The promoted Ghana Premier League side has faced scrutiny after former coach J.E. Sarpong revealed that players were not being properly fed and were owed salaries.

Odartey Lamptey, who was appointed head coach following the club’s return to the top flight, parted ways with Eleven Wonders after a disappointing start to the 2025/26 season, leaving the team without a win after nine games.

Speaking in an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Odartey Lamptey expressed frustration with the club’s leadership.

“I just hope that things will change at the club because the handlers of the team, someone is a Member of Parliament, and someone else is also serving as a Member of the Council of State, so why should this be happening?” he questioned.

“Sometimes, I ask myself questions because if you cannot manage 30 players, then I am sorry. I am an illiterate, and I have over 60 players I am managing at my academy. So if an illiterate can do that, how much more people like you?” he added.

Eleven Wonders remain at the bottom of the league table with three points from 11 matches and will face Dreams FC in their Matchday 12 clash at the University of Ghana Stadium.

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Estevao, 18, scored a stunning second goal after Barcelona went down to 10 men – skipper Ronald Araujo sent off for a second booking just before the break.

By then the hosts had taken the lead through an own goal by Barcelona defender Jules Kounde, with substitute Liam Delap completing and scoring and ending an 11-game drought with his first goal of the season.

Yet Estevao stole the limelight from visiting Yamal, also 18, in a contest between arguably the world’s two best teenage attackers.

The headline moment came when the Brazil international skipped past Pau Cubarsi, held off Alejandro Balde and powered his shot past goalkeeper Joan Garcia, while Yamal was then substituted in the 80th minute to jeers from the home crowd.

Estevao provided the highlight of a memorable night at Stamford Bridge, for a Chelsea side missing star forward Cole Palmer through a toe injury.

Chelsea deserved their early lead with a clever short-corner routine involving Estevao, Alejandro Garnacho and Marc Cucurella, which ended when Neto’s flick ricocheted off Kounde into the net for 1-0.

Enzo Fernandez had earlier had two set-piece goals ruled out for offside, while Reece James forced two saves from long-range efforts and Neto blazed over when clean through.

Barcelona squandered their best chance of the first half when former Manchester City forward Ferran Torres put a close-range effort wide, before being replaced at half-time by Manchester United loanee Marcus Rashford.

Yet Rashford couldn’t turn the tide as Estevao made it 2-0 with his solo run and finish, and Delap added a third with a side-footed strike after Fernandez broke the offside trap and squared a pass into the box.

Victory lifted Chelsea into the top eight of the 36-team league phase, meaning they would avoid an extra play-off round in February if they keep their position, with three further matches to play.

Guardiola made 10 changes following their Premier League loss at Newcastle on Saturday, but the decision backfired in calamitous fashion as they fell to back-to-back defeats.

City had started on the front foot with Nathan Ake’s poked effort from close range tipped wide by Mark Flekken’s sharp reflex save but for large periods after the hosts were slow and ponderous in possession.

Leverkusen were showing signs of speed on the break and got their reward on the counter when Christian Kofane clipped the ball back for captain Alejandro Grimaldo to drill home a crisp first-time finish.

City’s fringe players were finding it difficult to maintain any rhythm as they looked to claw their way back into the game, with Tijjani Reijnders dribbling through but shooting straight at ex-Brentford goalkeeper Flekken.

And Kasper Hjulmand’s visitors were in dreamland when they doubled their lead on 54 minutes as Czech striker Patrik Schick leapt highest to glance home a header from Ibrahim Maza’s pinpoint cross.

Star man Erling Haaland was introduced on the hour mark and almost made an impact 10 minutes later by latching on to Phil Foden’s pass, but the ball was smothered at his feet by Flekken.

City were left frustrated when the Norwegian hooked another effort over but the night belonged to Leverkusen and their joyous travelling support.

The English side’s struggles away from home continued as their hosts came from behind thanks to two goals from the 36-year-old former Arsenal and Chelsea frontman at a febrile Stade Velodrome.

The in-form Harvey Barnes gave Newcastle the dream start after opening the scoring with a clinical sixth-minute finish from inside the box.

That followed a brilliant headed clearance off the line from Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to deny Magpies defender Malick Thiaw.

But the visitors – who have won just once on their travels this season – dropped off and allowed Marseille to dominate possession and create a number of opportunities for Aubameyang.

Although he spurned a couple of openings in the first half, the Gabon international looked more like his old self after the break.

The second half had only just got under way when 17-year-old Darryl Bakola played a through-ball into the right-hand channel behind Newcastle’s defence.

Nick Pope, sensing Aubameyang was racing on to it, rushed off his line in an attempt to get there first, but the Newcastle goalkeeper was caught in no man’s land as the forward finished superbly from a tight angle out on the right-hand side.

Marseille made it two goals in four minutes when Timothy Weah darted past Tino Livramento down the right and picked out Aubameyang, who got ahead of Fabian Schar to hook the ball home at the near post.

The goal sent the French side’s manager Roberto de Zerbi dancing down the touchline in delight.

And the former Brighton boss was punching the air at full-time as Marseille claimed their second Champions League win of the season to move up to 19th place in the standings, while Newcastle are eighth.

His remarks come after veteran coach J.E. Sarpong, who left the team after less than a month, alleged that players were poorly fed, relied on public transport to attend training, and were owed several months’ salaries.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Odartey Lamptey distanced himself from the club’s on-field struggles and suggested that the problems at Eleven Wonders are far deeper than what has been made public.

“The challenges of Eleven Wonders were not down to me, and the players are aware of that. Whatever I know in the game, I applied it to save the club,” he said.

“If I tell you what I did for the club, you would be surprised. That is why I have decided to stay mute—because the club should know better.”

He strongly hinted that J.E. Sarpong’s revelations represent only a fraction of the club’s internal issues.

“With whatever J.E. Sarpong has said, I have billions of them. But to me, it is not necessary to talk. I am happy an experienced coach like J.E. Sarpong has come out to say these things after working with the club for just three weeks. It tells you something is wrong somewhere,” he noted.

“I just hope the wrongs will be corrected so that the players can perform well, because at the end of the day, it is Ghana football that will suffer.”

Eleven Wonders remain bottom of the Ghana Premier League table with just three points from 11 games and are yet to record a win. They will seek their first victory of the season when they host Dreams FC in Matchday 12 at the University of Ghana Stadium this weekend.

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Coach J.E. Sarpong details why he quit Eleven Wonders after less than a month in charge

The development comes after claims by former head coach J.E. Sarpong, who left the club less than a month into his tenure, that players were not being properly fed and were owed salaries.

Nii Odartey Lamptey, recently reappointed to lead the side after their return to the Premier League, confirmed in an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show that he has alerted PFAG to the situation, urging support for the players.

“I want to stay mute because I don’t want to create problems. After all, it is football that has made me who I am today,” the former Ghana international said.

“I went in there to help, but if I decide to talk, it will be more than what J.E. Sarpong said. I hope Eleven Wonders will change. I sometimes feel for the players because I don’t think it is the best. Footballers don’t deserve to go through what Eleven Wonders players are going through.

“At the right time, PFAG will meet the players and discuss their welfare, so I don’t want to go deep into issues because I am hurt. I decided to come into the game again just to help, but with what happened, I don’t want to talk about it. I just hope that PFAG will go to the aid of the players because, with what is happening, it is not the best,” he added.

Eleven Wonders have struggled this season, remaining the only team in the Premier League yet to secure a win after 11 matches. The club will be eager to claim their first victory when they host Dreams FC in Matchday 12 at the University of Ghana Stadium.

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The Phobians currently sit sixth on the league table with 18 points from 11 matches, five points behind leaders Aduana FC.

The record FA Cup champions have struggled in November, securing just one win—a 2-1 victory over Berekum Chelsea.

Speaking on the team’s prospects, Dramani insisted there is still ample time to turn their campaign around.

“It’s still possible to win the league because we have over thirty matches more to play. We just have to turn our drawing streak into wins. If you want to win the league, you have to win games,” he said.

Reflecting on Sunday’s 0-0 draw, their sixth match of the season without scoring, Dramani acknowledged the quality of their opponents.

“I think the game was what we anticipated. And we knew they would be motivated because they were playing against Hearts of Oak. It was a game of few chances and more transitional plays,” he added.

Hearts of Oak will look to bounce back when they host Vision F.C. in Matchday 12 at the Accra Sports Stadium this weekend.

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Kudus returned from injury in Sunday’s 4-1 loss to Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium but struggled to make an impact before being substituted for Brennan Johnson midway through the second half.

Assessing the 25-year-old’s performance, Sherwood acknowledged Kudus’ quality but noted that his influence on the pitch fluctuates too often.

“Kudus is a breath of fresh air; he brings a lot to the team when he plays. But he still lacks the consistency to become an elite player,” Sherwood said.

Since arriving from West Ham during the summer transfer window, Kudus has scored just one goal in 11 appearances for Spurs.

He is expected to be included in the squad for Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Paris Saint-Germain.

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The message was relayed in a conversation between Vinicius Jr and Madrid president Florentino Perez late last month, according to three sources with close knowledge of the meeting. Like all sources consulted for this article, they asked not to be named to protect relationships.

Vinicius Jr’s contract runs until the end of June 2027. Talks over an extension started in January but stalled after the two sides could not reach an agreement.

Following Madrid’s 2-1 Clasico victory over Barcelona on October 26, Vinicius Jr went to see Perez to apologise for his behaviour during the match. He had reacted angrily after being substituted by Alonso in the 72nd minute, storming off the pitch and shouting: “Always me, I’m leaving the team, it’s better if I leave, I’m leaving.”

At that meeting, the subject of Vinicius Jr’s future was also discussed. He made it known that he feels extending is not the best option for him due to his relationship with Alonso. There has been no change in that position since.

Sources close to the Brazilian have several times told The Athletic of concerns he has with Alonso, who was appointed as Carlo Ancelotti’s replacement back in May. Over the first three months of the new season, tensions have only grown. Now, it is a topic of daily debate inside and outside the club.

The origins of these tensions can be traced back to Madrid’s 4-0 defeat by Paris Saint-Germain at the Club World Cup semi-final on July 9.

Alonso planned to bench Vinicius Jr for that game, but an injury to Trent Alexander-Arnold eventually forced him to change his plan and the Brazilian did start — albeit on the right wing rather than his favoured spot on the left. Since then, he has only completed five of Madrid’s 17 games in all competitions so far this campaign, starting on the bench four times, including Sunday’s 2-2 draw at Elche.

Vinicius Jr believes Alonso is not being fair to him, and when he published an apology letter on social media after his outburst during the Barca game, he did not mention his manager by name — despite specifically referring to several others, including Perez.

Sources close to Vinicius Jr said it was a deliberate move. It caused widespread surprise at the club, including among the coaching staff, as Alonso had been present when the Brazilian also apologised to the group in person at Madrid’s training ground.

Alonso has spoken about his relationship with Vinicius Jr several times at press conferences this season. He has been keen to stress that there is no personal issue between them and that rotation in selection is important to the team. In recent weeks, Alonso has often appeared frustrated by the ongoing drama around the situation.

Vinicius Jr signed fresh terms at Madrid in 2022, the details of which were announced a year later. He currently earns around €18million (£15.8m; $20.7m) a year after tax and his contract contains a €1billion release clause.

In 2024, a delegation working on behalf of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund (PIF) was keen to explore a move for him to join a Saudi Pro League club. It would have involved lucrative personal terms, but did not develop into anything concrete.

Earlier this year, Madrid made Vinicius Jr a renewal offer, including an increase in salary to around €20million net a year. When this was not accepted, the club asked the player’s side to propose a figure.

Vinicius Jr’s representatives requested a historic contract, in the region of the highest ever at the club (which was given to Cristiano Ronaldo), with a package of up to €30million per season. This included base salary, performance bonuses and a renewal bonus, something which has not been offered to players at Real Madrid previously.

Further talks were held before the start of the season, but now have stalled. Madrid understand that, beyond the financial differences, the difficult situation between one of their star players and their head coach is a handicap in attempts to move negotiations forward.

Vinicius Jr’s stance may be interpreted by some as a negotiating tactic, but all sources consulted for this article said he simply does not think that committing his long-term future makes sense right now, given his relationship with Alonso. This has not come as a surprise at Madrid, but it has caused concern.

A sign of this concern can perhaps be read in the response from Madrid’s communications department to a request for official comment for this article. While The Athletic was able to confirm the details of what was discussed at Vinicius Jr’s meeting with Perez through several sources at the club, including at senior level, the communications department denied any such meeting had taken place.

Key figures at Madrid have been aware of Vinicius Jr’s worries about not being afforded the same importance under Alonso as he enjoyed under Ancelotti.

In response, they have sought to show him affection and trust, but that did not stop them from explaining to him — without imposing a fine — that he was wrong to express his anger at being replaced against Barcelona.

Sources on both sides also point to Perez’s fondness for Vinicius Jr. The president has always shown support for the forward, such as when he sat next to him in the VIP box at a match at the Bernabeu after he suffered racist abuse in a game at Valencia in May 2023. Vinicius Jr himself is grateful to Perez — hence why he also included him in his apology after El Clasico.

Madrid are pleased that Alonso is making important changes and that the team are leading La Liga, but at the same time, there is concern about discontent among a significant group of players in the squad, with Vinicius Jr being the clearest example.

Club sources hope that positive results and performances for Madrid and Vinicius Jr will bring him closer to Alonso again, giving them a fresh start. Figures such as Perez and the club’s Spanish-Brazilian chief scout Juni Calafat are also considered key to navigating this situation.

The Saudi Fund for Development and FIFA said the subsidized loans would be offered to member football associations to build or revamp stadiums.

Saudi Arabia will host the men’s World Cup for the first time in 2034.

FIFA has also signed Saudi state oil company Aramco to be a 2026 World Cup sponsor.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino called the agreement “a crucial step in ensuring our FIFA Member Associations have the facilities to make football truly global.”

In a news release, FIFA said the deal “underscores a shared commitment to support developing nations in strengthening their sports ecosystems as part of broader efforts to advance social and economic development.”

In a ceremony held Monday in Zurich to mark the pact, Infantino said: “Developing and building infrastructure is extremely, extremely important. And at the outset, I would like to thank and put on record my thanks to the Saudi Fund for Development, its CEO, the entire team, for having made this partnership possible.”

Sultan bin Abdulrahman Al-Marshad, CEO, of the Saudi Fund for Development said: “We at SFD believe in the power of sports to change lives. We are combining our strengths — SFD’s development finance and FIFA’s technical experts — not only to build venues but also to create lasting legacies. We are investing in the infrastructure that will unlock human potential, generate jobs, empower young people and strengthen communities for generations to come.”

Saudi Arabia’s PIF has also funded the LIV Golf project as well as sponsoring and hosting marquee boxing events.

FIFA announced a global broadcast deal for the Club World Cup with streaming service DAZN in December of 2024, two days before confirming Saudi Arabia as host of the men’s 2034 World Cup.

A widely speculated Saudi investment in DAZN, reported to be around $1B, was confirmed several weeks later.

All times CAT.

—Football— 

Matchday drama sweeps across Europe this week, with heavyweight clashes in the Champions League and domestic leagues promising narratives rich with rivalry, revenge, and rising stakes.  

In the Champions League, Chelsea’s meeting with Barcelona stands out as a duel between contrasting styles: the Premier League side’s vertical, high-tempo approach against the Spanish giants’ evolving possession game. Both teams are chasing momentum in a tightly balanced league phase, making this encounter as much about psychology as points. 

Another that crackles with tension is Atletico Madrid v Inter Milan—two teams defined by discipline, physicality, and tactical precision. Expect a chess match packed with intensity, with Diego Simeone and Cristian Chivu relying on structured defensive lines and rapid counter-attacks. Arsenal v Bayern Munich brings a familiar storyline: the Gunners striving to prove their maturity on the elite stage against a Bayern side with proven European pedigree. There is added intrigue in Paris Saint-Germain v Tottenham Hotspur, a rematch of the UEFA Super Cup. 

In the Premier League, Crystal Palace v Manchester United offers a compelling test of resilience for both teams. Palace’s organised structure and dangerous transitions could trouble a United side still searching for consistency. West Ham United v Liverpool promises goals and pace, with West Ham’s physical edge meeting Liverpool’s relentless pressing and fluid front line.  

London’s spotlight then swings to Chelsea v Arsenal, a fixture that rarely disappoints. Arsenal’s technical superiority and Chelsea’s direct aggression set up a fiery capital showdown with potential title-race implications. 

Ligue 1 contributes a blockbuster in AS Monaco v Paris Saint-Germain, where Monaco’s youthful, dynamic midfield will try to disrupt PSG’s individual brilliance.  

Spain’s La Liga, meanwhile, serves up several gripping derbies and top-of-the-table battles. Barcelona v Alaves is an important marker of Barça’s progress, while Girona v Real Madrid pairs La Liga’s most adventurous underdog against its most ruthless giant. Atletico Madrid also face Real Oviedo in a matchup that brings contrasting realities—Atleti’s elite quality against Oviedo’s determination to punch above their weight. And Sevilla v Real Betis delivers another fiery Seville derby, where passion, atmosphere, and unpredictable drama are guaranteed. 

In Serie A, Juventus v Cagliari is a chance for the Bianconeri to flex their defensive authority, while AC Milan v Lazio pits two possession-oriented sides against each other in a tactical battle. Pisa v Inter offers an intriguing clash of ambition versus established power, and Roma v Napoli brings together two clubs seeking stability, identity, and a path back into the top tier of the Italian title fight. 

UEFA Champions League, Matchday 5 

Tuesday 25 November 

·19:45: Ajax v Benfica – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·19:45: Galatasaray v Union Saiont-Gilloise – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·22:00: Bodo-Glimt v Juventus – LIVE on SuperSport Football and SuperSport Maximo 360 

·22:00: Napoli v Qarabag – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 and SuperSport OTT2 

·22:00: Marseille v Newcastle United – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport GOtv La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·22:00: Borussia Dortmund v Villarreal – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Africa 2 

·22:00: Chelsea v Barcelona – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·22:00: Manchester City v Bayer Leverkusen – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·22:00: Slavia Prague v Athletic Bilbao – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2, SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport OTT3 

Wednesday 26 November 

·19:45: Pafos v Monaco – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·19:45: FC Copenhagen v Kairat – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·22:00: Olympiacos v Real Madrid – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa 

·22:00: Sporting CP v Club Brugge – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 360 

·22:00: Eintracht Frankfurt v Atalanta – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 and SuperSport OTT2 

·22:00: Liverpool v PSV – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·22:00: Atletico Madrid v Inter Milan – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·22:00: Arsenal v Bayern Munich – LIVE on SuperSport  Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·22:00: Paris Saint-Germain v Tottenham Hotspur – LIVE on SuperSport PSL and SuperSport GOtv La Liga 

Premier League, Matchday 13 

Saturday 29 November 

·17:00: Brentford v Burnley – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2 and SuperSport OTT2 

·17:00: Sunderland v AFC Bournemouth – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport Action Africa 

·17:00: Manchester City v Leeds United – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·19:30: Everton v Newcastle United – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·22:00: Tottenham Hotspur v Fulham – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

Sunday 30 November 

·14:00: Crystal Palace v Manchester United – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·16:05: West Ham United v Liverpool – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

·16:05: Aston Villa v Wolverhampton Wanderers – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport Action Africa 

·16:05: Nottingham Forest v Brighton & Hove Albion – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport GOtv Football 

·18:30: Chelsea v Arsenal – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2 

Ligue 1, Matchday 14 

Saturday 29 November 

·18:00: AS Monaco v Paris Saint-Germain – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport Africa and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·22:00: Marseille v Toulouse – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport GOtv Football 

Sunday 30 November 

·21:45: Lyon v Nantes – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport GOtv Football 

 La Liga, Matchday 14 

Friday 28 November 

·22:00: Getafe v Elche – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

Saturday 29 November 

·15:00: Mallorca v Osasuna – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·17:15: Barcelona v Alaves – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·19:30: Levante v Athletic Bilbao – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·22:00: Atletico Madrid v Real Oviedo – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

Sunday 30 November 

·15:00: Real Sociedad v Villarreal – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·17:15: Sevilla v Real Betis – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·19:30: Celta Vigo v Espanyol – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

·22:00: Girona v Real Madrid – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

Monday 1 December 

·22:00: Rayo Vallecano v Valencia – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3 

Serie A, Matchday 13 

Friday 28 November 

·21:45: Como v Sassuolo – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360 

Saturday 29 November 

·16:00: Parma v Udinese – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport OTT3 

·16:00: Genoa v Verona – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360 

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

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

Sunday 30 November 

·13:30: Lecce v Torino – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360 

·16:00: Pisa v Inter – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360 

·19:00: Atalanta v Fiorentina – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360 

·21:45: Roma v Napoli – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360 

Monday 1 December 

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

—Golf— 

The DP World Tour returns with the BMW Australian PGA Championship, a marquee event that traditionally sets an early competitive tone for the new season. Royal Queensland once again hosts a field mixing established international contenders with Australia’s rising stars, creating a compelling blend of power, precision, and local pride. Players will need to navigate firm, fast fairways and coastal winds, making course management just as crucial as ball striking. With several top-ranked Australians eager to impress on home soil, expect charged crowds and tightly packed leaderboards through the weekend. 

On the Ladies European Tour, the Andalucia Costa del Sol Open de España brings its own prestige as one of the Tour’s signature events. The season finale typically produces high drama, as players not only chase a coveted title but also battle for crucial points in the Race to Costa del Sol. The picturesque layout in southern Spain rewards creativity around the greens and composure under pressure—qualities that have defined many of the tournament’s standout champions. 

Rounding out the week, the Sunshine Tour’s PGA Championship adds a distinctly South African flavour to the schedule. As one of the Tour’s oldest and most respected tournaments, it attracts the region’s brightest talents seeking to strengthen their status and momentum heading into the summer swing. 

DP World Tour, BMW Australian PGA Championship 

·Thursday 27 – Sunday 30 November – LIVE on SuperSport Golf 

Ladies European Tour, Andalucia Costa del Sol Open de Espana 

·Thursday 27 – Sunday 30 November – LIVE on SuperSport Golf 

Sunshine Tour, PGA Championship 

·Saturday 29 – Sunday 30 November – LIVE on SuperSport Golf 

—Rugby— 

Round 6 of the United Rugby Championship delivers a compelling slate of fixtures, with several clubs already feeling the pressure to build consistency. Ulster’s clash with Benetton opens the weekend, a meeting between two sides whose contrasting styles—Ulster’s structured, possession-driven rugby against Benetton’s fast, expansive approach—promise an intriguing tactical battle. Dragons face a formidable challenge against Leinster, who continue to set the benchmark with their depth and precision. 

Saturday brings derby intensity as the Bulls host the Lions in Pretoria, where physicality and set-piece dominance will be central. Zebre welcome Cardiff in a matchup where the Italians will look to capitalise on home energy to unsettle a disciplined Welsh outfit. Munster’s showdown with the Stormers is among the highlights of the round: two heavyweight packs, two backlines loaded with power, and a history of tight, emotional contests. Edinburgh v Ospreys offers a similarly tight contest, with both teams hovering in the mid-table mix and seeking a statement win. 

Connacht v Sharks should provide high tempo and attacking ambition, while Scarlets’ meeting with the Warriors pits flair against structure in a game that could swing on defensive organisation. 

Capping the weekend, Wales v South Africa in Test rugby promises intensity, collisions, and a critical barometer of form for both nations. 

United Rugby Championship, Round 6 

Friday 28 November 

·21:45: Ulster v Benetton – LIVE on SuperSport Action 

·21:45: Dragons v Leinster – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby 

Saturday 29 November 

·14:00: Bulls v Lions – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby 

·15:00: Zebre v Cardiff – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 

·19:30: Munster v Stormers – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby 

·19:30: Edinburgh v Ospreys – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 

·21:45: Connacht v Sharks – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby 

·21:45: Scarlets v Warriors – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 

Test Match Rugby 

Saturday 29 November 

·17:10: Wales v South Africa – LIVE on SuperSport Grandstand and SuperSport Rugby 

—Cricket— 

The SA Cricket T20 Challenge reaches its high-stakes climax this week, beginning with Qualifier 1 on Tuesday, where the top two sides battle for a direct place in Sunday’s final. Expect explosive batting and tactical bowling as teams lean on their in-form match-winners to seize early momentum. Wednesday’s Eliminator raises the tension further, with knockout pressure exposing depth, temperament, and late-overs execution. The winner advances to Friday’s Qualifier 2, a final hurdle that often produces standout individual performances as teams fight for the last ticket to the championship decider. Sunday’s final promises a showcase of South Africa’s finest domestic T20 talents, blending aggressive power-hitting with the strategic nuances that define modern short-format cricket. 

In the Pakistan T20 Tri Series, Sri Lanka, Zimbabwe, and hosts Pakistan engage in a rapid, competitive loop of matches that serve both as preparation and a chance to refine combinations. Sri Lanka v Zimbabwe opens proceedings, a contest that should highlight contrasting styles—Zimbabwe’s fearless hitting against Sri Lanka’s structured attack. Pakistan’s meeting with Sri Lanka is expected to deliver higher intensity, with both sides targeting psychological advantage before the final. Saturday’s finale should be a fiercely contested showdown between the most adaptable side of the week. 

The India v South Africa ODI series begins Sunday, offering a shift to 50-over rhythms. With both teams balancing World Cup cycles and evolving squads, the opener is set to reveal new roles, rising talents, and early tactical themes. 

SA Cricket T20 Challenge 

Tuesday 25 November, Qualifier 1

· 13:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 

Wednesday 26 November, Eliminator

·13:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 and SuperSport Cricket 

Friday 28 November, Qualifier 2

·13:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket 

Sunday 30 November, Final

·13:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 

Pakistan T20 Tri Series 

Tuesday 25 November, Sri Lanka v Zimbabwe

·17:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket 

Thursday 27 November, Pakistan v Sri Lanka

·17:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket 

Saturday 29 November, Final

·17:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket 

India v South Africa ODI Series 

First ODI, Sunday 30 November

·10:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket 

—Motorsport— 

The Supercars Championship reaches its dramatic conclusion at the Adelaide Grand Final, a venue known for punishing streets, fierce braking zones, and a partisan atmosphere that amplifies every on-track moment. With three races—32, 33 and 34—spread across the weekend, consistency may prove just as decisive as outright speed. Drivers who manage tyres, avoid the concrete walls, and maintain composure under late-season pressure will have the edge. Adelaide’s tight layout rewards aggression in qualifying, but race craft and pit-stop execution often determine who climbs the podium. Expect championship narratives to twist throughout the weekend as rivals push the limits in pursuit of one final surge.

In Formula One, the Qatar Grand Prix offers another high-intensity desert showdown, complete with its demanding high-speed curves and tyre degradation challenges. The Sprint weekend format adds extra unpredictability: early pace in Practice 1 becomes critically important, followed by a Friday evening Sprint Qualifying that frequently scrambles the expected order.  

Saturday’s Sprint Race may influence strategy for the main event, while nighttime qualifying will test drivers’ precision on a rapidly evolving track surface. All eyes remain on McLaren’s Lando Norris, the favourite for the drivers’ championship, as he seeks to strengthen his title position on a circuit that suits McLaren’s aerodynamic efficiency. Sunday’s Grand Prix promises a strategic chess match played at blistering speed. 

Supercars Championship, Adelaide Grand Final 

·Friday 28 November, Race 32, 07:30 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·Saturday 29 November, Race 33, 06:30 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·Sunday 30 November, Race 34, 06:30 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1 

Formula One, Qatar Grand Prix 

Friday 28 November 

·15:30: Practice 1 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1 

·19:30: Sprint Qualifying – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1 

Saturday 29 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 30 November 

·18:00: Grand Prix – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1 

—Variety— 

A diverse weekend of global sport awaits, beginning with one of South Africa’s most iconic endurance events: the Soweto Marathon. Known as “The People’s Race,” it blends athletic grit with deep cultural resonance as runners navigate historic townships, challenging hills and vibrant community support. Elite athletes will chase fast times, but for thousands of participants the true test lies in conquering a demanding route that celebrates heritage as much as performance. 

On the water, SailGP returns with two days of frenetic, high-speed racing in the UAE. National teams will battle aboard F50 foiling catamarans, skimming above the surface at thrilling speeds. With tight courses and aggressive manoeuvres, small errors can have big consequences, making consistency across both days essential for championship ambitions. 

In the ring, attention shifts to the Golden Gloves promotion, where South Africa’s Ricardo Malajika meets fellow contender Paras for the IBO World Super Flyweight title. Malajika’s sharp combinations and speed face a stern test against Paras’ pressure-heavy style, promising an absorbing tactical and physical duel with global relevance for the winner. 

The Shanghai Marathon follows soon after, offering a flat, fast course that routinely attracts world-class distance runners seeking personal bests. And the weekend closes with WWE Survivor Series: WarGames, featuring dramatic team-based cage warfare—one of WWE’s most explosive annual spectacles. 

Road Running: Soweto Marathon 

·Saturday 29 November, 04:30 – LIVE on SuperSport Africa and SuperSport Maximo 3 

Sailing: SailGP, UAE 

·Saturday 29 November, Day 1, 12:00 – LIVE on SuperSport  Action Africa and SuperSport Variety 2 

·Sunday 30 November, Day 2, 12:00 – LIVE on SuperSport  Action Africa and SuperSport Variety 2 

Boxing: Golden Gloves: IBO World Super Flyweight: Malajika v Paras 

·Saturday 29 November, 19:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Action, SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Africa 1 

Road Running: Shanghai Marathon 

·Sunday 30 November, 00:30 – LIVE on SuperSport Africa and SuperSport Maximo 3 

WWE: Survivor Series: WarGame 

·Sunday 30 November, 02:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Action, WWE Channel and SuperSport Maximo 2 

The Blues started brightly but their night seemed to turn sour when the Senegal international saw red for striking Michael Keane in the face on 13 minutes.

The visitors recovered brilliantly and took the lead just shy of the half hour courtesy of a lovely solo effort from Dewsbury-Hall.

United huffed and puffed following the interval but they struggled to make their man advantage count.

The hosts turned the screw late on but Bruno Fernandes fired over and the excellent Jordan Pickford made a superb save to deny Joshua Zirkzee.

The result sees Everton climb up to 11th place spot – above neighbours Liverpool on goal difference – courtesy of just a second win at Old Trafford in 33 league visits.

Man United, who surrendered a five-match unbeaten run on the anniversary of Ruben Amorim’s first match in charge, now sit 10th and are above The Toffees by virtue of goals scored.  

Next up, Everton host Newcastle United on Saturday evening while United visit Crystal Palace on Sunday.

The Porcupine Warriors took to X to protest a penalty awarded to the hosts, claiming the foul occurred outside the box. The post read: “Referee Aduntera has awarded a penalty for a foul outside the box.”

The GFA stated that the post had the potential to incite hostility toward match officials and violated Section 34(6)(d) of the Premier League Regulations.

Asante Kotoko has been given until Wednesday, November 26, 2025, to submit their defence.

The club secured a point from the encounter at Samreboi and remain fourth on the Premier League table.

According to The Mirror, the Red Devils are keen on securing the Ghana international this winter, with suggestions that they could have an edge over rival clubs also pursuing the 25-year-old forward.

Semenyo has enjoyed an impressive season, netting six goals and providing three assists in just 11 Premier League appearances. His form has sparked speculation about a mid-season move, particularly as his preferred squad number could soon be available at Old Trafford.

The forward’s contract at Bournemouth includes a £65 million release clause, which has further fueled transfer talk. Semenyo signed a new deal over the summer with the clause in place.

Manchester United could offer Semenyo the No. 9 shirt, left vacant following Rasmus Hojlund’s loan move to Napoli. However, he remains a target for other top clubs, with Liverpool and Arsenal reportedly monitoring his situation.

Semenyo missed Bournemouth’s 2-2 draw with West Ham due to injury but is expected to return for their upcoming match against Sunderland.

The Porcupine Warriors secured a point on Sunday against FC Samartex in Matchday 11 at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena, leaving them fourth on the table with 20 points, three behind leaders Aduana FC.

“Apart from being first, no position fits Asante Kotoko,” Zito said in a post-match interview.

“We are still chasing, and it is not too late. It only pains me when I draw at home because then I have to win away to balance the home games,” he added.

Despite the draw, Kotoko remain the only unbeaten team in the league this season.

The team will look to return to winning ways when they face Basake Holy Stars in a rescheduled fixture on November 26, before hosting Medeama SC in Matchday 12 at the Baba Yara Stadium.

READ ALSO

2025/26 GHPL MD 11 Wrap: Aduana beat Chelsea to go top as Nations stun GoldStars

Coach J.E. Sarpong details why he quit Eleven Wonders after one month

The Yellow and Mauve struggled to break down the Hunters at TNA Park during Matchday 11 of the Ghana Premier League.

After the game, Tanko commended Bechem United goalkeeper Benjamin Kwesi for his decisive performance, which kept Medeama at bay.

“I think we had most of the ball, but the final touch wasn’t there. Bechem United played with all their men behind the ball and looked to counter, and it worked well for them,” he said.

“I think we lacked patience to finish off our build-ups,” Tanko added.

The draw leaves Medeama in third place with 22 points. They will face Asante Kotoko in Matchday 12 at the Baba Yara Stadium on Sunday.

READ ALSO

Coach J.E. Sarpong details why he quit Eleven Wonders after one month

2025/26 GHPL MD 11 Wrap: Aduana beat Chelsea to go top as Nations stun GoldStars

The match is scheduled for December 2 at St. Mary’s Park, offering a high-profile stage for Ghana’s national team.

The roster features a blend of experienced campaigners and emerging talent. Defender Anasthesia Achiaa returns to strengthen the backline, while Benedictè Simon of Servette Genève FC earns her first call-up to the national team.

The friendly provides the Black Queens with a valuable opportunity to test themselves against one of the world’s top sides as they prepare for the WAFCON tournament, which also serves as a qualifier for the Women’s World Cup.

Full squad below:

Sarpong, who previously coached Great Olympics and Ebusua Dwarfs, was appointed to stabilise the team following the dismissal of Nii Odartey Lamptey after a poor start to the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.

However, after three winless games, the experienced coach stepped aside—a decision that surprised many.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Sarpong revealed that the issues he encountered behind the scenes were far more troubling than he anticipated.

“I was contacted to help fix the situation, but upon arrival, I realised that so many things were wrong within the club,” he said.

“Personally, I did not want a situation where it would be said that I was the one in charge when the team got relegated from the Premier League, so I had to make a decision to leave. Players are not paid well and are not fed well. Sometimes, the players can go three days without eating. They have a poor transportation plan. The players are sometimes forced to use public transport, ‘trotro’, which is not good for the players.”

He added that former coach Nii Odartey Lamptey may have chosen not to reveal these internal problems, but stressed that the root causes are administrative.

“Nii Odartey Lamptey was in charge and perhaps could not let these things out, but for me, I will say it. The challenges of the club are down to administrative lapses, and so you cannot entirely blame the players for the current situation,” he said.

With just three points from 11 matches, Eleven Wonders remain bottom of the Premier League table. They face Dreams FC next in their Matchday 12 fixture, as the club continues its search for a new head coach.

READ ALSO

2025/26 GHPL MD 11 Wrap: Aduana beat Chelsea to go top as Nations stun GoldStars

J.E. Sarpong resigns from Eleven Wonders coaching role – Reports

Saturday’s 3-0 home defeat by Nottingham Forest was another game in which the Egyptian, who has scored five times this season, failed to record a goal or an assist.

“If I was Slot, I’d try and make a big decision just so it has an impact on the rest of the team,” said Rooney in his latest podcast episode.

“Salah is not helping them defensively.

“If you’re one of the players who they’ve signed and you’re on the bench and you’ve seen him not running – and again he’s a club legend and everything he’s done for the club – but if you’re on the bench, then what message does that send to you?”

The 33-year-old became the first player in Premier League history to finish a season with the most goals and assists and win the player of the season award last term.

His dazzling form coincided with a successful first season in charge for Slot, as he guided Liverpool to the title after succeeding Jurgen Klopp.

After a busy summer transfer window – including the arrivals of Florian Wirtz and Alexander Isak for a combined outlay of £241m – the Reds have struggled.

Liverpool sit 11th in the table, with 18 points from 12 games.

“They’re going through a hard time, aren’t they?” added five-time Premier League winner Rooney.

“You’ve probably got to look at the effect of what sadly happened to Jota. What effect does that have on the players because that’s his team-mates? That surely has to have an effect.

“But then there’s no excuse for not fighting and not tackling.”

‘Klopp’s name keeps getting brought up’

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Jurgen Klopp spent nine years as Liverpool manager (2015-2024), winning the Premier League in the 2019-20 season

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk said after Saturday’s loss that “everyone in the team has to take responsibility” and with Slot’s team mustering just one win in their past seven league matches, the shadow of his predecessor is beginning to loom over the Dutchman.

“I think Slot’s got a big job to get them back playing and winning,” said Rooney.

“The big thing is when he has a run of results like this, Klopp’s name keeps getting brought up.

“It’s a bit like the presence with Sir Alex Ferguson. For instance, when David Moyes came in [at Manchester United] and [Louis] Van Gaal, Fergie’s name would always get brought up.

“With Slot, Klopp keeps getting brought up. ‘He’s not Jurgen Klopp, he’s not as good as Jurgen Klopp’.

“But I think the Liverpool fans just need to move away from that and get behind him.”

Madrid are currently constituted as a club which is ‘owned’ by its socios (club members), as it has been since the club’s founding in 1902.

Perez, 78, first mentioned the possibility of holding a “referendum” about changes to this ownership structure at the club’s annual general assembly last year, but until Sunday no further details had been made public.

Club figures have spent the last 12 months evaluating the merits of different options, and at Sunday’s assembly at Madrid’s training ground Perez revealed plans for a “minority shareholder” to enter alongside the club’s current 98,272 members.

Any change to the ownership model would require the socios to approve it in a vote, and Madrid’s president said he will call an “extraordinary assembly” at which around 2,000 compromisario (representative) socios will have a chance to vote on a proposal to put the change of club model to a referendum of all socios over 18 years of age.

“During these months we have reflected deeply on how to make visible the value of Real Madrid and the conclusion is clear,” Perez said. “We will continue to be a members’ club, but we will make a subsidiary company in which the socios maintain control but with a minority shareholder with five per cent or so (of the shares).

“This way we can know what the club is worth. We do not want to float on the stock exchange. We will limit the share of investment so that the club remains in the hands of its socios. This investor or investors must share our values and help protect our assets against external attacks.

“Real Madrid will always have the right to take back the investment. Madrid must not depend on just some directors or one president, we do not want it to fall into the hands of anyone. This step will be decided freely by all members by referendum. At the EGM (extraordinary general assembly) we will be able to explain more, but I want to avoid all the things in the papers these days.”

A ‘controversial and interesting’ solution

Changes to Real Madrid’s ownership model had been well flagged in advance but it was still startling to hear club president Florentino Perez announce a plan for a new company in which the club’s existing socios would be joined by a new private investor.

Perez spent most of his almost two hours speaking at Madrid’s AGM in the basketball pavilion at the club’s super modern Valdebebas training ground attacking perceived enemies elsewhere in football — La Liga president Javier Tebas, UEFA, Spanish referees and Clasico rivals Barcelona.

The most important intervention was left until almost the very end — and was again explained as a way of protecting Madrid’s socio ownership from attacks from outside, in this case Tebas’ “clandestine” lobbying to change the country’s laws so that La Liga could receive a greater share of Madrid’s annual revenues.

The solution for this is both controversial and interesting — instead of converting into an SAD (sports limited company) like most of Spain’s professional clubs, Perez said Madrid are planning a novel ownership structure which will allow each socio to have just one share. This will have a monetary value, and can be passed on — but only to children or grandchildren — in a way which the club have yet to explain.

Well informed sources — speaking anonymously as not authorised to share details — say the new structure has benefits. The investors would get a ‘dividend’ or share of the club’s income, but would not have any voting rights. Socios would continue to be able to elect the club president and control any changes in the club statutes, but would not receive any dividends each year.

City felt they were on the wrong end of a penalty call, a handball shout and a tight offside decision in the 2-1 loss at St James’ Park, which left Guardiola furious at full-time.

The Spaniard marched onto the pitch at the end, speaking with referee Sam Barrott, while he also pulled the headphones off of a cameraman to say something into his ear.

“I apologised,” Guardiola said of the incident but did not reveal what was said. “I feel embarrassed, ashamed when I see it. I don’t like it. I apologised after one second to the cameraman. I am who I am.

“After 1,000 games I’m not a perfect person, I make huge mistakes. The reason why is I want to defend my team and my club.”

There were flare-ups involving the players too, with City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma being ushered down the tunnel and Magpies midfielder Joelinton being held back by his manager Eddie Howe, while Guardiola also had words to say to Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes.

Guardiola added: “We have known Bruno for many, many years and every time after the game, even at the Etihad, we talk in the tunnel or wherever we talk, always. I don’t know what happened.

“Our paths always cross and I always have a good relationship with him. I love it. I’m an emotional guy, I love to talk and move my hands and my arms and everything.”

Champions League ‘massively important’

City host Bayer Leverkusen in the Champions League on Tuesday, aiming to maintain their unbeaten start. They are fourth in the group phase table and victory against the Bundesliga side will consolidate their place in the top eight as they seek a direct path into the knockout stages.

The contest will be Guardiola’s 100th as City manager in the competition, with the crowning moment coming in 2023 when they lifted the trophy after beating Inter Milan in the final in Istanbul.

But they have also had near misses, losing the 2021 final to Chelsea and being beaten by Real Madrid in the semi-finals the following year when the La Liga giants scored three late goals in the second leg.

“I realise I’m getting old. Every weekend is a milestone,” said Guardiola while referencing the fact that Manchester City are the only English team to qualify for the past 14 Champions League competitions.

“Every season we have been there and hopefully next season we will be there too,” he added.

“It’s special for the players, managers and everyone. To challenge yourself with the best teams in Europe is incredible, a huge experience. For the club, in terms of repetition, prestige, financial issues, it’s massively important.

“There are more disappointments than good moments. There have been good moments, especially in group stages, we have been top every season, except last season with the new format.

“But of course it has been a top experience – good moments, bad moments define a team, a club. And sport is tough so not everything is flowers (on the) road or easy and comfortable.”

Last season was the first time in eight years in which City failed to win a major trophy, being knocked out at the play-off stage in the Champions League, finishing third in the Premier League and losing to Crystal Palace in the FA Cup final.

“It was the worst season I ever had in my career,” said defender Josko Gvardiol. “It was painful. I couldn’t sleep in the nights because I was trying to find solutions and I was trying help the team and everyone in the club to get out of this position.

“Sometimes it is difficult, sometimes things are not going the way we wanted but I am glad it is behind us and that we recover well.”

Medeama SC opened the round on Saturday with a frustrating afternoon at TNA Park, where they were held to a cagey goalless draw by an organised Bechem United side.

Further north in Tamale, Karela United edged Basake Holy Stars in a gripping 3–2 contest at the Aliu Mahama Stadium. Adom Philip’s 21st-minute strike separated the sides at halftime, before Karela pressed their advantage after the interval.
Danlad Nuhu doubled the lead on 62 minutes, and Eric Antwi Konadu added a third soon after. Basake responded with character — Prince Tweneboah pulled one back almost immediately, and Richmond Somiah struck late to set up a tense finish — but Karela held firm to take all three points.

Sunday’s headline result came in Dormaa, where Aduana FC climbed to the summit of the league with a spirited 3–1 win over regional rivals Berekum Chelsea.
Samuel Owusu Ansah opened the scoring early, and Hensen Anponsa made it 2–0 shortly after the break. Chelsea halved the deficit through Seidu Abubakar on 59 minutes, but Emmanuel Marfo restored the cushion late on, sealing a deserved victory for the Ogya Boys.

In Hohoe, Eleven Wonders snatched a precious point in the dying minutes against Hohoe United. Safian Usman had given the hosts a first-half lead, only for Mathew Amponsah to equalise in the 89th minute — keeping Wonders winless but relieved.

Elsewhere, Nations FC produced one of the weekend’s standout performances by defeating defending champions Bibiani GoldStars 2–0, courtesy of a first-half brace from Faisal Charwetey.

At the Nsenkyire Sports Arena, FC Samartex and Asante Kotoko played out a tactical 0–0 draw — a result that preserves Kotoko’s status as the league’s only unbeaten side.

Vision FC and Heart of Lions shared the spoils in a lively 2–2 draw at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex. The second half exploded into life with four goals: Michael Ephson gave Lions the lead, Maxwell Kwaku Sensah levelled for Vision, Paul Atta Agyei restored the visitors’ advantage, and George Tei struck late to secure a point for the hosts.

Young Apostles and Hearts of Oak could not be separated in Wenchi, ending goalless.

In Accra, Dreams FC fell 3–2 to Swedru All Blacks at the University of Ghana Stadium.
Rudolf Mensah put the visitors ahead, Seidu Suraj hit back quickly, and Yaovi Chris Guede completed the turnaround. But All Blacks struck twice at crucial moments — Abdul-Aziz Adam scoring a stunning long-range equaliser in first-half stoppage time before Benjamin Adjei netted the winner just after the restart.

After an eventful round, Aduana FC, Heart of Lions, Medeama SC and Asante Kotoko occupy the league’s top four positions. At the opposite end, Bechem United, Basake Holy Stars and Eleven Wonders remain rooted in the relegation places.

Full Results

Medeama SC 0-0 Bechem United

Karela United 3-2 Basake Holy Stars

Adauana FC 2-1 Berekum Chelsea

Hohoe United 1-1 Eleven Wonders

Nations FC 2-0 Bibiani GoldStars 

FC Samartex 0-0 Asante Kotoko

Vision FC 2-2 Heart of Lions

Young Apostles 0-0 Hearts of Oak

Dreams FC 2-3 Swedru All Blacks

The visitors deployed a back five as they looked to contain and frustrate but were unlocked on 36 minutes when Leandro Trossard brilliantly polished off Mikel Merino’s superb, lofted pass.

The Gunners then doubled their advantage prior to the interval when Eze followed up quick feet with a ferocious low strike from just inside the area.

The former Crystal Palace playmaker, who almost joined Tottenham in the summer, added a second within a minute of the restart with another rasping effort from the edge of the box.

Spurs pulled one back when Richarlison beat David Raya with a magnificent long-range lob on 55 minutes, but Eze completed his hat-trick 14 minutes from time to become the first Arsenal player to net a treble against The Lilywhites in the Premier League era.

The result sees Mikel Arteta’s men pull six points clear of second-placed Chelsea, who they face at Stamford Bridge next Sunday. Tottenham are 11 points further back from their neighbours in ninth spot having lost their first away match in the league this season.

Next up, Arsenal host Bayern Munich in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday while Tottenham are away to holders Paris Saint-Germain.

Inter were chasing a victory which would have sent them top and started positively, but could not create any clear-cut chances.

In a half of few opportunities, Inter came closest when Francesco Acerbi’s header clipped the post in between two excellent Maignan saves to deny Marcus Thuram and Lautaro Martinez.

Having weathered the first-half storm, Milan struck on the counter 10 minutes into the second half when Yann Sommer fumbled Alexis Saelmaeker’s shot straight into the path of Pulisic, who tapped into the empty net.

Inter looked to respond immediately and amped up the pressure, before Thuram won a penalty with 15 minutes remaining after he was caught on the foot by Strahinja Pavlovic.

Hakan Calhanoglu stepped up to take, but Maignan dived to his right to preserve Milan’s lead.

Inter huffed and puffed, but could not get close to scoring, allowing Milan to take the spoils in the derby and extend their unbeaten streak against Inter to six matches.

In a match which saw Xabi Alonso’s side frail at the back throughout, Elche twice took the lead in the second half with a fantastic back-heel from German Valera setting up skipper Aleix Febas to put them in front eight minutes after the break.

The equaliser came when Bellingham won an aerial challenge from a corner delivered by Trent Alexander-Arnold, starting his first game since September, and the ball dropped for defender Dean Huijsen to poke home.

It looked like Real would go on to take all three points but former Real striker, Alvaro Rodriguez minutes after coming on, restored the home side’s advantage with a fine run and shot though Thibaut Courtois will be disappointed to let in an effort which was a good distance from the corner.

The lead would only last three minutes as Bellingham, after seeing his initial effort parried, ran on to turn home the ball which Kylian Mbappe just managed to keep in play.

The win puts Real a point clear at the top above Barcelona, while Elche rise to 11th.

African Footballer of the Year (men): Achraf Hakimi (Morocco / Paris Saint-Germain)

Achraf Hakimi was named the best African footballer of 2025. This victory is recognition of his consistently high level of play at one of Europe’s leading clubs, Paris Saint-Germain, as well as his exceptional contributions to the Morocco national team’s achievements.

Hakimi is a perfect example of a modern wing-back who manages to work hard in defense while also creating scoring opportunities in attack. Without him, PSG would hardly have been so successful in 2025, when the club won the Champions League for the first time in its history and reached the final of the summer’s main football tournament in the United States.

African Women’s Footballer of the Year: Ghizlane Chebbak (Morocco / Al Hilal SFC)

In the women’s category, the main award went to Ghizlane Chebbak: captain and key player of the Morocco national team, as well as one of the leaders of the Saudi club Al Hilal. She was the top scorer at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations, scoring 5 goals, and thanks to Chebbak’s performance, Morocco reached the tournament final.

African Goalkeeper of the Year (men): Yassine Bounou (Morocco / Al Hilal SFC)

The award for best goalkeeper of the year deservedly went to Yassine Bounou, who continued to demonstrate world-class play after moving to Saudi Arabia. At the summer’s main club tournament in the United States, he once again confirmed his level of skill: Yassine’s confident play allowed Al Hilal to draw with Real Madrid in the group stage and defeat Manchester City in the knockout stage, and Bounou was even included in the Club World Cup Team of the Tournament. In the autumn, the experienced goalkeeper helped the Morocco national team set a record winning streak, surpassing the previous record held by Spain, who had won 15 consecutive matches.

African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Chiamaka Nnadozie (Nigeria / Brighton & Hove Albion)

Nnadozie is considered one of the best goalkeepers in the world in recent years. In 2025, she helped Paris FC win the Coupe de France Féminine, defeating Paris Saint-Germain in the derby, and then moved to Brighton in England, where she immediately began to show a high level of play. Also, this year, Chiamaka won the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations as part of the Nigeria national team and was named the best goalkeeper in the tournament.

African National Team of the Year (men): Morocco U-20

The award for the Morocco national under-20 team is recognition of its brilliant performance at the U-20 World Cup. On their way to triumph in Chile, the young Moroccans defeated Spain, Brazil, France and Argentina, confirming their country’s enormous potential at the international level.

African Women’s National Team of the Year: Nigeria

The victory of the Nigeria women’s national team confirms its status as the continent’s leading force. The Nigerian girls have won 4 of the last 5 WAFCONs. In the group stage of this year’s tournament, the team didn’t concede a single goal, and in the knockout stage, they demonstrated their attacking power, scoring 10 goals in 3 matches.

Support African football with the best sports betting site 1xBet, and cheer for the continent’s best players and teams! With AFCON-25 just around the corner in Morocco, now is the perfect time to stand behind your favourites and feel the energy of Africa’s biggest football celebration.

SMM

👑 CAF Awards 2025: Morocco and Nigeria triumph!

🌍 The CAF Awards 2025 ceremony took place in Rabat, becoming a true celebration of African football. The main award for the best footballer of the year went to Achraf Hakimi, one of PSG’s leaders, who helped the club win its first Champions League title with his incredible play.

🥇 Main winners:

🇲🇦 Morocco

• African Footballer of the Year: Achraf Hakimi
• African Women’s Footballer of the Year: Ghizlane Chebbak
• African Goalkeeper of the Year: Yassine Bounou
• African National Team of the Year: Morocco U-20

🇳🇬 Nigeria

• African Women’s Goalkeeper of the Year: Chiamaka Nnadozie
• African Women’s National Team of the Year: Nigeria

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At the Aliu Mahama Stadium, Karela United survived a tense finish to overcome Basake Holy Stars in a five-goal thriller. Adom Philip set the tone with a 21st-minute opener, giving the hosts a narrow lead at the break.

Karela tightened their control after the restart. Danlad Nuhu made it 2–0 in the 62nd minute, and Eric Antwi Konadu stretched the advantage further 11 minutes later.

Basake, however, refused to fold. Prince Tweneboah struck almost immediately to reduce the deficit, and Richmond Somiah added another with nine minutes remaining. Despite the late scare, Karela stayed composed to secure a 3–2 win.

The result pushes Karela United into eighth place on 16 points, while Basake Holy Stars remain in the relegation zone, sitting 17th with six points.

At TNA Park, Medeama SC were left frustrated after being held to a goalless stalemate by a disciplined Bechem United side.

Though Medeama dropped points at home, they maintain their position at the summit with 22 points. The draw lifts Bechem United to 12th on 11 points.

Matchday 11 continues on Sunday as the remaining fixtures bring the weekend’s action to a close.

The extent of deterioration came to light during a recent inspection led by the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams, alongside the National Sports Authority’s Director General, Yaw Ampofu Ankrah.

With a capacity of 20,000, the stadium has not seen any major rehabilitation since it was commissioned, heightening concerns about its safety and readiness for competitive events.

Plans for the first two phases of rehabilitation were expected to cover a broad range of upgrades — from reroofing with anti-rust materials and replacing spectator seats to refurbishing washrooms, improving lighting, installing air-conditioning units, fitting glass panels and adding a new scoreboard.

However, the inspection revealed an additional complication: private developers have encroached on sections of the land surrounding the stadium. Adams urged the Regional Coordinating Council and traditional authorities to step in quickly to resolve the matter, warning that the encroachment poses a serious threat to the stadium’s long-term viability.

Beyond the initial rehabilitation works, authorities intend to further enhance the facility by renovating the pitch, upgrading public address systems, improving corporate boxes, expanding hostel accommodation, strengthening security zones and completing dressing-room areas excluded from the initial contract. These interventions are aimed at restoring the stadium to full operational capacity.

Adams reiterated the urgent need for sustainable financing to support sports infrastructure across the country. He called on the media to rally behind the Sports Ministry’s push to raise funds through the National Sports Development Fund, stressing that the government remains committed to revitalising the sector — a pledge reinforced by President John Dramani Mahama.

During the tour, the minister praised the quality of work done so far but expressed frustration over the slow pace of progress. He pressed contractors to expedite the process to ensure the stadium can be reopened as soon as possible.

Adams assured that the government will move swiftly to address the outstanding challenges and return Essipong Stadium to full use, positioning it once again as a key venue for national sporting activities.

The Ghana international has caught the eye across the Premier League following a blistering start to the season, tallying six goals and three assists in 11 league appearances.

The 25-year-old, who recently signed a long-term contract with Bournemouth reportedly including a £65 million release clause, has emerged as one of the most sought-after talents this term.

Chelsea already boast depth on the wings, with summer signings Alejandro Garnacho and Jamie Gittens, while 18-year-old Estevao has also impressed in his early appearances.

Despite this, Cole believes Semenyo could make an immediate impact under manager Maresca.

“Knowing Chelsea, he might be too old! I’d have to check his age, but from a football perspective, if he’s available and he wants to come, it’s a no-brainer in terms of bringing him into the football club,” Cole said in an exclusive interview with Paddy Power.

“With Chelsea’s model, there’ll be a financial element and evaluation element to it, so it’ll come down to that.

“He’d be a welcome addition to the Chelsea squad, and he probably starts, because he’s been superb for Bournemouth.”

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, however, has played down any immediate concerns over the forward’s future.

“We are in November. Antoine is our player; he will continue being our player. In January, you can ask me about the market in January, but right now I’m not worried about the next markets,” Iraola said in his press conference on Friday.

“It’s something that especially you know that I hate to talk about in August, January, the moments when the market is open, but it is not one of those moments. It’s November.

“I’m more worried about the situation of the players to play tomorrow, the short-term, the things that really matter and in January, we will talk about whatever happens, the players we need. But it is not something that I’m worried about today.”

The Ghana international, who recently penned a long-term deal reportedly containing a £65 million release clause, has attracted attention from Liverpool and Manchester United, with Tottenham and Arsenal also reportedly monitoring his progress.

Semenyo has been in fine form this season, contributing to nine goals in the league, a tally only bettered by Manchester City striker Erling Haaland.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Iraola said, “We are in November. Antoine [Semenyo] is our player; he will continue to be our player. In January, you can ask me about the market.

“But right now, I am not worried about the next market. I am not worried about the situation. In January, we will talk about whatever happened, the players we need,” he added.

Bournemouth are keeping a close eye on Semenyo’s fitness ahead of their home clash with West Ham United this afternoon, following a minor injury he picked up during the recent international break.

Francis, who suffered a serious injury during last week’s friendly against Japan, underwent surgery after fracturing two bones while trying to block a shot in the second half.

The GFA confirmed that the operation was successful and without complications, and the player immediately began the initial phase of his rehabilitation under careful medical supervision.

“Francis Abu’s condition has improved considerably,” Asante Twum said. “The surgery went as expected, his spirits are high, and the early stages of rehabilitation are progressing well. He is expected to leave the hospital this weekend.”

Francis had been stretchered off during the match, drawing concern from teammates over the injury’s severity. A GFA official will accompany him back to France upon discharge.

The 21-year-old, who joined Toulouse from Cercle Brugge earlier this year, was recalled for Ghana’s November friendlies after missing the World Cup qualifiers in September and October.

The Timber Boys will take on the Porcupine Warriors at Nsenkyire Sports Arena in the Ghana Premier League’s Matchday 11 fixture.

Samartex’s only losses this season have come on the road, leaving their home form unblemished.

“I can’t stand to lose at home; we will continue with our unbeaten run,” Ennin said.

“Sunday will be one of the good games we will play in the Ghana Premier League, considering the form of Kotoko, their confidence level and their winning mentality and our home games are intense, so it’s going to be a good game, but we are in for the three points,” he added.

The game is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 GMT.

The opener came when Neto met Jamie Gittens’ cross at the far post, while Fernandez sealed victory with a late run into the box after a counter-attack involving Neto and substitute Marc Guiu.

The Blues rarely moved out of second gear during the 90 minutes and were able to rest unused substitute Moises Caicedo, with matches against Barcelona and Arsenal to come.

However, resting players looked a gamble early on as Burnley started brightly, with Jaidon Anthony having two early shots blocked and Loum Tchaouna forcing a save from Chelsea goalkeeper Robert Sanchez with a strike from the edge of the box.

Chelsea started slowly and tested Burnley keeper Martin Dubvravka with a tame long-range effort from Trevoh Chalobah.

But after Neto’s header put them ahead they took control, withdrawing captain Reece James at half-time yet growing increasingly dominant.

Neto struck a post soon after the interval, while substitute Malo Gusto saw a shot saved amid further attempts from Joao Pedro, Gittens, Fernandez and Marc Cucurella.

Chelsea’s second-half display was largely about game management as they gave little away and dominated possession, finishing with about 60%.

In-form striker Zian Flemming fired Burnley’s only second-half chance over, 30 minutes after his side’s previous effort, and substitutes Lyle Foster and Armando Broja could not inspire a comeback.

After Chelsea made several changes of their own, young striker Guiu provided Fernandez with a cutback to turn home the second goal.

Burnley remain 17th in the table and could drop into the relegation zone later on Saturday, with Nottingham Forest and West Ham still to play.

Chelsea climbed to second, having played a game more than their rivals.

The visitors stunned the defending champions by taking a 2-0 lead after just 17 minutes when Yuito Suzuki scored from close range and Johan Manzambi rose highest to head home Jan-Niklas Beste’s corner.

Bayern, who had not lost in the league since March, responded superbly and had restored parity by half-time.

Teenager Lennart Karl fired into the bottom corner from Olise’s pass in the 22nd minute and set up the Frenchman for a fierce finish in first-half injury-time, although Freiburg goalkeeper Noah Atubolu should have done better.

Bayern took control in the second period as Dayot Upamecano headed home Olise’s corner to put them ahead for a first time.

England captain Harry Kane netted his 14th league goal of the campaign on the hour mark, before Olise made it three assists when he threaded a pass through for Nicolas Jackson to finish at the first time of asking in the 78th minute.

Winger Olise completed a sensational afternoon with his second of the game six minutes later, driving at the Freiburg defence and curling into the far corner.

A 10th victory in the first 11 games left Bayern eight points clear of second-placed Bayer Leverkusen, while Freiburg remain 10th in the standings.

Vincent Kompany’s side visit Arsenal in the Champions League on Wednesday (20:00 GMT) with both sides having a perfect record of four wins so far in the league phase of the competition.

Arne Slot’s Premier League champions were looking to bounce back from a heavy defeat at Manchester City, but instead ran into a Forest side revitalised under new manager Sean Dyche and looking back to their best.

Liverpool head coach Slot gave £125m British record signing Alexander Isak a start, but he was totally anonymous once more and only lasted 67 minutes.

Forest went ahead after 33 minutes when defender Murillo shot powerfully past fit-again Liverpool keeper Alisson to subdue an already anxious Anfield.

Igor Jesus had a second ruled out for handball, but Forest doubled their advantage 47 seconds after the break when former Liverpool defender Neco Williams set up Nicola Savona for a crisp finish in front of The Kop.

Liverpool could barely raise a response in a desperate display, Forest increasing their lead 12 minutes from time when Morgan Gibbs-White scored after Alisson saved from Omari Hutchinson.

It means Liverpool have now lost six of their past seven Premier League games as Slot’s near £450m summer spending spree comes under further scrutiny.

Robert Lewandowski scored their first goal back in their iconic home, which had been closed for extensive renovations, in the fourth minute.

Ferran Torres then netted twice in the second half, each assisted by wonderful skill from Lamine Yamal, who was aged just 15 in his only previous Nou Camp appearance.

Fermin Lopez also struck in the 48th minute, while visiting midfielder Oihan Sancet was sent off for a crude challenge on Lopez just six minutes later.

Large sections of the Nou Camp remained closed for the game, which was played in front of a 45,157 crowd.

The rebuilding work, which was originally scheduled to be finished in November 2024, will eventually increase the stadium’s capacity to 105,000.

Barca moved to 31 points from 13 games and top on goal difference, but Real Madrid will replace them, if they win at Elche in their game in hand, on Sunday, 23 November (20:00 GMT).

Poland striker Lewandowski got his side off to the perfect start when he drove his low shot in off the arm of Athletic Club goalkeeper Unai Simon for an eighth league goal of the season.

The home side extended their lead in first-half added time as Yamal’s superb pass off the outside of his foot set up Torres for a good finish.

Lopez made it 3-0 three minutes after the restart, drilling a shot past Simon from near the penalty spot.

Sancet’s tackle from behind on Lopez was initially deemed a yellow card, but upgraded to red after the referee consulted with the video assistant referee (VAR).

And just before full-time, Yamal twisted and turned before sending Torres away to claim his second goal, which was originally disallowed for offside but overturned following a VAR check.

It was a dream return to their ground, with the reigning Spanish champions having mostly played at the 55,000 capacity Olympic Stadium on the city’s Montjuic hill since renovations on the Nou Camp began in June 2023.

They were forced to play two matches at the 6,000-capacity Johan Cruyff Stadium, home to their women’s team, this season after failing to get a permit for the Nou Camp through safety reasons.

Barnes, who also opened the scoring, prodded home from inside the box to secure all three points at a raucous St James’ Park.

Ruben Dias earlier equalised for the visitors when his effort took a deflection off Fabian Schar after Newcastle failed to clear their lines from a corner.

But Newcastle showed their own powers of recovery to retake the lead a few minutes later.

Jacob Murphy swung the ball into the box and, although Bruno Guimaraes’ header cannoned off the bar, Barnes was in the right place to hook the ball into the net.

There was a lengthy video assistant referee (VAR) check for offside, but the goal stood to send St James’ into raptures once more.

It was just the response head coach Eddie Howe wanted as his side bounced back following a bruising 3-1 defeat at Brentford before the international break to claim a rare win against Pep Guardiola’s team.

The hosts eventually found a way past towering City goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who earlier made three big saves to deny Nick Woltemade.

City, however, will rue a missed opportunity after they had the chance to close the gap on league leaders Arsenal to a point.

Guardiola’s side were not happy that Newcastle’s winner stood and they were also furious in the first half after they had a huge penalty appeal waved away when Phil Foden went down under a challenge from Schar.

But, like Newcastle, they still had their chances to take control of the contest, with Erling Haaland denied after Nick Pope stood tall to block his first-time effort following Nico O’Reilly’s pullback.

Haaland, whose wait to become the fastest player to 100 Premier League goals goes on a little longer, saw an attempted chip bounce harmlessly wide after Jeremy Doku played him through in the opening stages, while Foden failed to find the target from close range after exchanging a neat one-two with Rayan Cherki.

But this was to be Newcastle’s evening as Howe secured his first Premier League win against Manchester City.

Ghana is preparing for its fifth appearance at football’s flagship tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking in an interview, Mr Adams stressed that selections must be based on merit, not sentiment.

“Good and great players should not be left out anywhere they find themselves, whether they are local or foreign,” Mr Adams said as reported by Citi Sports.

“We are not going for this World Cup just to participate and come home. That’s why we must assemble our best.”

The Buem Constituency MP also cautioned against picking players solely because they play in the domestic league, insisting that talent and performance should remain the primary criteria.

Adams highlighted the importance of retaining top local talent rather than allowing them to immediately move abroad.

“If all we do is allow our best local players to leave at the first opportunity, then we cannot build a strong local base, and we must be intentional about keeping good and skilful players here too,” he said.

While acknowledging that football demands significant resources, the minister affirmed that the government will support all sports.

“We will support all sports, not only football. But football is really expensive and brings a lot of pressure on every minister, so we will do our best to improve the local league so we can produce players who will excel,” Mr Adams added. 

The Black Stars are set to discover their group-stage opponents on December 5.

The Ghanaian midfielder sat out Spurs’ final two matches before the November international break, against Chelsea and Manchester United, after picking up an injury.

The setback also ruled him out of Ghana’s friendlies with Japan and South Korea.

Frank, speaking at Friday’s pre-match briefing, revealed that Kudus has completed full training.

“Kudus trained today. He’s available,” he said.

Tottenham head into the clash boasting the league’s strongest away record this season, but history offers a reminder of the challenge ahead.

Spurs have managed just one victory at the Emirates Stadium since its opening in 2006 — the dramatic 3-2 comeback win in November 2010.

Kudus, who joined from West Ham United, has registered one goal and four assists in 10 Premier League appearances.

Sunday’s derby kicks off at 16:30 GMT.

The forward returned early from Ghana’s international camp after sustaining an injury following the friendly against Japan, a setback the Ghana Football Association (GFA) later confirmed.

Addressing the media ahead of the match, Iraola explained that Semenyo has been managing an ongoing ankle problem, adding that the club will make a late call on his involvement.

“Antoine is different. Justin and Ben have muscle injuries, and Antoine’s was not something new that happened when he was there,” the Spanish said.

“He was already dealing with an ankle injury. I cannot tell you if he’s going to play tomorrow [today] or not. We will have to see,” he added.

Iraola also revealed that a few players who reported back late from international duty may not feature.

“We have a couple of situations with the ones who have arrived late; we have to see if they are comfortable to help us tomorrow.”

Semenyo has been one of Bournemouth’s standout performers this season, contributing six goals and three assists in 11 league appearances.

Tournament regulations mean United should release the trio two weeks before the respective first games of Cameroon, Ivory Coast and Morocco.

That would mean letting them leave around the Premier League encounter with Wolves at Molineux on 8 December.

Full-back Mazraoui’s Morocco host the tournament and play in the opening game against Comoros on 21 December.

Ivory Coast winger Amad and Cameroon forward Mbeumo both play their first matches on 24 December. The final is on 18 January, which raises the possibility of missing eight Premier League games and an FA Cup third-round tie.

However, as Mbeumo and Amad have both been regular starters and Mazraoui is now fit again and offers cover in a number of defensive positions, United are trying to push that back until at least after their following game against Bournemouth on 15 December. United also play at Aston Villa on 21 December.

United succeeded in keeping goalkeeper Andre Onana back until the day before Cameroon’s first game in the competition two years ago. Onana only ended up missing a single game – the FA Cup tie at Newport.

Manager Ruben Amorim said the club will talk to the players’ national federations.

“We have the rules for when we have to release the players [but] we are trying to have the players a bit longer,” the Portuguese said.

“It is not just in our hands. We will see. We will try to arrange something with the federations.”

Even an additional game could be crucial as Amorim says he expects Benjamin Sesko to have recovered from the knee injury he sustained at Tottenham on 8 November around the same time.

If United were missing Sesko, Mbeumo and Amad, it would mean a significant reshuffle to his attack, with Joshua Zirkzee and Kobbie Mainoo, both of whom have been used infrequently this season, potentially being needed.

“He’s going to be out for a few weeks,” was Amorim’s response when asked about Sesko. “It’s not that serious and we have to be careful with him.

“I don’t want to say for sure but when they go, I expect to have Ben back.”

It comes after clubs narrowly voted through a new system of Financial Fair Play (FFP) based on squad costs on Friday.

The clubs met in London to vote on three possible methods of replacing Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

Squad Cost Ratio (SCR) got 14 votes in favour and six against, which is the minimum number that is required to exact a rule change.

Overall squad costs from the 2026-27 campaign will have to be limited to 85% of a club’s revenue, although teams competing in Europe will have to adhere to Uefa’s maximum of 70%.

Squad costs comprise player and manager wages, transfer fees and agents’ fees.

Most notably it will end the loophole of selling capital assets, like hotels and women’s teams.

Last year Chelsea sold two hotels to a sister company to keep them compliant with PSR.

In July, Everton sold their women’s team to the parent company, while reports claim Aston Villa have agreed to do the same.

The assessment will only be based on a club’s total earnings from football operations.

Rules around sustainability, which set out a club’s financial spending plans over the medium and long term, were passed unanimously.

But anchoring, which would have placed a top limit on spending based on the money earned by the bottom club, failed to get the necessary support. Twelve voted against it, with seven in favour and one abstaining.

“The new SCR rules are intended to promote opportunity for all clubs to aspire to greater success and bring the league’s financial system close to Uefa’s existing SCR rules,” a Premier League statement read.

“The other key features of the league’s new system include transparent in-season monitoring and sanctions, protection against sporting underperformance, an ability to spend ahead of revenues, strengthened ability to invest off the pitch, and a reduction in complexity by focusing on football costs.”

What is Squad Cost Ratio and how will it affect clubs?

PSR was about a club’s balance sheet of all revenues over a three-year period, while SCR is just about team costs on a seasonal basis.

The new rules will operate a dual system, with clubs in European competition having to adhere to Uefa’s SCR limit of 70% – so a club could be sanctioned by Uefa but be compliant in the Premier League.

The higher limit is intended to protect the Premier League’s competitive balance, given the increased income that will be received by those clubs competing in Europe.

Chelsea and Aston Villa were both given heavy fines by Uefa for breaches in the 2024-25 campaign, and that is when the limit in Europe was 80%.

The Premier League has added some wriggle room, too, with a multi-year rolling allowance of 30% that permits clubs to spend beyond the limit. It allows clubs to invest ahead of revenue and variance or sporting underperformance.

An assessment is made each March, and the allowance is crucial to determine possible sporting sanctions applied in the same season.

The 85% marker is known as the Green Threshold. Spend above that and you get a financial penalty, although this will be far less punitive than Uefa.

The Red Threshold is 85% plus the allowance. Go beyond that, and it is a fixed six-point deduction which increases by one point for every £6.5m spent over the Red Threshold.

Think of it this way – every club will start next season on 85% + 30% allowance, so effectively 115%.

Any clubs that spend above 85% will face a fine, but they would need to be in excess of 115% lose points.

But those percentages will change for 2027-28.

If a club spends 105% on their squad next season, it means they have used 20% of their allowance, and for 2027-28 their maximum spend before potential sporting sanction is 95%.

If a club spend less that 85%, they can increase the allowance again to the maximum of 30%.

Which clubs will be affected?

Several clubs, in healthy financial positions, were happy with PSR and wanted to keep the status quo.

SCR will not worry the biggest clubs with the best commercial operations.

But linking the wage bill to income is not attractive to clubs with less financial resources.

That is why Bournemouth, Brentford, Brighton, Crystal Palace, Fulham and Leeds voted against.

Bournemouth’s ground holds just over 11,000 but they need to pay Premier League wages so could be one of the losers, and it is a similar situation for Fulham.

Savvy transfer business will be crucial for these clubs, as Bournemouth would be in no trouble this season because of their transfer business last summer.

But 85%, with the additional 30% buffer, gives every club some headroom, and time to adapt.

Aston Villa and Newcastle were among the clubs annoyed with the restrictions PSR imposed on their ability to spend on the squad. But they cannot get too excited about the move to SCR, as they have to operate to 70% as a club in Uefa competition.

Why was anchoring voted down?

With only seven votes in favour it was not close to being a viable option – but the top clubs were split over it.

Manchester City and Manchester United feared they could eventually breach the anchoring limit as their revenues grow, but Arsenal and Liverpool voted in favour of it.

Top-to-bottom anchoring (TBA) limits the total spending to five times the TV payments received from the Premier League by its bottom club.

This season it is expected that the team that finishes 20th will earn about £120m, which would create an upper anchoring limit of £600m.

But once the SCR rules are applied no club’s spending limit would reach £600m.

It was intended to stop the spending of the top clubs increasingly outstripping everyone else as their revenues grow.

But some feared the cap could eventually impact their ability to compete for players with the likes of Real Madrid.

The Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA), meanwhile, had previously warned that clubs would spend less on player salaries, effectively creating a wage cap which could face legal action.

There were also fears that a reduction in future broadcasting deals would effectively result in a lower cap.

Why were sustainability rules passed so easily?

This was a simple one for the Premier League clubs, because they are already going to have to produce financial projections over the short, medium and long-term.

That will be a requirement of the Independent Football Regulator (IFR), which will begin its work later this season.

Clubs will have to give projections about their financial planning and their ability to fund the running of the club.

The focus is on monitoring and the imposition of measures that return a club to compliance for any breach.

So, that would be something like a spending restriction or debt rebalancing.

The centre-back limped off in visible discomfort during Brazil’s friendly against Senegal at Emirates Stadium last weekend and was ruled out of the draw against Tunisia three days later.

The 27-year-old has been in fantastic form for the Gunners, being a key part of a defence that has conceded just five league goals so far this season as they have opened a four-point lead at the top of the table.

“Gabi is going to be out for weeks,” said Arteta, who added that the defender will have another scan next Wednesday, which should give a clearer timeframe of how long he will be out for.

Piero Hincapie and Cristhian Mosquera are both in contention to deputise for Gabriel when Arsenal host rivals Tottenham on Sunday (16:30 GMT).

“It’s clearly a blow because he’s our leader in our backline and to me it’s never a positive thing,” added Arteta.

“The good thing is that we have very good options and people have to stand up now and do the job.”

Gabriel, a £23.1m signing from Lille in 2020, has started all 11 of Arsenal’s Premier League matches this term.

Defender Riccardo Califiori is a doubt for the north London derby, having withdrawn from international duty with Italy with a hip problem.

The Italian is yet to train since returning to London but Arteta says he will be given every opportunity to prove his fitness.

“He has been carrying a few things,” said Arteta.

“He hasn’t trained yet. Tomorrow we have another training session, let’s see how he is.”

Swedish striker Viktor Gyokeres remains unavailable with a hamstring problem.

The 32-year-old joined the Ligue 1 club last summer, after his four-year doping ban was reduced to 19 months by the Court of Arbitration for Sport (Cas).

Pogba’s last competitive appearance came in September 2023, when he featured for Juventus in a Serie A match against Empoli.

The former Manchester United midfielder has been given time to build up his fitness in Monaco and had been earmarked for selection against Lens on 8 November, only for an ankle injury to postpone his debut.

However, Pogba has been named in Monaco’s squad to face Rennes on Saturday.

“We try to help him reach his full potential so that the team comes out on top,” Monaco manager Sebastien Pocognoli said of Pogba on Friday.

“He has the qualities to adapt to what we want to implement in midfield – he hasn’t lost his vision or his technique.

“[He will bring] experience and leadership, both on and off the pitch, not to mention his qualities, which will need to adapt to the pace of competition.”

Pogba was provisionally banned from football for four years after a positive test for dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in February 2024, following a doping test in August 2023.

Pogba maintained it was a mistake and that he was given a supplement without knowing it contained a banned substance.

The France international, a 2018 World Cup winner, was permitted to return to football in March following the decision to reduce his ban.

Should Pogba make his Monaco debut against Rennes, it would be his first ever Ligue 1 appearance.

He came through the ranks at Le Havre, but joined Manchester United before making a senior appearance for the club.

Pogba joined Juventus on a free transfer in 2012, before returning to Old Trafford in a then world record £89m four years later.

He went back to Juventus following the expiry of his six-year deal with United in 2022, but made just 12 appearances before his contract was mutually terminated.

Pogba scored as France beat Croatia 4-2 in the 2018 World Cup final.

The experienced tactician, who previously managed Ebusua Dwarfs and Great Olympics, was appointed on November 2 to replace Nii Odartey Lamptey following the team’s poor start to the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League campaign.

His departure follows successive defeats to Aduana FC, Vision FC and Medeama SC, results that deepened the club’s early-season struggles.

While Eleven Wonders are yet to issue an official statement, sources indicate that internal disputes and lingering structural challenges played a significant role in Sarpong’s decision to leave.

The exit adds to the club’s instability, forcing management to begin the search for an interim coach. Wonders remain the only side without a victory after 10 league matches this season.

They face Hohoe United this weekend as Matchday 11 fixtures continue.

Ghana travelled to Asia as part of their build-up to next year’s World Cup, facing Japan and South Korea. The Black Stars fell 2-0 to Japan at Toyota Stadium before losing 1-0 to South Korea at Seoul World Cup Stadium, leaving the squad without a win in the international window.

Appiah, a former captain of the national team, praised the players for their efforts and commitment on the pitch.

“I’m so happy with the performance of the guys, especially in the second game against South Korea. Against Japan, the second half they played well, and against South Korea they played even better,” Appiah told Kobe Boujee.

“We went there for results, but at times it’s not only about the results but also about the performance. You watch certain games and see teams losing, but the fans applaud them, which means they gave everything. That’s what our guys did.

“I am also happy that some of the guys had the chance to show themselves because they have been in camp for many months, getting call-ups but not getting the chance to play. Platforms like these give them the opportunity to prove themselves,” he added.

The Black Stars are scheduled to regroup in March to continue preparations for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

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Since Frimpong Manso took charge, the club has managed just one victory in four outings. The team’s inconsistent run has left them 14th on the Ghana Premier League table, with 10 points from their opening 10 matches of the 2025/26 campaign.

In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show ahead of the clash at the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, Boakye Ansah voiced confidence that the tide will soon shift.

“We’re working on a long-term project, and we believe the change will come. It has to start with beating Bibiani GoldStars,” he said.

The match kicks off at 15:00 GMT.

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Ghana could co-host World Cup in future – Sports Minister

Action begins on Saturday, November 22, and continues through Sunday, November 23.

Medeama SC open the weekend at TNA Park, where they host Bechem United at 15:30 GMT, while Karela United take on Basake Holy Stars at the Aliu Mahama Stadium in a 15:00 GMT kickoff.

Sunday’s schedule features a packed lineup. Dreams FC face Swedru All Blacks at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, with Hohoe United searching for their first win of the season as they welcome Eleven Wonders.

Vision FC square off with Heart of Lions at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex, and Aduana FC look to make home advantage count when they meet Berekum Chelsea at the Nana Agyemang Badu I Park.

Nations FC will test their strength against defending champions Bibiani GoldStars at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, while Young Apostles prepare for a stern test against Hearts of Oak.

The weekend concludes with a heavyweight showdown at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena, where FC Samartex host Asante Kotoko in what is expected to be a fiercely contested clash.

Full Fixtures:

The Portuguese winger died in a car crash last summer at the age of 28.

His former Liverpool team-mate Andy Robertson said he had “been in bits” during the day on Tuesday, before Scotland secured their place at the 2026 World Cup with a thrilling victory over Denmark that night.

“I couldn’t get my mate Diogo Jota out of my head today,” said Robertson.

“We spoke so much about going to the World Cup because he missed the last one with Portugal and I did with Scotland. I know he’ll be smiling over me today.”

Slot said: “I saw the interview [with Robertson] live and I know that it is an issue for us, which is completely normal.

“At this moment in time, I always think how must it feel for his wife and his children?

“It is so, so, so much harder for them than it is for us. But that we will miss the player and the person is completely clear.”

The Reds have lost four of their past five matches in the Premier League, and were beaten 3-0 by Manchester City at Etihad Stadium before the international break.

That defeat left Liverpool eighth in the table, eight points behind league leaders Arsenal, before they welcome Nottingham Forest to Anfield on Saturday (15:00 GMT).

In last season’s league fixture away at Forest, Jota scored 22 seconds after coming on as a substitute in the 1-1 draw.

“Now we play Nottingham Forest, last season there we were 1-0 down and it only took him [Jota] one minute to score the equaliser. So now I am talking about the player that we miss for sure,” said Slot.

“That we also miss him as a person is also clear.”

Slot confirmed goalkeeper Alisson Becker is available again having been out for six weeks with a hamstring injury.

Conor Bradley and Florian Wirtz are both unavailable for the visit of Forest with unspecified injuries.

The England forward was set to resume first-team training this week after two months out with a groin injury.

But the 23-year-old will remain out for slightly longer because of the injury to the small toe on his favoured left foot.

He will miss the Blues’ next three fixtures – Saturday’s Premier League game at Burnley, Tuesday’s Champions League fixture against Barcelona and next weekend’s match at home to Arsenal.

“He is probably not available for Saturday for sure, Barcelona for sure or Arsenal for sure,” said Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca.

“Unfortunately, he had an accident at home where he hit his toe. It is nothing important, but he won’t be back in the next week.

“I wake up many times during the night – I hit my head, my legs, my everything – so it can happen.”

Palmer’s most recent appearance was during Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat at Manchester United on 20 September.

The Blues have played 11 games in all competitions since then – winning eight and losing two – and sit third in the Premier League table.

“I think that his team-mates are better players with Cole playing,” added Maresca. “I feel much better when Cole is on the pitch, and we all want Cole on the pitch.

“At the same time, when Cole is not on the pitch, we need to find a solution. The team is doing very well but we are better with Cole. He was almost back with us.”

Enzo Fernandez, Pedro Neto and Benoit Badiashile are all available for the trip to Turf Moor.

Chelsea have Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi in their so-called ‘bomb squad’ and Maresca confirmed nothing has changed with the pair, despite the defender’s involvement with the Under-21s and first-team training during the international break.

“Axel and Raheem are Chelsea players,” he said. “Axel is helping the second team, he’s helping the younger players.

“During the international break we had just five, six players here, so we needed some second-team players. Axel was part of some sessions with second-team players, but I think it was just one session with us.”