This marks Semenyo’s first time winning the award after scoring three goals and providing one assist in five Premier League appearances during February. He found the net against Tottenham Hotspur, Fulham FC, and Leeds United.

“This is a brilliant moment for me. To win the Premier League Player of the Month award so soon after joining City is something I’ll never forget,” Semenyo said on the club’s website.

“My focus now is on continuing to improve and helping City achieve the best possible results. We have so much to play for, and I am really excited about this final period of the season.”

The Ghana international has made an immediate impact at his new club, impressing in multiple roles, including on both wings, as a forward, and in midfield.

Semenyo is the first Manchester City player other than Erling Haaland to win the award since Raheem Sterling in December 2021. Haaland himself has won the award four times, most recently in September this season.

Meanwhile, Semenyo becomes just the third Ghanaian to win the award after Tony Yeboah (March and September 1995) for Leeds and Andre Ayew (August 2015) for Swansea City.

All times CAT.

—Football—

A blockbuster stretch of European football awaits as domestic title races, fierce rivalries and cup drama collide across the Premier League, FA Cup and the continent’s top leagues in early March.

The Premier League midweek action is headlined by a crucial clash between Wolves and Liverpool, a fixture that could have major implications at both ends of the table. Liverpool’s relentless pressing and attacking depth will be tested by a typically disciplined Wolves side capable of frustrating elite opponents at Molineux. With fine margins likely to decide the contest, tactical discipline and transitions could prove decisive.

Elsewhere, the title race intensifies when Brighton host Arsenal in what promises to be a high-tempo encounter. Arsenal’s push for the crown faces a stern examination against a Brighton side renowned for its possession-based bravery and tactical fluidity. Every dropped point is magnified at this stage of the season, and the Gunners will know they must navigate tricky away fixtures to keep pace in the title battle.

Manchester City’s meeting with Nottingham Forest adds further intrigue to the championship narrative. City’s experience in run-ins gives them a psychological edge, but Forest’s resilience and counter-attacking threat mean Pep Guardiola’s men cannot afford complacency. The pressure of the title race with Arsenal hovering close ensures this is far from a routine outing.

Aston Villa versus Chelsea is another standout, pitting two ambitious sides chasing European qualification. Villa’s intensity at home and structured build-up will challenge a Chelsea side still seeking consistency but capable of explosive attacking displays on their day.

At St James’ Park, Newcastle face Manchester United in a heavyweight showdown between two sides with top-four aspirations. Newcastle’s physicality and pressing could unsettle United, while Michael Carrick’s team will rely on moments of quality in transition to silence a notoriously passionate home crowd.

FA Cup action brings a classic giant-killing narrative as Arsenal travel to Mansfield Town, where the hosts will look to embrace the underdog role against title-chasing opposition. Meanwhile, Wrexham’s clash with Chelsea adds romance and global attention, with Chelsea expected to dominate possession but wary of a spirited challenge. Another marquee tie sees Newcastle meet Manchester City yet again, with City having already won three of their four meetings across league and League Cup competitions, underlining their recent psychological advantage.

Across Europe, Ligue 1 delivers a heavyweight duel between PSG and Monaco, a fixture rich in attacking talent and title implications. In Italy, the Derby della Madonnina between AC Milan and Inter Milan is the standout of Serie A matchday 28, where pride, momentum and potential title ramifications converge in one of football’s fiercest derbies.

Spain offers equally compelling drama, as Atletico Madrid host Real Sociedad in a tactical battle, while Real Madrid’s trip to Celta Vigo presents a potential banana peel. Athletic Bilbao versus Barcelona rounds off a gripping La Liga weekend, with San Mamés set for a charged atmosphere as Barcelona aim to maintain their push for a second successive title.

Premier League, Matchday 29

Tuesday 3 March

21:30: Everton v Burnley – LIVE on SuperSport Football and SuperSport Africa 2

21:30: Bournemouth v Brentford – LIVE on SuperSport Action, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 360

21:30: Leeds United v Sunderland – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Maximo 1

22:15: Wolves v Liverpool – LIVE on SuperSport Grandstand, SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Wednesday 4 March

21:30: Brighton v Arsenal – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

21:30: Manchester City v Nottingham Forest – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 360

21:30: Fulham v West Ham – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport GOtv La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

21:30: Aston Villa v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Africa 2

22:15: Newcastle v Manchester United – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Maximo 1

Thursday 5 March

22:00: Tottenham v Crystal Palace – LIVE on SuperSport Grandstand, SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

FA Cup, Fifth Round

Friday 6 March

22:00: Wolves v Liverpool – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Saturday 7 March

14:15: Mansfield Town v Arsenal – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

19:45: Wrexham v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 2

22:00: Newcastle United v Manchester City – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

Sunday 8 March

14:00: Fulham v Southampton – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 360

15:30: Port Vale/Bristol City v Sunderland – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

18:30: Leeds United v Norwich City – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Monday 9 March

21:30: West Ham v Brentford – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Ligue 1, Matchday 25

Friday 6 March

21:45: PSG v Monaco – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 1

Saturday 7 March

22:05: Toulouse v Marseille – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 360

Sunday 8 March

16:00: Metz v Lens – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport Africa and SuperSport Maximo 360

Serie A, Matchday 28

Friday 6 March

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

Saturday 7 March

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

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

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

Sunday 8 March

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

16:00: Fiorentina v Parma – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 360

16:00: Bologna v Verona – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport GOtv Football

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

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

Monday 9 March

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

La Liga, Matchday 27

Friday 6 March

22:00: Osasuna v Mallorca – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Saturday 7 March

15:00: Getafe v Real Betis – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

17:15: Levante v Girona – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

19:30: Atletico Madrid v Real Sociedad – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

22:00: Celta Vigo v Real Madrid – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Sunday 8 March

15:00: Villarreal v Elche – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

17:15: Athletic Bilbao v Barcelona – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

19:30: Sevilla v Rayo Vallecano – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

22:00: Valencia v Alaves – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Monday 9 March

22:00: Espanyol v Real Oviedo – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

—Golf—

A global showcase of elite golf takes centre stage from 5–8 March, with four major events spanning Asia, Africa and the United States, promising compelling storylines across both the men’s and women’s game.

The LPGA Tour heads to Hainan Island for the Blue Bay LPGA, where the world’s top female golfers will battle challenging coastal conditions and a demanding layout that rewards precision and course management. With valuable ranking points and early-season momentum on the line, expect a fiercely competitive leaderboard from start to finish.

In Asia, LIV Golf Hong Kong delivers another high-profile stop on the circuit, blending individual and team competition in a fast-paced format. The tight course setup and humid conditions are likely to test shot-making and mental resilience, making consistency across all three rounds essential.

Closer to home, the Joburg Open, co-sanctioned by the DP World Tour and Sunshine Tour, provides a major opportunity for local stars to shine on familiar fairways. South African players will be eager to capitalise on home support and altitude conditions as they chase a prestigious title and crucial tour points.

Meanwhile, the PGA Tour’s Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill remains one of the most prestigious stops on the calendar. With a world-class field expected, the tournament is renowned for its demanding rough, slick greens and dramatic Sunday finishes, ensuring another gripping chapter at a legendary venue.

LPGA: Blue Bay LPGA

Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 March – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

LIV Golf: Hong Kong

Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 March – LIVE on SuperSport Golf

DP World Tour/Sunshine Tour: Joburg Open

Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 March – LIVE on SuperSport Golf

PGA Tour: Arnold Palmer Invitational

Thursday 5 – Sunday 8 March – LIVE on SuperSport Golf

—Rugby—

A thrilling weekend of rugby awaits as Super Rugby Pacific action blends with a decisive Round 4 in the Six Nations Championship, delivering high-stakes clashes across both hemispheres.

Super Rugby Pacific kicks off with the Waratahs hosting the Hurricanes in a fixture that promises attacking ambition and tempo. The Hurricanes’ dynamic backline will test the Waratahs’ defensive organisation, while home advantage could play a key role in a tightly balanced contest. Saturday’s action features the Highlanders against the Western Force, where forward dominance and breakdown efficiency are likely to shape the outcome.

The headline clash sees the Blues take on the Crusaders in a classic New Zealand derby, a fixture synonymous with intensity, skill and physicality. With both sides boasting deep squads and expansive attacking structures, expect a high-quality encounter. The Brumbies versus Reds showdown adds an all-Australian rivalry to the mix, with both teams eager to build early-season momentum and assert conference dominance.

In the Six Nations, Ireland face Wales in a crucial opener to the round, with Ireland aiming to maintain their title push against a Welsh side desperate for a statement performance. Scotland’s meeting with France could be one of the games of the tournament, featuring contrasting styles and attacking flair. Italy versus England rounds out the weekend, as England look to stay in championship contention while Italy seek another breakthrough result on home soil.

Super Rugby Pacific

Friday 6 March

10:30: Waratahs v Hurricanes – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

Saturday 7 March

05:30: Highlanders v Western Force – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

08:00: Blues v Crusaders – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

10:30: Brumbies v Reds – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

Six Nations Championship, Round 4

Friday 6 March

22:10: Ireland v Wales – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

Saturday 7 March

16:10: Scotland v France – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

18:40: Italy v England – LIVE on SuperSport Rugby

—Cricket—

The business end of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup has arrived, with the semifinals set to deliver high drama and explosive cricket. Semifinal 1 on Wednesday and Semifinal 2 on Thursday will see the tournament’s standout sides battle for a place in Sunday’s final. With power-hitters, mystery spinners and death-over specialists all in play, expect fine margins and nerve-shredding finishes. The final on 8 March promises a global spectacle, where composure under pressure and big-match experience could prove decisive in crowning the new world champions.

In women’s international cricket, New Zealand host Zimbabwe in a One-Day International series beginning Wednesday night. The White Ferns will look to assert their class at home, using the 50-over format to fine-tune combinations and build innings with patience and discipline. Zimbabwe, meanwhile, have an opportunity to test themselves against elite opposition and gain valuable experience at the highest level.

Meanwhile, the spotlight also falls on the longest format as Australia and India’s women begin a landmark Test on Friday. With both nations boasting deep talent and proud traditions, the multi-day contest will showcase tactical battles, endurance and technical excellence in a format that continues to grow in prominence in the women’s game.

ICC Men’s T20 World Cup

Wednesday 4 March

15:30: Semifinal 1 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Thursday 5 March

15:30: Semifinal 2 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Sunday 8 March

15:30: Final – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

New Zealand v Zimbabwe Women’s ODI Series

Wednesday 4 March

23:50: First ODI – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Saturday 7 March

23:50: Second ODI – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Australia v India Women’s Test Series

First Test: Friday 6 March – Tuesday 10 March, 07:10 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket and SuperSport Variety 1

—Motorsport—

A new Formula One season roars into life at the Australian Grand Prix, launching a fresh chapter shaped by an all-new set of technical regulations that could dramatically shake up the competitive order. With teams unveiling redesigned cars and refined concepts over the off-season, practice sessions on Friday will be crucial as drivers and engineers scramble to understand performance, tyre behaviour and race pace under real conditions.

Qualifying on Saturday promises immediate intrigue, as the new rules could blur the traditional pecking order and open the door for surprise front-runners. Albert Park’s semi-street layout rewards precision and confidence, meaning even small setup gains could translate into a major grid advantage. Come Sunday’s race, strategy, reliability and adaptability will be key, with the opening round often producing unpredictable results as teams navigate the unknowns of a new era.

Later on Sunday, attention shifts to the NASCAR Cup Series with the Straight Talk Wireless 500, where high-speed oval racing delivers a contrasting but equally intense spectacle. Drafting, pit strategy and late-race cautions frequently shape the outcome, ensuring no lead is ever truly safe. With championship momentum at stake early in the season, drivers will be eager to make a statement and establish themselves as contenders in what promises to be a fiercely competitive campaign.

Formula One: Australian Grand Prix

Friday 6 March

03:30: Practice 1 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

07:00: Practice 2 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

Saturday 7 March

03:30: Practice 3 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

07:00: Qualifying – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

Sunday 8 March

06:00: Race – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport and SuperSport Maximo 1

NASCAR Cup: Straight Talk Wireless 500

Sunday 8 March, 21:25 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport

—Variety—

A packed week of global sport delivers elite action across basketball, MMA, tennis and cycling, with must-watch moments throughout the schedule.

The NBA regular season serves up heavyweight matchups, starting with a potential Eastern Conference classic as the Bucks face the Celtics in a clash of title contenders where star power and defensive intensity will be on full display. Later, the Warriors take on the Clippers in a high-octane Western showdown featuring elite shooting and playoff-level urgency. Midweek action continues with the 76ers hosting the Spurs, while the Kings versus Suns promises fast-paced offence and tactical depth. The Spurs return against the Rockets on Monday in a youthful duel with long-term implications in the Western standings.

Combat sports fans are in for a blockbuster at UFC 326, headlined by the rematch between Max Holloway and Charles Oliveira. Their first encounter delivered fireworks, and the sequel promises another explosive striking-versus-grappling battle with high stakes in the division.

In tennis, the prestigious BNP Paribas Open begins, bringing together the world’s best on the ATP and WTA tours in one of the sport’s premier hard-court events, often dubbed the “fifth Grand Slam.”

Cycling enthusiasts can also look forward to the opening stages of Paris-Nice, where early-season form, team tactics and weather conditions will shape the first major European stage race of the year.

NBA: Regular Season

Tuesday 3 March

02:25: Bucks v Celtics – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Action Africa

04:55: Warriors v Clippers – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Action Africa

Wednesday 4 March

02:55: 76ers v Spurs – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Action Africa

05:55: Kings v Suns – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Action Africa

Monday 9 March

01:55: Spurs v Rockets – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport Action Africa

MMA: UFC 326: Holloway vs. Oliveira 2

Sunday 8 March, 03:00 (main card) – LIVE on SuperSport Action, SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Maximo 1

Tennis: ATP World Tour Masters 1000: BNP Paribas Open

From Wednesday 4 March, 21:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Tennis

Tennis: WTA 1000: BNP Paribas Open

From Saturday 7 March

21:00: Day Session – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

04:00: Night Session – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

Cycling: Paris-Nice

Sunday 8 March

16:20: Stage 1 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

Monday 9 March

16:10: Stage 2 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

All times CAT

—Football—

Football fans are in for a packed and thrilling period as January delivers high-stakes international action alongside decisive domestic fixtures across Europe’s top competitions. From continental glory in Africa to crucial league battles and cup drama in England and Italy, the coming days promise non-stop excitement.

The headline attraction is the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals, spread across Friday and Saturday. With only eight teams remaining, every match is a knockout encounter where one moment can define a nation’s tournament. Expect tactical caution mixed with explosive attacking play as sides chase a place in the semifinals. These evening kick-offs ensure prime-time drama, with Africa’s finest talents pushing toward continental immortality.

In England, Premier League Matchday 21 unfolds earlier in the week and could have major implications at both ends of the table. Midweek fixtures see a congested schedule with several simultaneous kick-offs, testing squad depth and rotation. Heavyweights face tricky opponents, while mid-table and relegation-threatened sides look to steal vital points. The standout clash comes later in the round, when two traditional rivals, Arsenal and Liverpool, meet in a match that could shape the title race and momentum heading into the second half of the season.

Adding to the intensity is the FA Cup third round, traditionally one of the most beloved stages of the English football calendar. Spread from Friday through Monday, this round blends Premier League giants with lower-league hopefuls dreaming of historic upsets. Classic narratives are guaranteed: smaller clubs hosting elite opposition, rotated line-ups creating opportunities for young players, and the ever-present risk of a shock result. Several all-top-flight clashes also ensure high-quality encounters alongside the romance.

Italy’s Serie A contributes a double dose of action with Matchdays 19 and 20 played in quick succession. This congested schedule could prove decisive in the title race and European qualification battle. Traditional powerhouses face stern tests both home and away, while matches between direct rivals may swing momentum dramatically. With little recovery time, tactical discipline and squad management will be key as teams navigate this demanding stretch.

Spain’s La Liga rounds out the football feast with Matchday 19 spread across the weekend and into Monday night. A mix of mid-table clashes and fixtures involving European contenders keeps the stakes high. As the season reaches its midpoint, these games are crucial for setting ambitions—whether pushing toward continental places or pulling clear of danger.

Overall, the coming days offer wall-to-wall football, blending international prestige, domestic pressure, and cup magic. For fans, it’s a reminder of why January is one of the most compelling months in the football calendar.

2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Quarterfinals

Friday 9 January

• 18:00: Quarterfinal 1 – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport GOtv AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360
• 21:00: Quarterfinal 2 – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport GOtv AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360

Saturday 10 January

• 18:00: Quarterfinal 3 – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport GOtv AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360
• 21:00: Quarterfinal 4 – LIVE on SuperSport PSL, SuperSport GOtv AFCON and SuperSport Maximo 360

Premier League, Matchday 21

Tuesday 6 January

• 22:00: West Ham v Nottingham Forest – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2

Wednesday 7 January

• 21:30: Crystal Palace v Aston Villa – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 2, SuperSport GOtv La Liga and SuperSport OTT2
• 21:30: Fulham v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport GOtv Football
• 21:30: Brentford v Sunderland – LIVE on SuperSport OTT6
• 21:30: Bournemouth v Tottenham – LIVE on SuperSport Events
• 21:30: Manchester City v Brighton – LIVE on SuperSport Grandstand, SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2
• 21:30: Everton v Wolves – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport OTT3
• 22:15: Burnley v Manchester United – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Variety
• 22:15: Newcastle United v Leeds United – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1 and SuperSport OTT7

Thursday 8 January

• 22:00: Arsenal v Liverpool – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

FA Cup, Third Round

Friday 9 January

• 21:30: Wrexham v Nottingham Forest – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

Saturday 10 January

• 14:15: Macclesfield v Crystal Palace – LIVE on SuperSport Action, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 14:15: Wolves v Shrewsbury – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa and SuperSport Events
• 14:15: Everton v Sunderland – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2
• 17:00: Fulham v Middlesbrough – LIVE on SuperSport Action Africa
• 17:00: Manchester City v Exeter City – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2
• 17:00: Burnley v Millwall – LIVE on SuperSport Events
• 17:00: Newcastle v Bournemouth – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 17:00: Sheffield Wednesday v Brentford – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport OTT3
• 17:00: Doncaster v Southampton – LIVE on SuperSport OTT6
• 19:45: Tottenham v Aston Villa – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2
• 19:45: Cambridge v Birmingham – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport Africa
• 22:00: Charlton v Chelsea – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

Sunday 11 January

• 14:00: Derby v Leeds United – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport GOtv Football and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 16:00: Portsmouth v Arsenal – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League and SuperSport Maximo 2
• 16:30: Hull City v Blackburn – LIVE on SuperSport Action and SuperSport OTT3
• 16:30: West Ham v QPR – LIVE on SuperSport Events and SuperSport GOtv Football
• 18:30: Manchester United v Brighton – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Action Africa, SuperSport Variety, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

Monday 12 January

• 21:45: Liverpool v Barnsley – LIVE on SuperSport Premier League, SuperSport Maximo 1 and SuperSport Maximo 2

Serie A, Matchday 19

Tuesday 6 January

• 16:00: Pisa v Como – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 19:00: Lecce v Roma – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 1 and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 21:45: Sassuolo v Juventus – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 3

Wednesday 7 January

• 19:30: Bologna v Atalanta – LIVE on SuperSport Variety, SuperSport Africa 1 and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 19:30: Napoli v Verona – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 21:45: Parma v Inter Milan – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 21:45: Lazio v Fiorentina – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport Africa 1

Thursday 8 January

• 19:30: Cremonese v Cagliari – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 21:45: AC Milan v Genoa – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 3

Serie A, Matchday 20

Saturday 10 January

• 16:00: Como v Bologna – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 16:00: Udinese v Pisa – LIVE on SuperSport OTT7
• 19:00: Roma v Sassuolo – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 21:45: Atalanta v Torino – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1

Sunday 11 January

• 13:30: Lecce v Parma – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 16:00: Fiorentina v AC Milan – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 19:00: Verona v Lazio – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1
• 21:45: Inter Milan v Napoli – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1
• Monday 12 January
• 19:30: Genoa v Cagliari – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 21:45: Juventus v Cremonese – LIVE on SuperSport Football, SuperSport Africa 2 and SuperSport Maximo 1

La Liga, Matchday 19

Friday 9 January

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

Saturday 10 January

• 15:00: Real Oviedo v Real Betis – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 17:15: Villarreal v Alaves – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 19:30: Girona v Osasuna – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 22:00: Valencia v Elche – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Sunday 11 January

• 15:00: Rayo Vallecano v Mallorca – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3
• 17:15: Levante v Espanyol – LIVE on SuperSport La Liga and SuperSport Maximo 3

Monday 12 January

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

—Golf—

The new year tees off in style as The Golf League returns with an intriguing early-season matchup between The Bay Golf Club and Atlanta Drive Golf Club. Scheduled for midweek, this encounter offers fans a fresh take on competitive golf, blending elite talent, team-based strategy, and fast-paced entertainment into a compelling spectacle.

Both sides arrive eager to set the tone for their campaigns, knowing that early momentum can be crucial in a league where margins are slim and pressure is constant. The Bay Golf Club will be looking to impose their rhythm and precision, while Atlanta Drive Golf Club aim to counter with power, confidence, and tactical sharpness. With innovative formats and head-to-head battles at the heart of The Golf League, every shot carries significance and momentum can swing quickly.

For golf fans seeking something dynamic and modern, this clash promises intensity, drama, and a captivating start to the week.

The Golf League

Wednesday 7 January

• 00:00: The Bay Golf Club v Atlanta Drive Golf Club – LIVE on SuperSport Golf

—Cricket—

Cricket fans are treated to a compelling mix of tradition and modern flair as the Australia v England Test series reaches its climax alongside a full slate of SA20 action. Attention first turns to the fifth and final Test, where days three to five promise intrigue despite the Ashes already being decided.

Australia sealed the series by winning the opening three Tests, asserting their dominance early, but England’s emphatic victory in the fourth Test has restored pride and momentum. With bragging rights still at stake, both sides will be desperate to finish strongly, whether it’s Australia reinforcing their supremacy or England proving their resurgence is no fluke.

While red-ball drama unfolds, the SA20 continues to deliver high-energy entertainment back home. The week features a busy schedule with every team in action, keeping the standings tight and the pressure high. Rivalries are beginning to take shape, return fixtures add extra spice, and early-season form could prove crucial as teams chase playoff positions. From afternoon starts to evening showdowns, the tournament offers a showcase of explosive batting, inventive bowling, and electric fielding.

Together, the closing stages of the Ashes and the intensity of SA20 create a thrilling period for cricket lovers, blending history, rivalry, and fast-paced franchise excitement.

Australia v England Test Series

Tuesday 6 – Thursday 8 January

• 01:30: Fifth Test, Days 3 – 5 – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

SA20

Tuesday 6 January

• 17:30: MI Cape Town v Joburg Super Kings – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Wednesday 7 January

• 17:30: Durban Super Giants v Pretoria Capitals – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Thursday 8 January

• 17:30: Joburg Super Kings v Paarl Royals – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Friday 9 January

• 17:30: Durban Super Giants v Sunrisers Eastern Cape – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Saturday 10 January

• 13:00: Paarl Royals v Pretoria Capitals – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket
• 17:30: Joburg Super Kings v MI Cape Town – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Sunday 11 January

• 15:30: Sunrisers Eastern Cape v Durban Super Giants – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

Monday 12 January

• 17:30: Pretoria Capitals v MI Cape Town – LIVE on SuperSport Cricket

—Motorsport—

Formula E heads to Mexico City for one of the most anticipated stops on the electric racing calendar. Set against a vibrant backdrop and a passionate motorsport crowd, the event promises high energy and intense competition. Practice sessions earlier in the day will allow drivers to fine-tune set-ups and adapt to the unique demands of the circuit, where strategy and precision are vital. Qualifying is expected to be fiercely contested, with grid position often playing a decisive role. When the lights go out for the race later in the evening, expect close wheel-to-wheel action, bold overtakes, and dramatic energy management as the world’s best electric racers battle for valuable championship points.

Formula E, Mexico City

Saturday 10 January

• 00:00: Practice 1 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport
• 15:30: Practice 2 – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport
• 17:30: Qualifying – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport
• 22:00: Race – LIVE on SuperSport Motorsport

—Variety—

A diverse week of global sport awaits, offering fans elite competition across tennis, basketball, and athletics. Tennis takes centre stage with the United Cup running through the week, where nations go head-to-head in a mixed-team format that blends intensity, pride, and early-season momentum. With top players sharpening their form ahead of the year’s first Grand Slam, every match carries added significance.

The build-up continues in Brisbane as the WTA Brisbane International unfolds, providing a key testing ground for leading stars and rising contenders alike. Fast courts and strong fields make this tournament a vital indicator of who may shine later in January. The tennis focus then shifts toward Melbourne as Australian Open qualifying begins, where hopefuls battle through high-pressure matches for a coveted place in the main draw.

Basketball fans are also well served with a pair of NBA regular-season double-headers. Matchups across two nights showcase contrasting styles and star power, as teams look to build consistency and improve their standings in a long, demanding season.

Rounding out the week is the World Cross Country Championships, a true test of endurance and grit. The 46th edition brings together the world’s finest distance runners to compete over challenging terrain, delivering raw, uncompromising athletic drama. Together, these events ensure a packed and compelling sporting schedule.

Tennis: United Cup

• Tuesday 6 – Sunday 11 January, 01:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Tennis

Basketball: NBA Regular Season

Tuesday 6 January

• 02:00: Pistons v Knicks – LIVE on SuperSport Action
• 05:00: Clippers v Warriors – LIVE on SuperSport Action

Wednesday 7 January

• 03:00: Timberwolves v Heat – LIVE on SuperSport Action
• 06:00: Kings v Mavericks – LIVE on SuperSport Action

Tennis: WTA Brisbane International

• Tuesday 6 – Sunday 11 January, 03:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

Athletics: World Cross Country Championships

Saturday 10 January

• 13:00: 46th Edition – LIVE on SuperSport Variety and SuperSport Africa 1

Tennis: Australian Open Qualifying

• Day 1, Monday 12 January, 01:00 – LIVE on SuperSport Variety 1

Ghana’s once-vibrant football scene has seen a sharp decline in recent years, underscored by the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking in an interview with Joy News, Agyepong, a former broadcast journalist, emphasized that sports remain a vital industry that Ghana must harness for both economic and social benefits.

He lamented the weakening bond between local clubs and their communities, which he believes has contributed to dwindling interest and support for the domestic game.

“We have to work out a collaboration to also promote our own game,” he said.
“We have to market the game because it can bring big business and employment. It is surprising and painful virtually to see what is happening to our local league and the fact that the community is not that involved.”

Agyepong, who owns a juvenile club, vowed to play a role in restoring the sport’s lost glory if given the opportunity.

“Our leaders are not as passionate about football as I am, and if I ever have the opportunity, we will do whatever we can to revive the sport as a national game, as a national passion,” he declared.

Despite recent setbacks, the Black Stars remain in contention for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

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Addressing officials of the Ghana Football Association and the Black Queens following their bronze-medal finish at the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, President Mahama said he wants more opportunities created for talented players.

He believes such opportunities could help develop them for future national team call-ups.

“I have asked the Minister of Interior to give priority to sports people when we do recruitment into the security services.

“In the past, when we brought sports people into the services, it gave them the opportunity and equipment and the facilities to train and improve themselves.

“We must re-introduce the Security Services Sports Association (SESSA) games and let the security services compete amongst themselves, and then Kurt (GFA Prez) and co will be standing there, watching and picking the talents and forming the national teams.”

It’s the first time Ghana’s Black Queens have won a medal at the WAFCON since 2016.

Source: myjoyonline

READ ALSO:

• Nigerian jailed for faking identity to get Ghanaian passport
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This strategic move follows extensive research and due diligence conducted over the past year, underscoring RNSI’s commitment to creating an authentic and lasting impact on the African continent.

RNSI’s Africa strategy focuses on forging partnerships with key territories across the continent, and the goal is not only to nurture elite football talent, but also to ensure these young athletes thrive in their careers, achieve success at the highest levels of the game and have the necessary support to make all of their dreams come true.

This vision aims to replicate RNSI’s proven model around the globe, while maintaining a boutique approach to identifying and developing top young talent.

The clearest proof of what this expansion means on the ground is the recent recruitment of several young players from across the continent.

These teenage prodigies, hailing from South Africa, Ghana, Nigeria, The Gambia, Guinea and Zimbabwe, have been carefully identified for their capabilities and commitment on and off the field.

The current group of signed players include:

– Neo Bohloko (Striker, South Africa, Kaizer Chiefs)

– Ali Umar (Central Midfielder, Ghana, Koforidua Semper FI FC)

– Joseph Narbi (Winger, Ghana, Benab FC) Francis Gomez (Winger, The Gambia, Sibonor United)

– Ifeoluwa Olowoporoku (Attacking Midfielder, Nigeria, Tripple 44)

– Mamadou Diallo (Attacker, Guinea, Al Nasr)

– Tadiwa Chakuchichi (Winger, Zimbabwe, Scotland FC)

– Siyabonga Mabena (Winger/Attacking Midfielder, South Africa, Mamelodi Sundowns)

Other regions on the continent where RNSI will be working include the Ivory Coast and Zambia, with more player signings expected in the near future.

RNSI’s Head of Global Recruitment for Football, Nathan Campbell, said it was an incredibly exciting occasion to celebrate this expansion project.

“We believe Africa is a hotbed of untapped footballing potential, and our expansion here is a natural progression of our global vision. Our strategy is built on deep collaboration with local partners, allowing us to understand and address the unique needs of African players, ensuring they receive the best possible support to reach their full potential.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank the newest member of our RNSI football management team, Director of Africa recruitment Grant Veitch, who has been instrumental in the execution of this expansion project.”

RNSI first established a footprint in Africa in 2021 through a consultancy partnership with leading African club Mamelodi Sundowns, which successfully continues to this day.

Furthermore, Emile Witbooi, one of South Africa’s most highly-regarded young talents, recently signed with RNSI.

The expansion into Africa follows RNSI’s move into the South American market in 2023, when it acquired the Brazil-based TFM Agency.

This strategic acquisition brought over 100 footballers under the company’s umbrella, including Brazilian stars such as Vinícius Jr, Gabriel Martinelli and Endrick.

Since opening its London-based office in 2019, Roc Nation Sports International has rapidly progressed to become one of the top 10 football agencies in the world, while boasting an impressive stable of global footballing clients, including renowned stars such as Chris Richards, Federico Dimarco, Luis Henrique, Kerolin and Malick Fofana.

The move into Africa underscores Roc Nation Sports International’s unwavering commitment to identifying and nurturing the next generation of football stars, and RNSI looks forward to working with partners and football consultants such as Ebanor Sports (The Gambia), Olatunji Okuku (Nigeria), Oscar Guirao (Ivory Coast) and Sakibu Nuhu (Ghana).

In recent times, several federations in Ghana have faced significant funding challenges, leading to reduced participation in major international and continental competitions. Some teams have even been forced to withdraw entirely due to a lack of resources.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Sports Nite Show, Mr. Ahmed, who also served as a Member of Parliament for the people of Weija-Gbawe constituency, highlighted funding as the most pressing issue facing sports development in Ghana.

“The biggest problem in Ghana sports is funding. Funding is a challenge, and that is the reason why many disciplines struggle in this country,” he said.

“I will plead for corporate bodies to come on board to assist the various sporting disciplines,” he added.

He recounted a personal experience where he had to borrow money to enable the national weightlifting team to participate in a competition in Uzbekistan—an outstanding debt he is still working to settle.

“I was in Uzbekistan for a competition, and I had to go and borrow before we were able to go and compete, and I am yet to pay that debt, so funding is a big challenge,” he shared.

Meanwhile, the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has indicated that plans to establish a dedicated Sports Fund are at an advanced stage, aimed at providing sustainable financial support for sports development across the country.

His response follows an announcement by current Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson that the government has scrapped the tax while presenting the 2025 Budget Statement and Economic Policy in Parliament on Tuesday, March 11.

“We will abolish the 10% withholding tax on winnings from lottery, otherwise known as the ‘Betting Tax’,” Dr. Forson stated.

In addition to the betting tax, the government has also removed the E-levy, the COVID-19 tax, and the emission levy.

However, addressing the media after the budget reading, Amin Adam challenged the claim, insisting that the previous government never enforced the betting tax.

“Ladies and gentlemen, we never collected or implemented the betting tax. So to come and tell Ghanaians that you have abolished something we never implemented is to deceive the people of Ghana,” he stated.

The betting tax was introduced in 2023, but ahead of the 2024 elections, John Mahama and the National Democratic Congress (NDC) had promised to eliminate it if elected.

The removal of the 10% betting tax is expected to be welcomed by many young Ghanaians, particularly those who rely on gambling as an alternative source of income amid limited job opportunities.

Despite Ghana’s rich history in sports—including Olympic medals, boxing titles, and strong performances in football at both youth and senior levels—the country’s sporting fortunes have dwindled, worsened by the Black Stars’ failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Speaking during the State of the Nation Address on Thursday, February 27, President Mahama admitted the challenges but reaffirmed his commitment to restoring Ghana’s former sporting glory.

“Ghana’s sports sector, once again, which was a shining example of excellence within Africa, now finds itself at a very critical juncture,” he stated.

“Historically, our nation has been celebrated and has had remarkable achievements in boxing, football, and athletics. Unfortunately, this is no longer the case.”

He attributed the decline to issues in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development, stressing the need for urgent reforms.

“However, recent years have unveiled the depressing structural deficiencies in administration, funding, infrastructure, and talent development. Immediate and comprehensive reforms are imperative to reclaim our rightful place on the global sports stage.”

With the Black Stars set to begin their 2026 World Cup qualification campaign after missing out on AFCON 2025 in Morocco, Mahama emphasized the urgency of revitalizing Ghanaian sports to ensure future success.

Football and other sporting disciplines in the West African nation have faced a significant downturn in recent years, with the latest blow coming as the Black Stars failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Addressing the state of sports, Mr Adams, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for the Buem constituency, did not mince words in describing the situation.

“Our football is in a sorry state. The only thing we have is past glories. We are four-time African champions, but our football and the state of our sports are in a bad state, and this is the time for us to come together and help raise the passion for our sports,” Mr Adams told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.

He called on Ghanaians to actively participate and invest in the sector to restore its former glory.

“I want to appeal to Ghanaians to get involved and invest to help revive our sports because our sports is sick and needs to be healed, and it can only be done by showing love so it can be healed.

“Our senior national team is sick, and it has affected all other sports, and it’s about time we invest in our various sports,” he added.

With growing concerns over Ghana’s sporting decline, the minister’s appeal serves as a rallying cry for stakeholders and citizens to help restore the nation’s pride on the global stage.

READ ALSO

• Kofi Adams condemns hooliganism after murder of Asante Kotoko fan
• Sports Minister to hold meeting with GFA today

The dedicated fan was fatally stabbed by unidentified individuals during a Matchday 19 clash between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman FC at the Nana Kronmansah Park in Nsoatre.

Speaking on Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Mr. Adams urged football clubs to strengthen their corporate structures to attract sponsorship deals, emphasizing that hooliganism tarnishes the sport’s reputation and discourages potential investors.

“The clubs must improve their corporate structures and increase their visibility to attract sponsors. Without that, I don’t believe corporate sponsors will be interested,” he stated.

He also stressed the urgent need to eradicate violence from Ghanaian football, warning that no brand would want to associate with a league marred by hooliganism.

“The act of hooliganism must stop because no brand would want to associate itself with negativity. We must find ways to make the Premier League more attractive,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Police Service has arrested six individuals in connection with the incident, including the owner of Nsoatreman FC, Ignatius Baffour Awuah.

READ ALSO

• I will ensure Black Stars qualify for 2026 World Cup – Kofi Adams
• Sports Minister to hold meeting with GFA today

During his appearance before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, Adams acknowledged that while he does not have a direct background in sports, he is confident in his ability to make a positive difference.

“I am honoured by this nomination, and I know many Ghanaians are pleased. I will not disappoint the people, President John Dramani Mahama, or myself,” Adams stated during his vetting.

He also emphasized the importance of maintaining the country’s sports facilities, assuring that they will be properly cared for to avoid deterioration or potential bans on their use.

“We cannot allow our facilities to deteriorate to the extent that we face bans from using them. Strengthening our maintenance culture will be a priority to keep them in top condition,” he affirmed.

Having completed his vetting, Adams now awaits the committee’s approval to officially assume the role of Minister for Sports and Recreation in President Mahama’s administration.

In the past, many Sports Ministers have placed significant emphasis on football, often overlooking other sports. However, Adams has committed to giving equal attention to every sporting discipline.

“We are going to focus more on other sporting disciplines that have not received the attention they deserve,” he stated during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30.

Addressing concerns about his limited background in sports, Adams reassured the committee of his dedication to the sector.

“I know many Ghanaians are happy about my nomination. I will not disappoint them, I will not disappoint President John Dramani Mahama, and I will not disappoint myself,” he affirmed.

With his vetting now complete, Adams awaits approval from the Appointments Committee to officially assume the role of Minister for Sports and Recreation under President Mahama’s administration.

Over the years, many sporting venues across the country have fallen into a state of neglect, raising concerns about their condition.

Facilities such as the Borteyman Sports Complex have been highlighted as needing urgent and sustained maintenance to remain in top shape.

Speaking during his vetting before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, Adams assured that his ministry would tackle these challenges head-on.

“Under the leadership of His Excellency the President, we are going to improve upon maintenance culture,” he stated.

“We will not allow any facility to deteriorate to the point where we could even be banned from using it. With the very minimal resources we have, we will ensure that we maintain our existing facilities while also building new ones.”

His commitment comes in the wake of Ghana’s struggles with inadequate sports infrastructure.

Last year, the Black Stars had to relocate their Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Sudan from Kumasi to Accra after CAF ruled that the venue was unfit for hosting international matches—an issue Adams is determined to prevent in the future.

Over the years, poor maintenance has led to the decline of key sports venues, impacting not just football but various other disciplines.

Appearing before Parliament’s Appointments Committee on Thursday, January 30, Adams underscored the need for proper infrastructure maintenance to support athlete development.

“There are stadiums and training centres that have been left to deteriorate over time. If we are serious about producing world-class athletes, then we must make sure they have the right facilities to train and compete,” he stated.

The Buem MP assured that under his leadership, a strong maintenance culture would be enforced to prevent further deterioration.

“We will not allow any facility to deteriorate to the point where we could even be banned from using it.

“With the very minimal resources we have, we will ensure that we maintain our existing facilities while also building new ones,” he added.

Following his vetting, Adams now awaits parliamentary approval to officially assume the role of Minister for Sports and Recreation under President John Dramani Mahama’s administration.

Speaking During His Vetting, Adams Emphasized That The National Democratic Congress (NDC) Administration Remains Dedicated To Enhancing Sports Infrastructure And Support Systems Across The Country.

Key Pledges Include Constructing National Stadiums In Regions Without One, Upgrading The Winneba Sports College Into A Full-Fledged Sports University, And Introducing Financial Allowances For Footballers Across Various Tiers Of Ghanaian Football.

Responding To A Question From Former Sports Minister Mustafa Ussif, Adams Assured That These Commitments Would Be Fully Realized.

“We Are Committed To Every Manifesto Promise,” He Said. “We Will Discuss Them In Detail And Ensure We Implement Them To The Satisfaction Of Everybody When It Comes To Sports,” He Added.

The Buem MP Also Addressed Concerns About His Background In Sports Administration, Expressing Confidence In His Ability To Excel In The Role.

“I Know Many Ghanaians Are Happy About My Nomination. I Will Not Disappoint Them, I Will Not Disappoint President John Dramani Mahama, And I Will Not Disappoint Myself,” He Said.

With The Vetting Process Now Complete, Adams Awaits The Approval Of The Appointments Committee Before Officially Assuming His Position As Minister For Sports And Recreation Under President Mahama’s Administration.

Despite the Black Stars’ four AFCON titles, this will be the first time in two decades that Ghana will not participate in the tournament, which will be hosted in Morocco later this year.

After six qualifying matches, Ghana ended up at the bottom of Group F with just three points from three draws and three losses.

Kwakye Ofosu pointed out that the sharp decline in the national football scene has caused many Ghanaians to lose interest in sports.

“In the sporting arena, these days there is little to be enthused about as a Ghanaian sports fan. I support the Black Stars, but we failed to qualify for the AFCON tournament, and many Ghanaians have lost interest in what the national teams do,” he said on TV3.

He also shared that he feels disconnected from local clubs, stating, “These days, I claim I support Hearts of Oak, but I don’t even know one player of the club, nor do I know one player of Asante Kotoko because sports are essentially dead in this country. So even rekindling the public interest in sports to support national teams is a difficult task.”

The Black Stars are set to return to international competition in March when they face Chad and Madagascar in the final two World Cup qualifiers for 2026.

Under the leadership of Mustapha Ussif during the NPP government, the Sports Ministry faced criticism for prioritizing the Black Stars while sidelining other sports.

Addressing this concern, Adams, who also serves as the Member of Parliament for the Buem Constituency, emphasized the importance of a more inclusive approach.

In an interview with GHOne TV, he acknowledged the cultural and emotional significance of the Black Stars to Ghanaians but stressed the need to give equal attention to other sports.

“Sports is not football; sports is not just the Black Stars. Sports go beyond football, and football should go beyond the Black Stars. But, of course, the Black Stars are the ultimate. We want to see our Black Stars back again,” he said.

“Black Stars have their management, Black Queens have their management, and badminton has its management… As a sports minister, you are responsible for all of these federations; you are not only responsible for the Black Stars.”

“But whatever leadership you must offer to the other federations and associations to make sure that each and every one of them succeeds, I will do so.”

Adams highlighted that his leadership would extend to all sports federations, from football to badminton, and promised to foster success across the board.

He also reassured Ghanaians that football, the nation’s favorite sport, would not be overlooked.

“I know that football is the nation’s love, and so you don’t reduce your attention on what the nation loves, but you develop all other sports because everything must be developed holistically,” he added.

The 49-year-old nominee is set to undergo vetting before potentially replacing Mustapha Ussif, who served as Sports Minister since 2021 under the Nana Akufo-Addo administration.

Vanderpuye, who previously served as Sports Minister in 2016, expressed confidence in his ability to reform the system and address ongoing issues plaguing the sector.

Speaking to Joy Sports, the Member of Parliament for Odododiodio Constituency shared his dissatisfaction with the current state of Ghanaian sports under the New Patriotic Party (NPP) administration.

“If I become the Minister of Sports in 2025, I will sanitize the Sports. I will sanitize the sports once again. I am not happy with the things going on, I am not happy,” he said.

Highlighting challenges in Ghanaian football, he criticized the influence of individuals exploiting the sport for personal gain, often at the expense of players and investors.

“There are a lot of things going on, there are so many things in our football going on that unless we put bold steps to sanitize the system and take decisions that will ensure to the benefit of those who are doing football and the footballers and not businessmen and shylocks, football will not grow.

“The people who play the game, the people who invest their money, people who invest their time should enjoy football and not people who sit behind and turn footballers and people who do football like poultry chicken and anytime they decide to have then they pick them up for stew and soup and enjoy themselves, no that will not happen.”

A former footballer and sportsman himself, Vanderpuye emphasized his commitment to protecting athletes from exploitation and ensuring a thriving sports environment.

“I have been a footballer before, I have been a sportsman before and I will fight against anyone who desires to exploit any sportsman,” he added.

Meanwhile, the current Youth and Sports Minister, Mustapha Ussif, has faced mounting criticism over the declining state of sports in the country.

Under the outgoing NPP government, the Black Stars failed to progress beyond the group stage of any international tournament in 2020, following a Round of 16 finish in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Egypt.

His remarks comes after the NPP suffered a defeat in the recently concluded 2024 general elections.

Speaking to Asempa FM’s Sports Nite, Yakubu expressed frustration over the state of sports in the country, blaming successive Sports Ministers under the NPP for failing to address critical challenges.

“Our sports have declined over the years,” he said. “The sports ministers under the regime of the NPP government did not help Ghana sports.”

Yakubu also criticized the government’s management of football, accusing them of allowing the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to exploit their tenure.

“A lot of bad things happened under their tenure,” Yakubu said.

His remarks echo the growing dissatisfaction among many Ghanaians regarding the NPP’s approach to sports development.

With the National Democratic Congress (NDC) now set to lead the country, there is widespread anticipation for a new era in Ghanaian sports.

Fans and stakeholders alike hope for improved policies and stronger support for the sector, especially after the Black Stars’ repeated failures to advance beyond the group stage in major international tournaments.

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His comment comes after Ghana missed the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

In an interview with Sports Nite on Asempa FM, Sunday explained that governments around the world play an important role in improving sports.

He encouraged Ghana to follow their example by providing better support for athletes and sports facilities.

“I think that the government needs to help with sports development in the country,” he said.

“We are in Ghana, but we know what other governments in other countries are doing to develop their sports,” he added.

Ghana for the first time in two decades will not participate in the AFCON tournament after finishing at the bottom of Group F with three points after recording three defeats and three draws.

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The operation was conducted jointly by inspectors from the Kenya Copyright Board (KECOBO) and officers from National Police Service in Makadara Subcounty, Nairobi County, and led to the arrest of the primary suspect responsible for the site, which had over 21,000 active users and attracted 27.6 million unique visitors globally within a year.

It’s worth noting that Kenya contributed approximately 8.85 million unique visitors, accounting for 32.08% of the total traffic to the site, while South Africa and Nigeria accounted for approximately 1.62 million and 1.15 million unique visitors, respectively.

score808.US facilitated access to illegal broadcasts of high-profile sports events, including matches from the English Premier League, Serie A and La Liga through channels such as Sky Sports and SuperSport. During the raid, authorities seized the site’s backend database, took the platform offline and the suspect’s mobile phone and laptop for further further forensic analysis by the Kenyan Police Cyber Crime team. Authorities confirm that additional arrests are anticipated as the investigation progresses.

KECOBO’s Acting Executive Director, Mr George Nyakweba, emphasized the importance of protecting intellectual property, while industry representatives praised the operation as a vital step against piracy. “We fully support all rights holders in protecting their intellectual property. It is KECOBO’s mandate to assist rights holders in safeguarding their rights in Kenya. Such raids are crucial in preserving the integrity of the works of the creatives,” said Mr. Nyakweba.

“This is part of our ongoing strategy to address piracy in all its forms across the African continent. We commend the Kenya Copyright Board and the National Police Service for their excellent work in this operation. Their dedication to combating piracy is invaluable in protecting the rights of legitimate content owners,” said Frikkie Jonker of Irdeto, a world leader in digital platform cybersecurity.

The shutdown of score808.US is expected to safeguard legitimate revenue, support job retention, and bolster Kenya and Africa’s creative industry by mitigating the economic impact of piracy.

When the New Patriotic Party (NPP) released its manifesto, it was heavily scrutinized. I, for one, asked questions about the repeated promises and the deafening silence on the majority of the promises they had failed to deliver.

One would have thought that the public discourse, which was hardly complimentary to the NPP, would have meant something to their adversaries; a chance a tweak theirs to reflect a certain appreciation of what the public want and see as their priorities for the sector.

No. In typical tone deafness of the political class, the NDC reworded a lot of promises that they had failed to deliver while in government, and without so much as an explanation on what happened, rebranded them for us. “Chale, the truth be say dem no dey rate we”, to borrow a popular Gen-Z saying.

Former President and flagbearer of the National Democratic Congress, John Dramani Mahama

But what are the key points in the NDC Manifesto on sports?

The Bad.

First things first. The idea to support the salaries of Premier League players with allowances is a hard sell.

Drop it like a bad attitude.

It should not be the taxpayer’s responsibility to fund a private business’s expenditure. If club owners cannot afford to pay decent salaries, then they have no business operating a football club.

The only sustainable means of supporting these clubs is to ensure they are run on sound financial principles.

How do you achieve this? By strengthening the licensing requirements for clubs. Ideally, the club licensing regulations at the Ghana Football Association should be enough for this purpose.

However, its relaxed implementation means, clubs who cannot even fund a full season’s operational expenses, are allowed to compete each year. Last season, Real Tamale United impersonated its players by fielding unregistered players for a league match.

Their players had refused to play for the club following RTU’s inability to pay salaries for more than six months. What did the GFA do? They were only fined GH¢100,000, while its officials were handed one-year bans.

But the root cause of the problem remains unresolved and RTU will participate in the Division One League when it starts on September 27, 2024, with another batch of employees who they cannot pay.

This is why the government needs to introduce legislation that will ensure that through the sports ministry, they issue a special business operating license for clubs.

Clubs in good financial standing will then be eligible for the support packages available to Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Speaking of which, there is a government initiative called the SME Growth and Opportunity Program.

It was launched in July and seeks to “ensure the targeted delivery of financial and technical support to high-growth potential SMEs.” Up to GH¢8.2 billion has been set aside for the program.

Under this scheme, the government will support selected banks with some GH¢ 700 million to offer SMEs highly subsidized financial support for both capital and operating expenditures and offer capacity-building to program beneficiaries.

Part of the loan requirements would be an agreement to invest a percentage into raising assets such as training and hostel facilities, office complex etc., with reasonable timelines. These loans could be released in tranches and only after the clubs have met targets for the agreed period.

To keep the fund running, clubs could contribute a small amount to it periodically. One of the revenue sources for this contribution could be the 10% of all foreign transfers currently paid to the GFA. A percentage split could be reached.

After assessing these loans for a period, the beneficiaries would have grown thanks to the financial and technical support. They would then make way for other eligible clubs to benefit.

If the idea to support football clubs with allowances was crazy, the promise to build new stadiums was even worse. It is unrealistic at best.

At worst, it is a needless, badly thought-through, poorly-consulted concept.
Why do we need eight, probably more, stadiums when we cannot even maintain any of the existing facilities? The stadiums at Essipong, Tamale, and Ho continue to rot away.

As we speak, the Accra Sports Stadium and Baba Yara Stadiums can only host international events with conditional approval.

If the existing facilities were properly maintained, why would we need eight additional stadiums?

Assuming without admitting that such an infrastructural deficit existed, how will the NDC government fund such projects?

The Good.
Upgrading the Winneba Sports College to a sports university. That is the game changer.

Sports in Ghana are currently run on old-fashioned ideas, executed by administrators who cannot see beyond national team per diems and bonuses or the next procurement contracts for Federations.

There are hardly any revolutionary concepts around. There is therefore the need to revamp the space with fresh ideas from top brass executives, right down to physios and kit men.

Such a University could train elite athletes and coaches down here in Ghana, without relying on the United States collegiate system.

If this does not end up as another empty campaign promises or badly implemented, this will be a game changer in every sense of the word.

Low-hanging fruits.

The party has also promised to undertake the emergency refurbishment of pitches, tracks, and other national stadia.

On Monday, the CAF’s conditional approval of the Baba Yara Stadium for Ghana’s AFCON 2025 Qualifier versus Angola became public knowledge. The subsequent warning to send Ghana’s future home matches away, was publicized too.

Not that we needed to be told anyway. For the best part of a decade, Ghana has relied on CAF’s leniency to host official matches. Even the playing surface, which is perhaps the most basic requirement, is nothing to write home about.

In Athletics, Ghana’s elite performers do not turn up for domestic meets partly because the tracks here do not meet international standards. So any performance here is a complete waste of their time.

So by all means fix the pitches and the tracks. While at it, equip the National Sports Authority to maintain them on a long-term basis. These emergency fixes cannot be an everyday thing.

While on the topic of facilities, might I add the party’s promise to build more multi-purpose sports facilities? Why build more when the current government has not and will most likely not complete nine out of the ten facilities they started?

In July 2023, the National Youth Authority told JoySports that they had spent over GH¢119 million on the facilities. Yet, only the facility in Koforidua has been completed, six years after projects that were supposed to be ready in nine months, started.

The prudent thing to do would be to investigate the contracts and scope of work done so far.

Without a proper audit, any further expenditure risks suffering the same fate as the over GH¢119 million that has been spent already.

Whatever you make of the manifesto, there are fundamental questions for the NDC to answer.

What are the revenue sources for all these promises?

We just made a $245 million outlay on the African Games, is this economy which by the way is still in austerity, in the position to support capital projects like the NDC are promising?

If, or when he wins the elections, Mr. Mahama can only govern for four years. How does he intend to do all this in one, four-year term?

Ghanaians would like to know.

Source: Victor Atsu Tamakloe

For years, Ghana’s national teams have received next to no support, with the country heavily favouring the national football team, the Black Stars.

This, according to the NDC, has been inimical to the growth of other disciplines. To this end, the party has promised to end this, should they be voted into office in the December elections.

“We will ensure an equitable investment in other national teams, such as women’s football teams, parasports teams, juvenile teams and lesser-known sports.”

Here is the full list of the NDC’s promises for sports:

1. Support the development of Colts, Division One and Two and the Ghana Premier League by augmenting the salaries of all registered footballers with allowances.

2. Undertake emergency refurbishment of pitches, tracks and other facilities at our national stadia in Accra, Kumasi, Tamale, Cape Coast and Sekondi to meet FIFA standards.

3. Pursue our long-standing policy of establishing international standard stadia in all regions.

4. Build more multi-purpose sports facilities to promote regional sporting events and inter-school competitions as part of our talent development policy.

5. Ensure equitable investments in other national teams, such as women’s football teams, parasports teams, juvenile teams and lesser-known sports.

6. Upgrade the UEW Sports College into a modern sports university offering training programmes in sports, related medicine, science and sports management/administration at campuses around Ghana.

7. Establish Sports Centres of Excellence in the northern, middle and southern zones in collaboration with existing universities and the private sector.

8. Support national athletes more consistently to compete internationally and develop postcompetition careers and pension schemes to cater for national athletes.

9. Offer scholarships to promising sports talents and invest in the establishment of sports academies in partnership with the private sector.

10. Support retired sports personalities in pursuing other sports-related careers after an active sporting life

True to its name, the manifesto offers daring solutions to critical issues in various sectors, outlining the strategies a Bawumia-led government intends to implement from January 2025 to transform Ghana.

In the sports sector, Dr Bawumia highlighted 10 major challenges currently afflicting the industry, including inadequate funding, poor development, and high taxes.

To tackle these challenges, his manifesto proposes a set of “bold solutions.”

Below are the 10 sports problems and the corresponding solutions proposed by Dr. Bawumia when he’s elected President:

Problem: Inadequate funding for sports

Solution: Establish a statutory sports development fund to ensure sustainable financing.

Problem: Lack of corporate support and investment in sports.

Solution: Provide tax incentives to attract corporate institutions to invest in sports.

Problem: High taxes on football clubs and sports entities, such as VAT

Solution: Implement a lower flat tax rate for football clubs and sports entities.

Problem: Salary burden on Premier League clubs

Solution: Support the payment of players’ salaries through policy direction involving the National Lottery Authority (NLA) and the Gaming Commission as part of the Bawumia Government’s direct support to the Ghana Premier League, clubs, and players.

Problem: Unreliable transportation for Premier League clubs

Solution: Provide each Premier League club with a bus as a form of direct support.

Problem: Poor grassroots sports development

Solution: Establish the Ghana School Sports Secretariat with dedicated funding to ensure effective, school-based grassroots sports development in collaboration with the Ghana Education Service (GES) and sports federations.

Problem: Poor preparation for the Olympic Games

Solution: Launch the Operation Olympic Games Glory programme in 2025 to prepare Ghanaian athletes for the 2028 Olympics, focusing on disciplines where Ghana has a competitive advantage.

Problem: Lack of development in emerging or less popular sports in Ghana

Solution: Collaborate with international sports bodies such as the NFL and NBA to develop and promote these sports in Ghana, building on Dr. Bawumia’s existing efforts with the NFL.

Problem: Inadequate sports infrastructure

Solution: Continue the expansion of sports infrastructure initiated by the Akufo-Addo government by completing unfinished projects, constructing standard stadiums in Sunyani and each of the six new regions, and expanding the astroturf projects to cover constituencies without such facilities.

Problem: Poor maintenance of sports facilities

Solution: Implement an effective maintenance model to ensure that national, regional, and community sports facilities are well-managed and maintained.

Dr. Bawumia’s manifesto reflects his commitment to addressing the critical challenges facing Ghana’s sports sector, ensuring that the country’s athletes and sports infrastructure receive the support needed for sustainable growth and success.

Source: Adomonline

Due to the protracted conflict and imposition of curfew in the area, all sporting activities and other form of entertainment have been halted to give peace a chance.

According to him, it is important to use sports as a tool to foster unity and understanding among the youth in the municipality.

Speaking at Division 3 games between Nkwanta Young Desert Warriors verses Kitare Soccer Masters organised by the local FA, Owusu-Gyim highlighted the positive impact sports can have on the youth.

The division games were part of the FA event to promote the best team to the division two middle league.

The game between Kitare Soccer Masters and the former Division two champions Nkwanta Young Desert Warriors ended 0-0

He encouraged the youth to engage in sports activities as a way to channel their energy in a positive direction and build relationships with their peers.

The Football Association (FA) chairman in the area Mr Kwabena Asanyo also echoed Owusu-Gyim’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of sports in promoting peace and unity among the youth.

He called on the youth to embrace sports as a means of building bridges and fostering a sense of community spirit.

Also at the programe, the Nkwanta South district police ASP Agnes Ahiable reiterated police readiness to ensure total peace in the area.

She encouraged the youth to engage in friendly competitions and tournaments to build relationships and strengthen the community.

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This, he explained is because he has achieved his aspiration in football.

Nyanktakyi served as the President of the Ghana FA from 2005 until 2018. The former Wa All Stars owner was forced to leave office due to the Anas Aremeyaw Anas’ expose in 2018.

Under his tenure, Ghana qualified for its maiden World Cup qualification in 2006 and also played at the 2010 and 2014 World Cups in South Africa and Brazil respectively.

The exposé saw the 55-year-old banned from football-related activities by FIFA until he was recently cleared.

“Politics is the ultimate. In all we do…you need political guidance,” he said when asked about his decision to go into politics in an interview with Onua TV.

“I have excelled in sports. You can’t mention three or four people who are famous in sports in Ghana without adding me. I have reached the pinnacle of my career in sports. Apart from Ohene Djan, no one has ever reached where I did in sports. No Ghanaian has served on the FIFA Council. I was the second person after Ohene Djan in the 1960s” Mr. Nyantakyi stated.

He explained that, the desire to make an impact with the acquired knowledge is the rationale behind the decision to go into politics.

“I want to use the knowledge, experience and connections that I have acquired for political influence and help the people of this country. That is what motivated and encouraged me to see if I can help in that regard” he added.

Meanwhile, Kwesi Nyantakyi has formally communicated his decision to contest for the parliamentary seat at Ejisu following the death of Member of Parliament, John Kumah.

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All Friday’s race meetings in Britain have also been cancelled, along with the same day’s Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy cricket fixtures.

The second day of the PGA Championship golf on Friday will not take place.

The English Football League has also postponed its two games on Friday.

A decision on weekend Premier League and EFL fixtures will be made after a review of the official mourning guidance, plus consultation with other sports and the Department for Culture Media and Sport.

Queen Elizabeth II, the UK’s longest-serving monarch, die aged 96, after reigning for 70 years.

Following the announcement, the Southwell horse racing meeting was halted after the second race, and Chelmsford after the fourth race.

The British Horseracing Authority is likely to take a decision on when horse racing will resume on Friday.

Play was also abandoned at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth.

“Out of respect for Her Majesty and the Royal Family, play has been suspended at the BMW PGA Championship at Wentworth Club for the remainder of Thursday and flags at Wentworth Club will be lowered to half-mast,” said a European Tour Group statement.

“Furthermore, no play will take place at the BMW PGA Championship on Friday and the golf course and practice facilities will be closed.”

Organisers say they are hopeful of restarting the tournament at some stage over the weekend but will “review protocol guidance from Buckingham Palace in addition to aligning with what other major sporting events in the UK are doing”.

In football, Manchester United said their game against Real Sociedad in the Europa League went ahead “following direction from the Football Association and Uefa”.

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West Ham’s game against FCSB in the Europa Conference League was also played.

The Scottish Championship game on Friday between Cove Rangers and Dundee has been postponed.

Cycling’s Tour of Britain has cancelled its final three stages in Gloucestershire, Dorset and the Isle of Wight, with Spain’s Gonzalo Serrano given the race victory after keeping his overall lead on Thursday’s fifth stage.

“This decision has been taken in consultation with stakeholders and partners in light of operational circumstances, including the understandable reassignment of police resource at this time,” said a statement.

“The Tour of Britain organisation, alongside the teams, riders and officials involved in the event, send their deepest condolences to the Royal Family at this sad time.”

In rugby union, Northampton abandoned their Premiership Rugby Cup clash against Saracens scheduled for Thursday evening.

Scotland women’s Test international against Spain on Sunday has been called off and Scottish Rugby has also postponed all domestic competitive games this weekend as a mark of respect.

Friday’s weigh-in for the women’s world boxing title fight between Savannah Marshall and Claressa Shields will take place behind closed doors.

Promoters Boxxer are expected to issue a statement later on the status of the bout, which is scheduled to take place at the O2 in London on Saturday.

Formula 1 is planning a minute’s silence with all teams prior to practice on Friday for the Italian Grand Prix, with the race weekend to proceed as planned.

At the US Open tennis in New York, organisers said “to commemorate the passing of Queen Elizabeth II” there would be “a moment of silence prior to the start of the first women’s semi-final match between Ons Jabeur and Caroline Garcia”.

Amélie Oudéa-Castéra blamed a “mass gathering” of supporters with “fake tickets” for the chaos at the stadium.

She also said local youths trying to force their way in made things worse.

But UK’s Culture Secretary described the police response as “deeply concerning” and has urged an inquiry.

French police have been criticised for firing pepper spray and tear gas at some Liverpool fans as they waited to get into the stadium on Saturday evening.

Police have also been accused of disorganisation in the handling of the large crowds of people attempting to access the Stade de France.

The final was delayed by 35 minutes by the trouble outside the stadium, with Liverpool losing the match against Spain’s Real Madrid 1-0.

Ms Oudéa-Castéra’s comments came ahead of a meeting on Monday with the French sports ministry, Europe’s football governing body Uefa, the French Football Association, stadium officials and police to “draw lessons” from the event.

“What happened, first of all, was this mass gathering of the British supporters of the Liverpool club, without tickets, or with fake tickets,” Ms Oudéa-Castéra told French radio RTL.

But she said more people from the local area tried to force their way in through the doors of the Stade de France, where the match was held.

“A certain number of youths from the nearby area who were present tried to get in by mixing in with the crowd,” the minister said.

She also expressed regret that families and children were impacted by the use of tear gas.

The French minister said there were “no problems” regarding Real supporters and the Spanish side had controlled their travelling fans better than Liverpool.

Uefa initially blamed the “late arrival” of fans for the problems.

I came across this issue repeatedly as I tried to access the stadium last night. Locals trying to force their way in leading to security closing the gates and keeping out legitimate fans with tickets. Police either didn’t know how to deal with it or didn’t want to #LFC #UCLfinal pic.twitter.com/JZyexADoMa

— Nick Parrott (@NickParrottTV) May 29, 2022

But Merseyside police, who are responsible for policing in Liverpool and were present in Paris, said the vast majority of Liverpool fans arrived early at the turnstiles and behaved in an “exemplary manner”.

Saturday’s TV footage showed young men who did not appear to be wearing red Liverpool shirts jumping the stadium gates and then running away from security.

Liverpool fans spoke of long queues building up hours before the match started.

Tom Whitehurst said he had to get his disabled son “out of the way” after they were pepper-sprayed.

“The treatment of supporters by Uefa and the police was an absolute disgrace,” he said. “[Fans] were indiscriminately pepper-sprayed and there were people with tickets, who arrived two-and-a-half hours early, who were queuing up and they were charged at by riot police with shields.”

The BBC’s sports journalist Nick Parrott, who was in Paris, said “it was the most petrifying experience I’ve ever had at a football match”. He tweeted that locals were “trying to force their way in leading to security closing the gates and keeping out legitimate fans with tickets”.

Meanwhile, Liverpool player Andy Robertson said the organisation of the final was a “shambles”, adding that he had given a genuine ticket to a friend who was told it was fake and denied entry to the game.

Liverpool legend Alan Kennedy, who scored the winner when his team beat Real Madrid to win the 1981 European Cup final in Paris, also had a distressing experience outside the Stade de France. The 67-year-old was helped over a security fence by supporters to escape the crowd.

Liverpool Mayor Joanne Anderson, who attended the final, described the French police actions as “absolutely disgusting”.

Speaking on BBC Breakfast, Ms Anderson said: “When the game was delayed and I could see lots of Liverpool seats were empty – so knowing that people with tickets hadn’t been able to get in, I went to walk around the ground to see what was going on.

“Seeing all the Liverpool fans bottlenecked together, shouting at officials, or shouting at stewards, and then the riot police just came over and pepper sprayed them.

The chaotic scenes have become a political embarrassment in France, which is due to host the 2023 Rugby World Cup and the 2024 Olympic Games.

Duah is famously remembered for playing a vital role in the club’s promotion to the top-flight in 1995.

Recounting his playing days, the forward revealed that he was not into drugs but was introduced into drugs by friends and got addicted to it.

“I had not taken alcohol until the day I was informed that I was not going to make the trip with the squad to Ecuador due to some paperwork and issues with my passport. I became very sad and bought myself a bottle of Guinness and that was where it all began,” Duah told Asempa FM on the Sports Nite Show.

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“I smoked at least twice a day. Once in the morning and once in the evening. There were a group of players at Olympics who were also smokers so we formed a smoking gang. But I must say that I never took some of the weed to the national team camp but anytime I was dropped from the team those who knew I was addicted to smoking blamed it on my addiction to smoking but that was not the case.

“There was one-time schoolmate of mine visited me at my home at Abeka Junction and brought along cocaine so we started using it.

“There was one time I was dropped ahead of a trip to Egypt. I was asked to go to Accra Sports Stadium to collect my transport allowance but I lied about the situation that I was travelling to Kumasi so that the money would give me money.”

Watch the full interview below:

The seminar was to help football clubs in the premier league as well as the Women’s league on how to secure sponsorships and brand their clubs for optimum impact.

The over all goal is also to help make the local league attractive through effective marketing and branding strategies.

Club representatives were also coached on how to brand their clubs to draw the attention of the corporate world. 

Highly ranked personalities in Ghanaian football were all present at the insightful seminar. 

Media personalities, freelancers and representatives from the Sports Ministry were all present at the seminar. 

President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku, Ike Tandoh, Club PRO’s among other personalities in football circles were also present. 

The seminar which is an initiative of Asempa Sports seeks to provide Branding and Marketing training for elite football clubs in Ghana (Ghana Premier League and Women’s Premier League Clubs).

The seminar will be held at the Sun Lodge Hotel, Tesano from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM on May 14, 2021.

The programme will be facilitated by Dr Isaac Tandoh (APR, MCIM), a Lecturer at the Faculty of Public Relations, Advertising and Marketing at Ghana Institute of Journalism.

Dr Tandoh is a consummate corporate anthropologist and an integrated marketing communications scholar with 18 years of dutifully earned experience in Corporate Communications, Integrated Marketing Communications, Brand Communications, Journalism, Creative writing and Strategic Management.

He has almost two decades of professional engagements serving as head of brands communications, lead spokesperson, and consultant for both local and international brands.

Professional engagements span across multiple industries including Academia, Media, Banking, Publishing, Development Work (INGO) and Consultancy.

He holds a PhD – Management (Outstanding) – Integrated Marketing Communications from the University of Central Nicaragua, an MBA with a focus on Integrated Marketing Communications from the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), Ghana, a BBA -Banking and Finance from the Christian Service University College, Ghana and a Diploma in Communications Studies from the Ghana Institute of Journalism, Ghana.

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His areas of teaching include International Public Relations, IMC, Public Relations & Adverting, Media Release Writing & Copy Writing, Brands Comms Management, Strategic Brand Management, Corporate Social Responsibility, Service Marketing, Relationship Marketing and Marketing Management.

Hon. Mustapha Ussif, Minister for Youth and Sports will give the keynote address.

Also Present for the seminar will be the President of the Ghana Football Association, Kurt Okraku, President of the Ghana Olympic Committee Ben Nunoo Mensah, C.E.O’s and Marketing/Brand officers of all the elite Male and female clubs in the country.

These professionals who lead sports conversations in Ghana were selected following a two-month survey conducted across the country. 

In a statement Wednesday, Oya! Communications Limited, organisers of the award said despite the challenging environment created by the Covid-19, some sports journalists in the country continue to distinguish themselves to the satisfaction of sports fans and lovers. 

“In recognition of the efforts of sports journalists in Ghana during this period, Oya! Communications Limited conducted a study from July 2020 to August 2020 across the country to crowdsource a list of 30 Most listened to and Outstanding journalists,” the statement said. 

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The integrated advertising company has explained the list which would be released every three months aimed at celebrating the men and women who use their mouths to lead sports conversations in the country.  

“We are convinced this is the best way to recognise the good work of Ghanaian sports journalists and to showcase the best among the lot,” Digital Marketing Manager at Oya! Communications Limited, Mr Kwabena Brakopowers said. 

Read the full statement below: 

Multimedia Group Limited had six journalists in the top 50 list.

Kwadwo Mensah Moshosho, who is the host of the Ultimate Sports Show on Asempa FM, made the list.

Joy Sports Editor, Nathaniel Attoh, Gary Al-Smith and Obeng Maestro, who is a co-host of the Ultimate Sports Show also made the list.

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Fire-for-Fire host, Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly known as Countryman Songo, was also recognised for his contributions to sports in Ghana.

Ladies Time show hostess and the Executive Producer of Ultimate Sports Show on Asempa FM, Mavis Amanor was also recognised for her hard work in contributing her quota in sports development.

Below is the full list.

The manifesto has key areas such as fixing the economy, promoting human development, providing infrastructure for growth, providing decent jobs, good governance, and corruption, and deepening international relations and foreign affairs.

In the sports sector, the opposition NDC pledged to fix and develop the sports sector if it wins power at the polls this December.

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Here are the top 10 things the NDC has proposed to do in the sports sector:

• Develop specific Sports Centres of Excellence in the three geographical zones of Ghana
• Develop a strategic framework for the construction of stadia in all districts across the country to scout for sports talents
• Upgrade the Winneba Sports College into a state-of-the-art Sports University with campuses in selected regions to enhance the human resource base and development of sports in the West African sub-region to provide opportunities for training and capacity building in sports management and administration as well as sports management and science.
• Continue and complete the New Edubiase Stadium started by the NDC Government
• Establish sports recreational facilities in communities in every district.
• Use the Sports Development Fund to assist the Sports Associations to provide and improve remuneration and welfare of local sportsmen and women
• Establish a Sports Development Fund to promote sports in Ghana
• Facilitate tax exemption/relief regimes to motivate private sponsorship and promotion of sports in the country.
• Revive and invest in the inter-schools and college games.
• Promote and develop Beach Soccer

The manifesto was themed, “Jobs, Prosperity, and More: The People’s Manifesto.

According to him, betting is a bad lifestyle and, therefore, its patrons should rather channel their money into necessities such as food and accommodation.

Father Campbell was speaking on the ‘Inspire Series’ of the Class Drive (CD) on Class91.3FM on Thursday, 5 December 2019.

The Catholic priest, who was once a guest on the ‘Who Wants To Be Rich’ show and won GHS 25,000 which he donated to the Lepers Association, told show host Prince Benjamin that: “Young kids, they’ve been ruined by [these] things. These street kids, some of these monies they get on the streets, they go into betting and casinos and the rest; it’s bad. When I was doing it, it wasn’t betting, it was just raising money for the lepers and I raised GHS25,000 a few years ago”.

“When you talk to the children, how they go to these betting shops and the rest, it’s shocking”, Father Campbell revealed, adding: “Money they could be spending on food, money they could be spending on accommodation, education, they’re spending and wasting their monies on all of these betting shops and it’s wrong, they shouldn’t do that”.

Father Campbell, who is from Dublin, Ireland, was born on 27 March 1946. He arrived in Ghana on 13 October 1971. He has acquired Ghanaian citizenship and also formed the Lepers Aid Committee to raise funds for cured lepers.

The Ghanaian attacking winger was released earlier this week, and deported to his home country.

Mr Sarfo had been in prison after he was charged with defilement in Sweden months earlier and all was taken into consideration for his early release.

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On September 30, 2017, Mr Sarfo was arrested following accusations of one case of attempted rape, and two cases of statutory rape.

As a result of the arrest, Mr Sarfo was suspended from playing for Malmö FF, a suspension that was lifted on January 11, 2018 awaiting the legal process to be completed.

On January 31, 2018, Mr Sarfo once again was arrested by the Swedish police, suspected of five cases of statutory rape.

On June 8, 2018, he was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison, along with a fine of 150,000 SEK and deportation after having served his jail sentence.

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The midfielder, who took Sweden by storm with his speed and great dribbling ability, is the second Ghanaian player to be jailed in the European country following the ordeal of Kwame Bonsu.

Mr Bonsu returned home to play for giants Asante Kotoko just for one season before he was snapped up by Tunisian giants Esperance following his exploits in Confederation Cup

Source: ghanasoccernet

The award was given to him for his contribution to Ghana’s media and towards social change.

Songo has been awarded with a doctorate degree in humanity by the RICHES THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE AND CLERGY COUNCIL which has its headquarters in the United States.

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This means that Country Man Songo as affectionately called by his viewers and listeners will soon be addressed as Doctor.

According to him, private sector participation in sports will help boost the sector.

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He made this known in an interview ]on Asempa FM after his outfit supported the Ghana Fastest Human competition.

“It’s time the private sector started sponsoring sports because it’s a powerful motivator, unifier and a great opportunity for people to gain fame and money“.

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Mr Yoofi Grant gave 100 and 300 dollars to winners of the Ghana Fastest Human contest in the junior and senior levels, respectively.

Ghana Fastest Human is an annual event organised by GIPC where people from the corporate world and the general public run to exercise with winners awarded.

Mr Yoofi grant took over the position of the CEO of GIPC from Mrs Mawuena Trebarh on February 1, 2017.

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Apparently, Van Vicker who declared his support for Croatia went into a bet with his neighbours (Wife and Children) who supported France.

The losing side was to sleep outside even if it rains…lol

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Well, at the end of the day we all know how it went down. France ended up winning 4-2 on the night.

Van Vicker who had the support of his son had no choice but to jump into the hammock outside and pass the night. And of course with the boy by his side, at least that is what we were made to believe.

In a short video of Van Vicker sleeping in the hammock, the ace actor wrote:

PHOTOS: C.K. Mann laid to rest

“I deserve what came to me., I threatened France supporters in my house would sleep outside in the rain tonight. Well, France won, guess who is sleeping outside in the hammock? I pray it doesn’t rain tonite. My son joins me soon, lol.

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Nigerian-British boxer Anthony Joshua last night defeated Joseph Parker in the heavyweight boxing fight at the Principality Stadium in Cardiff.
Joshua won the fight by a unanimous decision by the three judges after round 12 of the tough boxing fight.
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Following the path that has been walked by boxing legends #AJBXNG

A post shared by Anthony Joshua (@anthony_joshua) on Mar 31, 2018 at 4:13pm PDT

 Joshua and his opponent from New Zealand went into this fight unbeaten, but the British overcame Parker who has never been knocked down according to the commentator of the fight.
Anthony Joshua went into the fight as the holder of the WBA Super and IBF titles, and his victory over Joseph Parker has given him the WBO title addition.

OFFICIAL: Anthony Joshua beat Joseph Parker by unanimous decision and is now the WBA, WBO and IBF world heavyweight champion of the world.
👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽#JoshuaParker pic.twitter.com/RpGEoa30aL

— Bolarinwa Olajide (@iambolar) March 31, 2018

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Anthony Joshua is now the WBO, WBA, IBF and IBO heavyweight champion of the world following his success over Parker in Cardiff.
The 28-year-old was announced as the winner by scores of 118-110, 118-110, 119-109 by three judges.
WBC king Wilder is now the only man in Anthony Joshua’s way of unifying the division for the WBC title.