intellectuals


16 . Grace Asare -Prisons


17.Priscilla Saahene -Fabulous


18 . Ruth Appiah -Ashtown


ATTACKERS:

19 . Deborah Afriyie- Police


20. Alberta Asante -Police


21. Faiza Ibrahim -Police


22. Ruth Anima -Ashtown


23.Rita Otchere -Prisons


24.  Akyiaa Asante -Ampem Dakoa.


FOREIGN BASED PLAYERS WILL JOIN NEXT MONTH.


1. Janet Egyir

2. Samira Sule man

3.Linda Eshun(ICELAND )


4. Portia  Boakye

5.Juliet Acheampong

6. Elizabeth Addo(SWEDEN)


7.Priscilla Otchere (SERBIA)


8.Mercy Mylse (CANADA)


9.Eunice Beckmann (BAYERN MUNICH /BOSTON )


10. Grace Adams(USA)




AWCON 2016 : Black Queens Squad Announced

2016 FIFA WC : Black Maidens Profile

Ghana’s Black Maidens in a few days will kick start their campaign in Amman, Jordan as they hope annex the 2016 FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup  trophy to be staged from September 30- October 21.


The Past


Ghana, like Nigeria, have qualified for every FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup to date. Their initial progress at the showpiece itself was slow and unspectacular though, with the Black Maidens enduring group-stage exits in each of their first two appearances in 2008 and 2010.


Azerbaijan 2012 represented the team’s big breakthrough, with Ghana becoming the first African team to reach the semi-finals, losing out to eventual winners France before claiming third place with a 1-0 win over Germany.


The Black Maidens also made it to the knockout rounds two years ago in Costa Rica, having topped a formidable group that also featured the Germans, Canada and Korea DPR. They suffered a heart-breaking exit in the quarter-finals, though, going out on penalties to Italy after a thrilling 2-2 draw.


The Present


The Ghanaians’ progress to Jordan 2016 could hardly have been more straightforward. Due to the withdrawal of first-round opponents Sierra Leone, they were given a bye into the second and final round of African qualifying.


A two-legged tie with Morocco awaited them there, and Ghana made light work of this challenge, claiming a 10-0 aggregate win in which no fewer than six different players were on target.


The Future


With a formidable side led by their impressive captain, Sandra Owusu Ansah, Ghana should once again be a force to be reckoned with at this year’s FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup.


 


And while their last two campaigns have been successful and historic, coach Evans Adotey – himself a veteran of this competition, having taken charge of the Ghanaian side in 2014 – has made it clear that surpassing these previous achievements will be their goal.


 


“In 2012, we got bronze and in the last edition we unfortunately exited at the quarter-finals,” he said. “This time around, the target is to go beyond [winning] the bronze medal.”




2016 FIFA WC : Black Maidens Profile

GPL: Wa All Stars Plan Trophy Parade

Reigning Ghana Premier league champions, Wa All Stars FC, will be touring the two other northern regions in the country as part of their preparation for continental football.


The Upper West-based side have sealed friendly matches with two clubs from the northern part of the country to round-off their celebration in the build-up to their CAF Champions League campaign.


Wa All Stars will first take on Real Tamale United at the Tamale Sports stadium before heading to the Upper East for another clash with an unnamed club.


The two ties will consolidate the northern solidarity and give a first-hand feel of the trophy to the football fans in the Northen region.

Speaking to www.sportscrusader.com on the proposed games in the North, General Manager of the club, Seth Panwum, cited the continued support as a binding factor.


“It has been touted as victory for Wa All Stars, but realistically, it is victory for Northern Ghana as a whole.


“It is an innaugural victory for a club from the three Northern regions and we can only be lucky to have been the recipients.


“It will give chance to the people of the North to lay hands on the trophy and also provide their support for us when we kick-off the CAF campaign”, Panwum said.


Wa All Stars maintained their strong start to the season to lay hands on the domestic championship in fairytale style.




GPL: Wa All Stars Plan Trophy Parade

Paul Aidoo Giudes Hammarby To Three Points

Sweden-based Ghanaian defender, Paul Aidoo, maintained his fine form in the Allsvenkan league to guide Hammarby past Falkenborg.


The former Inter Allies versatile defender, bossed affairs at the heart of the defense in a priceless 0-2 away win at struggling Falkenborg.


The former National U20 star showed his value with end-to-end display across the game to steer Hammarby to the three contested points.


Goals from Eric Israelson and Papa Dibba proved crucial for Hammarby as they slotted into the eighth position in the Swedish top flight.


Enock Kwakwa lasted the entire 90 minutes for Falkenborg but crocked midfielder, Lord Ofosuhene, continued to watch affairs from the stands.




Paul Aidoo Giudes Hammarby To Three Points

Turkey: John Boye"s Own Goal Costly For Sivaspor

Black Stars central defender, John Boye, registered an own-goal in a 2- 1 defeat for his struggling Sivaspor in the Turkish Super League.


The robust and lanky defensive pillar, put through his own net on the stroke of half time to hand BB Gazieterp an undeserved lead.


The Ghanaian miscued a ball which painfully found its way into the back of his own net after an impressive display all day.


The ever-impressive Musah Yilmaz however hauled Sivaspor back into the tie only for Ekigho Ehison to deny the visitors a late point.


The victory pushed Sivaspor into further relegation woes as Gazieterp moved into the top half of the league table.


John Boye and his Sivaspor teammates needed play-offs to sustain their league status at the end of the 2015/16 Super league campaign.




Turkey: John Boye"s Own Goal Costly For Sivaspor

Monday 26 September 2016

Hearts Target Top Bechem Marksman

Accra Hearts of Oak have identified Bechem United striker, Abednego Tetteh, as a top transfer target ahead of the 2016/2017 Ghana Premier League season, Sportscrusader.com can reveal.


 


Hearts have made the 25-year-old a priority and are ready to spend on him as they look forward to beef up their team for next season’s league.


Abednego-Tetteh-620x400


 


Tetteh, has undoubtedly been one of the brightest prospects in the just-ended Ghana Premier League, especially after helping his team, Bechem United, win this season’s MTN FA Cup.


 


Tetteh, earlier in the season, expressed his desire to stay with Bechem United, especially after securing a spot in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup, but Hearts are planning to table a juicy offer that could lure him away from Bechem.


 


Recently, Tetteh gained his first call-up to the senior national team, the Black Stars, when they played Rwanda in the last group qualifier of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations.








Hearts Target Top Bechem Marksman

GPL: Tony Yeboah Slams Ghana FA Boss

Former Ghana international, Tony Yeboah has slammed the President of the Ghana Football Association(GFA)  over comments he made some years ago about referees accepting bribe but doing the right thing with regards to officiating in the Ghana Premier League (GPL).



The ex-national star, who made 59 appearances for the Black Stars supported the assertion of the GPL being “unattractive”, thereby leading to its poor patronage.



The former Kotoko, Cornerstones and Okwahu United goal poacher, severely ran down the GFA boss when given the chance.



He said: “How can the Ghana FA president even tell referees to accept bribes when tempted, but officiate fairly? This is unbelievable and with this and many more, how can the league be attractive?”



The celebrated footballer also reiterated the unfair officiating from referees in the just-ended season with no corresponding punishment that could deter them from the act of receiving bribes.



Even though the season has ended, there are still some outstanding protests which have to be cleared in order to confirm teams which have been relegated from the league.





GPL: Tony Yeboah Slams Ghana FA Boss

Ibrahimovic Threatens To Break Agent’s Legs

Manchester United striker Zlatan Ibrahimovic threatened to break his agent’s legs if Paul Pogba did not move to Old Trafford in the last transfer window.


Ibrahimovic and Pogba are both clients of Mino Raiola. The Swedish star took drastic measures to ensure that his stablemate was not sold to another clubs.


Raiola told Dutch newspaper De Volkskrant: “Zlatan told me, ‘Do not transfer Pogba elsewhere or I will break your legs’.”


Fortunately for the agent, he did not have to find out whether martial arts expert Ibrahimovic was prepared to go through with his threat because Pogba joined the Red Devils in an £89m deal.


Ibrahimovic officially signed for United on July 1, with Pogba arriving on August 9.


After a slow start to life at Old Trafford, the France international put in an impressive display against Premier League champions Leicester City on Saturday lunchtime.


Pogba scored his first goal for United and was named man of the match in a 4-1 win for Jose Mourinho’s side.


Sources : Offthepost








Ibrahimovic Threatens To Break Agent’s Legs

GFA Launches National Juvenile Championship

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially launched the National U15 Championship on Monday, September 26, 2016.


gfa-juvenile


The launch took place at the FA’s Conference Center, where the local football governing body has commissioned a four-year development plan.







The Acting President of the GFA, George Afriyie, in a speech on behalf of the GFA President, Kwesi Nyantakyi said:


“This vision will see young referees who are almost of the same age with the players, trained to handle the matches when the championship kicks off.”


He added that young referees will also be trained to officiate during the championship adding up to the fifty coaches that have already received training by the FA to coach the various teams that will be taking part in the league.


In all, 16 teams will be taking part in the competition nationwide, on regional basis and, in two zones; that are the Northern Zone and Southern Zone.


Meanwhile, substantive GFA boss, Nyantakyi, is at FIFA’s headquarters, fighting the two Confederation of African Football (CAF) vice presidents for the two new places FIFA has reserved for Africa in its highest decision-making body.




GFA Launches National Juvenile Championship

PSG Star Jailed

Ivory Coast footballer Serge Aurier, who plays for Paris St-Germain (PSG), has been sentenced to two months in jail for elbowing a police officer.


Aurier was also fined €600 (£521, $674) in damages over the incident at a Paris nightclub in May.


He will remain free pending an appeal, which means he could play for PSG in the Champions League on Wednesday.


The 23-year-old was suspended earlier this year over his comments about the then-PSG coach Laurent Blanc.


Aurier was convicted on Monday of elbowing a police officer after leaving a nightclub in the early hours of 30 May.


The defender had been stopped to take a breath test after leaving a Parisian nightclub.


According to the police account, the officer involved needed to take a day off work to recover from his injuries.


Aurier denied the charge, arguing that he was a victim of police violence.


In addition to paying damages, he was charged a further €1,500 (£1,304; $1687) to cover court costs.


The PSG defender has had a troubled year. His suspension from the Ligue 1 side in February came after he appeared to use homophobic language to insult then-coach Laurent Blanc.


He also called his team-mate Angel di Maria a “clown” as he answered fan questions on social media app Periscope.


On Friday, he was sent off for a foul in the first half of PSG’s Ligue 1 match against Toulouse.


Despite the sentencing, Aurier is expected to be available for PSG’s tie against Ludogorets in Bulgaria on Wednesday.


Source : BBC



PSG Star Jailed

Fury Will Not Fight Again

Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn believes Tyson Fury will not fight again, following the news that the Englishman has withdrawn from a rematch with Wladimir Klitschko on health grounds.


Fury caused a huge upset when he beat Klitschko in November 2015, ending the Ukrainian’s reign of almost 10 years as heavyweight champion.


A rematch was scheduled for June 2016, but Fury withdrew from this due to an injury. He has now pulled out of a second date, this time having been declared “medically unfit to fight”. It has been reported that this refers to the fighter’s mental health, which uncle and trainer Peter Fury has attributed to a “witch-hunt” against the 28-year-old.


Hearn, who looks after IBF heavyweight champ Anthony Joshua, says that he had hoped to pit his fighter against Fury, but no longer believes this meeting can happen.


“I wanted Fury to fight Klitschko, because we wanted Joshua to fight Fury. A heavyweight world title unification between two Brits is gold dust,” Hearn told the BBC. “But everyone in boxing knew that the fight between Fury and Klitschko wouldn’t happen and I don’t think Fury will fight again.”


 


Since winning the title, Fury has attracted significant negative press. He has made remarks of a sexist, homophobic and anti-Semitic nature, and a campaign was started to remove him from the BBC Sports Personality of the Year nominees.




Fury Will Not Fight Again

Conte Planning To Discard Three Players

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is set to phase out Gary Cahill and Branislav Ivanovic following the 3-0 defeat at Arsenal, the Daily Mail say.


The newspaper adds that David Luiz, who only recently returned from Paris St-Germain, could also be ousted as a first-choice defender because Conte wants to sign two centre-backs.


It is also claimed that Conte wants to sign a full-back in a bid to strengthen his defence during the January transfer window.


Several players have been touted as long-term replacements for Blues captain John Terry – who is currently out injured – in recent months.


The Mail again suggest that Middlesbrough’s Ben Gibson and Michael Keane of Burnley are on Conte’s radar.




Conte Planning To Discard Three Players

2018 FIFA WC : Egypt Announce Strong Squad For Congo Clash

The coach of Egypt’s national team, Hector Cuper, has named the 24-man squad for the coming crucial game against Congo in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers on 9 October.


The Pharaohs will hold a camp from 1 to 7 October with all named players to prepare for the coming game against Congo in the 2018 World Cup qualifiers.


In June, World Cup-hungry Egypt were drawn in a tight group at the qualifiers’ final round alongside Ghana, Congo and Uganda.


Egypt kicks off its World Cup qualifying campaign against Congo on 9 October.


Seven-time African champions, Egypt has made only two World Cup appearances, both in Italy in 1934 and 1990.


Egypt 24-man squad:


Goalkeepers: Essam El-Hadary (Wadi Degla), Ali Lotfi (ENPPI), Ahmed El-Sehnawy (Zamalek), Sherif Ekramy (Ahly)


Defenders: Ahlmed Fathi, Ahmed Hegazy (Ahly), Islam Gamal, Ahmed Dwidar, Ali Gabr (Zamalek), Hamada Toulba (Masry), Ahmed Elmohamady (Hull City, England), Mohamed Abdel-Shafi (Ahly Jeddah, KSA)


Midfielders: Abdalla El-Saied (Ahly), Ibrahim Salah, Tarek Hamed, Mostafa Fathi (Zamalek), Mahmoud Hassan Trezeguet (Excelsior Mouscron, Belgium), Mohamed El-Neny (Arsenal, England), Mohamed Salah (Roma, Italy), Ramadan Sobhi (Stoke City, England), Omar Gaber (Basel – Swiss), Mahmoud Kahraba (Ittihad Jeddah – KSA)







Strikers: Ahmed Hassan “Kouka” (Braga, Portugal), Bassem Morsi (Zamalek)




2018 FIFA WC : Egypt Announce Strong Squad For Congo Clash

Great Olympics Earn GPL Promotion

Accra Great Olympics earned promotion back to the Ghana Premier League (GPL) after defeating Tudu Mighty Jets 2-1 in zone 3 of the GN Bank Division one League yesterday.


Olympics who are considered one of the giants in Ghana’s football secured the only available slot in zone three to confirm their  comeback in the GPL a year after being relegated.


Great Olympics joins Elmina Sharks who also confirmed their qualification weeks ago.


One more promotion spot is yet to be decided in Zone one with two more matches to go.



Great Olympics Earn GPL Promotion

Sunday 25 September 2016

Ascoli Midfield Not Surprised At Wa All Stars" Historic Feat

Ex-Ghana youth international, Bright Addae, has been vindicated by Wa All Stars winning the 2015/16 Ghana Premier league.


The former Wa All Stars midfielder had tipped the club for domestic supremacy at the start of the campaign and has since been vindicated by the title-winning campaign the Northern Blues have staged.


The Italy-based hard tackler, praised the quality of the All Stars team and their mental attitude at the start of the season.


Addae, one of the pioneers of Wa All Stars in the topflight, cited the nomadic nature of the club and their policy to recruit unrefined talents from the lower tiers as the reason why he believed the club was going to top the division.


“If there was a club that deserves to be champions, it has to be Wa All Stars FC.


“They came to the league with raw and untested players but has since been consistent for almost 10 years now.


“When you factor-in how they travel on weekly basis and the youthful nature of their side, I think they deserve to be champions at the end of the just-ended season”, Addae told Sports Crusader.


The Ascoli midfield gem enjoyed a spectacular season last year, but has since been sparingly used by the current head coach.








Ascoli Midfield Not Surprised At Wa All Stars" Historic Feat

Charles Folley Stars In Debut For Cihangir

Cypriot-based Ghanaian winger, Charles Teiko Folley, made a winning start to his Cihangir career in a 2-0 win over Dumlupinar.


The former Fair Point and Ittihaad Azzarqa wide man, joined the Cypriot side in the summer transfer window after an impressive outing in Jordan.


The lanky midfielder, capitalised on his first game of the season to win the hearts of the club’s fan base with his energetic runs in the opening win.


A goal in either half from the host handed Cihangir a 2-0 win to kick-off their season in the domestic championship.


Charles Folley lasted 75 minutes of the fixture, having earned his place in the starting XI of the team.


Speaking to sportscrusader.com after the game, the Ghanaian remained hopeful of picking some laurels at the end of the season.


“It has been a dream start to the season and on my debut game as well.


“Even though I couldn’t find the back of the net, I enjoyed my football which was felt by the fans and the technical team as a whole.


“I am sure we will end the season with a trophy per our performance in the opening games”, Folley told Sports Crusader exclusively.


The attacker came close to joining a number of European sides in proposed deals which fell through on transfer deadline day.








Charles Folley Stars In Debut For Cihangir

Kwadwo Asamoah Stretched-Off In Juventus Win

Crocked Black Stars midfielder, Kwadwo Asamoah, is set for another extended spell on the treatment table after being stretchered off for Juventus in their 1-0 win at Palermo.


The Turin-based versatile midfielder came off the bench for the reigning Italian champions in the final 20 minutes of the game but had to leave the pitch with five minutes left on the clock.


The former Udinese star man seems to have torn a muscle on his turn which left him in pain, moments after replacing Bosnian hitman, Miralem Pjanic.


Asamoah has been battling injuries in the past three seasons which has resigned him to a super sub for the Bianconneris.


An own-goal from Eduardo Goldaniga returned the Old Ladies to the summit of the log in the division after just six rounds of fixtures.


Asamoah missed the 2014/15 UEFA Champions League final show down due to such injuries but has since been reinstated in the current campaign for the Turin giants.




Kwadwo Asamoah Stretched-Off In Juventus Win

Lloyd Hits Double As United Routs City

Ex-Ghana international, Lloyd Sam, scored twice to earn DC United a landslide win over Orlando City.


The veteran forward rounded-off an impressive night with two sumptuous strikes for United in a commanding 4-1 win in the MLS.


The Ghanaian hitman atoned for his slow start to the season with a stunning strike in the 34th minute to hand DC United the lead before completing his double in the 51st minute.


Compatriot, Patrick Nyarko, played his part in the demolition exercise with an assist for the third goal of the clash on the stroke of half time.


Nyarko spotted Mullins with one minute to half time and the latter wasted no chance in doubling the lead for the host.


The pair have since been integral for United all season as they marched towards the Eastern Conference play-offs spot.




Lloyd Hits Double As United Routs City

Saturday 24 September 2016

FIFA WC : Black Maidens Step Up Preparations For Opener

The Black Maidens have stepped up preparations for the 2016 FIFA U-17 World Cup in Jordan with Coach Evans Adotey taking the team through double training sessions daily.


The national U-17 team arrived in Amman on Wednesday and began training on on Thursday when the team continued the training programme they began in Prampram and later in Cape Coast.


The team also got the opportunity to watch a friendly game between tournament hosts Jordan and Brazil after their double session.


Ghana’s friendly game against Cameroon which was scheduled for Friday had to be postponed due to the late arrival of the Cameroonians in Jordan.


The team however has continued its morning and evening training sessions with Coach Adotey and his assistant Ben Fokuo instilling the famous Ghanaian all- attack all -defend passing game into the girls.


Goalkeepers trainer Eddy Williams has also been taking the goalies through some intensive goalkeeping drills and sharpening their skills.


Adiazatu Mohammed who is acting captain of the team due to the absence of Sonia Opoku, has expressed satisfaction with training sessions in Jordan and has confirmed that it go a long way to improve their performance during the competition.


“Training here has been very good due to the quality of pitches and training has been easier for the team”.

“We are all happy to be in Jordan early before the tournament begins and we the believe that though we don’t underrate any team, we are amongst the best players here in Jordan and what we will go into matches with”, Adiza told Ghanafa.org.


“Our coaches are also doing a good job by preparing us well for the tournament and with this will help us to be ready especially for the first match against Japan”, she added.


According to the team doctor and physiotherapist, there are no major injury concerns in camp with all the girls ready for the tournament.


Ghana will face USA and Paraguay in subsequent group games after the opener against defending Champions Japan next Friday.


Source : GFA




FIFA WC : Black Maidens Step Up Preparations For Opener

Barcelona Cruise Past Sporting Gijon

Luis Suarez and Rafinha scored in the first half before three late goals in seven minutes including two from Neymar gave Barcelona a 5-0 win at 10-man Sporting Gijon on Saturday, their first game this season without Lionel Messi.


After a slow and dull start by Barca, Arda Turan set up Suarez and the Uruguayan rounded Sporting goalkeeper Ivan Cuellar to tap in the opener in the 29th minute.


Rafinha then headed in Sergi Roberto’s cross at the near post for the second three minutes later.


Sporting lost captain Alberto Lora to a second yellow card for a late challenge on Roberto in the 74th minute.


With nine minutes remaining, substitute Paco Alcacer hit the crossbar but Neymar pounced on the rebound and tapped in.


Sergi Roberto came up with his second assist of the game when his cross found Turan’s header for Barca’s fourth in the 85th minute and Neymar got his second two minutes from time with a close-range strike past Cuellar.




Barcelona Cruise Past Sporting Gijon

Man Dies During Boxing Bout

Tragedy has struck an amateur boxing event in Hamilton, with 49-year-old Neville Knight collapsing onto the ropes during a match at about 9pm on Saturday night.


 


A doctor attending the event at the Te Rapa Racecourse tried to resuscitate him for more than 30 minutes, but was ultimately unsuccessful.


 


The event, organised by Nabby’s Boxing Gym, was shut down out of respect.


 


The fight card made for the event showed Mr Knight was fighting against fellow Nabby’s Gym member Nic Trott.







 


Nabby’s Boxing Gym posted on their Facebook page that Nev Knight, whose nickname was the Terminator, had been part of the gym for two years, along with other members of his family.


 


“As a boxing whanau, we need to say how devastated we are tonight. Our only concern is to support Michelle and her family,” the post said.


 


“This amazing family have been part of our whanau for two years, three family members fought tonight and they loved the sport. We all need to come together now as a Nabby team.


“Team Nabby, TRAIN HARD, FIGHT EASY. You trained hard Nev, you earned your name the ‘Terminator’. RIP.”




Man Dies During Boxing Bout