Frederick Acheampong, a member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council, has disclosed that he and his colleagues faced significant challenges in securing tickets for Ghana’s World Cup qualifier against Chad.
According to him, ticketing falls under the jurisdiction of the National Sports Authority (NSA), making it difficult for even high-ranking GFA officials to obtain access despite their positions.
Speaking to Kessben FM on March 26, 2025, Acheampong clarified that contrary to public perception, the GFA is not responsible for ticketing or stadium security for Black Stars matches, as those duties are handled by the NSA.
“For Black Stars matches, the state takes over, including ticket issuance. Even GFA officials struggled to get tickets from the NSA to watch the games. Security for the Black Stars games is handled by National Security; the GFA have no hand in those matters.
“At the moment, the GFA present the national team, while the NSA and National Security take care of the match. They need to enhance the security protocol,” he said in Twi.
The Black Stars defeated Chad 5-0 on March 21, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium and secured a comfortable 3-0 win over Madagascar on March 25, 2025.
After six matches played, Ghana lead Group I with 15 points, followed by Comoros with 12 points, while Madagascar lie in third position with 10 points.
TheGhana Football Association (GFA) Disciplinary Committee has fined Hearts of Oak for a security lapse during their match against Young Apostles.
The incident occurred on March 8 at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium when some unaccredited fans entered a restricted area after Hearts of Oak secured a 2-0 win.
As a penalty, the club has been fined GHS 20,000, but GHS 10,000 of this amount has been suspended for the rest of the season, the GFA announced on Tuesday, March 25.
The association has also cautioned that any future violations will result in harsher punishments.
Before the league resumed, the GFA put in place stricter rules to improve security on matchdays. However, the Accra-based club failed to follow these guidelines.
Owner of Division One League club Elmina Sharks, Dr. Papa Kwesi Nduom, has been fined GHS 10,000 and given a suspended three-month ban by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Disciplinary Committee.
The penalty comes after misconduct charges related to Elmina Sharks’ game against Swedru All Blacks United FC.
The Disciplinary Committee found Dr. Nduom guilty of interfering in the match, encouraging players to challenge officiating decisions, and making social media posts that stirred tension against referees.
Reports indicate that he entered the technical area without permission and confronted match officials angrily after a controversial call went against his team.
His comments on social media after the match were also deemed inappropriate, as they further inflamed emotions regarding the officiating.
The committee has cautioned that any further misconduct could lead to stricter punishments, including a possible stadium ban.
Elmina Sharks have also been directed to educate their management and staff on respecting match officials and promoting fair play.
Mohammed Huzeinu, the 21-year-old who disrupted Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifier against Chad by storming onto the pitch, has been sentenced to 100 days in prison.
His actions, deemed a security breach under CAF regulations, could result in financial sanctions against the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Authorities have described the sentence as a deterrent to prevent similar incidents in future matches.
“The FA has consistently urged fans to refrain from such actions, emphasising the importance of discipline and adherence to match day protocols to avoid fines and maintain Ghana’s reputation in international football,” the GFA stated.
Ghana has previously faced penalties for pitch invasions. In 2020, the country was fined $10,000 after a similar incident occurred during an AFCON 2021 qualifier against South Africa in Cape Coast in November 2019.
President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, recently met with the Israeli Ambassador to Ghana, Roey Gilad, to discuss ways to strengthen football cooperation between the two countries.
The meeting, held at the Israeli Embassy in Accra on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, focused on deepening ties through various football initiatives.
Ghana and Israel already share a strong football connection, with many Ghanaian male and female players competing in Israeli clubs. The bond was further strengthened when Israeli coach Avram Grant led the Black Stars from 2015 to 2017, taking them to the final of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. Another Israeli, Eyal Lachman, also coached Ghanaian club Hearts of Oak.
During the meeting, both parties explored ideas for cultural and sporting events to celebrate their shared football history. They also discussed technical exchange programs to enhance the skills of Ghanaian coaches, medical staff, and marketing professionals by tapping into Israel’s expertise in sports science and football technology.
The meeting also included discussions about Ghana’s U-15 national team taking part in a tournament in Israel. This opportunity would give young players valuable international experience and help them develop their skills.
Additionally, the GFA is looking to partner with Israeli businesses in Ghana to support football development, including improving infrastructure and grassroots programs.
A key focus of the discussions was coaching exchange programs. Ghanaian coaches would travel to Israel to learn about modern football technology, while Israeli experts would visit Ghana to share their knowledge.
There were also plans to bring specialists to train local pitch managers, ensuring better playing conditions in the country.
GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku expressed confidence that this collaboration would greatly benefit Ghanaian football.
“This engagement with the Israeli Ambassador and his team is a great step towards strengthening our football ecosystem. By leveraging Israel’s expertise in sports science and technology, we can create more opportunities for Ghanaian footballers, coaches, and administrators.”
The GFA is dedicated to building strong international partnerships to improve football in Ghana. It will continue working with key stakeholders to put these plans into action in the coming months.
Also present at the meeting were Michael Osekre, Chief of Staff to the GFA President, and Janice Odonkor, Head of Business Development at the GFA.
Legendary striker and Ghana’s all-time top scorer, Asamoah Gyan, arrived at the stadium alongside Ghana Football Association (GFA) officials, including President Kurt Okraku on Tuesday March 18 when the Black Stars held their second training session at the Accra Sports Stadium.
After the training session, Gyan was seen having private discussions with Mohammed Kudus and Jordan Ayew on the field.
Dr. Randy Abbey, Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee, along with committee members such as former captain Stephen Appiah, also attended the session. They engaged with the players and coaching staff to evaluate their readiness for the upcoming matches.
Additionally, GFA Executive Council member Gifty Oware-Mensah was spotted interacting with some of the players.
A large number of players participated in the training as the team ramped up preparations for their upcoming AFCON qualifiers. Ghana is set to take on Chad at the Accra Sports Stadium on March 21, 2025, before traveling to face Madagascar on March 24, 2025.
Currently, the Black Stars sit second in Group I with nine points, level with leaders Comoros. Madagascar follows in third with seven points, while Mali is fourth with five.
Sports Minister Kofi Adamshas revealed that he initially questioned the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) decision to keep Otto Addo as the head coach of the Black Stars.
However, after the GFA explained their reasons, he chose not to challenge the decision further. Instead, he is waiting to see how Otto Addo performs in the upcoming matches.
As the Member of Parliament for Buem, Adams acknowledged that with the World Cup qualifiers approaching, he had to respect the GFA’s choice, even though he had some doubts.
In an interview with TV3 on March 17, 2025, he stated that, given the ongoing qualifiers, removing Otto Addo is not currently a priority for the government.
“The GFA brought the coach and the other persons to introduce them to me. At that meeting, I raised all those issues. Am I satisfied? I would say time will tell, but I had my concerns, and those concerns, I registered them. But I think at this moment, and at the time that I became the minister, we were too close to these qualifiers.
“So, the issue of changes should not be on the table. That should be the last thing. The issue on the table now is how to prepare the team for the tasks ahead of us,” he said.
Despite calls for Addo’s dismissal, the GFA decided to allow him to lead Ghana in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The Black Stars will face Chad on March 21, 2025, at the Accra Sports Stadium before facing Madagascar in an away fixture on March 24, 2025.
Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara has been charged by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Disciplinary Committee for skipping the mandatory post-match press conference after his team’s 1-0 loss to Dreams FC.
The defeat, which came on Saturday at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium, ended Hearts’ seven-game unbeaten run, with Abdul Razak scoring the only goal early in the match.
After the game, Ouattara reportedly failed to meet with the media, an action the GFA viewed as deliberate and harmful to the sport’s image.
He has until Tuesday, March 18, to officially respond to the charge.
This comes just a week after Hearts of Oak was cited for violating safety regulations when the league resumed.
Hearts of Oak’s loss to Dreams FC was their first defeat in the 2025 Ghana Premier League season after an impressive run of five wins and two draws.
It was also their first league defeat since losing to rivals Asante Kotoko in the Super Clash back in December 2024.
The Phobians are currently third on the league table with 36 points, just two points behind leaders Kotoko. They will aim to return to winning ways when they take on Bechem United on Wednesday in a Matchday 25 clash at the Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park.
Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has disclosed to JoySports that one of the containers used to transport the nine buses procured by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for Division One League clubs also contained over 30 mattresses. The inclusion of these items brought the total expenditure to GH₵356,380.33.
It remains unclear whether the mattresses were intended for the newly revamped Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence or for another purpose.
Last week, JoySports reported that some of the buses, imported at a cost of GH₵5,175,000 and cleared by Freightgistics Ghana Company Ltd., had yet to be registered due to missing documentation, according to some clubs.
Additionally, Hohoe United’s bus was reportedly taken straight to a mechanic shop in Avenor, Accra, upon arrival. The JoySports investigation also revealed that the used Hyundai County bus was shipped alongside other unidentified items in the container.
Further inquiries have now confirmed that these additional imports were medium-sized and student mattresses. JoySports’ Muftawu Nabila Abdulai had formally requested details from the GRA regarding the container’s full contents.
The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has clarified that a total of 40 mattresses were included in the shipment that delivered one of the nine used Hyundai County buses procured by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for Division One League clubs.
This information was received after JoySports had already published its initial report, meaning the details were not incorporated at the time. According to the GRA, the container carrying the black matte Hyundai County bus also contained 25 packs of medium-sized mattresses and 15 packs of student mattresses.
The Cost, Insurance, and Freight (CIF) value of the bus was GH₵212,783.08. Meanwhile, the 25 medium-sized mattresses were valued at GH₵32,597.50, and the 15 student mattresses at GH₵14,027.29.
As previously reported in JoySports’ March 4, 2025, publication, the total duty paid on the bus amounted to GH₵72,116.10. Per the GRA’s breakdown, the duty on the medium-sized mattresses stood at GH₵17,000.86, while the student mattresses attracted a duty of GH₵7,311.63.
“[Meanwhile]… the total duty on the container’s contents amounts to GHC 96,972.46.”
GFA paid GHC 96,972.46 to GRA via its Zenith Bank account The total amount spent on the container, including the CIF value and duty, is GHC 356,380.33.
Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo has urged Ghanaians to rally behind the Black Stars ahead of their World Cup qualifiers in March.
Semenyo has been in excellent form this season, scoring nine goals across all competitions for Bournemouth. His seven Premier League goals—the same as teammate Dango Ouattara—are only behind Justin Kluivert’s 12 for the club.
Since making his Black Stars debut in 2022, Semenyo has become a key player, representing Ghana at both the 2022 World Cup and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
With Ghana set to face Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Semenyo is calling on Ghanaians to show their support and turn up in large numbers for the team.
“As you know, we’ve got our World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar. I’m just reaching out to say continue praying for us. Continue being with us.continue supporting us; we need you more than ever, he said via the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
Ghana currently lie second in Group I, level on points with Comoros, requiring victories in their upcoming games to stand a higher chance of progressing to the World Cup.
Acknowledging the task ahead, Semenyo added: “These two games are so important and crucial for our qualification in the World Cup, so please continue praying for us. Continue supporting us, be there for us, support us in the games in March. We look forward to seeing you and hopefully we can get two wins.”
Ghana, who failed to qualify for the 2025 AFCON, are yet to win a game since June 2024 and will be looking for their first win in 9 months.
Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) Club Licensing Department has approved five venues after a recent re-inspection ahead of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) restart.
The approved venues include TNA Stadium, Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex, Dun’s Park in Bibiani, Nsekyire Sports Arena, and Kpando Sports Stadium.
These venues meet the necessary standards for hosting Premier League matches, ensuring fair competition and adequate safety measures.
Meanwhile, Nii Adjei Kraku Park, Tuba Astro Turf, Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium, Nana Fosu Gyeabour Park, and Nana Agyemang Badu Park have received conditional approval.
They must meet certain requirements before they can fully host matches.
Baba Yara Stadium (home to Asante Kotoko) and Legon Stadium (currently hosting Hearts of Oak and Legon Cities) must address safety concerns before their next official fixture.
However, Wenchi Sports Stadium, Ampanian Arena, and Berekum Golden City Park have been declared unfit due to technical and security issues. These venues will need urgent repairs and upgrades before they can be reconsidered.
The next round of inspections is scheduled for March 9, while the Ghana Premier League resumes on March 7.
Club Licensing approves five venues after re-inspection ahead of GPL resumption.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) Club Licensing Committee has declared six stadiums unfit to host Ghana Premier League matches as the competition resumes.
Among the affected venues are the Baba Yara Stadium and the University of Ghana Stadium, both failing to meet key licensing requirements. Baba Yara Stadium, home to Asante Kotoko, was deemed unsuitable due to the lack of a designated safe zone.
This ruling also impacts Hearts of Oak, Legon Cities, and Accra Lions, as the University of Ghana Stadium does not meet the required standards.
Additionally, Golden City Park, home to Berekum Chelsea, Basake Holy Stars’ AAK Ampanian Stadium in Nzema, and Young Apostles’ Wenchi Sports Stadium have also been ruled unfit for league matches.
Clubs affected by the ruling must either upgrade their facilities to meet GFA standards or find alternative venues for their home games.
The decision aligns with the GFA’s Enhanced Matchday Safety and Security Protocols, introduced following the tragic stabbing of Asante Kotoko fan Nana Pooley in Nsoatre earlier this month.
Despite these venue restrictions, Matchday 20 of the 2024/25 Ghana Premier League will proceed as scheduled at approved stadiums.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member Nana Oduro Sarfo has called on President John Dramani Mahama to hold the Sports Ministry, rather than the GFA, responsible for transparency in the Black Stars’ budget.
His remarks come in response to President Mahama’s statement during the State of the Nation Address on Thursday, February 27, where he emphasized the need for full disclosure on government spending related to national teams.
The President also directed Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams to ensure budget transparency and oversee the GFA’s financial accountability ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
However, Oduro Sarfo argues that the President may have been misinformed, insisting that financial matters concerning the Black Stars are under the purview of the Sports Ministry, not the GFA.
“The President has been misled in making that statement
The GFA does not spend on the Black Stars. The FA submits the budget for approval, and once approved, the Ministry handles all financial matters” he told Takoradi-based Connect FM.
Meanwhile, the Black Stars are set to face Chad in Accra on March 21 before taking on Madagascar in Morocco on March 24 as part of the Matchday 5 and 6 fixtures of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Prosper Harrison Addo, has explained the delay in the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in the Ghana Premier League.
VAR was initially expected to be implemented this season, but it now appears unlikely to be rolled out as planned.
In an interview with 3Sports, Addo reassured fans that the GFA remains committed to incorporating VAR to enhance officiating standards.
“We are on the journey to acquiring VAR, but some countries have more financial resources than others, allowing them to progress faster. VAR is not something you can simply purchase; there are several steps involved, including training for referees and VAR technicians. We have been working with FIFA on this process,” Addo explained.
He further highlighted that while FIFA initially engaged member associations on VAR adoption, the high costs became a major barrier. To tackle this, FIFA is now collaborating with another company to develop a more affordable alternative called “VAR Light.” However, this version of the technology will still take time before it is ready for use.
“Since the full VAR system is costly, we are opting for the second option, but our referees have already undergone some level of VAR training,” Addo added.
The General Secretary of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Prosper Harrison Addo, has explained the delay in the introduction of the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system in the Ghana Premier League.
VAR was initially expected to be implemented this season, but it now appears unlikely to be rolled out as planned.
In an interview with 3Sports, Addo reassured fans that the GFA remains committed to incorporating VAR to enhance officiating standards.
“We are on the journey to acquiring VAR, but some countries have more financial resources than others, allowing them to progress faster. VAR is not something you can simply purchase; there are several steps involved, including training for referees and VAR technicians. We have been working with FIFA on this process,” Addo explained.
He further highlighted that while FIFA initially engaged member associations on VAR adoption, the high costs became a major barrier. To tackle this, FIFA is now collaborating with another company to develop a more affordable alternative called “VAR Light.” However, this version of the technology will still take time before it is ready for use.
“Since the full VAR system is costly, we are opting for the second option, but our referees have already undergone some level of VAR training,” Addo added.
The Ghana Premier League is set to resume on March 7 after a three-week suspension triggered by the tragic stabbing of a fan in Nsoatre.
In light of growing security concerns, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has implemented stricter safety measures aimed at curbing hooliganism and enhancing the safety of players and spectators.
Former Minister of Youth and Sports,Edwin Nii Lante Vanderpuye,has finally been given a role in President John Dramani Mahama’s second term.
The former Odododiodio MP has been appointed as the National Coordinator for the District Road Improvement Programme (DRIP).
Many expected him to return as Sports Minister, but instead, President Mahama chose Kofi Adams for the role. While no official reason was given, some believe it was due to the need for regional balance and parliamentary considerations.
DRIP was started under Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo’s government to improve roads across Ghana. The program provides local government bodies with the tools and resources needed for road construction and maintenance.
Meanwhile, following the challenges the Black Stars faced leading up to their not qualifying for the AFCON in twenty (20) years.
For the first time people and groups expressed their support for Nii Lante Vanderpuye to be reappointed as Sports Minister by the current President when he started naming his Ministers.
Boxing promoter Alex Ntiamoah publicly called on President John Dramani Mahama to appoint Vanderpuye, citing his expertise and commitment to transparency and accountability in sports.
Many fans and members of the sporting community also voiced their support, hoping that Vanderpuye’s strong stance on issues like the Ghana Football Association (GFA) would bring positive changes
Former Black Stars assistant coach, George Boateng, has criticized the Ghana Football Association (GFA) for making poor decisions after the team’s disappointing performance at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Boateng was part of Otto Addo’s coaching team after the 2022 World Cup and stayed on until Ghana’s poor showing at AFCON in Ivory Coast. Following the team’s failure, the GFA dismissed the entire coaching staff.
Although Otto Addo was later reappointed as head coach, he could not secure Ghana’s qualification for the 2025 AFCON, making it the first time in 20 years that the country missed the tournament.
Speaking on SuperSport’s Soccer Africa, Boateng emphasized the need for consistency in team management.
“I am a very strong believer in continuity. I said it straight after the tournament [2023 AFCON] and also in the media that, as disappointing as it is, the federation has to analyze it.
“You have to go in-depth to see where the mistakes were in terms of management, players, and staff, and then you replace those who were not competent enough—whether it be the playing body, staff member, or technical team,” he said.
He also questioned whether the GFA had taken the necessary steps to rebuild after the AFCON failure.
“You then rebuild on that, but I am not too sure if that has been done after the Africa Cup of Nations because you can see that after I left, we have now had a bigger slide. At least when I was there, we qualified and were unlucky not to get out of the group stage,” he added.
Boateng has expressed his willingness to take on a head coach role, as rumors suggest he is being considered for the vacant coaching job at Blackburn Rovers.
With Ghana missing out on AFCON, the Black Stars will now focus on their upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where they will face Chad and Madagascar in Matchday Five and Six.
GFA President Kurt Okrakuhas asked the public to help find the person responsible for the death of Yaw Frimpong, also known as Nana Pooley.
The dedicated Asante Kotoko fan was stabbed during a league match between Nsoatreman FC and Kotoko at Nana Kronmansah Park.
Following the incident, the Ghana Premier League was put on hold, and Kotoko has refused to play until justice is done.
In his first meeting with Kotoko’s management since the tragedy, Mr. Okraku urged anyone with information to come forward and assist in the investigation.
“When that tragic act occurred in Nsoatre, there was someone present with the person who took Nana Pooley’s life. That person must be honest with football and reveal the killer’s identity. It’s a painful moment, but also an opportunity to make a positive impact on our game,” he said.
Acknowledging the current difficulties facing Ghanaian football, Okraku expressed confidence in overcoming the challenges.
“I have always said that the journey to transform our football is tough and rough, and right now, we are facing one of our toughest moments. But we will get through it,” he added.
Meanwhile,the FA Cup Roundof 16 matches will proceed as scheduled this weekend, though Asante Kotoko has opted out.
Francis Yaw Frimpong, popularly known as Nana Pooley, was a devoted supporter of Asante Kotoko. Tragically, he was stabbed to death during a Ghana Premier League match between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko on February 5, 2025.
The incident occurred at the Nana Kronmansah Park, and it has sparked widespread calls for justice and accountability1.
Nana Pooley’s death has deeply affected the football community, with many mourning the loss of a passionate and dedicated fan.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Kurt Okraku, has condemned the violence and urged eyewitnesses to come forward to help identify the perpetrator. Asante Kotoko has also suspended their participation in the league until justice is served.
FormerGFA President Kwesi Nyantakyi says he has no plans to return to football administration, even after his ban is lifted, because of the difficult experience he went through.
FIFA initially banned him for life from all football activities after journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas released an investigative documentary in June 2018.
The documentary exposed alleged corruption in Ghanaian football and showed Nyantakyi accepting $65,000 from an undercover reporter pretending to be a businessman.
Nyantakyi later appealed to the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS), which reduced his ban to 15 years. This sparked rumors that he wanted to return to football administration.
However, in an interview with Kessben TV, the former CAF Vice President said that while he still loves football, he has no interest in coming back.
“Although I still have a passion for football, I am not interested in becoming FA President again or taking up any other administrative role. The fear of going through a similar ordeal will always be there,” he stated.
He further explained that even if the ban had not been imposed, his experience after the documentary completely deterred him from considering a return. He described the situation as an attempt on his life.
“Honestly, even if I hadn’t been banned, I wouldn’t have returned. That experience showed me that they had the power to harm me because it felt like they wanted to kill me. Not many people can survive such an ordeal,” he added.
During his time in charge, Ghana made history by qualifying for its first-ever FIFA World Cup in 2006. He also guided the national team through the 2010 and 2014 World Cup tournaments.
Additionally, under his leadership, Ghana’s U-20 team, the Black Satellites, won the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2009..
GFA President Kurt Okraku has told match commissioners that they will lose their jobs if they do not do their work well.
He spoke at a training session for match officials on Tuesday, highlighting the need to improve safety and security in Ghana’s top football league.
His warning came after the sad death of Asante Kotoko fan Francis Frimpong, also called Pooley, who was stabbed during the team’s Week 19 match against Nsoatreman FC in Nsoatre.
After this incident, the Ghana Premier League was stopped while the GFA discussed with all 18 clubs how to prevent future violence.
“We’ll be very, very fair in assessing your work. Be honest,” Okraku said during the engagement.
“Those who fall below the line, unfortunately, will leave us. When you hear the discourse in the public space, you would admit that all is not well. And if we have the opportunity to fix what is not right, this is the most opportune time.”
The suspect in Pooley’s death, known as Brimah, is still on the run. Consequently, A former manager of Asante Kotoko, is offering GH¢10,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to the arrest of the person who killed Francis Yaw Frimpong, known as Nana Pooley.
Serebour Boateng announced on Facebook that the reward will be given to anyone whose information helps catch the main suspect in the murder case.
Asante Kotoko’sfirst team will return to training today, but the club has stated that they will not play any official matches until justice is done for their late supporter.
About Pooley’s death
Francis Yaw Frimpong, affectionately known as Nana Pooley, was a passionate supporter of Asante Kotoko. Tragically, he was fatally stabbed on February 2, 2025, following a Ghana Premier League match between Asante Kotoko and Nsoatreman FC at Nana Koramansah II Park.
The incident occurred after an on-field altercation among players escalated into the stands, leading to a violent confrontation. Pooley was caught in the chaos and suffered a fatal stab wound to the heart. The autopsy report revealed that the weapon used was about 7.5 cm long, and the cut to his heart was approximately 1.6 cm deep, causing catastrophic internal bleeding.
The Ghana Police Service has arrested six suspects in connection with the incident, including former Sunyani West MP Ignatius Baffour-Awuah, who is also the owner of Nsoatreman FC. The football community has been deeply affected by Pooley’s death, and there have been calls for justice and an end to hooliganism in Ghanaian football.
A one-week memorial was held on Sunday, February 16, 2025, for the late Asante Kotoko fan, Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as Pooley.
The event, which took place at Heroes Park in Kumasi, was attended by officials from the Ghana Football Association, representatives from the Ghana Police Service, and several Ghana Premier League clubs.
Among the clubs present were Hearts of Oak, Bechem United, Nations FC, and Bibiani Gold Stars, who joined Kotoko in mourning their devoted supporter. Asante Kotoko players and fans, including members of the Porcupine Tertiary supporters group, also gathered to pay their respects.
After the ceremony, Asante Kotoko expressed appreciation to everyone who came to support them during this difficult time.
“Asante Kotoko SC, through this note, expresses our sincerest appreciation for your exceptional efforts and support during the one-week observation of our departed supporter, Francis Yaw Frimpong, also known as Nana Pooley. Though grieving, the club is overwhelmed by your massive show of love, unity, and the preservation of culture.
We assure you that, with your support, we can make a difference in the sport we all love. Special mentions go to the Ghana Police Service, the GFA, GHALCA, Hearts of Oak, Bechem United, Bibiani Gold Stars, Ashanti Gold, Nations FC, and the entire football community,” the club wrote.
Pooley was stabbed to death during a league game between Nsoatreman and Kotoko on Sunday, February 2, 2025, in Nsoatre.
Elmina Sharks ownerPaa Kwesi Nduom has accused the hierarchy of the Ghana Football Association of conflict of interest in running the Premier League.
The politician expressed his frustrations over management of the country’s top-flight competition, which has been plagued with several challenges including poor officiating, lack of a headline sponsor, and absence of broadcast rights holders.
It hit a new low in hooliganism when Asante Kotoko supporter Francis Frimpong “Pooley” was stabbed to death during a Week 19 clash against Nsoatreman in Nsoatre.
“The people who run the league, there is a conflict of interest,” Nduom said in an interview with GTV Sports Plus.
“Why should an owner of a team be President of GFA, why should an owner of a team be a vice-president of the GFA.
“We can’t sack them because people’s hands are in their mouth. Can you go and sack the people who are there now? No.”
Elmina Sharks players and supporters were allegedly involved in acts of hooliganism against Swedru All Blacks in a Division One – less than three weeks following the demise of Pooley and on his one-week celebration.
“Isn’t it a consequence of what has been happening in the country? If you let people misbehave from Premier, Division One, Division Two, what do you expect? If I was not at the stadium, what do you think would have happened?
Meanwhile, Sharks’ Jay Asamoah has been charged with breaching Section 13 (1) (k) of the Ghana Football Association’s Disciplinary Code for allegedly assaulting referee Eso Doh Morrison.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) and theGhana Police Serviceare creating new Sports Safety and Security training for new police recruits. They had a meeting on February 14, 2025, at Police Headquarters to finalize the plan.
This follows an earlier announcement by the Inspector General of Police (IGP) during a meeting with the GFA and Premier League clubs on February 5, 2025. The Police Service will start including sports policing in their training right away.
Julius Ben Emunah, Head of Competitions and a CAF Certified Safety and Security trainer, met with leaders of the National Police Training School (NPTS) to finalize the training materials.
The meeting included ACP Mike Baah, Commanding Officer of NPTS, Chief Superintendent Charles Asiamah Agyei, Director of HR, DSP Richard Wieking Welleh, Staff Officer at NPTS, ASP Festus Addo, Training Officer at NPTS, and Chief Inspector Kwadwo Mensah, an instructor at NPTS.
They discussed content from both the GFA and the Police Service, which will be compiled into a manual for all six Police Training Schools.
To further enhance the program, Emunah and another CAF trainer, Captain (Rtd) Nick Owusu, will hold Training of Trainers (TOT) workshops for selected instructors soon. Additionally, the Police Service will benefit from the CAF Safe Stadium program hosted by the GFA in September 2025.
The GFA and the Police Service are committed to this initiative, ensuring that current police recruits gain practical experience at matches under police supervision before they graduate.
During an interview on Kessben FM in Kumasi, the former AshantiGold SC executive voiced his concerns about Adams’ frequent media appearances. He noted that the Buem constituency MP has been discussing sports matters publicly without consulting key stakeholders first.
Acheampong recommended that the minister should engage with essential bodies like the GFA and the National Sports Authority (NSA) before making public statements on sports issues. He stressed that understanding the sector thoroughly would be vital for Adams’ success in his role as the minister.
“Coming from a political background, he feels compelled to be seen taking action, but personally, I think the interviews are excessive. So far, he hasn’t achieved anything as sports minister, yet he’s been doing multiple interviews,” he said.
“He [Kofi Adams] should have done a comprehensive interview after visiting various sectors like the NSA, GFA, and others. I think he could tone down, acquaint himself with the happenings, and speak from experience. Then he would understand why there are problems with the Black Stars,” Acheampong said.
Kofi Adams is set to meet with theGhana Football Association (GFA)next week to discuss the Black Stars’ upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifier matches against Chad and Madagascar.
General Manager of Aduana Stars, Takyi Arhin, has voiced strong opposition to Anas Aremeyaw Anas’Number 12 exposé, claiming it had a detrimental effect on Ghanaian football.
Released in June 2018, the documentary shed light on widespread corruption within the sport in Ghana, causing significant upheaval. Among those implicated was former Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kwesi Nyantakyi, who was shown engaging in unethical practices.
Despite facing charges of fraud and corruption, Nyantakyi was acquitted by a High Court in Ghana after a five-year legal battle. Following the verdict, Arhin criticized the exposé, arguing that it had set Ghanaian football back by decades.
“The Anas exposé has taken us back about 50 years. Our football has not been the same as it was during the days of Kwesi,” he told ChannelOne TV.
He acknowledged the efforts of current GFA President Kurt Okraku but insisted that Ghanaian football had suffered a major setback.
“Kurt (Okraku, the GFA President) is doing his best… He (Nyantakyi) was Vice President of CAF, EXCO Member of FIFA; now Kurt is also gunning for the CAF Executive Council member position.
“If Kwesi was still there, and Kurt had been added, our football would have been in a better place. The Anas exposé has set our football back by 50 years,” he added.
Following the exposé, Nyantakyi lost his positions as GFA president, 1st CAF Vice President, WAFU president, and FIFA Executive Council member.
Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has strongly criticized Black Stars coach Otto Addo for his performance with the team.
The 49-year-old, who was reappointed in March 2024 on a three-year deal, has dominated the headlines for the wrong reasons after failing to steer the team to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
For the first time in two decades, Ghana will not compete in the AFCON tournament after failing to win any of their six qualification games. The team recorded three defeats and three draws, finishing at the bottom of their group.
The poor performance has led the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to augment the Black Stars’ technical team ahead of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
“The data is very poor; in fact, it’s terrible. Looking at only the data, there is no way he [Otto Addo] should’ve stayed on,” Adams told Metro TV.
“The GFA took a decision to do away with those around him, but what was surprising was that the head coach was maintained.
“Maybe something informed that decision.
“It may be financial, but an engagement with the GFA will certainly let us know what led to that decision,” he added.
Ghana will take on Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers next month, marking their first outing since the AFCON qualification disappointment.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has refuted reports suggesting that a by-election will be held to replace Gifty Oware-Mensah on the Executive Council, according to a publication by GhanaSoccerNet.com.
Contrary to speculation, Oware-Mensah remains actively involved in GFA affairs and has been participating in meetings, including a recent high-level discussion on football-related matters.
The GFA has clarified that there are no plans to replace any Executive Council member and has urged the public to disregard such claims.
Rumors of her removal surfaced following allegations that she had been absent from recent council meetings and had left the country.
This speculation was further fueled by her association with the National Service Scheme (NSS) scandal, where over 80,000 ghost names were allegedly uncovered on the scheme’s personnel list during her tenure as Deputy Executive Director.
Despite the controversy, Oware-Mensah continues to play a significant role in Ghanaian football. She owns Berry Ladies FC and also serves as the Chairperson of the Black Queens’ Management Committee.
Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has announced thatOtto Addo’sposition as head coach of the Black Stars will be reviewed.
Despite signing a three-year contract in March 2024, with an option for an additional two years, Addo has come under fire after Ghana failed to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) for the first time in 20 years. The team’s inability to win any qualifiers has led to widespread calls for a complete overhaul of the technical staff.
As the Black Stars gear up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has bolstered the coaching team. However, Kofi Adams stressed in an interview with Woezor TV that the government, not the GFA, funds the national team’s technical staff, and any decisions should involve state consultation.
By emphasizing state involvement, Adams highlighted the need for a collective approach to address the current challenges facing the team and to ensure a successful future.
“First of all, the GFA doesn’t pay the Black Stars technical team; the government does, so you cannot go and appoint someone and say this is what I have appointed to manage a team that does not belong to you,” he said.
“The national team does not belong to the GFA, and neither do they pay the coaches. It is the state that pays, so nobody can sit anywhere and say that when they decide, they cannot consult anybody in making that decision. If that is the mindset of how they approach their work, then they will have issues.
“The country has only asked the GFA to manage the national teams, and that is why the state pays the coaches and still funds all the qualifiers. So how do you appoint somebody that the state will pay but don’t involve the state in decision-making?” he quizzed.
German coach Winfried Schäfer has been brought in as a technical advisor for the Black Stars and as the technical director for the association. Additionally, Black Satellites coach Desmond Ofei has joined the technical team, while John Paintsil and Fatau Dauda continue in their roles as second assistant coach and goalkeepers’ trainer, respectively.
Kris Perquy has been appointed as the team psychologist, and Gregory De Grauwe will serve as the video analyst.
Despite these changes, Sports Minister Kofi Adams has expressed concerns over the GFA’s approach to decision-making regarding coaching appointments.
With Ghana missing out on AFCON 2025, the Black Stars will shift their focus to the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifiers, where they will face Chad and Madagascar in the next round of matches next month.
Swedish coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren has arrived in Ghana to officially begin his tenure as head coach of the Black Queens.
The 43-year-old landed at Kotoka International Airport on Wednesday, February 12, where he was welcomed by officials from the Ghana Football Association (GFA).
His appointment follows the exit of Nora Hauptle, leaving him with the challenge of building on her legacy.
Bjorkegren’s appointment was confirmed last month after finalizing a two-year contract with the GFA.
He is set to hold his first official press conference on Friday, February 14, at the GFA Secretariat, where he will outline his vision for the national women’s team.
His first assignment with the Black Queens will be a friendly match against Morocco in Casablanca next week, serving as part of the team’s preparation for the rescheduled 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in July.
As he takes charge, Bjorkegrenwill be focused on guiding the team beyond the group stage of the WAFCON and making a strong impact in the tournament.
The two boreholes constructed by the Ghana Football Association (GFA)at Sunyani Coronation Park are reportedly too shallow and have not served their intended purpose since being commissioned a year ago according to .
The project was part of the GFA’s initiative to provide reliable water access to sports facilities. However, Bono Regional Director of the National Sports Authority, Foster Boakye, revealed that one of the boreholes is so shallow that it pumps out clay instead of clean water, making it unusable for watering the pitch.
GFA President Kurt E.S. Okraku had commissioned three boreholes in the region—two at Coronation Park and one at Sunyani Technical University.
This was part of the GFA Executive Council’s decision to use funds from FIFA’s Forward 1.0 program to improve playing conditions by ensuring access to water at various stadiums nationwide.
The project has benefited several leagues, including the Premier League, Division One League, Women’s Premier League, and other regional game centers. However, a year later, the NSA director for Bono says the initiative has not fully achieved its goal.
“They gave us two boreholes, but unfortunately one of the boreholes was too shallow. Right now, they have connected the new dressing room to that borehole and that is what the players use to shower anytime they play matches. Before God and man, anytime we pump water it’s more or less clay that comes out. How can we use such clay water to water the park, he quizzed. That’s why we channelled that borehole to the dressing room,” he said.
Foster Boakye said that when he informed aGFA Executive Council member about the issue, he was told to handle it himself.
“I even spoke to one of the FA Exco members and pleaded with him that if it could be possible, they could even let the person come and do the drilling again so that the dirt or clay we see in the water will go down. I spoke to him and he said as for that one the NSA should take care of the cost. But my question is where is the NSA going to get the money from to do all those things?” he quizzed.
Meanwhile, the club licensing board of the GFA has revoked the license of the Sunyani Coronation Park with immediate effect for not meeting their requirements.
Ghana’s Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has announced that discussions will be held with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) concerning the future of Black Stars head coach Otto Addo.
Reappointed in March 2024 on a three-year contract, the 49-year-old Addo has faced significant scrutiny after failing to secure the national team’s qualification for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
In response to growing concerns, the GFA has taken measures to bolster the Black Stars’ technical team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
As part of these changes, the experienced German coach and former Cameroon AFCON winner, Winfried Schäfer, has been appointed as the technical advisor and football director for both the Black Stars and the GFA.
Additionally, Kris Perquy will join as the team psychologist, and Gregory De Grauwe will take on the role of video analyst.
In an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show, Minister Adams recognized the decision to retain Addo but stressed the importance of further evaluation to determine if he remains the right fit for the role.
“We will engage the GFA on the future of Otto Addo, and we will arrive at a common ground and know whether he will stay or leave,” he said.
“We didn’t qualify for the AFCON, but we plan to qualify for the World Cup, so we will engage the GFA to know if Otto Addo is the right person for the team going forward.
“I have heard all the complaints of Ghanaians, but we will engage the GFA. I believe that we cannot do the same thing and expect a different result,” he added.
Meanwhile, formerBlack Stars players John Paintsil and Fatau Dauda have been retained as part of the technical team.
Executive Committee Member of the Ghana Football Association (GFA),Fredrick Acheampong, also known as Fred Achie, has asserted that the GFA has the authority to independently make decisions regarding the Black Stars.
He emphasized that while the public is welcome to express their opinions on these decisions, they cannot force the GFA to reverse them.
Acheampong further clarified that the GFA is not obliged to consult the public or external stakeholders for input on their decisions, only those within the association have a say, and no single individual can exert influence over their actions.
“The Ghana Football Association (GFA) do not need to consult anyone to make a decision on the Black Stars. We are the administrators of the various national teams, and we don’t need to consult anyone in making decisions,” Acheampong told Asempa FM.
The backlash followed the GFA’s decision to retain Otto Addo as the head coach of the Black Stars, with John Paintsil continuing in his role as the assistant coach.
Additionally, their appointment of Winfried Anton Schafer, a German coach who led Cameroon to victory in the 2002 African Cup of Nations (AFCON), as the Technical Advisor sparked further controversy.
Business consultant and founder of Ghana’s Progressive People’s Party (PPP), Dr. Paa Kwesi Nduom, has urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to implement significant reforms following the tragic incident at Nsoatre last weekend.
The incident claimed the life of Francis Frimpong, popularly known as Pooley, an ardent Asante Kotoko supporter who was fatally stabbed during the club’s matchday 19 clash against Nsoatreman at the Nana Koroman II Stadium.
In the aftermath, three individuals have been arrested in connection with the violent disturbances that marred the game. While the GFA has launched investigations and charged those involved, Dr. Nduom believes these measures fall short of addressing the deeper issues.
He is calling for comprehensive reforms within the GFA to prevent such tragedies in the future and to ensure the safety of fans and players alike.
“The GFA needs a serious overhaul,” he shared in a post on Facebook.
“A few people at the top feed on FIFA money and leave the clubs, referees and players hungry.
“What are we waiting for? More deaths, bankruptcies and Black Stars losses?” he quizzed.
As part of the measures, the Ghana FA is set to meet with the Ghana Premier League clubs on Thursday, February 6, while a meeting with the supporters leadership is also in line for Friday.
In the mean time, no Ghana Premier League fixture will be played this weekend.
Ghana Football Association (GFA) has suspended allGhana Premier Leaguematches in response to the recent outbreak of violence in Nsoatre.
The violent incident, which occurred during a match between Nsoatreman FC and Asante Kotoko on Matchday 19, tragically resulted in the death of a Kotoko supporter.
In light of this, the GFA has announced the postponement of Matchday 20 fixtures. The Association explained that this decision will allow time to engage with key stakeholders to assess the impact of the incident and explore measures to prevent such occurrences in the future.
The action taken “will allow the GFA to assess the situation, consult with stakeholders, and develop strategies to prevent such incidents in the future.”
“The GFA has been working to improve the overall football experience in Ghana and is keen to ensure that this incident is dealt with swiftly and decisively to send the signal that such acts have no place in Ghana Football.”
The victim, Francis Frimpong, widely known as Pooley, was a devoted fan of Kumasi Asante Kotoko.
According to an eyewitness present in the VIP section of the stadium, the altercation erupted while they were seated near Ignatius Baffour Awuah, the former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations.
“I was seated right below Hon. Baffour Awuah, who is the owner of the club, when the fight started on the pitch,” he said in Twi.
“Kwasi Appiah [Head ofAsante Kotoko’s Technical Directorate] was seated to his right. So when the fight broke out, he went downstairs to try and calm the situation.
“When he got there, he signalled for Kwasi Appiah to join him, but some of the Kotoko leadership advised Appiah not to, warning that the situation was too volatile and he could be attacked, so Appiah stayed back,” he narrated.
According to the eyewitness, this angered Baffour Awuah.
“He got upset that Appiah ignored him and, out of frustration, signalled the supporters to continue what they were doing. He incited the fans. On his way back to his seat, Pooley approached him.”
Reports indicate that Appiah was hit with water, prompting him to exit the stadium.
However, just as calm seemed to return, the situation took a devastating turn.
The long-awaited restructuring of the Black Stars’ technical team was finally confirmed late on Tuesday, January 28, 2025.
Anticipating mixed reactions over their decision to retain Otto Addo, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) quietly unveiled the revamped technical setup.
Otto Addo remains as head coach, with John Paintsil unexpectedly keeping his role as assistant coach. In a notable addition, experienced German coach Winfried Anton Schäfer, who led Cameroon to an AFCON victory in 2002, has been appointed as a technical advisor.
Additionally, Desmond Ofei, previously the head coach of the Black Satellites, has been promoted to assistant coach, replacing Joseph Laumann.
For the first time, the Black Stars have added a sports psychologist to their backroom staff. Kris Perquy, a seasoned professional with 17 years of experience, has been appointed to provide psychological support to the team.
In a bid to enhance tactical preparation, Belgian video analyst Gregory De Grauwe will lead the Video Analysis Unit. With a UEFA License B Coaching certificate and a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Education, De Grauwe has honed his expertise with clubs like Sporting Lokeren and K. Beerschot VA.
The team has also bolstered its logistics department by appointing two highly experienced equipment officers—Issah Amadou from Asante Kotoko and Abdul Rahman Alhassan from Hearts of Oak. Together, they bring an impressive 53 years of combined experience in managing football equipment.
The restructured technical team will have its first major test in March when they guide the Black Stars in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
The President of theGhana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Okraku,has been approved to run for a position on the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in the upcoming elections.
In a Facebook post, Mr. Okraku shared that he had successfully passed the required integrity and eligibility tests to qualify as a candidate.
“I am delighted to share that I have been cleared to contest for a place on the Executive Committee of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) after successfully passing the integrity and edibility (eligibility) test.
I am excited with what lies ahead! May God guide us through this journey,” he wrote.
The story of his decision to contest was first reported by Muftawu Nabila Abdulai on January 14, 2025.
The CAF Elective Congress, where members will decide on new Executive Committee members, is scheduled to take place on March 12, 2025, in Cairo, Egypt.
Mr Okraku’s successful bid for a position on theCAF Executive Committeeis unopposed and he will be automatically elected onto the powerful decision-making body as the WAFU Zone B representative.
The Referee Manager of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Alex Kotey, has announced that the Video Assistant Referee (VAR) system will be introduced in the Ghana Premier League next season.
According to Kotey, referees will undergo a three-month training program to help them understand how to use the technology before it is officially put into use.
He added that FIFA’s plan is to roll out the VAR system at the start of the 2025/2026 Ghana Premier League season.
“We want to start next season somewhere in August or September. We have two or three months to train.
That is the plan from FIFA. We can do it in less than three months if our people can catch it fast,” he said.
Reports suggest that Alex Kotey and FIFA-certified VAR referee Daniel Laryea will be in charge of training the referees.
In addition, the league’s official broadcaster will also receive special training from FIFA experts to get ready for the introduction of VAR in the 2025/26 season.
Football Association of Zambia has officially namedNora Häuptle as the new head coach of the Copper Queens after she parted ways with Ghana’s Black Queens.
The announcement was made on Friday at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel, where the Swiss coach signed a three-year deal to take charge of Zambia’s women’s national team. She takes over from Bruce Mwape, the former coach.
Nora decided not to extend her contract with Ghana after completing her two-year term, which led to her exit.
Nora Häuptle’s main goal now is to prepare Zambia for the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), which will take place in July.
Her first task is to get the team ready by planning a series of friendly matches to help them improve.
Interestingly, Zambia had previously knocked out Häuptle’s former team, Ghana’s Black Queens, in the qualifiers for the 2024 Olympic Games after a two-legged match.
After Häuptle left, theGhana Football Association appointed Kim Lars Bjorkegren as the new head coach of the Black Queens.
Nsoatreman FC has been charged with misconduct by theGhana Football Association (GFA)after their Premier League game against Medeama on January 8, 2025.
The FA Cup holders face the charge due to several incidents that occurred at the Nana Konamansah Park.
“Nsoatreman FC have been charged with a breach of Section 16 of the GFA Disciplinary Code, 2019, and Article 42 (6) of the Ghana Premier League Regulations, 2019, following their Ghana Premier League game against Medeama SC,” a Ghana FA charge read.
“It is alleged that they failed to ensure the safety of Medeama SC players, and their supporters behaved inappropriately.
“It is further alleged that the club prevented the GFA-accredited cameraman of Medeama SC from filming the said match. Nsoatreman FC have since responded to the charges.”
Nsoatreman drew 1-1 with Medeama in the outstanding Premier Leaguegame played two weeks ago.
Twenty-two referees from Ghana have received FIFA badges for the 2025football season. The badges were awarded at a short ceremony held at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) headquarters in Accra on January 21, 2025.
Each year, FIFA gives badges to top-performing referees based on their performance in the previous year and their results in the FIFA Test.
This year, the group includes 10 center referees, 10 assistant referees, one futsal referee, one beach soccer referee, and one video assistant referee (VAR).
Out of the 22 referees, 12 are men and 8 are women, showing Ghana’s growing presence in international refereeing.
GFA President Kurt Okraku congratulated them and reminded them that they represent Ghanaian football on the world stage.
“Your performances have justified the trust CAF and FIFA have in you. This recognition reflects your dedication and excellence,” he said while urging them to aim even higher.
During the ceremony, officials discussed the challenges referees face and stressed the need to maintain high standards. GFA General Secretary, Prosper Harrison Addo, emphasized the importance of consistent performance, asFIFA reviews the badges every year.
President Kurt Okraku, General Secretary Addo, and Referees Appointment Committee Chairperson, Christine Enyonam Zigah, handed out the badges. Other committee members and officials also attended the event.
Former Ghanaian footballer Augustine Arhinful has urged the Ghana Football Association (GFA)to clarify Stephen Appiah’s position on the Black Stars Management Committee.
Arhinful thinks it is not ideal to assign Appiah the role of handling player relations, as the head coach, who works with the players daily, is in a better position to manage them.
He pointed out that there seems to be an issue with player management, and having an independent person to mediate could be helpful.
Speaking to Sporty FM, Arhinful called on the GFA to clearly define Appiah’s responsibilities to prevent any misunderstandings.
“I think the GFA must explain further what they mean by player relations because the best relations are established when the coach interacts with the players daily to understand how they are doing,” Arhinful said.
“I believe they have noticed something within the team, so they need someone like Stephen Appiah to come on board and interact with the players in a brotherly way to align them with the GFA’s expectations,” he added.
This comes after the GFA announced that Appiah will be in charge of player relations as the Vice Chairman of the Black Stars Management Committee.
In his new role, the formerBlack Stars captain will work closely with the Committee Chairman, Dr. Randy Abbey, to offer the needed support.
The 49-year-old coach is under pressure after failing to qualify the Black Stars for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), ending a 20-year streak of participation in the tournament.
Ghana’s performance in the qualifiers was disappointing, with three losses and three draws in six matches, leaving them at the bottom of Group F with only three points. In 2024, the team managed just two wins out of 10 games.
Calls for Addo’s removal have been growing following this poor performance.
While Addo has submitted his technical report to the Executive Council, Asante Twum clarified that no final decision has been made yet.
“To be honest, the very day Otto Addo presented his report, the Executive Council held about a seven-hour meeting, and all the members of the Council, except Kwesi Appiah, made their views known,” he told Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports Show.
“The areas of concern, including player management, tactics, and call-ups, were all discussed, but I cannot read the body language of everybody and say they want him [Otto Addo] to stay or go. What I know is that there was no decision made.”
“What I know is that a decision will be made at the next Executive Council meeting,” he added.
Addo, who took over from Chris Hughton, was reappointed in March 2024 on a three-year contract with a two-year extension option.
Henry Asante Twum, the Communications Director for the Ghana Football Association (GFA), explained why several important Black Stars players were missing from Ghana’s last two 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers against Angola and Niger.
In November 2024, the GFA announced that eight key players, including Inaki Williams, Antoine Semenyo, and Tariq Lamptey, had pulled out of the squad.
This led to disappointment among fans, with some questioning the players’ dedication to the national team.
In an interview with Asempa FM, Asante Twum defended the players, stating that their absences were due to legitimate reasons and not a lack of commitment.
“Tariq was injured. Semenyo’s club report indicated that, with his heavy workload, he was at risk of injury. Joseph Paintsil’s situation was family-related—his wife was about to give birth, and the coach granted him permission to be with her.
These were legitimate reasons, not because we doubted qualification,” he explained.
Asante Twum also highlighted the sacrifices these players make to represent Ghana, urging fans to show understanding.
“Sometimes, I put myself in their shoes. These players make a lot of sacrifices to play for Ghana. As soon as their club matches during international windows end, they rush to join the national team. That commitment should not go unnoticed,” he added.
Former Ghanaian footballer Mohammed Gargo has denied reports suggesting that theGhana Football Association (GFA) plans to fire John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann from their roles as assistant coaches of the Black Stars.
Gargo explained that removing the assistant coaches would not solve the team’s issues since they follow the instructions of the head coach.
He emphasized that head coach Otto Addo is responsible for most of the decisions, and therefore, any accountability should fall on him, not the assistants.
In an interview with Citi Sports, Gargo recommended that the GFA consider dismissing Otto Addo instead, as the assistants play a smaller role in the team’s performance.
“Whenever a team wants to dismiss its technical team, it should start with the head coach, as they are responsible for the team’s performance. The head coach gives instructions to assistants, who carry out the day’s business, including training sessions and preparations.
“So, if changes are to be made, the entire technical team should go, making way for a new team that can potentially do better. However, it’s unfair to sack the assistants and retain the head coach. In post-match interviews, Otto Addo has taken responsibility for the team’s performance,” Gargo said.
This follows reports that the GFA intends to part ways with Black Stars assistant coaches John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann as part of a plan to overhaul the technical team.
As the 2026 World Cup qualifiers resume in March 2025,the Black Starswill face Chad at home and travel to Madagascar.
Former president of theGhana Football Association (GFA), Kwesi Nyantakyi,has expressed disappointment with the New Patriotic Party (NPP) for not supporting him in his ongoing legal struggles.
He expected the party to take action and help resolve the corruption charges against him, but they did not intervene. Nyantakyi mentioned that when he ran for the NPP parliamentary primaries in the Ejisu constituency, the issue was raised within the party, but nothing was done about it.
“Even during my prime time to contest the seat, it was an issue within the party. I thought that if I contested, they [NPP] would have canceled the court case,” he said in an interview with Hot FM.
Nyantakyi lamented the emotional toll and financial strain of his five-year legal battle, which remains unresolved.
“I haven’t spent any government money, I haven’t killed anybody, but I’m still in court,” he lamented.
Although Nyantakyi did not mention the specific case, he is facing charges of fraud and corruption linked to the #Number 12 exposé by journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas.
Abdulai Alhassan, the former GFA Northern Regional head and the second accused, is also charged with conspiracy to commit fraud. Both have pleaded not guilty.
The last court session on June 10, 2024, saw Justice Marie-Louise Simmonsannounce that the High Court would wait for the Court of Appeal’s decision before continuing with Nyantakyi’s trial.
The case was postponed to October 16, 2024, after the court failed to meet on July 10, 2024, when both parties were due to give updates on the appeal.
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is reportedly planning to remove Black Stars assistant coaches John Paintsil and Joseph Laumann.
This decision is part of efforts to restructure the coaching team and bring in more skilled staff as Ghana prepares for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Reports suggest the GFA is in talks with a Belgian and a Serbian coach to replace Paintsil and Laumann.
Meanwhile, the future of head coach Otto Addo remains uncertain as the GFA works to build a strong technical team for the Black Stars.
The decision is part of efforts to improve the Black Stars’ performance after their failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
Otto Addo and his coaching team have faced heavy criticism from the public due to their poor results during the qualifiers.
Currently, the Black Stars are tied at the top of Group I in the World Cup qualifiers, with nine points from four games.
When the qualifiers continue in March 2025, the team will play Chad at home and face Madagascar away.
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) president Kwesi Nyantakyi has expressed disappointment in Otto Addo’s tenure as head coach of the Black Stars.
Addo, who was hired in March 2024 on a three-year deal, has faced heavy criticism for failing to qualify the national team for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON)—a setback Ghana hasn’t experienced in 20 years.
In six qualifying matches, the Black Stars failed to secure a single win, finishing last in Group F with only three points.
Over the past year, the senior team recorded just two wins in 14 games, with Addo in charge of 10 of those matches.
Nyantakyi, a former CAF 1st Vice President, believes these poor results clearly show that Addo has not lived up to expectations.
“With the performance of the Black Stars under Otto Addo, everything shows that he is not doing well,” he told Asempa FM’s Sports Nite.
“The last time Ghana failed to qualify for an AFCON tournament was twenty years ago and under Otto Addo, we did not qualify so he has not performed.”
While Nyantakyi refrained from directly calling for Addo’s dismissal, he emphasized that the results speak for themselves.
“I am not in the position to say he has to be sacked or stay but the numbers are there for all of us to see,” he added.
The GFA has not yet decided on Otto Addo’s future after the team’s failure to qualify for the AFCON.
However, the Black Stars are scheduled to meet again in March for their World Cup qualifying matches.
Ghana Football Association (GFA)is reportedly considering hiring a technical director to assist Black Stars head coach Otto Addo.
This comes as the 47-year-old coach’s future hangs in the balance following Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco.
For the first time in 20 years, the four-time African champions missed out on Africa’s biggest football tournament after finishing last in Group F. They managed only three points from six games, with three draws and three losses.
The disappointing performance has put the Ghana Football Association (GFA) under heavy pressure to review its coaching setup. Otto Addo, who signed a three-year contract in March 2024 with an option for a two-year extension, is now facing calls for his dismissal.
In response, the GFA held a long meeting with Addo and his technical team, announcing that further discussions with stakeholders would decide his future.
Meanwhile, reports suggest the GFA is considering hiring a technical director to work alongside Addo as the team prepares for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
If this plan goes through, Addo is likely to remain as head coach, but changes in the backroom staff are expected.
Additionally, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum has revealed that Otto Addo has not been paid for four months.
“It is true we owe Otto Addo. As of the last update from the Sports Ministry, there are salary arrears, which unfortunately is not a new issue,” Twum said in an interview with Asempa FM’s Ultimate Sports.
“We have held several meetings with the Ministry about the payments. Otto Addo understands the challenges, and we are working to resolve the issue.”
Following the disappointing AFCON qualifiers, the Black Starswill aim to bounce back with a stronger performance in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, starting with matches against Chad and Madagascar in March.
President of Ghana Premier League side Young Apostles Samuel Anim Addo says he is willing to comply with the regulations of theGhana Football Associationfollowing the Disciplinary Committee’s charge.
The former Executive Council member of the FA was charged for his remarks on referee Maxwell Hanson on social media when he alleged the latter is the GFA’s man for ‘dirty works.’
This follows the referee’s performance in Accra Lions’ defeat to Dreams FC which led to the former calling for urgent reforms to the Ghana Premier League.
In response to the charge levelled against him by the FA, Anim Addo says he is ready for the consequences of his actions.
“I am a law-abiding citizen and I respect every rule of the game so when the time comes for me to respond, I will do that in accordance with the regulations,” he said on Joy News’ Prime Sports.
“But what I’m saying is that the video is there for us all to see. If it is good, then that’s up to all of us.”
Owner of Young Apostles FC, Samuel Anim Addo, has been accused of misconduct by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) following his statements against the body.
In a statement released on January 9, 2024, the GFA explained that Anim Addo’s comments violated specific regulations outlined in Articles 34(6)(d) and 38(8)(c) of the league’s rules.
The association stated that these allegations harmed their reputation, and as a result, they have asked Anim Addo to provide evidence to support his claims.
“Samuel Anim Addo has been charged with breach of Articles 34(6)(d) and 38(8)(c) of the GFA Ghana Premier League Regulations, 2019, following his commentary on his social media account on X.
“It is alleged that his commentary in the said post constitutes misconduct, which brings the name of the Ghana Premier League into disrepute. It is further alleged that part of his commentary involved accusations against a match official without proof.
He has until Monday, January 13, 2024, to respond to the charges,” the statement read.
The charges follow Anim Addo’s claim that GFA officialsthreatened to relegate his club if he continued to criticize refereeing.
He explained that the threats came after he criticized Referee Maxwell Hanson’s poor officiating during the Accra Lions’ match against Dreams FC, which sparked controversy.
Former Ghana Football Association (GFA) Executive Council member Sammy Anim Addo has strongly criticized the GFA, accusing referee Maxwell Hanson of being involved in questionable practices after Accra Lions complained about his officiating in their 1-0 loss to Dreams FC.
Accra Lions expressed frustration, claiming they were unfairly treated and calling for changes in Ghanaian football. Dreams FC, however, defended Hanson, suggesting that poor officiating is something all clubs face at times.
Anim Addo, now President of Young Apostles, joined the criticism, calling Hanson a “hatchet man.” He shared on X how GFA officials had previously silenced him when he raised concerns about officiating.
MAXWELL HANSON IS THEIR MAN FOR ´DIRTY’ WORKS.
Ghana’s focus the last few weeks has been about the last general elections and inauguration of a new set of political and governance leaders many consider a new dawn following diverse challenges for years now.
“Maxwell Hanson is their man for ‘dirty works,’” Anim Addo wrote. “I sounded the alarm bells months ago but I was vehemently challenged with every attempt to ‘shush’ me by the leadership of Ghana Football… His disgraceful conduct undermines the league’s quality.”
Anim Addo further alleged that he had been threatened with relegation for speaking out, stating, “I have been threatened many times already that this GFA administration will ensure foul means to relegate my club, Young Apostles.
But, I want to sound caution to them, that, it is not the worst they can do to me and my continuous investment and commitment to Ghana football.”
The controversy surrounding Hanson’s decisions during the Dreams FC vs. Accra Lions matchhas sparked widespread reactions, with fans and stakeholders expressing dissatisfaction with his officiating.
