The decision follows the successful rollout of enhanced medical and safety protocols by the Ghana Boxing Interim Management Committee (IMC), as well as the introduction of stronger governance systems.

In a statement, the NSA commended the IMC, athletes, and industry stakeholders for their cooperation and patience throughout the sport’s normalisation period.

The Authority stressed that the comprehensive reforms were crucial in safeguarding Ghana’s proud boxing legacy.

Among the key measures now in place are newly published medical and safety manuals, the establishment of an interim medical commission, a centralised health database, and an approved insurance framework designed to prioritise athlete welfare and uphold institutional standards.

The NSA reaffirmed its commitment to working with all partners to build a safer, more professional, and sustainable boxing ecosystem, while urging both local and international promoters to organise bouts in Ghana under the revamped regulations.

The GFA on Tuesday, November 4, confirmed plans to stage a testimonial for the former Sunderland and Stade Rennais striker in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the national team.

Gyan, who retired from football in 2023 at age 37, remains Ghana’s all-time top scorer with 51 goals in 109 appearances.

“It’s extremely important because aside from honouring a distinguished personality — someone who has given everything for this nation — this also shows that we are a country that appreciates its heroes,” Shardow told Joy Sports.

He believes the gesture will motivate current and future Black Stars players to give their best for the national team.

“It encourages other players to also give their best because they know, at the end of the day, they will be well appreciated.

“So for me, this is long overdue. I’m very happy that finally, the GFA is taking the lead in getting these things done and not leaving them in the hands of private individuals,” he added.

Since his retirement, Gyan has remained involved in national team activities, informally supporting the Black Stars’ technical and management setup alongside Stephen Appiah, who serves as deputy chair of the Management Committee.

A three-time World Cup campaigner, Gyan represented Ghana at the 2006, 2010, and 2014 tournaments in Germany, South Africa, and Brazil respectively, and remains Africa’s highest goal scorer in World Cup history.

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Asare, who also serves as the Black Stars’ first-choice goalkeeper, has faced criticism from some supporters following a series of inconsistent performances in the ongoing 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season. His latest error in the match against Holy Stars intensified the backlash from fans.

However, Asante Twum believes the reaction has been blown out of proportion and urged Hearts supporters to remain patient.

“I think Benjamin will learn from his mistakes. I don’t think it is time for Hearts of Oak fans to panic,” he said. “These things happen. All the top goalkeepers in the world make mistakes.”

He noted that one mistake in eight matches should not overshadow Asare’s overall contributions, emphasizing that what truly matters is his response and mental resilience.

Twum expressed full confidence in the goalkeeper’s ability to regain his best form.

“I believe he has the capacity, competence, and ability to get back to where we all know him to be,” he said.

Asare has kept five clean sheets so far this season and is expected to start when Hearts of Oak face rivals Asante Kotoko in their Matchday 9 clash this weekend.

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The hosts thought they had won the game in injury time when Romeo Vermant slid in on Wojciech Szczesny before scoring into an empty net – but the goal was disallowed by the video assistant referee for a foul.

Club Brugge took a sixth-minute lead when Carlos Forbs burst away down the right before squaring the ball for Nicolo Tresoldi to slide in.

But less than two minutes later Barca were level through Ferran Torres’ first-time finish from Fermin Lopez’s cross.

Fermin then curled a shot off the post – the first of three times Barca would hit the woodwork.

And suddenly they were behind again as Brugge played their way through their high line too easily and Christos Tzolis fed Forbs, who slotted home inside the box.

Barca hit the crossbar twice, through Jules Kounde and then Eric Garcia’s drive from at least 30 yards out.

And then Yamal struck as he beat two defenders with wonderful skill before playing a one-two with Dani Olmo and beating another man before slotting in.

Forbs, who spent last season on loan with Wolves, missed a huge opportunity – but moments later made up for it by running on to Hans Vanaken’s through ball before clipping a shot past Szczesny.

Brugge thought they had a chance to make it 4-2 when Anthony Taylor awarded a penalty, for an Alex Balde tackle on Forbs, but the decision was overturned by the video assistant referee.

And Barca took advantage of that let off when Yamal’s cross was nodded into his own net by the unfortunate Tzolis.

But right at the end Szczesny, who had dawdled on the ball, got hugely lucky when VAR bailed him out after losing the ball to Vermant.

Pep Guardiola’s men are unbeaten in their opening four matches and a third win moved them up to fourth in the table, with the top eight sides qualifying automatically for the last 16.

Nico Kovac’s Dortmund side had started on the front foot but faded away as the hosts scored twice in seven first-half minutes to wrestle control of the contest.

Foden was impressive throughout and he stung the palms of Gregor Kobel with a powerful strike from outside the box, before a curling free-kick straight into the hands of the visiting goalkeeper.

It was third time lucky for the Englishman in the 22nd minute, picking the ball up outside the box and, as the Dortmund defenders stood off, Foden rolled a delightful finish low into the bottom corner.

It was his first Champions League goal in exactly a year after netting in a 4-1 defeat by Sporting in last season’s competition.

City then attacked at will and seemed intent on steamrollering the opposition as Kobel tipped over a close-range effort from Nico O’Reilly, before the prolific Haaland thumped home a cutback from Jeremy Doku in the 29th minute.

It was the Norwegian’s fifth successive Champions League strike – becoming the first player to do so for three different teams – RB Salzburg, Dortmund and now City.

Kobel was kept busy, batting away a thunderous drive from Tijjani Reijnders.

But City pushed on after the restart and Foden doubled his tally in the 57th minute by curling home a delightful second.

Dortmund, who are 12th in the table, staged a late rally and Waldemar Anton poked home a consolation from a Julian Ryerson cross.

But substitute Rayan Cherki restored City’s three-goal advantage in added time with a lovely run and neat finish.

Burn and Joelinton were among nine players who kept their places following the weekend defeat against West Ham and the experienced duo repaid the faith of head coach Eddie Howe at St James’ Park.

It was Burn who opened the scoring, directing a superb bullet header in off the upright from Kieran Trippier’s free-kick on 11 minutes.

Injury-hit Athletic did not crumble, however, and left-back Adama Boiro struck the post on the volley while Nick Pope had to be alert at his near post to keep out forward Unai Gomez’s shot with his foot.

But Newcastle, who lost Anthony Gordon to a hip issue, doubled their lead after the break.

The recalled Harvey Barnes created space inside the box with some neat footwork before scooping the ball across to the unmarked Joelinton, who headed past Unai Simon.

Athletic rallied again and Pope pushed substitute Nico Serrano’s shot behind late on, but Newcastle saw out the game to move above Real Madrid into sixth place in the standings.

Howe’s team, in the process, recorded three straight victories in a major European competition for the first time since 2007.

Garnacho equalised having come on as one of three half-time substitutes with his side 2-1 down after goals from Leandro Andrade and Marko Jankovic had put the hosts ahead following Estevao Willian’s early opener for the Blues.

Qarabag had lost all seven of their previous matches against English opposition. The last time they were in the Champions League, they faced Chelsea and lost both matches by an aggregate score of 10-0 and secured just two points from six matches.

However, they gave Enzo Maresca’s side a real scare at the packed 32,000-seater Tofiq Bahramov Stadium, with a squad worth just £22m compared to that of Chelsea – valued at £1.5bn, according to figures by Transfermarkt.

And it was Chelsea who initially took the lead. Estevao, 18, cut inside and shot low into the near post after linking well with his Brazilian team-mates Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos in the 16th minute.

Yet Chelsea struggled defensively having made seven changes to the team that beat Tottenham on Saturday, with Jorrel Hato, 19, partly at fault for both first-half goals.

Qarabag striker Camilo Duran overpowered the Dutch defender when competing for a long ball, hit his shot against the post, but winger Leandro Andrade brilliantly volleyed the rebound into the goal to equalise.

Midfielder Marko Jankovic then sent Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez the wrong way from the penalty spot to give Qarabag an unlikely lead – the penalty given after Hato handled Andrade’s cross.

Maresca had already taken off injured midfielder Romeo Lavia after six minutes, replacing him with Moises Caicedo, and made three further changes at half-time, bringing on Garnacho, Enzo Fernandez and Liam Delap for young trio Andrey Santos, Jamie Gittens and Tyrique George.

And it was Garnacho who levelled seven minutes into the half, latching on to Delap’s long ball, capitalising on a mistake from Kevin Medina and then shooting across goalkeeper Mateusz Kochalski and into the corner.

Both sides had further chances, with substitute Nariman Akhundzade shooting from range for the hosts, and Fernandez and Estevao having several attempts to win the game for Chelsea, along with the final substitute Facundo Buonanotte.

In added time, both sides had chances to win it through substitutes – Danny Bolt and Garnacho both seeing shots from inside the area saved.

The points shared leave the sides level on seven points in the 36-team league phase of the Champions League after four matches.

The squad boasts a strong domestic core, led by Dreamz Ladies’ key trio: Sarah Nyarko, Ivy Owusu Osei, and Precious Asante.

They are joined by Black Queens forward Mary Amponsah, whose senior international experience is expected to provide leadership to the youthful team.

Ampem Darkoa Ladies contribute three players — Aishetu Awinimi, Diana Amoako, and Linda Owusu Ansah — while in-form striker Agnes Yeboah earns a call-up after scoring a brace for Jonina Ladies in the opening day of the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League.

Hasaacas Ladies midfielder Rubby Osei also makes the squad, adding further depth to the midfield.

Squad below:

The competition will be played in a round-robin format involving hosts Benin, Ghana and Nigeria, after Niger withdrew from the tournament.

Ghana enter the campaign as defending champions, having lifted the inaugural title on home soil in Kumasi in 2023.

Appearing before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Tuesday, October 4, the Minister revealed that a new board will soon be inaugurated to oversee the full rollout of an e-ticketing system for sports events nationwide. The initiative aims to curb persistent revenue leakages associated with manual ticketing.

Adams noted that the current manual system has created opportunities for ticket fraud and under-reporting of revenue, despite large crowds attending major fixtures.

“So there are a number of steps that we are also introducing. When we improve networking, which we haven’t completely done yet, ticketing to our stadia during game time would no longer be 100% manual, where somebody can go and sell fake tickets before you realise,” he explained.

The Buem Constituency MP lamented that manual ticketing has resulted in financial inconsistencies, with actual revenue often falling short of expected amounts despite high attendance.

“So you see the numbers at the stadium, but when it comes to accounting for the money, less is presented. We want to implement e-ticketing. That brings about a lot more transparency,” he added.

Adams assured the Committee that all funds accrued by the NSA will be subjected to full financial scrutiny in line with Ghana’s Public Financial Management laws.

“When the money gets into the coffers, it must follow standard accounting procedures and the Financial Regulations Act. Funds cannot be spent arbitrarily. For amounts above certain thresholds, the Ministry will have to give approval,” he stated.

He confirmed that the soon-to-be inaugurated NSA board will enforce strict oversight and ensure transparency and accountability within the Authority’s operations.

“Very soon, we’ll inaugurate the board for the National Sports Authority, and they will perform their duties to improve transparency and accountability, which the honourable members are concerned about,” Adams added.

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Ghana will face the Lionesses on December 2, 2025, at St. Mary’s Stadium in Southampton, marking the first-ever senior women’s football meeting between the two nations.

In an interview with Joy Sports, Björkegren called the fixture a crucial benchmark as the team prepares for the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations.

“It’s a big game, of course. I think the game is more important on the global stage because [England] is one of the most difficult teams to play in the world,” the Swedish coach said.

“They are probably in the top four globally along with Spain, France, and the USA right now.”

Björkegren praised England’s consistent improvement and noted that the match offers Ghana a rare chance to gauge their progress against one of the world’s elite sides.

“England are one of the best for sure, and they’re a team that just keeps improving, so it will be a difficult game for us. The fact that they want to play against us is the most important thing.

“We’re talking about a team that can potentially win the World Cup in Brazil. They’re not just going there to participate; they’re going there to win it, and they want to play against us as part of their preparations.”

The Black Queens will use the friendly to fine-tune their squad ahead of next year’s continental showpiece.

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Amissah takes over from Stephen Desmond-Issah Botchway, who was relieved of his duties after a poor run of results left the club in 16th place. The Hunters have managed just one win in eight league matches, alongside three draws and four defeats.

“The wait is over! The experienced gaffer KOBINA AMISSAH is now officially at the helm as our Head Coach!” the club announced in a statement. “Let’s welcome him and get ready for an exciting journey ahead.”

Amissah brings a wealth of experience in Ghanaian domestic football, having previously managed clubs including Home Stars, Bibiani Gold Stars, Samartex, Nzema Kotoko, Elmina Sharks, Berekum Chelsea, Sekondi Hasaacas, and New Edubiase United.

Renowned as a promotion specialist, he has guided four clubs from the Division One League to the Premier League: Berekum Chelsea in 2009, Sekondi Hasaacas in 2013, Elmina Sharks in 2016, and Bibiani Gold Stars in 2021.

His first assignment with Bechem United comes in Week 9 this Sunday, November 9, when the Hunters face Young Apostles.

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The 40-year-old Portugal forward joined Al-Nassr shortly after ending his second spell with United in November 2022.

His former Portugal team-mate Amorim replaced Erik ten Hag as boss in November 2024 and United ended last season 15th in the Premier League – their worst league finish since being relegated from the top flight in 1973–74.

Amorim’s side were 14th after losing three of their opening six league games this season but are now eighth after a run of 10 points from a possible 12.

“He’s doing his best,” Ronaldo said in an interview with Piers Morgan.

“What are you going to do? Miracles? Miracles is impossible. We say in Portugal, ‘miracles is only in Fatima’, and he’s not going to do miracles.”

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group took control of football operations after he bought a 27.7% stake in United in February 2024.

Since Amorim’s arrival, United have spent about £250m on new signings and while Ronaldo says they have “good players”, he feels that some of them “don’t have in mind what Manchester United is”.

“Manchester United is still in my heart,” added the five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who won seven major honours with the club between 2003 and 2009.

“I love that club. But we have all to be honest and look for ourselves and say, ‘listen, they are not in a good path’.

“So, they need to change and it’s not only about the coach and players, in my opinion.”

Ronaldo’s contract at Old Trafford was terminated after an interview with Morgan in November 2022, in which he said he felt “betrayed” by United and that he was being forced out.

He added that he did not respect then-manager Ten Hag and criticised the Dutch boss again in September 2024, saying that United must “rebuild everything”.

Ronaldo signed a new contract last summer with Al-Nassr that expires in 2027 and he is expected to play for Portugal in the 2026 World Cup.

Asked by Morgan when he might retire, Ronaldo replied: “Soon. But I think I will be prepared.

“It will be tough, of course. But Piers, I prepare my future since [the age of] 25, 26, 27 years old. So I think I will be capable to support that pressure.”

The 25-year-old has scored 26 times in all competitions for Manchester City and Norway by the beginning of November, taking his career tally to 327.

But Haaland trails a long way behind the feats of the feted duo.

Argentina legend Messi, 38, has scored a total of 892 goals, while 40-year-old Portugal icon Ronaldo is on 952 as he targets 1,000 in his illustrious career.

Asked if he saw himself on the level of the distinguished duo, Haaland replied: “No, not at all. I am far off. Nobody can get close to them two, so no.”

Breaking records ‘last thing on my mind’

The City forward scored 56 goals in the 2022-23 season, his first at the club after joining from Borussia Dortmund, which was his most prolific campaign to date.

But as Haaland prepares to face his former side in their Champions League tie on Wednesday (20:00 GMT), he is on course to surpass that mammoth amount if he maintains his current scoring rate.

With 98 so far in 107 Premier League games, he is closing in on becoming the fastest to reach a century of English top-flight goals.

Former England captain Alan Shearer set that mark at 124 games and leads the all-time league charts with 260.

Shearer, who starred for Southampton, Blackburn and Newcastle in his career, said last month Haaland has a “brilliant chance” of breaking the record.

But when asked if he will surpass his own tally this term, Haaland replied: “Which record? Not to sound arrogant!

“I am in a good way but I don’t think of this.

“I don’t really know any records but I know his (Shearer’s Premier League one). Again, it is not something I can think about.

“Thinking about records I can break is the last thing on my mind, I try to help the team win football games. That is my job and that is my main focus.

“I know it’s boring, I know you want me to say the complete opposite but that’s not how it is. I have to ignore them.”

‘Main career goal’ to help Norway reach major tournaments

Haaland has also scored 53 goals in only 51 Champions League matches – the fastest player to reach the half-century milestone.

He won Europe’s elite club competition in his first season with City, helping the side to complete the Treble of Premier League, FA Cup and the Champions League.

“I am the completely same person from as long as I can remember,” he added. “Nothing has changed. I am still the same kid in some situations and I am still that kid from Bryne but with more experience in life.

“I am a Norwegian guy and I shouldn’t think I am something because I am scoring goals. I am just Erling and this is something that will never change.”

Haaland is also on the cusp of helping Norway reach their first World Cup since 1998, which he said was “two years before I was born”.

“I have been saying this for a long time – my goal is to take Norway to a World Cup and Euros,” he added.

“This is the main goal in my career and now I have a good chance to do it, so it’s about taking the chances.”

And there was an ominous warning for opposition defenders as Haaland said he was “definitely” getting better as a striker.

“I am developing good,” he added. “I am in a good place, I’m taking good care of myself and I am developing good.”

The Confederation of African Football (Caf) took the decision to expand the finals from 12 to 16 teams midway through preliminaries for next year’s tournament in Morocco.

Reigning champions Nigeria were among 11 sides to book their tickets in the second and final qualifying round last month, and those eliminated at that stage had hoped to have another chance to reach North Africa via potential play-offs.

However, Caf has instead used Fifa’s world rankings to fill the remaining places – with the four best-ranked sides who lost in the second qualifying round advancing.

As a result, Cameroon (66th in the world), Ivory Coast (71st), Mali (79th) and Egypt (95th) will feature at Wafcon 2026.

Mali were beaten quarter-finalists at the delayed 2024 edition, while three-time runners-up Cameroon have not featured since 2022.

Ivory Coast and Egypt will return for the first time since 2014 and 2016 respectively.

Caf has also not confirmed the dates of the tournament, but world governing body Fifa has previously earmarked it to take place between 17 March and 3 April.

A date for the draw is also yet to be announced by Caf.

The four semi-finalists at next year’s finals will qualify for the 2027 Women’s World Cup, with the losing quarter-finalists playing off for two spots at an inter-confederation qualifier.

The initiative forms part of the government’s broader effort to enhance sports facilities nationwide, nurture regional talent, and promote community engagement.

Speaking at the 65th anniversary of Bueman Senior High School, the Minister reaffirmed the government’s commitment to building seven new regional modern sports stadiums, with the Oti Region set to benefit significantly.

He also promised that the Ministry of Sports and Recreation would construct a modern sports complex at Bueman Senior High School to encourage sporting activities and cultivate young talent.

The planned facility will feature a basketball court, volleyball court, tennis court, and handball court, serving both the school and the surrounding community.

In addition, the Minister highlighted that the ministry will support the school with learning materials and equipment to enhance both academic and extracurricular activities. These resources will include textbooks, sports kits, and digital devices, reinforcing the government’s commitment to expanding grassroots sports and creating educational pathways for young people.

He further announced plans to establish a National School Authority to ensure students from basic school through tertiary level have access to well-funded educational and sporting activities.

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The Accra giants are set to host long-time rivals Asante Kotoko in a Week 9 showdown of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League.

Speaking on Fire for Fire on Adom TV, Communications Director Kwame Opare Addo revealed that initial contact was made with Shatta Wale’s team last Friday, with discussions progressing positively.

“From last Friday, we (Hearts of Oak) have been working around the clock to bring Shatta Wale to the stadium on Sunday. People should not worry, and we believe the feedback will be positive,” Opare Addo said.

He also hinted that fans could be treated to a double dose of entertainment, as talks are underway for Stonebwoy to also make an appearance.

“As Shatta will be coming, we have also been told by the people at GPL that they are also bringing Stonebwoy,” he added.

The involvement of the two award-winning musicians would bring a showbiz flair to one of Ghana football’s most anticipated fixtures, heightening fan interest and matchday excitement.

Kick-off is scheduled for 16:00 GMT at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The historic encounter, regarded as Ghana’s most celebrated football rivalry, takes on added significance this season as both clubs remain unbeaten in the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League.

Speaking on Fire for Fire on Adom TV, Opare Addo disclosed that Hearts, in partnership with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) and the league’s broadcast partners, have lined up a series of fan-centered activities to build momentum ahead of the fixture.

“In terms of hyping the game, we are not doing it alone but with the GFA and the TV rights holders. We are going to print 700 flags for Hearts of Oak and 700 flags for Asante Kotoko,” Opare Addo said.

He further revealed that the club will reward its loyal supporters with giveaways, including jerseys and match tickets, while football legends from both clubs will embark on a joint media tour to promote the game.

“We are going to give out several jerseys and tickets as giveaways to our supporters. We are also going to make sure that 15 of our legends and 15 legends of Kotoko will move around media houses to promote the game till Sunday,” he added.

Opare Addo also announced plans for a citywide street activation featuring bikers who will ride through Accra with club flags and tickets to heighten the pre-match excitement.

“We will also use bikers who will roam in town with our flags and tickets to hype the game,” he stated.

The Super Clash is scheduled for Sunday, November 9, at 3:00 p.m. at the Accra Sports Stadium, where thousands of fans are expected to witness another thrilling chapter in Ghana’s legendary football rivalry.

According to the GFA, the event is being organised in collaboration with Gyan, with further details expected to be announced soon. The testimonial will serve as a grand tribute to one of the nation’s greatest football icons.

Affectionately known as “Baby Jet,” Gyan remains Ghana’s all-time leading scorer with 51 goals in 109 appearances for the senior national team.

He also holds a continental record as Africa’s top scorer in FIFA World Cup history, having netted six goals across three tournaments, Germany 2006, South Africa 2010, and Brazil 2014.

At club level, Gyan’s illustrious career took him across several continents. He began with Liberty Professionals in Ghana before moving to Italy’s Udinese, later enjoying spells with Modena, Rennes, and Sunderland.

His exploits in the United Arab Emirates with Al Ain and Al Ahli further cemented his global reputation, followed by stints at Shanghai SIPG in China, Kayserispor in Turkey, and finally, Legon Cities in Ghana.

Known for his flair, leadership, and unmatched goal-scoring instinct, Gyan’s influence transcended the pitch, inspiring a generation of footballers across Africa.

His upcoming testimonial is expected to draw fans, teammates, and admirers together for a fitting celebration of a true Ghanaian legend.

The Colombian winger struck twice before being sent off for a violent tackle on Achraf Hakimi on the stroke of halftime.

PSG, who reduced the arrears through Joao Neves, dominated possession after the break but failed to make it fully count and slipped to their first defeat in the competition since last season’s quarter-final second leg against Aston Villa.

The result kept Bayern top of the 36-team league on a maximum 12 points, with PSG in third, three points adrift and with more injury concerns after Hakimi and Ousmane Dembele were replaced early.

Dembele made his first Champions League start of the season but his night was short-lived, the France forward being replaced by Lee Kang-in after 25 minutes.

PSG, who had beaten Bayern 2-0 in the Club World Cup quarter-finals in July, came out flying with their trademark high pressing but were caught cold in the fourth minute when Diaz smashed home after Lucas Chevalier had parried Michael Olise’s effort.

Dembele thought he had levelled midway through the half only for his goal to be ruled out for offside, as PSG pressed but looked unusually fragile at the back.

Moments later, Manuel Neuer pulled off a spectacular save to deny Bradley Barcola, who had raced onto a pinpoint long ball from Fabian Ruiz.

Bayern stayed a step ahead and, after Serge Gnabry struck the post, Diaz pounced on a sleepy Marquinhos to steal the ball and slot home a second in the 32nd minute.

Diaz’s evening ended abruptly just before halftime when he was shown a straight red card for a brutal lunge on Hakimi, who limped off in tears with a suspected ankle injury.

Long possession spells ensued for PSG in the second half but the hosts lacked a cutting edge until the 74th minute, when substitute Neves reduced the arrears with a spectacular scissor kick from Lee’s cross.

Arne Slot’s Premier League champions ended a spell of six defeats in seven games with a win against Aston Villa on Saturday, and the revival continued as Real were overpowered.

Liverpool’s victory was far more convincing than the scoreline suggests, with Alexis Mac Allister finally breaking the deadlock in the second half as former Reds defender Trent Alexander-Arnold watched from the bench with his new side strictly second best.

Only the brilliance of Real keeper Thibaut Courtois kept Liverpool at bay, with a string of superb saves, including four from Dominik Szoboszlai and a brilliant reflex stop from Virgil van Dijk’s header.

Courtois was powerless to stop Liverpool finally getting the goal their superiority deserved when Mac Allister stole in to head home from Szoboszlai’s free-kick after 61 minutes.

Alexander-Arnold came on late in the game, amid a storm of booing from the Liverpool fans who once idolised him, but he was unable to fashion a breakthrough as Real – with Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe subdued – unable to deny Slot’s team an important three points.

Dusan Vlahovic equalised in the 34th minute to cancel out Maxi Araujo’s opener but the Serie A side could not make it two wins in two games under new manager Luciano Spalletti.

Sporting arrived on the back of two wins in three European outings this term, and took the lead in the 12th minute when Araujo arrowed a low strike in off the foot of the post.

The Portuguese giants almost doubled their lead two minutes later but Trincao saw his deflected effort cannon back off the crossbar.

Juventus grew into the half and Vlahovic, whose future in Turin is uncertain with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, drew a magnificent save out of Rui Silva before beating the Sporting goalkeeper with a low finish from a Khephren Thuram cross.

The Serb’s first goal from open play in 10 games spurred his side on, but Silva produced another fine stop in injury-time to deny Jonathan David.

Juventus’ five-game winless run in the Champions League – stretching back to last season – is their longest such run in the competition since going six without a win between April and November 2013.

They have three points after drawing three of their four games, while Sporting have seven points.

On matchday five, Juventus travel to Norway to face Bodo/Glimt (25 November, 20:00 GMT), while Sporting take on Club Brugge in Lisbon (26 November, 20:00 GMT).

It was also an eighth successive clean sheet – matching a club record set back in 1903 over two different seasons.

Spaniard Merino was starting up front in place of the injured Viktor Gyokeres and, just as he did last season when he deputised for Kai Havertz, the midfielder showed his versatility to provide a focal point and make a crucial contribution for his team.

Arsenal’s opening goal came in the 32nd minute when they were awarded a penalty after the video assistant referee (VAR) penalised Lukas Provod for handball after Gabriel flicked on a corner.

Captain Bukayo Saka stepped up to drill the ball into the bottom corner.

The Gunners weren’t at their best in the first half and had to navigate a tricky opening period, with Provod shooting wide for Slavia Prague when well placed.

But Mikel Arteta’s side started the second half extremely well and doubled their lead seconds after the restart when Merino volleyed Leandro Trossard’s cross into the bottom corner.

He added his second in the 68th minute when he rose to meet a Declan Rice cross as home keeper Jakub Markovic came out but failed to collect the ball.

There was also another piece of history on the night as Max Dowman, at 15 years and 308 days old became the youngest player to feature in the Champions League when he replaced Trossard – breaking the mark set by Youssoufa Moukoko at 16 years and 18 days with Borussia Dortmund in 2020.

Slavia Prague thought they had a penalty late on when Provod went down after a high challenge from Ben White, but the decision was overturned by a VAR check once the referee was sent to the monitor.

The victory continued Premier League leaders Arsenal’s excellent start to the season, with four wins from four matches in the Champions League as they extended their unbeaten run to 13 matches in all competitions.

Amoah completed the move shortly after Asante Kotoko’s 5–1 defeat to Wydad Athletic Club in the second leg of their CAF Confederation Cup tie, a timing that surprised both the club’s fans and followers of Ghanaian football.

Speaking to Sporty FM, Chibsah, a former Black Stars midfielder, cautioned that many Ghanaian players moving to North African clubs often do so at a stage that may hinder their development.

“Most players who move to North Africa do so at the wrong time, and that is why they struggle,” he said. “I wish Albert Amoah well, but it will be difficult.”

Amoah, who joined Kotoko from Great Olympics last season, quickly became one of the team’s standout performers. He played 30 matches, scoring 16 goals, and emerged as a reliable forward for the club.

On the continental stage, he also impressed, netting twice in four CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round matches, although Kotoko was ultimately eliminated from the competition.

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Speaking before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) on Tuesday, November 4, Mr. Adams said the delay in finalising the policy was due to restructuring within the Ministry, following the expansion of its mandate to include recreation.

“Actually, the only reason that the policy is still in the final stage of being a draft is because of the realignment that we’ve had at the Ministry. Now, recreation has been a very high consideration, so we need to factor that also into the policy,” he explained.

The Minister also revealed that President John Dramani Mahama has directed the creation of a School Sports Agency to coordinate and promote sports development at the basic and secondary school levels nationwide.

“The President wants us to establish a school sports agency that will be responsible for school sports. It will no longer be left entirely to the Ghana Education Service, where activities sometimes falter due to lack of time or resources. This agency will oversee school and grassroots sports,” Mr. Adams noted.

He assured PAC members that the Ministry is working to incorporate these new directives and institutional changes into the draft policy, stressing that the process is nearing completion.

“We needed to factor all these into the draft policy as it existed. I can assure you that before our next meeting… we are sure that before the end of the first quarter next year, the policy should be ready as a full policy and not just a draft,” he added.

Once finalised, the National Sports Policy is expected to provide a comprehensive blueprint for the development, management, and promotion of sports and recreation across Ghana.

GFA President Kurt Okraku said the promotion is part of efforts to ensure supporters remain at the heart of Ghana’s World Cup journey.

“This is the second time after we failed to qualify in 2018, and we are back to where we belong in world football. Having made it through the hard work of the technical team and the playing body, we at the GFA want to think about the entire country. And for that reason, we cannot go alone and leave the fans behind. In partnership with Rambell and NLA, we have the opportunity to go to the World Cup with the fans,” he stated.

Okraku added that the partnership ensures fans can feel part of the team’s journey. “I want a situation where the players sing the national anthem, and the players will feel the presence of the fans,” he said.

NLA Director-General Mohammed Abdul Salam assured participants of fairness and transparency in the promotion. “We at the NLA are committed to providing transparency, and we are in to ensure whatever we say, we deliver. We believe that Ghanaians who participate in this game will witness this transparency,” he said.

Representing Rambell, Rockson Kondey explained the mechanics and scale of the fan experience. He revealed that 220 supporters will be flown to the World Cup and outlined the participation process.

“Today marks a historic moment for our game. We believe that every Ghanaian deserves a chance to participate, win, and watch the World Cup. With just GHC20, every Ghanaian can win. Fans can join the raffle by dialling 899889#,” he said.

Ghana secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, by finishing top of Group I with 25 points and remaining undefeated.

The Black Stars will learn their group phase opponents on December 5.

READ ALSO

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Some fans booed the Liverpool academy product in May after he announced he would leave his hometown club when his contract expired in June.

The 27-year-old joined Real Madrid, who were then handed an away game with Liverpool in the league phase of this season’s Champions League.

The mural of the England defender was unveiled near Anfield after Liverpool became European champions in 2019, and was also vandalised earlier this year, with the word ‘Rat’ daubed on it.

The same word was written again multiple times on Tuesday, along with ‘adios el rata’.

White paint was also thrown over the picture, but the graffiti was soon washed off the mural.

On Monday, Alexander-Arnold was among a group of Real Madrid representatives who visited the Anfield memorial for Diogo Jota and he placed flowers in memory of his former Liverpool team-mate.

Speaking before Tuesday’s game, Alexander-Arnold said: “Whatever way I’m received is the decision of the fans.

“I’ll always love the club, I’ll always be a fan of the club. I’ll always be thankful for the opportunities and the things we achieved together – they’ll live with me forever.”

Alexander-Arnold won the Champions League, two Premier League titles, the FA Cup and EFL Cup in his time with Liverpool.

The club has been approached for comment.

I have no clue how our fans will react – Slot

Alexander-Arnold has not played since 16 September after a hamstring problem forced him off during Real’s Champions League win over Marseille but the England international is available to play on Tuesday having recovered from that injury.

Liverpool manager Arne Slot said he has “only positive” memories of working with the full-back but does not know what kind of reception he will get from the Reds’ supporters at Anfield.

“I have great memories of the player and the human being,” said Slot. “How our fans will react, I have no clue how that’s going to be. He gets a warm welcome from me, that’s for sure.”

Alexander-Arnold’s former Liverpool team-mate Ryan Gravenberch said he will “give him a hug” because he is “obviously a friend of mine”.

Real Madrid’s head coach Xabi Alonso said that while he and Alexander-Arnold have not spoken about what kind of reception he will get “precisely”, they spoke “about the team, the club”.

Alonso, who was a key player in Liverpool’s Champions League success of 2005, added: “He has to have his own feelings and enjoy it his own way, so I am not going to say how he needs to feel.

“For sure his history is different from mine. He was born and bred in Liverpool, I remember him from a young age in the academy and then coming to the first team and winning the Champions League.

“So he needs to enjoy that moment because it is nice to be back and for him it is going to be nice.”

The club is moving to fill the vacancy left by Desmond Issah-Botchway, who was relieved of his duties on Monday, November 3, following a difficult start to the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.

The Hunters have struggled this term, recording just one win in their opening eight matches. A goalless home draw against Nations FC proved to be the final straw, prompting the board to part ways with Issah-Botchway and his assistant, Bright Anthony Konadu.

Amissah is expected to take charge alongside former Ghana international Mallam Yahaya, who is tipped to join the technical team as assistant coach.

His first assignment, should the deal be finalised, will be a challenging trip to face Young Apostles in their Matchday 9 fixture this weekend, where he will be tasked with triggering an immediate turnaround.

The highly experienced coach is best known for guiding Bibiani GoldStars to their historic promotion to the Ghana Premier League. His résumé also includes spells with Elmina Sharks, Sekondi Hasaacas, and Berekum Chelsea.

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Bechem United sack coach Desmond Issah-Botchway after poor start

The 50-year-old, who was named on King Charles’ Birthday Honours list earlier this year, was knighted by the King during a ceremony in Berkshire on Tuesday.

“I couldn’t be prouder,” said Beckham.

“People know how patriotic I am – I love my country.

“I’ve always said how important the monarchy is to my family.

“I’m lucky enough to have travelled around the world and all people want to talk to me about is our monarchy. It makes me proud.”

The ex-Manchester United and Real Madrid midfielder played 115 times for his country and captained the Three Lions for six years between 2000 and 2006.

He played in three World Cups for England, as well as two European Championships.

Beckham emerged from Manchester United’s academy in 1992 and spent 11 years in the first team before joining Real Madrid in 2003 in a £25m deal.

He played for four years in the Spanish capital before joining Major League Soccer team LA Galaxy. He had two loan spells at AC Milan during his time in Los Angeles, before finishing his career at Paris St-Germain in 2013.

But Beckham’s impact extends far beyond the pitch.

Born in east London, he played a role in securing the 2012 Olympics for London.

He has worked with humanitarian aid organisation Unicef since 2005 and had a fund named in his honour in 2015 to mark a decade-long partnership between the two.

Beckham became an ambassador for the King’s Foundation in 2024, supporting King Charles’ education programme and efforts to ensure young people have a greater understanding of nature.

He part-owns League Two side Salford City alongside former United and England team-mate Gary Neville, and is also co-owner of MLS side Inter Miami.

Image source: Press Association

Image caption: Beckham and his wife Victoria

Image source: Press Association

Image caption: Beckham made his England debut in 1996 and went on to earn 115 caps for his country

His remarks follow Ghana’s successful qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Addo came under intense scrutiny earlier this year after the team’s disappointing 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign, which ended Ghana’s two-decade run at the continental tournament.

The Black Stars finished bottom of their group after six matches, prompting widespread calls for his dismissal.

However, the former Borussia Dortmund talent coach steadied the team and guided Ghana to a commanding finish in the World Cup qualifiers, topping Group I with 25 points to secure a spot at the global showpiece.

Sibo, who made his international debut against Mali and has since started all three of Ghana’s most recent matches, believes the team’s resurgence stems from unity and renewed spirit.

“One thing I’ve seen in this team is unity, and when a team is united and ready to fight for each other, it’s hard to beat,” Sibo told the Daily Graphic.

“We are very united, and I feel we are on the right track,” he added.

The Black Stars will prepare for the World Cup with friendly matches against Japan and South Korea later this month.

The draw for the tournament is scheduled for December 5, when Ghana will discover its group-stage opponents.

The Phobians will host Kotoko at the Accra Sports Stadium on Matchday 9 of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League — a fixture that remains the biggest attraction on the domestic football calendar.

Both teams enter the clash unbeaten, setting the stage for an intense and emotionally charged encounter.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Sports Nite, Opare Addo described the fixture as one of special significance for Hearts of Oak, particularly as it falls in November, the club’s founding month.

“This Super Clash in Accra won’t be easy for Asante Kotoko. Accra Hearts of Oak is ready to make a strong statement at home,” Opare Addo said.

“November, being the birth month of Accra Hearts of Oak, will have great significance in the upcoming Super Clash,” he added.

Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 GMT at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Ghana sealed qualification for the continental showpiece in style, thrashing Egypt 7-0 on aggregate in the final qualifying round to secure their place in Morocco.

With the tournament drawing closer, the Swedish tactician believes a longer camp will be vital in sharpening the team’s competitive edge.

“I would love it if we could stay together for a couple of weeks before the tournament (WAFCON) starts,” Björkegren told Joy Sports.

“That is something we will take a good look at now that we have qualified for the WAFCON. It depends a little bit on the FIFA window and all those kinds of things, but that time really helps us when we can spend more time training, meeting, and getting together.

“Otherwise, it’s difficult when you only have like two or three trainings and just two games because that time together makes all the difference if we can have it,” he added.

Although qualification has been secured, the Black Queens will resume action with a high-profile friendly against England on December 2 at St Mary’s Stadium — a fixture set to mark the start of their road to WAFCON 2026.

With the scores level heading into the final few seconds of the Central Division game, the 30-year-old pivoted to avoid a double block before he floated in a jumper.

It was the fifth occasion the Greek-Nigerian has produced a game-winning shot in the last five seconds of a game, and the second buzzer-beater of his career.

“You can live if you miss. You cannot live if you don’t shoot it,” said Antetokounmpo, who scored a game-high 33 points.

“People don’t remember the time you miss, they remember all the times you make, so I’m happy about that.”

Meanwhile, Jusuf Nurkic scored with 0.6 seconds of play left to give Utah Jazz a late win over of their own as they clinched a 105-103 victory over the Boston Celtics in the Northwest Division.

All times CAT.

—Football—

A thrilling week of European and domestic football lies ahead, with some of the continent’s biggest clubs facing crucial tests across the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, and major league competitions.

In the Champions League, all eyes will be on Anfield as Liverpool and Real Madrid renew their storied rivalry. The atmosphere promises to be electric, with both sides seeking a statement win that could shape the League Phase’s destiny. Equally compelling is the heavyweight showdown in Paris, where PSG host Bayern Munich in a clash that rarely disappoints. With both teams eyeing top spot, the stakes could not be higher. Manchester City’s meeting with Dortmund adds another layer of intrigue — a contest that often delivers goals, drama, and moments of brilliance.

Thursday’s Europa League action features a classic European fixture between Rangers and Roma. Both clubs will view this as a pivotal match in their bid to progress, with the Glasgow crowd sure to play its part in creating a fierce and passionate setting. In the Conference League, Crystal Palace welcome AZ in a match that could prove decisive for control of their destiny, testing Palace’s European credentials under the bright lights at Selhurst Park.

Domestic action this weekend continues the spectacle. In Ligue 1, Lyon face PSG in a marquee clash that could influence the title race, while La Liga offers two high-profile encounters: Rayo Vallecano hosting Real Madrid and Celta Vigo welcoming Barcelona — both fixtures carrying potential for upsets.

Serie A presents traditional drama as Juventus take on Torino in the Derby della Mole, before Inter and Lazio meet in another high-stakes battle among Italy’s elite.

In the Premier League, Tottenham meet Manchester United in a vital test of ambition, while the rivalry between Crystal Palace and Brighton brings its trademark intensity. The weekend concludes with another blockbuster — Manchester City versus Liverpool — a fixture that could have major implications for the title race.

UEFA Champions League, Matchday 4

Tuesday 4 November

• 19:45: Napoli v Eintracht Frankfurt – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 19:45: Slavia Prague v Arsenal – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 1

• 22:00: Atletico Madrid v Union Saint-Gilloise – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 22:00: Liverpool v Real Madrid – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 1

• 22:00: Tottenham Hotspur v FC Copenhagen – LIVE on SuperSport PSL and SuperSport Action Africa

• 22:00: Olympiacos v PSV – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

• 22:00: Juventus v Sporting CP – LIVE on SuperSport Events, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 22:00: Paris Saint-Germain v Bayern Munich – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 22:00: Bodo-Glimt v Monaco – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport GOtv Football

Wednesday 5 November

• 19:45: Pafos v Villarreal – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 19:45: Qarabag v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 1

• 22:00: Manchester City v Dortmund – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 22:00: Newcastle United v Athletic Bilbao – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport GOtv Premier League

• 22:00: Ajax v Galatasaray – LIVE on SuperSport Action, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 22:00: Club Brugge v Barcelona – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 22:00: Inter Milan v Kairat – LIVE on SuperSport Events and SuperSport Africa 2

• 22:00: Benfica v Bayer Leverkusen – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 and SuperSport Maximo 1

• 22:00: Marseille v Atalanta – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2 and SuperSport GOtv La Liga

UEFA Europa League, Matchday 4

Thursday 6 November

• 19:45: FC Utrecht v Porto – LIVE on SuperSport Football and SuperSport GOtv La Liga

• 19:45: Midtjylland v Celtic – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 19:45: Dinamo Zagreb v Celta Vigo – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Africa 2

• 19:45: Sturm Graz v Nottingham Forest – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 22:00: Aston Villa v Maccabi Tel Aviv – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 22:00: VfB Stuttgart v Feyenoord – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa

• 22:00: Rangers v Roma – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 22:00: Real Betis v Lyon – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga

• 22:00: SC Braga v Genk – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 360

UEFA Conference League, Matchday 3

Thursday 6 November

• 22:00: Crystal Palace v AZ – LIVE on SuperSport Africa 2

Ligue 1, Matchday 12

Friday 7 November

• 21:45: Paris FC v Rennes – LIVE on SuperSport Africa and SuperSport Maximo 360

Saturday 8 November

• 22:00: AS Monaco v Lens – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport GOtv Football

Sunday 9 November

• 21:45: Olympique Lyon v Paris Saint-Germain – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport GOtv Football

La Liga, Matchday 12

Friday 7 November

• 22:00: Elche v Real Sociedad – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Saturday 8 November

• 15:00: Girona v Alaves – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 17:15: Sevilla v Osasuna – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 19:30: Atletico Madrid v Levante – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 22:00: Espanyol v Villarreal – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Sunday 9 November

• 15:00: Athletic Bilbao v Real Oviedo – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 17:15: Rayo Vallecano v Real Madrid – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 19:30: Mallorca v Getafe – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport GOtv Football

• 19:30: Valencia v Real Betis – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

• 22:00: Celta Vigo v Barcelona – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Serie A Matchday 11

Friday 7 November

• 21:45: Pisa v Cremonese – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

Saturday 8 November

• 16:00: Como v Cagliari – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 16:00: Lecce v Verona – LIVE on SuperSport Football and SuperSport Africa 2

• 19:00: Juventus v Torino – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 21:45: Parma v AC Milan – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

Sunday 9 November

• 13:30: Atalanta v Sassuolo – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 16:00: Bologna v Napoli – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 16:00: Genoa v Fiorentina – LIVE on SuperSport Events

• 19:00: Roma v Udinese – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 21:45: Inter Milan v Lazio – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

Premier League, Matchday 11

Saturday 8 November

• 14:30: Tottenham Hotspur v Manchester United – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 17:00: Everton v Fulham – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Blitz, SuperSport GOtv Football, SuperSport Maximo 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

• 17:00: West Ham United v Burnley – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport Action Africa

• 19:30: Sunderland v Arsenal – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 22:00: Chelsea v Wolverhampton Wanderers – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Sunday 9 November

• 16:00: Crystal Palace v Brighton & Hove Albion – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport OTT 2

• 16:00: Aston Villa v AFC Bournemouth – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Maximo 1

• 16:00: Brentford v Newcastle United – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

• 16:00: Nottingham Forest v Leeds United – LIVE on SuperSport Events

• 18:30: Manchester City v Liverpool – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

—Golf—

Two major events headline an exciting week of golf as the DP World Tour and PGA Tour both serve up high-quality action from contrasting venues. The Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship marks one of the flagship stops on the DP World Tour, bringing together a world-class field competing under desert skies. Precision off the tee and patience on the greens will be key as players battle to claim early-season momentum and valuable ranking points.

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, the PGA Tour continues with the World Wide Technology Championship — an event known for its scenic setting and low scoring. With players looking to fine-tune their form ahead of the year’s final stretch, consistency and creativity will be decisive factors. Both tournaments promise thrilling golf, dramatic finishes, and a glimpse of emerging talent ready to challenge the sport’s established stars in a packed November schedule.

DP World Tour, Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship

• Thursday 6 – Sunday 9 November – LIVE on SuperSport Golf

PGA Tour, World Wide Technology Championship

• Thursday 6 – Sunday 9 November – LIVE on SuperSport Golf

—Rugby—

A blockbuster weekend of Test Match rugby awaits, with six international clashes showcasing the best of northern and southern hemisphere power. Saturday’s action begins in Dublin, where Ireland host Japan in a contest that will test Ireland’s discipline against Japan’s speed and flair. Scotland then welcome New Zealand to Murrayfield in a fixture steeped in history, before Italy face Australia in what promises to be an open, attacking encounter. England take on Fiji at Twickenham, a battle of physicality and flair, as both sides look to lay down a marker ahead of the year-end rankings. The headline match sees France meet South Africa in a clash of champions past and present — a test of strength, skill, and tactical precision. The weekend concludes on Sunday as Wales host Argentina in Cardiff, with both teams eager to finish their autumn campaigns on a winning note in front of passionate home support.

Test Match Rugby

Saturday 8 November

• 14:50: Ireland v Japan – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

• 17:10: Scotland v New Zealand – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

• 19:40: Italy v Australia – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

• 19:40: England v Fiji – LIVE on SuperSport Action

• 22:10: France v South Africa – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

Sunday 9 November

• 17:10: Wales v Argentina – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

—Cricket—

An action-packed week of international cricket lies ahead, featuring high-stakes contests across formats and continents. In the Pakistan v South Africa ODI series, both teams will be eager to assert dominance early, with conditions in Asia expected to test batting patience and bowling precision. The three-match series promises a tight contest between two well-balanced sides, each eyeing valuable ranking points and momentum ahead of the next global tournament cycle.

In the Pacific, New Zealand host the West Indies for a four-match T20 series that should deliver fireworks. With both teams boasting explosive batting line-ups, fans can expect quick scoring, innovative stroke play, and plenty of drama in the field.

Meanwhile, Australia and India continue their intense rivalry with the final two T20s of their series. Both sides will be chasing consistency and bragging rights, ensuring a thrilling finish to a week packed with world-class cricket entertainment.

Pakistan v South Africa ODI Series

• First ODI, Tuesday 4 November, 11:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

• Second ODI, Thursday 6 November, 11:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

• Third ODI, Saturday 8 November, 11:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

New Zealand v West Indies T20 Series

• First T20, Wednesday 5 November, 08:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

• Second T20, Thursday 6 November, 08:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2

• Third T20, Sunday 9 November, 02:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

• Fourth T20, Monday 10 November, 02:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Australia v India T20 Series

• Fourth T20, Thursday 6 November, 10:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

• Fifth T20, Saturday 8 November, 10:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2

—Motorsport—

Motorsport fans are in for a thrilling weekend as both MotoGP and Formula One head into high-octane battles on opposite sides of the globe. In Portugal, the MotoGP Grand Prix promises edge-of-the-seat action at one of the most demanding circuits on the calendar. Saturday’s Sprint Race will set the tone, offering an early glimpse of race-day pace before Sunday’s main event, where riders will push the limits of speed and precision in pursuit of championship points.

Meanwhile, Formula One roars into São Paulo for the Brazilian Grand Prix, one of the sport’s most iconic and unpredictable events. The Sprint format returns, adding an extra layer of strategy and excitement as drivers fight for grid position and valuable points ahead of Sunday’s race. With the Interlagos circuit renowned for drama, overtakes, and changing weather, fans can expect a weekend packed with adrenaline, tension, and potential title-defining moments.

MotoGP, Grand Prix of Portugal

Saturday 8 November

• 17:00: MotoGP Sprint Race – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

Sunday 9 November

• 16:00: MotoGP Grand Prix – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport

Formula One, Brazilian Grand Prix

Friday 7 November

• 20:30: Sprint Qualifying – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

Saturday 8 November

• 16:00: Sprint Race – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

• 20:00: Qualifying – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

Sunday 9 November

• 19:00: Grand Prix – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

—Variety—

A packed week of global sport awaits across basketball, tennis, triathlon, horse racing, and combat sports. The “race that stops a nation” returns as the Melbourne Cup takes centre stage on Tuesday, with the world’s finest stayers competing for one of horse racing’s most prestigious prizes.

Tennis fans are treated to two major events: the WTA Finals reach their climax with the week’s round-robin action leading into Saturday’s doubles and singles finals, while the ATP World Tour Finals begin on Sunday, bringing together the season’s top performers for one final showdown.

Endurance athletes headline the Ironman 70.3 World Championship weekend, with the women’s and men’s races promising elite competition and inspirational performances.

Rounding off the weekend, UFC Fight Night: Bonfim vs. Brown promises explosive action in the Octagon — a fitting close to a week bursting with world-class sport across multiple disciplines.

Horseracing: Melbourne Cup

• Tuesday 4 November, 04:30 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2 and SuperSport Action Africa

Tennis: WTA Finals

• Tuesday 4 – Friday 7 November, Days 4 – 7 – LIVE on SuperSport Tennis

Saturday 8 November

• 15:00: Doubles Final – LIVE on SuperSport Tennis

• 18:00: Singles Final – LIVE on SuperSport Tennis

Triathlon: Ironman 70.3 World Championship

• Saturday 8 November, 08:30: Women’s Race – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa

• Sunday 9 November, 08:30: Men’s Race – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa

Tennis: ATP World Tour Finals

• From Sunday 9 November, 15:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Tennis

UFC: Fight Night: Bonfim vs. Brown

• Sunday 9 November, 02:00 (main card) – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Maximo 1

Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal has also entered the history books, becoming the youngest player to feature in the Men’s World XI.

Chelsea defender Bronze is one of six England players in the Women’s World XI.

Forward Chloe Kelly and Chelsea goalkeeper Hannah Hampton feature for the first time, while England captain Leah Williamson and forward Alessia Russo are also included after they helped the Lionesses to win back-to-back European titles.

The final English player is Chelsea defender Millie Bright, who did not play at Euro 2025 but still makes the cut.

At the age of 18, Spain’s Yamal breaks Kylian Mbappe’s record from 2018 when the French forward made the Men’s XI aged 19.

Mbappe has also been included this time, as are England midfielders Cole Palmer and Jude Bellingham.

The team is dominated by Paris St-Germain’s Champions League-winning side, with five of the players – including goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who now plays for Manchester City – in the XI.

Defenders Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes, midfielder Vitinha and forward Ousmane Dembele join Donnarumma, who signed for Manchester City at the start of September.

Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk and Barcelona’s Pedri complete the line-up but Manchester City striker Erling Haaland misses out.

The Fifpro World XI is the only global football award voted for exclusively by professional footballers.

More than 26,000 players from 68 counties selected their men’s and women’s teams this year.

Who is in the Men’s World XI?

Goalkeeper: Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris St-Germain/Manchester City, Italy)

Defenders: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool, Netherlands), Achraf Hakimi (PSG, Morocco), Nuno Mendes (PSG, Portugal)

Midfielders: Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid, England), Cole Palmer (Chelsea, England), Pedri (Barcelona, Spain), Vitinha (PSG, Portugal)

Forwards: Ousmane Dembele (PSG, France) Kylian Mbappe (Real Madrid, France), Lamine Yamal (Barcelona, Spain)

Who is in the Women’s World XI?

Goalkeeper: Hannah Hampton (Chelsea, England)

Defenders: Ona Batlle (Barcelona, Spain), Millie Bright (Chelsea, England), Lucy Bronze (Chelsea, England), Leah Williamson (Arsenal, England)

Midfielders: Aitana Bonmati (Barcelona, Spain), Ghizlane Chebbak (Badalona/Al Hilal, Morocco), Alexia Putellas (Barcelona, Spain)

Forwards: Barbra Banda (Orlando Pride, Zambia), Chloe Kelly (Manchester City/Arsenal, England), Alessia Russo (Arsenal, England)

Currently, Belgian coach Gregory de Grauwe serves as the team’s sole video analyst while also handling set-piece duties.

Since his appointment earlier this year, de Grauwe, who holds a UEFA B Coaching License, has been praised for his contributions to the team’s tactical development.

With just seven months remaining before the tournament, the Sports Minister emphasized the need for additional expertise.

“The area of the video analyst must be improved, and I don’t think we should go to the World Cup with just two video analysts,” the Member of Parliament for Buem Constituency told UTV. “I have my own view — we should have more video analysts at the World Cup.”

Ghana will learn their group-stage opponents on December 5. Following a disappointing group-stage exit at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Black Stars are determined to make a stronger impression in next summer’s tournament.

READ ALSO

I want to break my goal-scoring record – Antoine Semenyo

2026 WC: Best-performing local players must be included in Black Stars – Felix Kwakye Ofosu

The Ghana international has made a blistering start to the campaign, netting six goals and providing three assists in just 10 league matches. Only Manchester City’s leading scorer, currently on 13 goals, has been more prolific.

Semenyo, who scored 11 Premier League goals last season and eight the year before, says he is driven by constant self-improvement.

“Every year, I write my goals — what I want to achieve,” he told Sky Sports. “I always want to do better than what I’ve done in previous seasons. I set a challenge for myself this year, and I really want to push myself. I think I am a good finisher. I can help the team in many ways, and credit to the manager [Andoni Iraola] and all the players — they’ve been so helpful. Fifteen goals would be great.”

The 25-year-old has also been shortlisted for the Premier League’s October Goal of the Month award, competing against Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Chelsea’s Moisés Caicedo, Bournemouth teammate Justin Kluivert, and Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendía.

Bournemouth’s unbeaten run came to an end with a 3-1 loss to Manchester City last weekend, but Semenyo will look to inspire the Cherries back to winning ways when they face Aston Villa on Sunday at Villa Park.

READ ALSO

I don’t think about transfer speculations – Antoine Semenyo

Supreme Court quashes High Court garnishee orders on Asamoah Gyan’s accounts

Opoku recently resumed training after several weeks on the sidelines following an injury sustained in Kotoko’s opening match of the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season against Berekum Chelsea.

The Porcupine Warriors head into the Matchday 9 showdown in Accra on the back of a 4-2 victory over Karela United at the Baba Yara Stadium, but they will be without their lead forward.

Speaking to the media after the game, Yaw Owusu said the Accra clash has come too soon for Opoku.

“To be honest with you, Sunday is too early for him,” he stated. “We just have to prepare him well so that when he comes back, he comes to stay.”

The Super Clash at the Accra Sports Stadium is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 GMT.

READ ALSO

Aduana FC targets top-four finish and maiden FA Cup glory

I don’t think about transfer speculations – Antoine Semenyo

Assistant coach Bright Anthony Konadu has also left the club.

The Hunters have struggled in the opening eight matches, recording just one win, three draws, and four defeats. Their tally of six points from a possible 24 sees them languishing in 16th place on the league table.

In a statement released on Monday, the club thanked Issah-Botchway for his service and wished him well in his future endeavours.

An interim technical team will be appointed to oversee preparations for Bechem United’s upcoming league fixture while the club searches for a new head coach.

Bechem United were held to a goalless draw by Nations FC at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park on Friday, October 31, in their Week 8 encounter.

The 2016 FA Cup champions are expected to announce a permanent replacement in the coming days ahead of their Matchday 9 clash against Young Apostles at the Wench Sports Stadium.

READ ALSO

Aduana FC targets top-four finish and maiden FA Cup glory

I don’t think about transfer speculations – Antoine Semenyo

The Dormaa-based side have made a strong start to the campaign, leading the league table with 18 points after eight matches.

With their last league title coming in 2017, Attah Poku believes it is time for the club to mount a serious challenge for silverware again.

“The target is to finish in the top four. We have never won the FA Cup before, and so we have targeted winning that,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

“The last time we won the title was in 2017, so we met as a management and decided that finishing in the top four and winning the FA Cup are our main targets,” he added.

Aduana FC will look to maintain their momentum on Sunday when they host Medeama SC at the Nana Agyemang Badu II Park for their Matchday 9 fixture.

READ ALSO

2025/26 GHPL MD8 Wrap: Kotoko thump Karela as Aduana pip Wonders to go top

Medeama: Ibrahim Tanko praises players after comeback draw at Hohoe United

The Ghanaian attacker was one of Bournemouth’s standout performers last season, drawing interest from several top Premier League sides.

Despite the attention, Semenyo signed a long-term contract that keeps him at the Vitality Stadium until 2030. The deal reportedly includes a release clause, with the 25-year-old valued at around £75 million.

Speaking to Sky Sports, Semenyo acknowledged the ongoing speculation but said he remains focused on his football.

“I don’t think about it too much,” he said. “I try to stay present as much as I can. You see the news all the time—I see it as well, I’m not oblivious—but I try to keep focused.

“I’m enjoying my football here. If I’m not scoring goals, all of that goes away. I try to stay present, do the best I can for the team, score goals, and whatever happens in the future happens.”

Semenyo explained that he was convinced to stay after being encouraged by the club’s vision and summer recruitment.

“When they all left in the summer, there was a lot of interest and back and forth with the club. But I knew in my head that the manager’s got something up his sleeve this year.

“How we finished off the season last year was so good, and we could continue—especially with the players we’ve brought in as well.

“I wasn’t too sure at the start, but we’ve kicked on like a house on fire. I’m glad I committed to staying here because I’m enjoying every moment,” he added.

Semenyo has been in excellent form this season, scoring six goals and providing three assists in just 10 Premier League matches.

The Tarkwa-based side displayed resilience to secure a point at the Hohoe Sports Stadium on Saturday in their Matchday 8 encounter.

Francis Odoom gave the home side the lead before Abdul Salah equalised for the 2022/23 champions.

Reflecting on the performance, Tanko expressed satisfaction with his team’s attitude and felt they could have taken all three points.

“I think looking at the performance we put up, it’s a deserved result. Normally, we should have won because we created most of the chances. But one point away is good,” he said.

“Like I said, we had the chances — even our defender Kamaradini [Mamudu] missed two. But we were playing away, went 1-0 down, and had to push harder. I’m happy we came back. This kind of performance is good for us going forward,” he added.

The result keeps Medeama in second place with 18 points and sets up a highly anticipated top-of-the-table clash at home against league leaders Aduana FC on Matchday 9.

To mark this half-century milestone, SWAG confirms an unprecedented union of sporting excellence and explosive musical entertainment, promising an atmosphere of unbridled celebration. The hitmaker’s inclusion on the bill is not merely a performance; it is a cultural statement, cementing the award ceremony’s status as the nation’s premier event for recognising and celebrating sporting excellence.

​The Showstopper, Stonebwoy, known globally for his electrifying blend of Afro-dancehall, reggae, and Afropop, represents the dynamic and triumphant spirit that the SWAG Awards seek to celebrate. His own career trajectory, marked by relentless drive, international collaborations, and numerous accolades, mirrors the dedication and success of the sportsmen and women being honoured.

As a prominent cultural ambassador for Ghana, the leader of Bhim Nation brings a massive platform and an infectious energy capable of uniting the diverse attendees from decorated former champions to current record-breakers and respected dignitaries.

​The Golden Jubilee SWAG Awards is a moment of deep reverence for Ghanaian sporting history. The night is designed to honour top athletes in the year under review and the legacy of legends who paved the way and inspire the next generation of stars. This context makes Stonebwoy’s role particularly crucial. He will provide the soundtrack to triumph, a vibrant, modern score that reflects the high aspirations of the nation. Stonebwoy will deliver a blowout that matches the ceremony’s grandeur.

​SWAG assures attendees a high-energy stage craft by Stonebwoy, which often includes dynamic choreography and powerful vocal delivery. Stonebwoy’s performance is expected to be the capstone event dedicated to five decades of sporting glory, leaving an indelible mark on the memories of all patrons.

​In combining the gravitas of Ghana’s most prestigious sports awards with the magnetic charisma of one of Africa’s biggest musical exports, the Golden Jubilee SWAG Awards are set to become a historical convergence point. This is more than a ceremony; it is a fusion of culture, entertainment, resilience, national pride and golden celebration.

The SWAG is grateful to GCB Bank, National Petroleum Authority, Stanbic Bank, Ghana Free Zones Authority, OmniBSIC Bank, SIC Insurance, Lufart, Goldbod, KGL, Phoenix Insurance, etc.

Alexander-Arnold fuelled anger among many Liverpool fans by announcing he was leaving at the end of his contract last summer, with supporters making their fury clear by booing him when he emerged as a substitute in the draw with Arsenal in May.

This was despite the 27-year-old – celebrated in song by the Kop as “the Scouser in our team” – having already played a pivotal role in bringing the Premier League title back to Liverpool.

He is in line to play for Real Madrid in the Champions League match after recovering from the hamstring injury that interrupted his start at the Bernabeu.

Alexander-Arnold will find out if time has healed wounds felt by Liverpool’s followers – and will also have the opportunity to show what they have missed as the champions’ form has faltered this season.

What reception will Alexander-Arnold get?

The smart money is on a mixed reception – with a section of Liverpool fans unlikely to forgive or forget the manner of his departure, initially on a free transfer, although Real later agreed a reported £8.4m fee to accelerate his arrival so he could play in the Club World Cup.

Feelings had cooled when Alexander-Arnold again came on as a substitute for Liverpool’s final home game against Crystal Palace, when the trophy was presented to captain Virgil van Dijk by legendary former Liverpool defender Alan Hansen.

The warmer response was, perhaps, a reaction to public admonishment from former manager Jurgen Klopp, who was angered by Alexander-Arnold’s vitriolic treatment from fans who previously idolised him.

Alexander-Arnold’s status as the local boy who made good by winning two Premier Leagues, the Champions League, FA Cup, League Cup, Super Cup and Club World Cup undoubtedly heightened emotions when he sought pastures new in Spain.

Trent Alexander-Arnold

Liverpool career in all competitions

Source: Opta

Former Liverpool and England defender Stephen Warnock accepts Alexander-Arnold may not receive a rapturous welcome, telling BBC Sport: “I know local fans will say he was a Liverpool fan in a great Liverpool team, but sometimes players want something else. I respect that.

“I really hope he gets a good reception. I think he’ll want to put on a show, demonstrate why he’s such a talent, why Liverpool’s fans loved him so much.”

Warnock added: “I think the reception will be mixed. I don’t think he will be expecting a standing ovation after the way things went, and we have to respect those opinions as well.

“I don’t think he deserves a mixed reception. He was an incredible servant to the club, but wanted to challenge himself.

“Hopefully he gets a great reception.”

How much have Liverpool missed Alexander-Arnold?

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Only Roberto Firmino (21) assisted more of Mohamed Salah’s Liverpool goals than Trent Alexander-Arnold (13)

The Alexander-Arnold-shaped hole in Liverpool’s team is one of the conundrums facing head coach Arne Slot as the near-£450m summer refit of his title-winning squad has struggled to gel, although Saturday’s 2-0 win against Aston Villa stopped the rot after six defeats in seven games, including four straight league losses.

Alexander-Arnold’s absence, however, has had an impact on all areas of Liverpool’s team, particularly Mohamed Salah’s influence.

Salah has struggled to hit his usual heights, although he scored his 250th Liverpool goal in the win over Villa.

It has trained the microscope on his previously potent partnership with Alexander-Arnold, a rich seam of goals and creation as Liverpool swept up their trophy haul under Klopp then Slot.

Alexander-Arnold’s world-class range of passing created space and opportunities for Salah, with opponents living in fear not only of what he might do himself, but also what he could unlock for the Egyptian.

He played 147 line-breaking passes for Salah when the title was won last season, the most any player provided for a team-mate in the Premier League.

Mohamed Salah has not been the same since Trent left

Premier League last season v this season

Source: Opta

Warnock said: “There is a great player in Conor Bradley, but he needs to stay fit and get a run of games to build up a relationship with Salah. These things can take time, even with the best players.

“Trent leaving has had an impact on Salah. Their partnership, if not exactly unnoticed, was almost taken as read. Yes, they are world-class individuals, but it was also a partnership.

“They really complemented each other. Trent could go inside, draw people towards him, which freed up more space for Salah. And when Salah drove at people he had the ability to feed Trent because teams were backing off.”

Alexander-Arnold’s comfort in possession with his fellow defenders, plus the ability to move into midfield, means his presence is also sorely missed elsewhere.

Warnock said: “I think Ibrahima Konate probably misses him as well. He knew he could give Trent the ball under pressure. I think it is having an impact on the right-hand side of the pitch, both in defence and attack.

“Liverpool also created a box system in the centre of midfield, which they did so well, when Trent was in the side.

“There was a lot of praise given to Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch and Dominik Szoboszlai, but Trent was a big part of that as well. Losing that extra body in the midfield area, when he was in there, is also missed because opponents were drawn to him, fearful of what he could create.”

Jeremie Frimpong, signed in a £29m deal from Bayer Leverkusen to compete with Bradley for the place vacated by Alexander-Arnold, has had his Anfield start curtailed by hamstring injuries.

Warnock said: “The biggest issue with Frimpong is not only injuries, but what is his best position? At Bayer Leverkusen he spent a lot of time as a right wing-back.”

Most Liverpool goal involvements

since Trent’s debut in October 2016

Source: Opta

Liverpool ‘100%’ missing Alexander-Arnold

As Liverpool’s title defence stalled before beating Villa, Alexander-Arnold’s ability to unlock defences may have aided them as, by Slot’s own admission, they have struggled against teams who defend deep and use long balls.

Warnock believes Liverpool are missing a creative source that can be placed in the same bracket as one of the Premier League greats, former Manchester City star Kevin de Bruyne.

He said: “Trent was a right-back, but effectively he was a midfielder [in] that position.

“I liken him to De Bruyne. I know they were different positions, but the way they pass the ball, the way they put fear into defenders with their ability to cross a ball or deliver a pass, is just incredible.”

Warnock added: “When Trent was at Liverpool, teams would back off. He was hitting balls over the top, trying to find killer passes. Even if he was a fraction off, the opposition were thinking ‘if he gets one of these right we’re in big trouble’.

“They drop deeper, then he was firing balls into Mac Allister on the half-turn, Szoboszlai, or last season Luis Diaz. He may not find that killer ball every time, but he strikes fear into defences, the fear that he will eventually get one right, which he so often did.

“I actually think this was the idea of bringing Florian Wirtz in, to open up defences.

“If you put all that together and ask if Liverpool are missing Trent? Yes, 100%.”

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Alexander-Arnold was an unused substitute in Saturday’s La Liga win over Valencia

The incident occurred during Philadelphia’s 109-108 loss to the Boston Celtics on Friday when Embiid, 31, scored while getting fouled and then made a chopping gesture to his groin.

Embiid has been fined for the gesture on multiple previous occasions.

In a post on X which also contained the NBA’s social media post detailing his sanction, Embiid appeared to suggest the gesture was similar to a signal that officials make when calling a foul for blocking.

He said: “Yall better start fining the refs for doing the ‘lewd’, ‘blocking foul’ gesture since I’m not allowed to do it.”

Cameroon-born Embiid did not play in Sunday’s 129-105 victory over the Brooklyn Nets, sitting out the match as he continues to manage his recovery from a knee injury which required surgery earlier this year.

Their side had not long come from behind to go 2-1 up against Newcastle United when gallows humour swept across the London Stadium.

“How bad must you be?” thousands of fans asked in unison as the first half drew to a close. “We’re winning at home!”

The language was slightly stronger, of course, but for the first time in in nearly nine months, West Ham were on course for a home victory.

Substitute Tomas Soucek made sure of that when he bundled in his side’s third goal in stoppage time.

But Newcastle’s fate was already as good as sealed by then.

To think this was a team fresh from three significant home victories in three different competitions against Tottenham, Fulham and Benfica.

But Eddie Howe’s side have looked a different animal away from St James’ Park, failing to win an away league game since April.

“Forget my name, it didn’t look like a Newcastle team we have seen in recent seasons,” the head coach said after Sunday’s 3-1 defeat.

‘I didn’t like the body language of the group’

This was a result few saw coming.

Struggling West Ham may have had an extended period to prepare for this game, but Newcastle have the luxury of a deep squad.

Howe made six changes from the midweek win against Spurs and was able to recall heavyweight figures in Nick Pope, Sven Botman, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton, Jacob Murphy and Anthony Gordon.

But you would not have known it.

Though Newcastle players technically covered more distance – 116.85km in all – they did not look their usual intense selves after Murphy gave them an early lead.

The visitors repeatedly gave the ball away. The midfield three, often lauded as one of the best in the league, failed to take control of the game. The hallmarks of this side – pace and power in all areas of the field – were absent.

“I didn’t like the body language of the group,” Howe said.

Goalkeeper Pope had to make big saves to deny both Lucas Paqueta and Max Kilman, before West Ham levelled, but those warnings failed to awaken Newcastle from their slumber.

By the time Paqueta scored, an equaliser had long been coming.

At home, Newcastle would have pushed for more after taking such an early lead. At London Stadium, they gave West Ham and the crowd encouragement by failing to kick on.

Rather than turning on their side, before staging a sit-in protest against the board after the game, West Ham supporters instead sensed a way back into it.

“The fans saw something from the team,” said West Ham manager Nuno Espirito Santo. “This is what we want. This is how we should look at the situation.

“How can we as a team show to our fans that we want to fight, that we want to change the situation, that we want to make things tough for our opponents.”

‘This is a moment where you really do need to stay calm’

Howe had long since seen enough by the time Botman turned Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross into his own net just before the interval.

The Newcastle head coach hauled off Emil Krafth, Nick Woltemade and Gordon at half-time, but he could have used all of his five permitted changes there and then.

“I almost could have taken anyone off,” he said. “That was a reflection of where we were in that moment in the game and it’s very rare for me to feel that way. I don’t think I have since I’ve been manager of Newcastle.

“I felt the team needed some shaking up at half-time. That’s why I did what I did.”

Yet it did not have the desired effect. Newcastle are now winless in their past eight away league games.

Newcastle have travelled to some testing grounds in that time, but Howe’s side have now failed to beat Aston Villa (twice), Brighton (twice), Bournemouth, Arsenal, Leeds United and West Ham.

For context, only Fulham, Nottingham Forest and Wolves have picked up fewer points than Newcastle (three) on the road this season.

No wonder Howe shared some “honest” words with his players after the game.

But the head coach was wary of overeacting, instead hoping this particular loss finally proves a turning point on the road.

A similar defeat in London certainly did nearly a year ago when Newcastle were thumped by Brentford.

It was a result which left Newcastle languishing in the lower half of the table, where they again find themselves now.

Newcastle went on to win seven games in a row in all competitions, including impressive away victories against Arsenal, Tottenham and Manchester United.

And they will certainly need to summon that spirit once more when they return to the Gtech Community Stadium next week.

“People say look in the mirror but we just go home and reflect,” goalscorer Murphy said on Sky Sports. “This is a moment where you really do need to stay calm.

“Let’s not be too reactive. We know we have to put things right.”

The Reds won the Premier League title last season in manager Arne Slot’s first campaign in charge but, after starting the 2025-26 campaign with five top-flight wins, they have fallen off the pace.

They suffered a fourth consecutive league defeat at Brentford last week and, following the loss to the Bees, former England and Manchester United forward Rooney said Van Dijk and team-mate Mohamed Salah had not “really led that team this season”.

“I didn’t hear him last year,” Van Dijk told reporters, after Liverpool arrested their slide with a win against Aston Villa on Saturday.

“It doesn’t hurt me. Just to come back to this particular player, obviously a legend, a big player of the game who inspired so many, I can say only positive things but I feel that comment is just I would say it’s a bit of a lazy criticism.

“It’s easy to blame the other players but he knows we do it together, trying to help each and every one of us to try to get out of this. Last year when things go well you don’t hear that at all. It is what it is.

“[Pundits] have to do that job. He has an opinion and we have to deal with it. There’s no hard feelings. I don’t take it personally.”

Liverpool are third in the Premier League and seven points behind leaders Arsenal heading into a two crucial games this week.

Slot’s side host Real Madrid in the Champions League on Tuesday before they visit Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday.

“I’ve heard the reports as well about [Slot] being under pressure, but I don’t think we play at a club that makes rash decisions,” added Van Dijk.

“We all felt that we can work our way out of this. It’s not a guarantee, but we can do it together. As long as we believe, stay humble and keep working, we can do it, and we all have that feeling.”

Passengers travelling from Doncaster to London were attacked, with Forest saying “many of our London-based supporters were travelling home on that train” following a home game against Manchester United.

Eleven people were injured and received hospital treatment and two of them remain in a life-threatening condition.

“Everyone at Nottingham Forest is shocked and deeply saddened by what happened,” said Marinakis.

“The courage and selflessness shown by our supporters on that train represents the very best of humanity and the very best of our club’s community.

“We will make sure any supporter caught up in this incident receives whatever financial support they require to enable them to access the best possible medical care as they recover.

“Our thoughts and prayers are with all those affected.”

Alistair Day was on the train when the attack took place, having attended Forest’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United.

“I was just by the buffet car. It was odd. I was at the end of the carriage, all these kids were running up and I thought it was like a prank – Halloween or students,” said Day, who was travelling back to Hertford.

“Then they’re getting louder and louder, any sorts of people with blood on them [appeared] and I thought, ‘Oh, bloody hell, this is not good’.”

In a statement, the club said it “wishes to express its deepest concern and heartfelt sympathy to all those affected by the shocking attack on an LNER train bound for London yesterday evening”.

“Many of our London-based supporters were travelling home on that train following our match at the City Ground, and our thoughts are very much with everyone caught up in such a distressing incident,” added Forest.

“The club is aware that many individuals demonstrated extraordinary bravery which undoubtedly helped prevent even greater harm.

“The entire Nottingham Forest family stands firmly behind them as they recover from the events of yesterday.”

The action began on Friday, where Bechem United were held to a goalless draw by Nations FC at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park.

On Saturday, Hohoe United started brightly at the Hohoe Sports Stadium, taking the lead in the 6th minute when Francis Odoom connected with a cross to fire past Medeama goalkeeper Felix Kyei. Medeama, however, restored parity two minutes before the break through Abdul Salam as the contest ended 1-1.

On Sunday, Kotoko bounced back from their CAF Confederation Cup exit with a commanding 4-2 victory over Karela United at the Baba Yara Stadium.
Hubert Gyau struck in the 6th minute, only for Bless Ege to level for Karela 10 minutes later. Gyau completed his brace in the 22nd minute, before Joseph Ablorh made it 3-1 heading into the break.

Peter Amidu Acquah extended Kotoko’s lead after the restart, but Yaya Rahman pulled one back for the visitors, though it proved only a consolation.

In Swedru, All Black Stars were held to a 1-1 draw by Heart of Lions. Chauncy Freeman put Lions ahead with a 45th-minute effort, but Rudolf Mensah equalised late on to rescue a point for the hosts.

Kumi Attah’s strike on the stroke of half-time handed Bibiani GoldStars a narrow 1-0 win over Young Apostles at Dun’s Park.

Hearts of Oak returned to winning form with a 2-1 triumph over Basake Holy Stars at the AAK Park. The Phobians went ahead from the penalty spot just before half-time, with Frank Duku converting after Hamza Issah was fouled. Issah doubled the advantage on the hour mark, before a 69th-minute reply from the hosts set up a tense finish.

At the Tuba Astro Turf, Dreams FC stunned FC Samartex with a 2-0 win to hand the league leaders their first defeat of the campaign. Seidu Suraj opened the scoring in the 29th minute, and Jonathan Nemorden sealed the victory seven minutes from time.

Seidu Abubakar’s 66th-minute goal earned Berekum Chelsea a 1-0 win over Vision FC at the Golden City Park.

At the University of Ghana Stadium, Charles Gyamfi Kamara struck in the 84th minute to give Aduana FC a 1-0 victory over Eleven Wonders, a result that lifts Aduana to the top of the table.

Aduana, Medeama, Heart of Lions and Hearts of Oak currently occupy the top four positions, while Bechem United, Eleven Wonders and Basake Holy Stars sit in the relegation zone after eight rounds of matches.

Full Results

Bechem United 0-0 Nations FC

Hohoe United 1-1 Medeama SC

Asante Kotoko 4-2 Karela United

Swedru All Blacks 1-1 Heart of Lions

Bibiani GoldStars 1-0 Young Apostles

Basake Holy Stars 1-2 Hearts of Oak

Dreams FC 2-0 FC Samartex

Berekum Chelsea 1-0 Vision FC

Eleven Wonders 0-1 Aduana FC

Haaland and Rayan Cherki appear to have developed a rapid connection as the latter assisted both of the former’s goals on Sunday.

Tyler Adams equalised for the energetic Bournemouth after Haaland’s clinical opener, however the visitors were no match for the relentless Cityzens.

Although Bournemouth edged the possession statistic at the Etihad, the away side’s ambitious high line allowed City in behind on a few too many occasions.

Andoni Iraola deserves credit for his bravery, though the visit to the Etihad proved a task too tough for The Cherries, still yet to claim a point in the blue half of Manchester in the Premier League era.

Haaland, who hit the famous Peter Crouch robot celebration after his first, profited from Bournemouth’s approach for both of his goals. And he could have had a first club hat-trick of the season if it was not for a fine save from Djordje Petrovic.

Arsenal remain well ahead at the summit of the table with 25 points from 10 games but this win keeps Pep Guardiola’s side in touching distance, just about. The gap is now six points, while Bournemouth drop to fourth in the table thanks to their electric start.

Jacob Murphy had given Newcastle the lead with an effort from the edge of the area in the opening stages – just seconds after West Ham captain Jarrod Bowen hit the post at the other end.

But West Ham rallied and the hosts’ eventually got their rewards when Lucas Paqueta lashed home an equaliser from outside the box.

West Ham then took the lead just before half-time when the sliding Sven Botman turned Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross into his own net.

Nuno Espirito Santo’s team went on to score a third in stoppage time when substitute Tomas Soucek tapped in the rebound after Pope had denied Bowen.

It was the least West Ham deserved following a committed display by the hosts, who earlier had a penalty award overturned after a video assistant referee (VAR) review.

Referee Robert Jones changed his mind after consulting his pitchside monitor, with the television footage showing Newcastle defender Malick Thiaw touching the ball before making contact with Bowen inside the area.

But not only did West Ham go on to find a way back into the game – they won it.

The Hammers remain in the relegation zone but are now three points behind 17th-placed Burnley following a first league win under Nuno since he took charge in September.

Newcastle, meanwhile, have not triumphed on the road in the Premier League in seven months.