The GFA has opted to retain the Portuguese coach ahead of Ghana’s 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying campaign after guiding the team to play in the knockout phase of the 2026 World Cup in North America for the first time since 2010.

Asante Twum said the success of a team should ultimately be measured by its ability to win matches and trophies rather than how attractive its football looks.

“People will remember you for your last result and not your style, so for me, getting results is more important than playing stylish football,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

The GFA communications director pointed to the contrasting outcomes that different approaches can produce, arguing that a team that plays attractive attacking football but suffers heavy defeats cannot be considered more successful than one that adopts a defensive approach and wins.

“For me, if you play attractive attacking football and you lose 5-0, and you play a defensive, boring style but win 1-0, take your three points and win a trophy, which is better?” he said.

“So the results are always important.”

Queiroz, 73, has been tasked with guiding Ghana back to the AFCON after the Black Stars failed to qualify for the previous tournament in Morocco.

His first major test will come on 24 September, when Ghana travel to Bouake to face Ivory Coast at the Stade de la Paix.

The Black Stars will then host The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later as they begin their bid to secure a place at the 2027 tournament.

Ghana opened their U-20 World Cup campaign in a 3-0 defeat to Ecuador, leaving the Princesses with work to do if they are to progress to the knockout stage.

Speaking in a post-match interview, Sampson admitted that Ghana’s poor start and defensive lapses handed Ecuador a crucial advantage.

“This was a little bit unexpected. The way we started the game, the way we conceded those two goals, they were a bit cheap, if you could ask me,” he stated.

He noted that the early goals changed the nature of the game and boosted the South Americans’ confidence while leaving Ghana to struggle to find its rhythm.

“And that also definitely gave Ecuador more strength and got us a little bit out of balance.”

Despite the shortcomings, coach Sampson praised the players for their attitude and determination shown after going behind, admitting that his side failed to make the most of the opportunities they created in the final third.

“But I like the attitude that the girls showed up. We were unfortunate and not clinical enough in the last third. We should have been able to score some goals and come into the game.

He further stressed that Ghana’s inability to come back into the game eventually left them exposed, as Ecuador punished another lapse on the counter-attack to close the game. 

“The more the game goes on, and it’s 2-0, and then you don’t reduce it, you become vulnerable. And then they went on a counterattack again and got us. That’s unfortunate, but I like the character that we showed.”

Although he acknowledged the disappointment his players would feel after the loss, he urged them to turn their attention to the challenges ahead with lessons learnt from the game.

“Now we just have to accept it. Today we are a bit down, and it’s normal. Then tomorrow we try to look at the game, see the things that we can do better, and put our energy on the last two games.”

“We still have two games, so that gives us a chance to recover and be able to put us back into the competition,” he concluded.

The Black Princesses will turn their attention to crucial Group C fixtures against South Korea and France.

Ghana will now have to regroup and improve if they are to progress to the knockout stage for the first time in their history.

The Porcupine Warriors appeared on course for victory after Yakubu Dogo opened the scoring after 15 minutes at the Golden City Park in Berekum.

However, Debibi United responded strongly after the break, with Richard Owusu scoring twice to put the hosts 2-1 ahead.

Kotoko rescued a point when Hubert Gyau equalised in the 79th minute, but Tinkler was unhappy with his side’s overall performance.

“I don’t think we did enough to win this game,” Tinkler said after the match.

“The performance itself, I’m not entirely happy. On the ball, we were very poor and not good enough in terms of our composure.

“We kept giving the ball away and made it very difficult for ourselves. A draw is a fair outcome.”

The result leaves Kotoko seventh in the league table after the opening round of fixtures.

They will look to claim their first victory of the campaign when they host Heart of Lions at the Baba Yara Stadium on matchday two.

The Ghanaian champions were beaten 1-0 by the five-time African champions at the TNA Stadium in Tarkwa on Sunday, with Mazembe scoring an 88th-minute winner to take a narrow advantage into the second leg.

Medeama created several opportunities during the match but were unable to find the net, leaving Tanko disappointed with the result.

“Of course, if you lose a home game, you’ll definitely be disappointed,” Tanko said after the match.

“The good thing is, we created a lot of chances, and we could have scored some goals, but unfortunately, we couldn’t, and that’s football.

“We pushed in the second half, trying to get our goal when they got one chance to score. So definitely, I’m disappointed.

“But that’s the game. We have a second chance next Sunday to see what will happen.”

Medeama must now win in the second leg in the Democratic Republic of Congo if they are to overturn the deficit and progress to the next stage of the competition.

The Tarkwa-based side remain hopeful of reaching the Champions League group stage for the first time since the 2022-23 season.

The Phobians began their campaign in emphatic fashion, beating Berekum Chelsea 4-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium on Sunday.

The victory was particularly significant for the Accra-based club as it marked their first win in an opening league fixture in six years.

“The feeling is good. We are very happy with our opener, and I am sure we will continue this path,” Nebojsa said after the match.

The result puts Hearts of Oak top of the Premier League table after the opening round of matches.

Nebojsa, however, has urged his players to remain focused as they prepare for their next assignment against Bibiani GoldStars this weekend.

“We have to be calm and start preparing for our next game. We will face GoldStars with the full force of our power,” he added.

The long-serving club official said he had been encouraged by the vision of the new leadership following discussions with its members after their appointment by Kotoko Life Patron, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, at the end of the 2025/26 season.

The new board is chaired by James Osei Brown, with Kwasi Osei Ofori serving as vice-chairman, while businessman Kofi Amoah-Abban is among its members.

Lamini believes the new leadership has both the ambition and commitment to revive a club whose recent performances have fallen short of its illustrious history.

“I know the board members, I have interacted with them and I can tell they have a great plan and are determined to ensure Kotoko recaptures the great heights the club once occupied,” he told Graphic Online.

He also praised what he described as the board’s willingness to engage with the wider Kotoko family.

“In my interactions with them, I became convinced they are very open and ready to work closely with the supporters, former players, former board members and other stakeholders to ensure Kotoko not only dominate Ghana football but also become a force to reckon with in African football once again,” he said.

Kotoko have already begun their 2026/27 Ghana Premier League campaign with an opening-day 2-2 draw against newcomers Debibi United at the Golden City Park in Berekum.

The Porcupine Warriors will now turn their attention to their first home fixture of the season against Heart of Lions on Sunday.

Mr Okraku acknowledged that criticism is an inevitable part of leading Ghana football, arguing that no GFA president has enjoyed complete peace while in office.

Speaking to Accra-based 3Sports, he said stakeholders should be free to express their views but urged them to ensure their criticism contributes positively to the development of the game.

“It’s okay for people to speak their minds. Like I said at the Congress in Kumasi, I love people who are not only critical but constructive,” Okraku said.

“It’s normal. I don’t think any leader in our football space has enjoyed absolute peace.”

Mr Okraku cited former GFA presidents Kofi Amoah and Kwesi Nyantakyi as examples of administrators who faced strong criticism during their respective tenures.

“President Kofi Amoah, who served as president during the Normalisation Committee, faced fierce criticism during his tenure. President Kwesi Nyantakyi, same,” he said.

Despite the criticism directed at previous administrations, Okraku pointed to Nyantakyi’s achievements, including Ghana’s qualification for the World Cup and an Africa Cup of Nations final, as evidence that football administrators should ultimately be judged by the impact of their work.

“At the end, he took Ghana to the World Cup; he took Ghana to the finals of the AFCON. He did his part, and my job is also to play my part,” Okraku said.

The GFA president said his focus remains on making his contribution to the development of Ghana football, while accepting criticism as part of the responsibility that comes with leading the country’s football governing body.

Okraku made the remarks in response to criticism that has accompanied his tenure, insisting that the true measure of his administration will be its long-term contribution to the growth of the game.

Speaking to Accra-based 3Sports, the GFA boss acknowledged that scrutiny comes with the role but said he remains committed to building a lasting legacy for Ghana football.

“My job is also to play my part. I will say that when I am gone, just like Kwame Nkrumah, people will appreciate,” Okraku said.

“And people will not only appreciate but people will remember the good things that we did for Ghana football.”

The GFA president argued that criticism is a common experience for football administrators, citing the tenure of former GFA president Kwesi Nyantakyi as an example.

According to Okraku, Nyantakyi also faced significant criticism despite overseeing some of Ghana’s most successful periods in international football.

“President Kwesi Nyantakyi, same. At the end, he took Ghana to the World Cup; he took Ghana to the finals of the AFCON; he did his part and my job is also to play my part,” he added.

Okraku stressed that his focus remains on delivering positive change rather than responding to critics, expressing confidence that history will provide a fair assessment of his administration.

He said he hopes his tenure will ultimately be remembered for its contribution to the development and progress of Ghana football.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Appiah explained that supporting sports federations must also involve supporting the clubs that form the foundation of the various sporting competitions.

“The first thing is, we are ready even to support individual clubs. Yes, because if you are supporting federations, it entails clubs,” he said.

He stressed that the level of financial support would depend on the resources available, suggesting that a structured annual allocation could provide clubs with greater financial stability.

“If we have money, all of us must agree, for every year, every club is entitled to a so-so amount. So having done that, you know, you have provided at least for them.”

Appiah also noted that beyond direct support to clubs, funding would be needed to help federations organise their various competitions.

He warned that the collapse of clubs could have wider consequences for Ghana’s sports industry, arguing that sustainable funding is essential to maintaining healthy competition.

“Let me tell you, if these clubs collapse, the industry collapses,” he added.

According to Appiah, the Sports Fund is therefore exploring partnerships with private investors to generate sustainable revenue, including possible collaboration within the betting and gaming sector.

He said discussions have already been held with the Gaming Commission as the Fund looks at ways to create a steady flow of resources rather than relying solely on periodic government funding.

“If we are successful in this, it’s about sustainability. Once the funds keep coming and coming and coming, and we draw a table,” he stated.

Appiah believes establishing sustainable funding mechanisms would enable the Sports Fund to provide more consistent support to clubs and federations while helping strengthen competition across Ghana’s sporting landscape.

The Porcupine Warriors opened their league campaign with a 2-2 draw against league debutant Debibi United, continuing their poor record against the newly promoted sides.

Speaking in a post-match interview, Tinkler attributed the result partly to the condition of Golden City Park, saying the heavy pitch had a physical impact on the players and contributed to fatigue.

“The [Golden City Park] pitch doesn’t influence just one team. But I could see their [players’] legs were dead. The pitch was heavy and thick.”

“I’ve played on pitches like that, and it’s hard, because it starts affecting your calf, your thighs, your hamstrings,” he told the club’s media.

He also raised concerns about the intense heat during the game, warning that the conditions contributed to dehydration among the players.

“The intense heat [during the game vs Debibi United]- dehydration started setting in. In this weather, we should at least have a water break for the players. That’s the only criticism that I’ll give,” he added.

However, he maintained the stance that the pitch did not prevent his side from maintaining its preferred style of play despite the challenging conditions.

“The pitch didn’t stop us from playing our brand of football.”

The result leaves Kotoko seventh in the league table after the opening round of fixtures, with the club now looking to claim its first victory when it hosts Heart of Lions at the Baba Yara Stadium on matchday two.

The West Africans were dealt an early setback when Ecuador found the breakthrough just two minutes into the contest, immediately putting Ghana on the back foot.

Head coach Charles Sampson was forced to make do without suspended centre-back Margaret Agyapomaa, who was sent off during the final qualifying match against Uganda.

The Black Princesses struggled to gain control of the game and found it difficult to build meaningful attacks against a well-organised Ecuadorian side. As Ghana searched for a way back into the contest, Ecuador struck again just before half-time to double their advantage.

Trailing 2-0 at the break, Ghana hoped to mount a second-half comeback. However, those hopes were dashed when Ecuador added a third goal 24 minutes after the restart to seal a convincing victory and claim all three points.

The result marks another disappointing opening-game performance for the Black Princesses, who have now managed just one win in their first matches at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup since making their tournament debut in 2010.

Ghana will now turn their attention to crucial Group C fixtures against South Korea and France. The two sides shared the spoils in a 1-1 draw in the group’s other opening match, leaving the Black Princesses with work to do if they are to progress to the knockout stage.

Infantino, who has filled the role since 2016, has been under pressure following his scrapped plan to sell stakes in Fifa competitions to private investment firms.

Infantino’s lucrative plan sparked a global outcry, with European football’s governing body Uefa threatening to boycott all Fifa competitions, including the World Cup.

“The Fifa president announced in April that he will stand for re-election in 2027,” read a Fifa statement.

“Of course, nothing has changed. Mr Infantino will be standing for re-election.”

Infantino refused to answer questions about his future when asked by reporters at the Women’s Under-20 World Cup in Poland on Saturday.

It is the first time Fifa has said he will run for a new term since the plan was announced following the summer’s World Cup.

Should the 56-year-old Swiss be re-elected, he will serve until 2031.

Fifa this week accused Uefa of a “smear campaign against it and its leadership”, in a challenge to litigation over Infantino’s plan.

Last week Uefa filed legal papers in the US requesting disclosure of evidence and documents from Fifa, warning it could lodge a criminal complaint in Switzerland.

As recently as mid-July Infantino was considered a certainty to be re-elected.

All but a handful of Fifa members had endorsed him, and he faced no meaningful challenge.

However, the Football Associations of England, Scotland, Wales and the Republic of Ireland are among those to have publicly withdrawn support since Infantino’s plan was announced.

BBC Sport understands Uefa is confident that a candidate can be found to stand against Infantino.

A candidate must receive the backing of at least 106 of the 211 Fifa member associations.

Uefa has abandoned the idea of trying to force a vote of no confidence.

It would require three-quarters of the members – 159 votes – to pass the motion through a change of Fifa statutes, which is considered unrealistic.

No candidates to challenge Infantino have been named, although Concacaf president Victor Montagliani is considered a serious option.

Nominations must be submitted by 18 November.

A topsy-turvy contest featured 10 breaks of serve, but Sabalenka recovered from 3-1 down in the second set to seal a 6-4 6-3 victory with a fifth consecutive game.

It was the Belarusian’s 18th consecutive win at the tournament, extending her three-year unbeaten streak following back-to-back triumphs in 2024 and 2025.

Sabalenka, 28, is the first woman to reach six consecutive singles quarter-finals at Flushing Meadows since American great Williams in 2016.

Six-time champion Williams was also the last player to win three US Open titles in a row, and Sabalenka is now three wins from matching that feat.

She will face Wimbledon champion Linda Noskova for a semi-final place, after the Czech sixth seed required six match points to overcome Ukraine’s Marta Kostyuk in a rollercoaster 7-5 5-7 6-4 win.

Despite the straightforward scoreline, this was a tricky match needing a resilient display from Sabalenka, who also had the vast majority of the crowd against her.

In that context, this was an impressive victory for the four-time major winner, who has not always managed to maintain her composure in similarly testing scenarios.

“I was just trying to stay focused on myself, not only point by point but ball by ball,” Sabalenka said.

“I’m happy I was able to turn around the second set, I think it was a key moment.”

The match began with five successive breaks of serve – mostly due to excellent returning by both players – but it was Sabalenka who finally took charge.

Doubles specialist Townsend, who walked out wearing a long, black-feathered outfit, continued to frustrate Sabalenka and forced her to serve out the set at the second opportunity, before making the breakthrough in the second set.

But Sabalenka, aware she must lift the trophy to have a chance of retaining her number one ranking, produced an immediate reply as she broke back to love and dashed to the finish line, wrapping up the victory in 75 minutes.

Pegula wins to bring down curtain on Cirstea’s Grand Slam career

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Cirstea cracked the top 20 for the first time in May after announcing her plans to retire at the end of 2026

American third seed Jessica Pegula brought down the curtain on Sorana Cirstea’s Grand Slam career with a 6-3 6-4 win over the Romanian.

Cirstea is set to retire at the end of 2026, despite it being one of the best seasons of her 20-year career.

In May, the 36-year-old became the oldest player in rankings history to make her top 20 debut and she currently stands at a career-high 17th following a run to the quarter-finals at the French Open.

She also reached the third round at the Australian Open and Wimbledon, while she lifted the fourth WTA title of her career at her home tournament in Cluj-Napoca.

But Cirstea missed out on a third major quarter-final as Pegula came through a tricky test that saw 11 breaks of serve, securing victory on her third match point.

“I just told her I don’t know if you’re still going to play next year, but you are playing great and I said I have a lot of respect for you,” Pegula said when asked what she told Cirstea when they embraced at the net.

Pegula, the 2024 runner-up to Sabalenka, will continue her chase for a third straight US Open semi-final when she faces fellow American Emma Navarro, who defeated Russian Anna Kalinskaya 6-4 6-2.

Earlier on Sunday,Noskova’s sense of relief was clear as she crouched to the ground having taken her sixth match point – about an hour after earning her first.

The 21-year-old served for the match in the second set, but missed her first two match points as Kostyuk battled back from 5-3 down to force a decider.

Noskova failed to take her next two match points in the deciding set, while she missed her fifth match point after saving a break point, finally getting over the line at the end of an emotionally draining two and a half hours on court.

“I am more than relieved – this match was so tough, emotionally a bit more than physically,” said Noskova, who missed five championship points before lifting the Wimbledon title this summer.

“Today was very close, it could have ended both ways. With all the chances I had in the second set, it was tough to still kind of restart.”

In the women’s doubles, British pair Harriet Dart and Maia Lumsden lost 6-2 6-2 to Spain’s Cristina Bucsa and American Nicole Melichar-Martinez, the sixth seeds.

Playing just his fourth competitive singles match after an absence of more than four months, the 23-year-old Spaniard produced a masterful performance to beat American 20th seed Paul 6-4 6-3 6-4.

He has dropped only one set on his way to the last eight in New York and will face American eighth seed Ben Shelton in the quarter-finals.

A wrist injury caused Alcaraz to miss both the French Open and Wimbledon earlier this summer.

He had won the previous two Grand Slams – last year’s US Open and this year’s Australian Open – meaning the straight-set victory over Paul extended his run of match wins at the majors to 18.

Alcaraz is taking a different approach to this tournament in New York, putting a greater emphasis on recovery as he looks to keep his wrist injury-free – even if that means giving up his favourite off-court activity on his days off.

“I’ve been really focused on the recovery with my team, with myself, doing the right things off the court trying to be healthy and in good shape for the next round,” he said.

“Those days, if I’m practising or not, I’m trying to be chill and focus on the next round. So golf this year isn’t an option.”

Alcaraz has won all three of his tour-level matches against Shelton, who beat Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-2 6-3 6-4 later on Sunday.

“If Shelton were to come through, he is the kind of player that can knock the racquet out of your hand,” said American former player Jeff Tarango on BBC Radio 5 Sports Extra.

“It’s going to be a real test to see how Alcaraz’s wrist is with a 149mph serve coming to that forehand, but Alcaraz should get through Shelton if his wrist is fine.”

Alcaraz said after his third-round win that he was happy with the level of fitness he had shown in the early rounds following his lengthy absence, while he demonstrated against Paul that the quality of his shot-making is as good as ever.

One sensational cross-court forehand winner early in the second set, which landed in from an almost impossible angle, was clocked at 103mph.

Former British number one Tim Henman told Sky Sports: “When you haven’t played tennis for four weeks, it seems a lot and you can be a bit rusty. This is four and a half months.

“If you would have given Alcaraz a blank piece of paper at the beginning of the tournament and asked how he’d want the first four matches to go, he would have scripted it exactly like that.

“He’s had a few slightly challenging moments but, in the important moments, he’s just come up with incredible tennis. That’s got to give him so much confidence moving forward.”

American trio storm into quarter-finals

Image source: Getty Images

Image caption: Frances Tiafoe reached the US Open semi-finals in 2022 and 2024

Later on Sunday, Frances Tiafoe, Alex Michelsen and Shelton stormed into the quarter-finals to boost home hopes of a first American men’s Grand Slam champion since Andy Roddick won in New York in 2003.

Tiafoe delighted fans in an entertaining victory over 2021 champion Daniil Medvedev, saving a set point in the third-set tie-break before wrapping up a 7-6 (7-1) 6-4 7-6 (8-6) win to maintain his perfect record on Louis Armstrong Stadium.

Tiafoe has now won all 10 of his matches on the US Open’s secondary show court, while it is just his second win in eight appearances against Russian Medvedev.

A two-time semi-finalist in New York, Tiafoe will face Michelsen next after the 22-year-old beat Argentina’s Tomas Martin Etcheverry 7-6 (8-6) 6-4 6-4 to reach his first Grand Slam quarter-final.

Shelton, meanwhile, surged past Tsitsipas in less than two hours to join his compatriots in the last eight.

Former world number three Tsitsipas had been enjoying a resurgence at Flushing Meadows as he defeated Arthur Fils and Jiri Lehecka, the 10th and 18th seeds, en route to his first fourth-round appearance at a Grand Slam in over two years.

Tsitsipas’ defeat means this is the first year a player with a one-handed backhand has not reached a major semi-final in men’s singles since 1877.

In the men’s doubles, Britain’s Henry Patten and Finnish teammate Harri Heliovaara, the top seeds, moved into the third round with a 7-5 6-2 win over Matteo Arnaldi of Italy and Germany’s Jan-Lennard Struff.

British ninth seeds Lloyd Glasspool and Julian Cash won 7-6 (7-2), 6-4 against Czech pair Adam Pavalsek and Patrik Rikl, while Joe Salisbury and American partner Rajeev Ram fought back to beat French duo Theo Arribage and Albano Olivetti 6-7 (2-7) 7-6 (11-9) 6-4.

The Ghana Premier League champions looked on course to earn a positive result at the TNA Stadium, but an 86th-minute strike from the DR Congo side handed the visitors a slender advantage ahead of the return leg.

Medeama made the brighter start and controlled the opening exchanges, keeping the five-time African champions at bay for much of the first half.

The Tarkwa-based club also created opportunities to take the lead but could not find a way past Mazembe’s defence, with the teams going into the break level at 0-0.

The contest became more open after half-time as both sides pushed for a breakthrough.

Mazembe eventually found the decisive moment four minutes from time, leaving Medeama with an uphill task to overturn the deficit in the second leg and keep their Champions League hopes alive.

The opening round produced goals across the country, with Hearts and Vision emerging as the biggest winners as debutants also made their mark.

Vision FC set the tone on Saturday with a commanding 3-0 victory over Young Apostles at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex.

Naziru Alhassan Nyenye opened the scoring early before Setsofia Aqetey struck twice to secure an impressive opening-day win.

On Sunday, Hearts of Oak produced the standout performance of the weekend, thrashing Berekum Chelsea 4-0 at the University of Ghana Stadium.

John Antwi put the Phobians in control with goals in the fifth and 37th minutes before Mamadou Kourouma added a third in the 88th minute. Ali Mohammed completed the rout with a stoppage-time penalty.

At Berekum’s Golden City Park, newly promoted Debibi United twice came from behind to earn a 2-2 draw against Asante Kotoko, while Heart of Lions were held to a goalless draw by Aduana FC in Kpando.

FC Samartex opened their campaign with a 3-1 home win over Karela United at the Nsenkyire Stadium.

Bechem United edged reigning champions Bibiani Gold Stars 1-0 thanks to Darlvin Yeboah’s first-half winner at Nana Fous Gyeabour Park.

Basake Holy Stars also left it late, with Francis Oteng’s 82nd-minute strike securing a 1-0 victory over Swedru All Blacks.

The meeting between fellow newcomers Port City FC and AshantiGold 04 ended 1-1 at Nana Boamah Darko Park.

Zak Musah gave AshantiGold the lead before Hamza Zakari equalised for the hosts in the 67th minute.

The only fixture not played was Dreams FC’s home match against Medeama SC, which was postponed because of Medeama’s involvement in the CAF Champions League.

Full Time Results

Vision FC 3-0 Young Apostles

Hearts of Oak 4-0 Berekum Chelsea

Debibi United 2-2 Asante Kotoko

Heart of Lions 0-0 Aduana FC

FC Samartex 3-1 Karela United

Bechem United 1-0 Bibiani Gold Stars

Basake Holy Stars 1-0 Swedru All Blacks

Port City FC 1-1 AshantiGold 04

Dreams FC v Medeama SC – POSTPONED

Speaking to 3Sports, Okraku said dissent was a normal part of leadership and that he valued criticism when it was aimed at improving the game.

“It’s okay for people to speak their minds,” he said. “I love people who are not only critical, but are constructive.”

The GFA president argued that scrutiny had followed every administration, pointing to former FA leaders Kofi Amoah, who chaired the Normalisation Committee, and Kwesi Nyantakyi as examples of officials who faced criticism despite their achievements.

“President Kofi Amoah, who served as the president of the FA during the normalisation, faced fierce criticism during his tenure. President Kwesi Nyantakyi, same.”

According to Okraku, Nyantakyi’s tenure coincided with some of Ghana’s most notable football successes, including the Black Stars reaching the quarter-finals of the FIFA World Cup and the final of the Africa Cup of Nations.

“At the end, he took Ghana to the quarterfinals of the World Cup. He took Ghana to the finals of the AFCON. He did his part, and my job is also to play my part.”

The GFA chief said he believed his own administration would be judged more fairly after he leaves office, arguing that history often offers a different perspective on leadership.

Drawing a comparison with Ghana’s first president, Kwame Nkrumah, Okraku said he expected people to eventually recognise the positive contributions made during his tenure.

“I would say that when I’m gone, just like Kwame Nkrumah, people will appreciate. And people will not only appreciate, but people will remember the good things that we did for Ghana football.”

Okraku’s remarks come as his administration continues to face scrutiny over the direction of Ghanaian football, with debates over governance and the performance of the national teams remaining central to discussions about the game’s future.

Mikel Arteta’s side condemned Xabi Alonso to his first defeat as Chelsea manager, despite the West London side getting off to a superb start, with £117 million summer signing Morgan Rogers netting inside the opening two minutes.

Arsenal’s urgency for an immediate leveller was apparent, as the game opened into a high-tempo, frenetic, back-and-forth clash which saw chances fall at either end.

And it appeared the hosts had levelled on 12 minutes when Riccardo Calafiori bundled into the net following a goalmouth scramble from a Declan Rice free-kick.

The home crowd, though, would be quelled when it was adjudged Ezri Konsa – making his first start for Arsenal – was offside when he struck against the post before Calafiori turned the ball into the net.

However, Arsenal did find the leveller shortly after, when Kai Havertz picked the ball up from the right, cut inside and drilled a low, left-footed effort past Emi Martinez at the near post.

Pedro Neto was inches from firing Chelsea back into the lead in first-half stoppage time, but his curling effort bounced off the base of the left post.

And that proved damaging for the visitors, as Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard fired his side ahead five minutes after the break, Havertz letting Christos Tzolis’ ball run under his left foot before the Norway international fired beyond Martinez from inside the box.

Both sides threatened as the second half wore on, with Chelsea substitute Estevao forcing the most dangerous moment, with David Raya flying to meet his sweetly struck left-footed curling effort, which seemed destined for the top corner.

But Alonso’s entertainers could not find a leveller, meaning Arsenal join Manchester City as the only two sides with three wins from three to start the season.

Arteta’s Premier League champions will quickly turn their attention to Wednesday’s UEFA Champions League opener at Napoli, while Chelsea – without continental football this season – host Leeds United in the Carabao Cup the same night.

Goals from Lamine Yamal (2), Fermin Lopez, Raphinha and Pedri secured a comfortable victory as Hansi Flick’s side capitalised on Real Madrid dropping points.

The Catalan giants have now scored a whopping 17 goals in just four games so far this season.

Barcelona took the lead after just six minutes through Yamal, who grabbed his fourth goal of the season.

Fermin lofted a brilliant ball through for Yamal, who showed excellent composure to dink it over the onrushing goalkeeper.

The Spanish star thought he had a second goal just two minutes later, again latching on to a Fermin pass, before smashing the ball into the corner.

However, the replay showed that Yamal was narrowly offside and the goal was chalked off following a lengthy VAR review.

Barcelona did not have to wait long to get a second goal though, with their attacking quartet ripping through Valencia after 22 minutes for Fermin to score.

After some nice attacking play, Anthony Gordon picked up the ball in the box and laid it off to Fermin, who slotted it into the far corner for his fourth goal of the campaign.

The visitors didn’t wait long in the second half to put the game out of sight, with Raphinha netting his sixth goal of the season.

Barcelona broke with electric pace, before Fermin squared the ball to Raphinha, who could not miss.

Flick’s side controlled the rest of the second half, with key players replaced early on to preserve their energy, including summer signing Rodri, who made his first start for the Catalan giants.

Pedri completed the rout with ten minutes to play, playing a brilliant one-two with Dani Olmo, before placing the ball into the bottom corner.

Olmo was involved again as Barcelona added a fifth goal with minutes to play, as Yamal netted his fourth of the season.

Olmo did brilliantly to turn away from his defender before slotting a pass through the heart of Valencia’s defence for Yamal to latch on to and smash home.

Barcelona host Feyenoord in the UEFA Champions League on Wednesday, while Valencia continue their search for a first La Liga victory at Sevilla on Friday.

The former Arsenal full-back, who joined Everton from Lyon on transfer deadline day, left United goalkeeper Senne Lammens rooted to the spot when he curled an unstoppable effort into the net to deny the visitors a first away win of the season.

Michael Carrick’s side looked set to seal all three points at Hill Dickinson Stadium for the second consecutive season after Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko scored either side of Tyrique George firing Everton level.

But Maitland-Niles’ first Premier League strike since December 2019 maintained Everton’s unbeaten start to the season at the end of a turbulent week on Merseyside.

Fresh from hitting Ipswich Town for five last weekend, United made a fast start and almost went ahead inside eight minutes when Bruno Fernandes struck the crossbar following a knockdown from Mbeumo inside the area.

It was the 24th time United had hit the woodwork since the start of last season, more than any other Premier League side.

But that did little to dampen United’s mood as they, and Marcus Rashford in particular, continued to ask questions of the Everton defence.

Only days after selling the creative Iliman N’Diaye to Manchester City in a deal worth up to £65m, Everton showed little ingenuity or originality in the final third.

That was until two minutes before half-time when Thierno Barry, the club’s top scorer this season, headed over after a wonderful cross from makeshift full-back Merlin Rohl, and Jarrad Branthwaite forced a save from Lammens.

But the United breakthrough came less than 60 seconds into the second half, with Mbeumo picking the ball up from Kobbie Mainoo before curling a spectacular effort past Jordan Pickford to double his tally for the campaign.

Brennan Johnson almost drew Everton level, while Rashford continued to threaten.

Everton manager David Moyes summoned summer signings Jack Grealish and Hayden Hackney from the bench midway through the second half, and Hackney was involved in the equaliser when he teed up George to rifle home at the near post.

United thought they had won it when substitute Sesko made it two goals in as many visits to Everton by heading home Luke Shaw’s cross.

But it was an Everton substitute who had the final say, with Maitland-Niles’ strike sending the home fans into raptures.

Tottenham travelled to the City Ground on Saturday for their Matchday Three fixture, with Kudus introduced from the bench in the second half after replacing Savio.

The Ghana international featured for 29 minutes and delivered an impressive display, completing all eight of his pass attempts and successfully executing one of his two dribble attempts.

Speaking after the match, De Zerbi singled out Kudus and Andy Robertson for their performances following a double substitution that was prompted by fitness concerns.

“In the second half, the medical team pushed to change Savio and Destiny Udogie after 60 minutes,” De Zerbi told Sky Sports.

“Kudus and Robertson played very well, but maybe making two substitutions at that moment was not so good.”

Kudus will be aiming for a bigger role when Tottenham return to action against Everton on Saturday, with kick-off scheduled for 16:30 GMT.

The Ghanaian side looked on course for victory after taking the lead inside the opening minute through Beline, who gave Ampem Darkoa a dream start.

Edo Queens responded after the break to level the score, but Ampem Darkoa regained the advantage in the 73rd minute when Beline converted from the penalty spot to complete her brace.

The Nigerian champions, however, refused to give up and found a second equaliser to force the contest into a penalty shootout after the match ended 2-2 in regulation time.

In the shootout, Edo Queens held their nerve, converting four of their penalties, while Ampem Darkoa managed just one successful effort.

The victory saw Edo Queens crowned WAFU B champions and secure qualification for the CAF Women’s Champions League, while Ampem Darkoa’s continental hopes ended in heartbreak.

His comments come as the Mauve and Yellow prepare to host five-time African champions TP Mazembe on Sunday, September 6, at the TNA Stadium in the first leg of their CAF Champions League preliminary round.

Speaking in an interview ahead of the game, Armah says he remains excited by the prospect of fulfilling his long-held ambition of seeing CAF Champions League football played in Tarkwa, describing it as a dream that is gradually becoming a reality. 

“I’m very, very happy and very, very excited all the time. In the beginning, that was my wish, and it’s coming true,” he said.

However, the club president says the dream will only be complete when Medeama goes beyond participation and lifts the CAF Champions League trophy in Tarkwa.

“I’ve not been there yet until I hold the CAF Champions League in Tarkwa,” he added.

The return fixture is set for week later in Lubumbashi.

Medeama achieved their best performance in Africa’s premier club competition by reaching the group stage in the 2023/24 season.

Ghana’s U-20 female national team begin their campaign on Sunday, September 6, with Sampson expressing confidence that his players are focused and eager to get their tournament underway.

“Finally, the day is getting closer, or it has already come. We’re facing Ecuador tomorrow,” he said. “We’ve been waiting for this for I can’t remember how long, so we just can’t wait to be on the field tomorrow.”

Sampson revealed that the team’s final training session was designed to fine-tune key areas while ensuring the players remained fresh ahead of the crucial encounter.

“Today was just to touch on a few aspects of the game and do a little bit of set pieces and get the body ready and fresh for tomorrow,” he explained. “The intensity was not much, and we are very satisfied. The girls are ready.”

The coach also highlighted the determination within the squad, noting that recent visits from government officials and other dignitaries had further boosted morale in camp.

“You could see that they are very, very focused. The presence of dignitaries here has also raised their morale, so we are looking forward to tomorrow,” he said.

For Sampson, leading Ghana at the World Cup represents the fulfilment of a long-held ambition.

“It has been a dream. It has been a privilege, and the journey has been amazing, so we are looking forward to showcasing what we have to the world tomorrow,” he added.

Despite the significance of the occasion, the coach insists his side will approach the match with only one objective.

“We are going in with the intention of winning. That’s the first game we have in the group, and we know that it is very vital,” he said. “Tomorrow our aim is to go and win, and that is what we are focusing on right now.”

Sampson also called on Ghanaians to continue backing the team throughout the tournament.

“They should continue believing in us and supporting us and know that we will do our best. Tomorrow we will bring out the best of ourselves and make sure that we get what we are looking for.”

After facing Ecuador, Ghana will take on the Republic of Korea and France in their remaining Group fixtures.

The Black Princesses are hoping to reach the knockout stage of the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup for the first time in their eighth appearance at the tournament.

Kotoko will travel to the Berekum Golden City Park on Sunday, 6 September, to face a side preparing for its first-ever season in the Ghanaian top flight.

Speaking to the club’s media ahead of the game, Tinkler believes Kotoko must match their opponents’ work rate while ensuring their quality makes the difference.

“We’ve got to match them in terms of our work ethic, but then our qualities need to come out, and hopefully we can go there and get a positive result,” the South African coach said.

The former Orlando Pirates boss also stressed the importance of taking points from teams lower down the table if Kotoko are to mount a serious title challenge.

“You don’t win leagues by beating Hearts of Oak and Medeama; you win leagues because you’re beating teams at the bottom of the log, so complacency cannot be permitted in those games,” Tinkler added.

“A club like Asante Kotoko, home and away, should be winning football matches.”

Kotoko finished eighth in the Ghana Premier League last season and will be looking for a stronger campaign under Tinkler as they aim to challenge for major honours.

Adams visited the team’s training camp ahead of Saturday’s Group D clash against Ecuador, praising the side for reaching the tournament for an eighth consecutive time and assuring them of President John Dramani Mahama’s support.

“I bring you greetings from the Office of the President of the Republic of Ghana, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, who is very aware of the task ahead of you,” the minister told the players.

“He is the reason I am here to assure you that he is keenly following the team.”

Adams described the Black Princesses as one of Ghana’s most consistent national teams on the international stage and challenged them to achieve a historic breakthrough.

“If there is any of our national teams that has continuously made an appearance on the world stage, it is the Princesses,” he said.

He encouraged the players to believe in their abilities and remain united throughout the tournament.

“Don’t be intimidated by any opponent. They don’t play any better football than you,” he said, adding that teamwork would be key to achieving success.

The minister also pledged to be in the stands to support the team during their opening fixture.

Ghana begin their campaign against Ecuador on 6 September before facing the Dominican Republic and France in their remaining group matches.

The Black Princesses are aiming to reach the knockout stages of the U-20 Women’s World Cup for the first time in the country’s history.

Setsofia Aqetey scored twice after Naziru Alhassan Nyenye’s early opener to hand the hosts a comfortable win and send them provisionally to the top of the table.

Vision took the lead after just four minutes when Nyenye found the net, giving the home side an ideal start in front of their supporters.

Young Apostles struggled to recover as Vision controlled much of the first half, and Aqetey doubled the advantage in the 40th minute to leave the visitors facing an uphill task before the break.

The hosts maintained their intensity after the restart, despite Alidu Labaran being booked in the 55th minute as the contest became more physical.

Aqetey wrapped up the victory with his second goal of the afternoon, completing a dominant performance and sealing all three points.

The result leaves Vision FC at the top of the standings, with the rest of the opening-round fixtures set to be played on Sunday.

Ederson’s goal early on in the second half gave Atalanta the lead against the run of play, but Mario Hermoso levelled in the 89th minute before Soule stuck in stoppage time to extend Roma’s perfect start to their Serie A season.

It would be an understatement to say Roma dominated the first half. Gian Piero Gasperini’s side registered a remarkable 18 shots before half-time, with Gianluca Mancini’s header in the 14th minute forcing a strong save from Marco Carnesecchi.

Rodrigo Mora’s six shots in the opening 45 minutes all failed to hit the target, and Atalanta made Roma pay for their wastefulness as just 80 seconds in the second half, Ederson fired a loose ball in the box past Mile Svilar.

Gasperini made a huge call just after the hour mark, replacing top scorer Donyell Malen with Santiago Castro, though the latter struck the base of the left post a minute after his introduction.

Castro hit the woodwork again late on before Carnesecchi made a double save to keep out Dybala and a deflected cross from Wesley, but Roma scored from the resulting corner as Hermoso’s header looped in at the far post.

And Roma clinched all three points in the 93rd minute as Soule cut inside onto his left foot before sweeping in at the near post, with Carnesecchi unable to keep out the winger’s tame effort.

Roma find clinical edge at the death

It looked like Ederson’s goal would punish a lacklustre finishing display from Roma, but after Hermoso’s header, there was a sense of inevitability that Gasperini’s side would go on to find a winner.

It was Soule, who also assisted the equaliser, who got Roma over the line in dramatic fashion. The winger also recorded seven shots, more than the entire Atalanta team combined (six), as his persistence paid off.

Overall, Roma recorded an incredible 39 shots, 10 of which were on target, which amounted to 3.24 expected goals (xG), as the pressure on Atalanta’s goal eventually told.

Carnesecchi made nine saves as he tried his best to keep Atalanta’s perfect start going, but Maurizio Sarri’s side will rue their late defending while Roma reclaim top spot in Serie A.

Luis Diaz came closest to putting Bayern in front when he spurned one-on-one chances either side of half-time.

First, he shanked a shot wide with only Loris Karius to beat, before he saw a tame chip over the goalkeeper cleared well before it reached the goal line.

After opening the season with a thumping 5-1 win against VfB Stuttgart and a 4-1 victory over second-tier side Osnabruck in the DFB Pokal, Bayern manager Vincent Kompany opted to rotate his side.

Harry Kane and Michael Olise watched from the bench as Bayern dominated possession, but did little with it in a disjointed first-half performance.

England captain Kane came on at the break, but it was not until the introduction of Olise and Jamal Musiala with 35 minutes remaining that Bayern began to ramp up the pressure.

Musiala was included in the squad for the first time this season after suffering seizures during two pre-season matches.

Bayern’s Konrad Laimer sliced into the side netting from close range, before Kane forced Karius into a stunning fingertip save with a late drive destined for the top corner.

Bayern could not penetrate a compact and disciplined defence as Schalke held on to collect their first point of the season.

This was Kane’s 96th Bundesliga appearance, and he needs two more goals to reach 100 in the competition. The record for the fewest matches to reach a century is 129.

Kane began the day having scored against all 20 teams he had faced in the Bundesliga, and has now netted against 20 out of 21.

It is the first time in 67 Bundesliga matchdays – almost two years – that Bayern will not finish on top of the table.

Bayern host Bodo/Glimt in their opening Champions League game on Thursday before travelling to Bundesliga newcomers Elversberg on 13 September.ach a century is 129.

Kane began the day having scored against all 20 teams he had faced in the Bundesliga, and has now netted against 20 out of 21.

It is the first time in 67 Bundesliga matchdays – almost two years – that Bayern will not finish on top of the table.

Bayern host Bodo/Glimt in their opening Champions League game on Thursday before travelling to Bundesliga newcomers Elversberg on 13 September.

Lautaro Martinez scored twice for the hosts – including a 90th-minute winner – either side of a Marcus Thuram header.

Inter were two behind when Napoli scored twice in three minutes at the start of the second half.

Napoli’s second came in strange circumstances when the Inter defence switched off, assuming a loose ball was going out of play.

It was kept in and played to Rasmus Hojlund, who swept a shot into the far corner.

But Inter – who have won their opening three league matches of the season – recovered and are still unbeaten at home in Serie A since November 2025.

Napoli, who finished last season 11 points behind Inter, have lost back-to-back Serie A games following a home loss to Como last weekend.

After a goalless first half, Napoli caught Inter cold with a one-two punch.

On 50 minutes, Max Allegri’s team took the lead when Matteo Politano scored into the bottom corner at the second time of asking after his first effort was blocked.

Then three minutes later, no Inter players were paying attention when the ball appeared to be heading for a throw in.

But it stopped short of the sideline and was picked up by Giovanni Di Lorenzo, who pulled it back to Hojlund on the edge of the area.

Hojlund made a yard of space away from Inter midfielder Curtis Jones, and curled into the far corner for his second goal in as many league matches.

England international Jones came on at half-time for his second appearance since joining from Liverpool in the summer – and was instrumental in driving Inter to come back and win.

Inter got one back just three minutes later, when Federico Dimarco brilliantly kept in an overhit cross. His first-time pull-back was turned home by Martinez from close range.

Thuram came close to an equaliser when he struck the post, but with eight minutes to play the Frenchman did get his goal with a header planted into the right-hand corner.

And the victory was earned in remarkable circumstances as Martinez bundled in from close range before celebrating wildly with home fans at San Siro.

While Jones was brought on, fellow England player John Stones was an unused sub.

Another English summer signing, Djed Spence, was not in the squad for the third successive Serie A match as he recovers from a fitness issue.

Roberto de Zerbi’s expensively assembled side had 12 shots but failed to get any of those on target at the City Ground to continue their poor start in the top flight.

They avoided defeat after Neco Williams’ second-half goal was ruled out, the full-back adjudged to have bundled the ball in with his arm after some calamitous Tottenham defending.

Micky van de Ven nodded Spurs’ best chance wide but the visitors, who started Savio and Omar Marmoush for the first time together, were unable to find a breakthrough.

Including add-ons, Tottenham’s summer outlay is over £350m, and more is expected from the team after three winless top-flight games.

They are still trying to find an identity following 10 senior arrivals, and a point can be viewed as a positive, but they faced a Forest side also winless and finding their feet under Oliver Glasner.

The hosts felt aggrieved to have Williams’ goal disallowed and are still looking for their first home goal of the season as Glasner – who gave a home debut to £50m striker Liam Delap – tries to put his stamp on his new side.

The result was ultimately a satisfying one for City manager Enzo Maresca after giving debuts to Iliman Ndiaye and £125m signing Enzo Fernandez, with the Argentine drafted in minutes before kick-off after Nico O’Reilly sustained an injury in the warm-up.

City’s star striker Erling Haaland was the match-winner, powerfully heading home the only goal of the afternoon after Antoine Semenyo dug out a cross to the far post. Fernandez played a key part in the goal with a slide-rule pass to the Ghanaian.

On another day, Norway striker Haaland could have had a hat-trick. He had a thumping effort pushed away by visiting goalkeeper Carl Rushworth and another close-range strike in the second half ruled out for offside.

Rayan Cherki turned inside and struck against the foot of a post after being set up by Fernandez, but City were thankful to goalkeeper Gianluigi Donnarumma, who made a string of saves.

The Italy captain kept out Jack Rudoni’s diving header at the far post and Loum Tchaouna’s low strike with a full-length save, and stood tall to deny substitute Ellis Simms late on.

Frank Lampard’s men should have gone ahead when Taiwo Awoniyi picked up a loose pass from Semenyo and ran through on goal, but the Nigerian struck wide to leave Coventry without a goal this season.

The South African believes Kotoko’s eighth-place finish last season fell short of the standards expected at one of Ghana’s most successful clubs and has set an initial target of securing a place in the top four.

“The expectation is for us to compete. That is what we want to do this season. Last season, finishing eighth meant we were not really competing,” Tinkler told Akoma FM.

The former Cape Town City coach said Kotoko’s progress should be measured by their position at the midway stage of the campaign, with a strong first half of the season potentially laying the foundation for a title challenge.

“This season, we want to be up there competing for the top positions: top three or top four. If, by the halfway point of the season, we find ourselves in that position, then we will be in a good place because that is when you can begin to seriously push for the title,” he said.

Despite the club’s ambitions, Tinkler remains cautious about making championship predictions, citing the number of new arrivals in his squad and the time needed for them to settle.

“It is still too early for us to say that, based on the way we are performing, we can win the league. There are still a lot of new faces at the club, and it takes time for players to adapt,” he added.

Tinkler also stressed that building a successful side is a gradual process and warned against expecting immediate results.

“As coaches, we are not miracle workers. We work with the players, try to improve them and build their confidence.”

The 55-year-old reiterated that reaching the top four by the halfway point would represent a significant step forward for the Porcupine Warriors and provide a platform to aim higher in the second half of the season.

Kotoko begin their 2026-27 Ghana Premier League campaign on Sunday with an away fixture against newly promoted Debibi United at Golden City Park.

In a goodwill message to mark the opening of the new campaign, Okraku said the season offered an opportunity to raise standards, nurture talent and strengthen Ghanaian football at every level.

His appeal comes as clubs begin a season backed by increased investment in the domestic game, with each top-flight club receiving GHC1m and the league champions set to earn a record GHC3m prize.

Addressing players, coaches, referees, administrators, supporters, sponsors and media organisations, Okraku said success would depend on a shared commitment to improving the game.

“A new season brings renewed hope and fresh opportunities to raise our standards, develop talent and strengthen Ghanaian football across all competitions,” he said.

He urged players and coaches to perform with commitment throughout the campaign, while calling on match officials to officiate with fairness and consistency.

The GFA president also encouraged clubs to focus on building stronger and more sustainable institutions, arguing that long-term development would be crucial to the continued growth of football in Ghana.

Okraku appealed to supporters to channel their passion positively, saying football should bring communities together rather than divide them.

“Let your passion inspire and unite us, always with respect and responsibility,” he said.

His comments come amid ongoing efforts by football authorities and the government to tackle hooliganism and improve safety at match venues ahead of the new season.

Okraku also thanked media organisations, sponsors and commercial partners for their role in promoting the domestic game.

He said the GFA remained committed to creating an environment in which football could thrive both locally and internationally, adding that the association wanted the new campaign to be remembered for exciting football, healthy competition and collective progress.

“May the beautiful game unite us and strengthen Ghanaian football,” he concluded.

Alongside his role as GFA president, Okraku serves as the second vice-president of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), as Ghana balances its domestic football programme with preparations for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The Baba Boys will begin their 2026/27 CAF Champions League campaign away from home on Sunday when they face Ghanaian champions at the TNA Stadium in Tarkwa in the first leg of the preliminary round.

Ahead of the crucial encounter, Mutombo said the long journey from Accra to Tarkwa had not affected the team, with the players quickly settling in and turning their attention to Sunday’s crucial encounter.

“We had a long journey from Accra, but the boys looked ready when we arrived in Tarkwa. Our focus has been on this game because it sets the tone for qualification to the next stage,” he told Sporty FM.

Although the Baba boys have faced Medeama previously, Mutombo believes the upcoming tie presents a different challenge, particularly with changes made to the Mauve and Yellow squad.

“We have played Medeama earlier, but this is a different side, and they have made changes. TP Mazembe understands the African level, and we are here to compete,” he added.

With the Ghana Premier League champions expected to enjoy strong home support at the TNA Stadium, Mutombo insists the visitors will not be distracted by the atmosphere, drawing on their experience of playing in intimidating African venues

 “Our focus is on the playing body and their coaches, and not the fans. We have played in difficult venues like Esperance, Zamalek, Ahly, so we know the game is on the pitch, and that’s where our preparations have been centred on,” he stated.

TP Mazembe will look to draw on their continental experience when they face the Ghanaian champions. 

Medeama, meanwhile, will look to set the tone for the continental action this weekend against their Congolese visitors, having won the 26/27 Champion of Champions against Nations FC.

Both sides are seeking an advantage in the first leg of the preliminary round to set the tone for the return fixture in Lubumbashi a week later.

In a goodwill message dated 4 September, the ministry told the team they carried “the hopes of a nation” as they head into the tournament, where they will face Ecuador, South Korea and France in the group stage.

The message said the players had earned their place on the world stage through their performances in qualifying and encouraged them to embrace the opportunity to inspire the next generation of female footballers.

“As you step onto the world stage in Poland, you carry with you the hopes of a nation that believes deeply in your talent, your courage and what you can become,” the statement said.

The ministry highlighted Ghana’s consistency at youth level, noting that the Black Princesses had reached the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup for eight consecutive editions.

It described that record as evidence of the country’s growing strength in women’s football while reminding the current squad that every generation had the chance to write its own chapter.

“This is yours,” the message said.

The players were praised for fighting through the qualification campaign and for spending recent weeks preparing for the challenge ahead.

Ahead of matches against Ecuador, South Korea and France, the team was encouraged to trust its preparation, compete for every ball and enjoy the privilege of wearing Ghana’s colours on the global stage.

“Play with confidence. Trust your preparation. Trust one another. Compete for every ball and every minute,” the ministry said.

Beyond the tournament itself, the message stressed that the team’s impact could extend far beyond results on the pitch.

It said girls across schools, communities and football academies would be watching the Black Princesses and seeing new possibilities for themselves, making the squad ambassadors for the future of women’s football in Ghana.

“The Government, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation and the people of Ghana stand firmly behind you,” the statement added.

The message concluded with a rallying call for the team to “play with freedom, play with courage and play for one another”, ending with the assurance that “Ghana believes in you.”

The statement was signed by the ministry’s Head of Public Relations and Communications, Bagbara Tanko, on behalf of the Minister for Sports and Recreation.

The Taifa Stars will face the Black Stars following their opening qualifying fixtures, with the match expected to form part of an extended international programme for both teams.

Ghana are set to begin their AFCON 2027 qualification campaign with a high-profile clash against Côte d’Ivoire before hosting Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium in their second Group fixture.

Carlos Queiroz’s side are then expected to take on Tanzania, one of the three co-hosts of the 2027 tournament alongside Kenya and Uganda.

Before meeting Ghana, Tanzania will face Guinea-Bissau and Madagascar in their own qualifying matches.

The Taifa Stars have already announced their squad for the upcoming games, with BK Häcken midfielder Sabri Kondo returning to the national team setup.

Bernard Kamungo has also been included in the squad for the September fixtures.

The Ghana Football Association recently confirmed Queiroz will remain in charge of the Black Stars after guiding the team to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Portuguese coach is expected to name his squad for the AFCON qualifiers in the coming weeks.

Reports also suggest Ghana could face Egypt in another international friendly later this month as Queiroz continues preparations for the Black Stars’ upcoming competitive assignments.

The Black Stars, who made their fifth appearance at the Mundial, reached the knockout stage for the first time since 2010 but were eliminated in the Round of 32 following a 1-0 defeat to Colombia.

Speaking in an interview with 3Sports, Mr Okraku suggested that head coach Carlos Queiroz could have selected different players if he had more time to assess Ghanaian talent and better understand the strengths of the country’s players before the tournament.

“I did say that I am sure that if this man had more time to scout, to get to know the Ghanaian players and to pick his players, maybe he wouldn’t have picked the same players he picked for the World Cup,” he said.

Mr Okraku also stressed the importance of technical ability to Ghana’s traditional style of play, highlighting dribbling, passing and ball control as qualities capable of exciting supporters and unlocking defences.

“The Ghanaian style is that simple style of allowing your players to show their technical ability on the ball, their dribbling skills, their passing ability, their high level of technique on the ball.”

According to Mr Okraku, the approach adopted at the World Cup may have limited the attacking qualities traditionally associated with Ghanaian football.

“These kinds of qualities are the ones that will unlock defenders and allow attacking machinery to be very effective. So what you saw obviously was somebody who said a limited edition of what is possible.”

Mr Okraku, however, acknowledged that every coach has the right to select players who fit his tactical philosophy.

“But in the end, all of us come together, and we say that this is the coach. And he picks the kind of players that he wants to pick. He thinks about his philosophy, the players that suit his philosophy, and he deploys them.”

He added that the debate over Queiroz’s approach could have been very different had Ghana progressed further in the tournament.

“I’m sure if we had won against Colombia, if we had gone to the next stage, and maybe in the semifinals, this wouldn’t be a topic. We’ll say that he played dirty, but won the games for us.”

Mr Okraku ultimately acknowledged the unpredictable nature of football, noting that results often determine how tactical decisions are judged.

“Football is that singular activity that one plus one is never two.”

Ghana began their World Cup campaign with a 1-0 victory over Panama before drawing 0-0 with England. They then suffered a 2-1 defeat to Croatia in their final group game.

Meanwhile, Carlos Queiroz has been retained as Black Stars head coach ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers after reaching an agreement with the GFA and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation.

Queiroz’s first assignment under his new deal will be Ghana’s opening matches in the 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign later this month.

The Black Stars will travel to Bouaké to face Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix on September 24 before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

After failing to qualify for the previous AFCON finals in Morocco, Ghana will be aiming to secure a swift return to the continent’s flagship tournament.

Speaking to Sporty FM ahead of the start of the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season, Mr Agbana said the financial difficulties facing many players reflect broader challenges confronting clubs, rather than simply the decisions of team owners.

“I met a Ghana Premier League player who told me he’s been paid GH¢300,” Agbana said.

He claimed that some players in Ghana’s top flight earn less than GH¢1,000, highlighting the economic pressures affecting domestic football.

However, Agbana argued that club owners should not shoulder all the blame, pointing to declining attendance and inadequate infrastructure as major obstacles to improving players’ earnings.

“There are players who earn less than GH¢1,000. But who do you blame? You can’t blame the team owners.”

Drawing on his experience as the head of Nukunu Sports Academy, Agbana said running a football club requires significant financial investment despite limited returns.

“As a team owner, I look at the investment going in, but there is low patronage, and the facilities are not there,” he added.

His remarks come as Ghanaian football prepares for the launch of a new league campaign, with clubs hoping increased investment and renewed interest from supporters can strengthen the domestic game.

The 2026/27 Ghana Premier League season is scheduled to kick off on Saturday, September 5, with 18 clubs competing for the national title, while renewed attention is being placed on the financial realities facing players and clubs across the country.

The Swedish striker produced his most devastating performance since joining from Newcastle United for a British record £125m transfer fee 12 months ago, securing victory for his side by firing past Kjell Scherpen twice inside the opening nine minutes.

The win in Suffolk was also the first of Andoni Iraola’s tenure, ensuring he avoided becoming the club’s first manager since Brendan Rodgers to fail to win any of his opening three Premier League games.

The result means Ipswich drop to 13th in the table, while the visitors climb to fifth before the other Premier League fixtures this weekend.

Liverpool took the lead inside six minutes when Isak arrowed a strike past Scherpen at his near post after an incisive pass from Cody Gakpo.

It was the first time they had taken the lead in a Premier League match this season, having fallen behind against Nottingham Forest and Newcastle.

It was more of the same three minutes later as Gakpo and Isak combined once again to double Liverpool’s advantage.

It was the third time this season that the Dutchman, who came close to joining Manchester City during the transfer window, had assisted Isak in the Premier League.

The hosts could have halved the deficit on the half-hour mark had it not been for a timely last-ditch intervention from Ronald Araujo on his full debut to deny Daizen Maeda at the back post.

Isak was denied a hat-trick when the assistant referee raised his flag after he converted Florian Wirtz’s low cross shortly before half-time.

In the second half, the home side did probe the Liverpool defence but, even after finishing the transfer window with one of the highest net spends in the Premier League and several new additions, were unable to provide a cutting edge.

Liverpool supporters had more reason to celebrate in the final 25 minutes as they were given a first glimpse of new signing Bradley Barcola, who joined from Paris Saint-Germain in a deal worth £123m on Monday.

The Champions League holders have now failed to win any of their three domestic fixtures after goals from Flavio Nazinho and Stanis Idumbo in the second half secured a rare win for the visitors at Parc des Princes.

PSG boss Luis Enrique, who has agreed a contract extension, watched his side take the lead after 31 minutes through a close-range header from captain Marquinhos, but they were unable to extend their advantage before the break despite Monaco failing to register a shot on target.

Monaco restored parity 13 minutes into the second half when Nazinho connected with Jordan Teze’s cross at the back post.

Fourteen minutes later, the visitors moved ahead when Idumbo rifled the ball past Matvey Safonov at his near post.

It was the first time PSG had lost a game when leading at half-time since March 2021, when they were beaten by Nantes.

The result means Monaco move top of the table after maintaining their 100% start, while PSG fall to 12th.

The Spaniard, 56, has guided PSG to back-to-back Champions League trophies and three Ligue 1 titles since taking the helm in July 2023.

His previous deal was due to expire at the end of this season.

The news was announced by the club prior to Friday evening’s home league fixture against Monaco.

PSG quartet Joao Neves, Willian Pacho, Lucas Beraldo and Senny Mayulu have also signed extensions to their playing contracts until 2031, while Fabian Ruiz has agreed a new deal taking him up to 2028.

While injured duo Xavi Simons and Wilson Odobert were included in the 25-man list that Spurs submitted to the Premier League on Thursday, the Brazil forward was a notable omission after a turbulent week.

On Saturday, De Zerbi said the 29-year-old had asked to leave Tottenham, and he was close to joining former club Everton before Tuesday’s transfer deadline, but a deal fell through.

“It was not my decision. It is the normal decision,” said the Italian boss.

“I think Richarlison, he decided everything alone. He spoke with me at the beginning of the pre-season and told me his idea and desire was to leave.

“At the end, we go to bring another striker [in], and as I said at the beginning of the pre-season, I want to keep the players, just the players that want to stay and be proud and with the right passion to stay here.

“Then for everything and other problems, it is not my business and not my job. It is the responsibility of the club.

“I can’t say nothing because I didn’t decide anything. The message of Richarlison from the beginning of the season has been very clear. I accepted that and for me [there is] nothing [to say].”

Trabzonspor had been linked with a move for Richarlison prior to the transfer deadline for Turkish clubs closing on Friday evening.

Clubs in Saudi Arabia can sign players until Sunday, but if the ex-Everton forward remains at Spurs, he will be ineligible to play in the Premier League.

Richarlison was Tottenham’s top scorer in the league last season with 11 goals in 32 appearances and was a key figure during their struggle for top-flight survival, which was secured on the final day.

De Zerbi only wants to work with ‘hungry players’

Richarlison, who joined Tottenham from Everton in the summer of 2022, had entered the final year of his contract with the north London club.

While he started the defeat by Brentford in their opening game of the season, he was not included in the squad for the 2-0 home loss to Newcastle, after which De Zerbi said: “Richarlison, I don’t know. He said too many times he wants to leave.”

And with Spurs strengthening their attack by bringing in Omar Marmoush from Manchester City and Chelsea winger Mykhailo Mudryk on loan, and completing the acquisition of Brazil winger Savio from City, Richarlison has become surplus to requirements.

De Zerbi added: “If you don’t want to stay here, I don’t want to keep [talking] in the press conference.

“Go out – you have the freedom to go out. If you don’t want to stay, why [do] we have to keep you on the list? Why [do] you have to stay?

“I’m not Vinai [Venkatesham – Spurs CEO], I’m not the sporting director, I am the coach and I would like to work with the people hungry if they don’t play but happy to stay in this club.”

The pair worked together at Chelsea and the 25-year-old Argentina international joined City from the Blues for a joint-British record £125m on deadline day.

Maresca said Fernandez is “ready” to make his City debut against newly promoted Coventry City in the Premier League at Etihad Stadium on Saturday.

“I know Enzo quite well and I know what he can bring to the team,” Maresca said.

“He is a winner – a winner’s mentality and knows how to win [after] the World Cup, Club World Cup.

Maresca named Fernandez captain at Chelsea but confirmed Ruben Dias as the new City skipper, replacing Bernardo Silva, who departed in the summer, with Erling Haaland, Marc Guehi and Gianluigi Donnarumma part of the leadership group.

Maresca added: “I just said he is a winner and when you belong to a squad and another winning player arrives, they are always happy.

“I can promise you that in the last four or five days four or five players from the squad were asking if he is coming or not because they want him to be with us.

“It’s very important that he is with us and we are 100% happy with that.”

During an in-house interview on Thursday, Fernandez said he had always “dreamed of being at a club as big as City”, which was seen as a slight on his former club Chelsea.

Fernandez’s heart has been set on leaving Stamford Bridge since the turn of the year and talks with manager Xabi Alonso this summer could not change his mind.

Alonso said: “In football many things happen. With Enzo we have had conversations and always with respect. What he has done for the club has been great, but now it’s time to move forward.

“We have players with quality in every position and now we are ready to go.”

City spent a transfer window record of £458m on new signings, including £327m on a revamped midfield of Fernandez, Elliot Anderson and Ayyoub Bouaddi.

Wingers Iliman Ndiaye and Allan, as well as back-up goalkeeper Geronimo Rulli, were other first-team players that the club brought in, although they recouped more than £300m from player sales.

Maresca added: “I am very happy for the effort from the ownership, [chairman] Khaldoon [Al Mubarak] and [director of football] Hugo [Viana]. Very happy.

“In the last days, Iliman and Enzo arrived, and now the squad is complete – it’s finished. Now it is time to work.”

The 26-year-old striker missed two days of training last week, citing illness as the reason, after being told privately Atletico would not sell him to Barcelona.

A potential move to Arsenal looked like the Argentina forward’s only way out of the club, but nothing materialised and he has been reintegrated into team training after missing last weekend’s league game at Sevilla.

“Julian Alvarez will be in the squad tomorrow. He’s training well, and we expect the best from him, just as we do from all his team-mates,” Simeone said.

“For me, life is full of opportunities. And Julian now has an opportunity.

“A lot of the time, we spend our lives judging, and we need to worry about doing that less and learning more. I hope this has served as a learning experience for him.

“I hope he’s happy and, as [Paulo] Futre [Atletico Madrid’s director of football] told him yesterday in a lovely video… that he shows it by scoring goals.”

Atletico released two public statements in the space of 24 hours reiterating their stance that Alvarez would not be granted his wish to join rivals Barca.

Simeone’s side, however, were open to selling Alvarez to Arsenal and held direct talks with the Premier League champions.

Last week, Simeone said he would “do everything” he could to make the 2022 World Cup winner “feel important” on his return.

Alvarez has scored 49 goals in 107 games for Atletico since joining for £81m from Manchester City in 2024, but is yet to win any silverware in Madrid.

Atletico travel to Bilbao to face Athletic Club on Saturday (15:15 BST kick-off).

The new season will be played over two days, with matches scheduled for Saturday, September 6, and Sunday, September 7.

Vision FC and Young Apostles will raise the curtain on the campaign when they meet at the Nii Adjei Kraku II Sports Complex in Tema on Saturday. Kick-off is scheduled for 15:00 GMT.

A full slate of fixtures follows on Sunday, with Hearts of Oak hosting Berekum Chelsea at the University of Ghana Stadium as the Phobians look to make a positive start to the season.

Newly promoted Debibi United face an early test of their top-flight credentials when they welcome Asante Kotoko to the Golden City Park in Berekum.

Elsewhere, Basake Holy Stars will take on Swedru All Blacks at the AAK II Sports Arena, while FC Samartex host Karela United at the Nsenkyire Arena.

Heart of Lions will entertain Aduana FC at the Kpando Sports Stadium, with Bechem United facing reigning champions Bibiani Gold Stars at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park.

The meeting between fellow newcomers Port City FC and FC AshantiGold at the Nana Boamah Darko Park is expected to be one of the standout fixtures of the opening weekend.

All Sunday matches are scheduled to kick off at 15:00 GMT.

Full Fixtures

Meanwhile, the fixture between Dreams FC and Medeama SC has been postponed due to Medeama’s participation in the CAF Champions League.

Although Ghana reached the knockout stage of the World Cup for the first time since 2010, the team’s cautious style of play attracted criticism throughout the tournament.

Lamptey, who closely followed the Black Stars’ campaign, said he was disappointed with the performances and believes the current squad falls short of previous generations that represented Ghana on the global stage.

“I watched all the matches and me personally, I’m not impressed,” he told 3Sports.

“If I look at the team that went to the World Cup, the first World Cup in South Africa, you can’t compare this team to them. And then 2014. And then our last World Cup, 2022. Even that one that we did not do well, I think that team is far, far better than this.”

The former Anderlecht and Aston Villa forward identified Ghana’s inability to retain possession as one of the major weaknesses of the campaign.

He contrasted the current midfield with the technically gifted players who helped the Black Stars establish themselves as one of Africa’s strongest sides during the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

“You should have a team that can be able to hold the ball. And this is what we couldn’t do. And it was haunting us,” he explained.

“All the teams that I mentioned, the Ghana team in 2010, we could hold the ball. Look at our midfielders. We had ball jugglers and all that. This team, no. And this is haunting us.”

Lamptey also reserved particular criticism for Ghana’s performance against England, insisting that spending long periods defending should not be considered an effective game plan.

“A proper way to defend is to attack. If you attack, if you defend a million times, they beat you. There’s no way a team can defend throughout 90 minutes,” he added.

The Black Stars will now turn their attention to qualifying for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations after Carlos Queiroz was retained as head coach following the World Cup.

Ghana will travel to Bouaké to face Côte d’Ivoire at the Stade de la Paix on September 24 before hosting The Gambia at the Accra Sports Stadium three days later.

Having failed to qualify for the previous AFCON finals in Morocco, the four-time African champions will be seeking an immediate return to the continent’s flagship tournament.

The 34-year-old forward is currently a free agent after leaving Leicester City at the end of his contract.

According to Cypriot media outlet Protathlima, APOEL are considering a move for the experienced Ghanaian, with head coach Nikos Papadopoulos and sporting director Zisis Vryzas expected to make the final decision on whether to pursue the deal.

A move to Cyprus would add another chapter to Ayew’s lengthy European career, having played for several clubs in France and England, including Marseille, Lorient, Aston Villa, Swansea City, Crystal Palace and Leicester City.

The forward remains one of Ghana’s most experienced and influential players, having been a regular member of the Black Stars for more than a decade and currently serving as captain.

Since becoming a free agent, Ayew has remained active in Ghana, training with Nania FC and participating in community football matches following the Black Stars’ elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup by Colombia in the Round of 32.

His availability on a free transfer could make him an attractive option for APOEL as the club seeks to add experience and quality to its squad.

However, no formal agreement has been reached, with APOEL reportedly still assessing several attacking options before deciding whether to make an approach for the Ghana international.

That means nearly three out of every four GPL clubs (72.2%) will be led by a Ghanaian coach, while only five clubs (27.8%) have opted for foreign technical leadership.

Among the Ghanaian coaches are experienced names such as Ibrahim Tanko at Medeama SC, Kobina Amissah at Swedru All Blacks, Kwaku Danso at Berekum Chelsea, Samuel Boadu at Aduana FC and Abdul-Karim Zito at FC Ashantigold 04.

Other Ghanaian coaches taking charge include Abdulai Gazale of Basake Holy Stars, Christopher Annin of Port City, Nana Kwaku Agyemang of FC Samartex, Nurudeen Amadu of Karela United, Mohammed Bashar Ogba of Bechem United, Abdul Henan of Young Apostles, Isaac Nii Armah of Debibi United and Winfred Dormon of Dreams FC.

While local coaches dominate, five clubs have turned to foreign expertise.

Bibiani Gold Stars will be led by Greek coach Petros Koukouras, while South African Eric Tinkler takes charge of Asante Kotoko.

At Hearts of Oak, Bosnian coach Nebojša Kapor will occupy the technical area. Vision FC have placed their trust in Montenegrin Predrag Jeredić, while Turkish coach Kasım Gökyıldız leads Heart of Lions.

With 13 Ghanaian coaches against five foreigners, the figures represent a strong vote of confidence in Ghana’s homegrown coaching talent.

The 2026/27 GPL will therefore provide another opportunity for local coaches to demonstrate their tactical ability, player-development skills and capacity to compete at the highest level of domestic football.

For the foreign coaches, meanwhile, the challenge will be to justify the confidence placed in them and bring their international experience to bear on Ghana’s top-flight game.

Friday night sets the tone with Ipswich hosting Liverpool. Gary O’Neil’s side welcome Andoni Iraola’s Liverpool to Portman Road for a 7:00 pm kick-off, with the home crowd likely to provide an intense atmosphere under the lights. O’Neil has plenty of respect for the new Liverpool boss, describing Iraola as “excellent, coaching-wise and the way he sets his team up”. He knows the challenge ahead, but believes the occasion can work in Ipswich’s favour: “Our fans will be up for it on a Friday night.”

Saturday begins with Newcastle United against Bournemouth at 11:30 am, before a busy 2:00 pm window featuring Brentford versus Sunderland, Nottingham against Tottenham, Manchester City hosting Coventry, Fulham facing Crystal Palace and Brighton welcoming Leeds.

Manchester City’s meeting with Coventry is particularly intriguing, as Enzo Maresca’s side look to impose their quality against an ambitious opponent. Tottenham’s trip to Nottingham also promises a fascinating tactical contest, while Brighton and Leeds could provide an entertaining battle between teams who favour energetic, front-foot football.

The afternoon continues with Hull against Aston Villa at 18:30, giving Villa another opportunity to demonstrate their ambitions in what could be a challenging away fixture.

Sunday brings two heavyweight clashes to close the weekend. First up is Everton against Manchester United at 1:00pm. David Moyes knows the scale of the challenge posed by United’s squad, praising their individual quality while stressing the importance of Everton’s home form.

“They’ve got so many talented players who are so good at what they do,” Moyes says. “These players have to be given more attention.” He also knows the history of the fixture, adding: “I’ve always enjoyed playing against Manchester United.” For Everton, making home advantage count will be central to their hopes of taking something from the contest.

Then comes the weekend’s biggest fixture as Arsenal host Chelsea at 3:30 pm in a heavyweight London derby.

Mikel Arteta expects the occasion itself to influence the contest, with both sides likely to be tested emotionally as well as tactically. “You have to play the occasion in certain duels and the way they propose the game as well,” says the Arsenal manager, who expects moments in which players must recognise and respond to the changing dynamics of the match.

With Liverpool beginning the weekend under the Friday-night lights, Manchester City and Tottenham facing potentially tricky Saturday assignments, and Everton-Manchester United followed by Arsenal-Chelsea on Sunday, Matchday 3 offers another compelling chapter in the early Premier League campaign.

Broadcast details

Premier League: Matchday 3

Friday 4 September

7:00 pm: Ipswich v Liverpool – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Saturday 5 September

11:30 am: Newcastle United v Bournemouth – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

2:00 pm: Brentford v Sunderland – LIVE on SuperSport Events

2:00 pm: Nottingham v Tottenham – LIVE on SuperSport Football Plus, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 2

2:00 pm: Manchester City v Coventry – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

2:00 pm: Fulham v Palace – LIVE on SuperSport Football

2:00 pm: Brighton v Leeds – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Action Africa

4:30 pm: Hull v Aston Villa – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Sunday 6 September

1:00 pm: Everton v Manchester United – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

3:30 pm: Arsenal v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2