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Category: Sports

  • TRANSFER NEWS: Hearts of Oak, Medeama SC and Aduana FC lock horns over Basake Holy Stars winger Prince Tweneboah

    TRANSFER NEWS: Hearts of Oak, Medeama SC and Aduana FC lock horns over Basake Holy Stars winger Prince Tweneboah

    Hearts of Oak, Medeama SC and Aduana FC have entered a three-way battle for the signature of Basake Holy Stars winger Prince Tweneboah following his stellar performances in the 2025/26 Ghana Premier League season.

    The 19-year old attacker has emerged as one of the hottest properties in the domestic transfer market after playing a pivotal role in Basake Holy Stars’ impressive campaign.

    Tweneboah enjoyed a sensational season, contributing 11 goals and six assists while consistently delivering match-winning performances for the Western Region-based club. His outstanding displays earned him four Most Valuable Player (MVP) awards, highlighting his influence throughout the campaign.

    The winger’s exceptional form also saw him earn a place in former Ghana international goalkeeper Fatau Dauda’s Ghana Premier League Team of the Season, further highlighting his status as one of the league’s finest performers.

    Sources close to Ekuzoanews.com have revealed that Hearts of Oak, Medeama SC and Aduana FC are all keen to secure his services ahead of the 2026/27 season as they seek to strengthen their squads.

    Hearts of Oak are looking to bolster their attacking department as they aim to mount a strong challenge for major honours, while Aduana FC have identified Tweneboah as a key transfer target to enhance their offensive options.

    Reigning Ghana Premier League champions Medeama SC have also joined the race, with the Tarkwa-based side eager to add quality and depth to their squad ahead of their domestic and continental assignments next season.

    Basake Holy Stars are understood to be open to offers for their prized asset and are expected to assess proposals from interested clubs, with the highest bid likely to influence the outcome of the transfer saga.

    With interest continuing to intensify, the race for Prince Tweneboah’s signature is expected to be one of the most closely followed stories of the ongoing transfer window.

  • Relegated Nations FC Make History, Edge Dreams FC on Penalties To Win 2025/26 MTN FA Cup

    Relegated Nations FC Make History, Edge Dreams FC on Penalties To Win 2025/26 MTN FA Cup

    Nations FC have capped off a dramatic and emotional season by winning the 2025/26 MTN FA Cup, beating Dreams FC 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in the final at the University of Ghana Stadium, Legon on Sunday.

    Despite being relegated from the Ghana Premier League, Nations FC produced a spirited and disciplined performance to secure their first-ever FA Cup title and book a place in the 2026/27 CAF Confederation Cup.

    The final began at a high tempo, with Nations FC taking the lead in the 31st minute through Joseph Effah. He rose highest in the box to head home after sustained aerial pressure from a long throw-in that unsettled the Dreams defence.

    Dreams FC responded swiftly and clinically through Abdul Razak Salifu, who powered in a fine header after a well-worked team move and a precise cross into the area to level the score at 1-1.

    Salifu’s equaliser took his tournament tally to six goals, moving him to the top of the FA Cup scoring chart and strengthening his claim for the Golden Boot.

    Both sides pushed for a winner in regulation and extra time, but neither could break the deadlock, sending the final into penalties.

    In the shootout, Nations FC showed composure under pressure, converting five of their penalties to edge Dreams FC 5-4 and spark wild celebrations at Legon.

    The defeat ends Dreams FC’s hopes of a second FA Cup title, having previously won it in 2023.

    For Nations FC, the victory serves as a remarkable turnaround after a disappointing league campaign, as they now turn attention to continental football and an immediate push for a Premier League return.

  • GH¢150m World Cup Budget Yet to Be Released – Kofi Adams

    GH¢150m World Cup Budget Yet to Be Released – Kofi Adams

    The GH¢150 million allocated for Ghana’s participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup is yet to be released by the Ministry of Finance, Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Iddie Adams has confirmed.

    He explained that the funds are still going through the necessary government approval processes, even as preparations for the tournament continue.

    Speaking on TV3, Mr Adams said:

    “We are waiting on the Ministry of Finance to release the GH¢150 million allocation for the World Cup after it goes through all the processes.”

    The delay comes as Ghana enters the final stages of preparation for the tournament, which will be hosted jointly by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.

    The Black Stars are currently in Cardiff, Wales, where head coach Carlos Queiroz is leading a pre-World Cup training camp. The team will play Wales in an international friendly on June 2 before travelling to North America.

    A 28-man squad is currently in camp, with two players expected to be dropped before the final 26-man squad is submitted for the tournament.

    Despite the delay, the Sports Minister remains confident in the team’s chances.

    “We are not going there as mere participants, but as a team that is equally capable of winning,” he added.

    Ghana have been drawn in Group L alongside England, Croatia, and Panama. They will open their campaign against Panama on June 17 in Toronto, before facing England and Croatia in subsequent matches.

  • Sports Minister Reacts to Andre Ayew’s Exclusion from Black Stars World Cup Team

    Sports Minister Reacts to Andre Ayew’s Exclusion from Black Stars World Cup Team

    Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Iddie Adams has addressed the growing debate surrounding Andre Dede Ayew’s exclusion from Ghana’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stating that the decision falls entirely within the mandate of Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz.

    Ayew’s omission from the national team has generated widespread discussion among football fans and pundits, with many questioning the absence of the former captain from Ghana’s World Cup plans.

    Speaking on TV3, Adams revealed that he has not discussed the matter with Queiroz and does not intend to interfere in the coach’s selection decisions.

    “I don’t know why Dede Ayew wasn’t selected. I’ve not spoken to the coach about it yet. As a minister, I had my wishes and persons I would have loved to be in there, but if they’re not there, let us leave it at that. We’ll have a conversation after the World Cup,” he said.

    The minister’s comments come after Ayew failed to make the provisional 28-man squad currently in camp in Cardiff ahead of the tournament.

    Despite public speculation, Adams said he has no reason to believe that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) influenced the coach’s choices.

    “I have no evidence that the GFA influenced the coach in selection of the players,” he stated.

    Ayew, one of Ghana’s most accomplished footballers, has not featured for the Black Stars in more than three years. Nevertheless, his omission continues to attract attention due to his experience and long-standing contribution to the national team.

    With Ayew absent and key attacking players Mohammed Kudus and Joseph Paintsil sidelined through injury, expectations will largely rest on Bournemouth forward Antoine Semenyo and other members of the squad to deliver for Ghana at the tournament.

    Adams maintained that the responsibility now lies with Queiroz to ensure the selected players perform and justify their inclusion.

    “It is Carlos Queiroz’s responsibility to get the best out of Semenyo amid the omission of some star players,” he added.

    Ghana are expected to announce their final 26-man squad from the current 28-player camp on June 1 before travelling to the World Cup.

    The Black Stars will open their Group L campaign against Panama in Toronto on June 17 before taking on England and Croatia in subsequent group-stage fixtures.

  • GPL Champions Medeama Unveil THE HOPE BRAND as New Official Kit Partner

    GPL Champions Medeama Unveil THE HOPE BRAND as New Official Kit Partner

    Medeama Sporting Club have officially announced THE HOPE BRAND (THB) as their new Official Kit Partner for the 2026/27 football season.

    The partnership comes on the back of Medeama’s successful 2025/26 Ghana Premier League title-winning campaign and ahead of the club’s participation in the 2026/27 CAF Champions League.

    In a statement, the Tarkwa-based club described the collaboration as the beginning of a bold new era driven by ambition, innovation and excellence.

    As part of the agreement, THE HOPE BRAND will supply Medeama SC with high-performance match kits, training wear, travel apparel and lifestyle collections designed to meet modern football standards while reflecting the club’s pride, identity and rich heritage.

    The partnership extends beyond football apparel, with both organisations sharing a commitment to professionalism, a winning mentality, fan engagement and the advancement of Ghanaian football branding through quality and world-class presentation.

    Founded in Ghana, THE HOPE BRAND has steadily established itself as one of the country’s emerging sportswear and lifestyle apparel companies. The brand has gained recognition for producing quality athletic wear and fashion collections that blend contemporary design with African identity. Through strategic partnerships and a growing presence within the sporting landscape, THB continues to position itself as a key player in promoting locally manufactured sportswear capable of competing with international standards.

    The alliance is expected to strengthen Medeama’s growing profile both locally and on the continental stage as they prepare to defend their Ghana Premier League crown and compete in the CAF Champions League.

  • EXCLUSIVE: Debibi United Target Former Asante Kotoko Defender Maxwell Agyemang Amid Gold Stars, ASEC Mimosas Interest

    EXCLUSIVE: Debibi United Target Former Asante Kotoko Defender Maxwell Agyemang Amid Gold Stars, ASEC Mimosas Interest

    Debibi United have stepped up efforts to sign former Asante Kotoko and Karela United defender Maxwell Agyemang, Ekuzoanews.com understands.

    The experienced centre-back has emerged as a key transfer target for the ambitious club as they look to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season.

    Sources close to the negotiations indicate that newbies Debibi United are keen on securing the defender’s signature, but they face stiff competition from Ghana Premier League runners-up Bibiani Gold Stars FC, who are also monitoring his situation.

    Agyemang’s impressive performances in recent seasons have attracted attention beyond Ghana’s borders, with Ivorian giants ASEC Mimosas reportedly joining the race for his services.

    The defender, who has previously featured for Hohoe United, Asante Kotoko and Karela United, is valued for his defensive discipline, aerial prowess and wealth of experience at the top level of Ghanaian football.

    ASEC Mimosas’ interest could present an attractive opportunity for the player, given the club’s rich history in African football and regular participation in continental competitions.

    With multiple clubs vying for his signature, the 29-year old is expected to weigh his options carefully before making a decision on the next chapter of his career.

    Further developments are expected in the coming weeks as talks continue between the former Mighty Royal prodigy and interested clubs.

  • Samuel Boadu lifts lid on GFA Status Committee ruling after resigning from Medeama SC

    Samuel Boadu lifts lid on GFA Status Committee ruling after resigning from Medeama SC

    Former Medeama SC head coach Samuel Boadu has opened up on the circumstances surrounding his departure from the Tarkwa-based club, revealing that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) Status Committee ordered him to pay GH¢80,000 after he resigned with just one week remaining on his contract.

    The experienced tactician disclosed that Medeama reported the matter to the GFA Status Committee following his resignation, which paved the way for his move to Accra Hearts of Oak.

    Speaking in an interview on Kumasi FM, Boadu explained that the committee ruled against him and directed him to pay GH¢80,000, an amount he says was eventually settled by Hearts of Oak Board Chairman Togbe Afede XIV.

    “I resigned from Medeama SC when I had only one week left on my contract. The club took me to the Status Committee and I was asked to pay GH¢80,000. Togbe Afede was the one who paid the amount,” Boadu revealed.

    While he did not delve into the finer details of the dispute, Boadu acknowledged the support he received from Togbe Afede during the period.

    His resignation from Medeama ultimately led to one of the most successful managerial spells in Hearts of Oak’s recent history. During his time with the Phobians, Boadu guided the club to the 2020/21 Ghana Premier League title and secured back-to-back MTN FA Cup trophies.

    The former Hearts of Oak boss remains one of the most decorated indigenous coaches in Ghanaian football, having enjoyed success with several clubs across the domestic scene.

    Boadu’s revelation has reignited discussions about contractual obligations, coaching transitions, and the role of the GFA’s dispute-resolution mechanisms in Ghana football.

  • FIFA WORLD CUP: COMPLETE HISTORY, LEGENDS, CHAMPIONS AND THE ROAD TO 2026

    FIFA WORLD CUP: COMPLETE HISTORY, LEGENDS, CHAMPIONS AND THE ROAD TO 2026

    Benjamin Kingsley Bonzoh (Sir Benzyma); The FIFA World Cup remains the pinnacle of global football, a competition that has evolved from a modest 13-nation tournament in 1930 into the most prestigious and widely watched sporting spectacle on the planet.

    For nearly a century, the tournament has produced unforgettable drama, iconic champions, heartbreaking defeats, and legendary moments that continue to shape football history across generations.

    From Uruguay’s historic triumph in the inaugural edition to Argentina’s thrilling victory in Qatar 2022, the World Cup has consistently preserved its identity as football’s ultimate stage while adapting to the changing dynamics of the modern game.

    The Beginning-Uruguay 1930

    The maiden FIFA World Cup was hosted by Uruguay in 1930 following FIFA’s decision to establish a global football championship.

    Only 13 nations participated in the historic tournament, with the host nation defeating Argentina 4-2 in the final to become the first-ever world champions.

    “That historic tournament laid the foundation for what has become the biggest football event in the world.”

    Early Dominance Era (1930–1938)

    The early years of the World Cup introduced fierce international rivalries and showcased the dominance of Europe and South America.

    1930: Uruguay crowned champions on home soil

    1934: Italy secured their first World Cup title

    1938: Italy successfully defended their crown in France

    Italy emerged as the first major dynasty in World Cup history during this period.

    World War Interruption (1942–1946)

    The 1942 and 1946 World Cup tournaments were cancelled due to World War II, bringing international football to a temporary halt and delaying the competition’s global expansion.

    Post-War Revival (1950–1966)

    Football returned in spectacular fashion in 1950 and ushered in a new era of unforgettable moments and rising football powers.

    1950: Uruguay stunned Brazil in the famous “Maracanazo”

    1954: West Germany shocked Hungary in the “Miracle of Bern”

    1958: Teenage sensation Pelé inspired Brazil to glory

    1962: Brazil successfully defended their title

    1966: England won their first and only World Cup trophy

    This era firmly established Brazil as a global football powerhouse.

    The Golden Era (1970–1982)

    Widely regarded as one of the finest periods in World Cup history, this era blended tactical brilliance with attacking flair.

    1970: Pelé’s Brazil dazzled the world in Mexico

    1974: West Germany triumphed on home soil

    1978: Argentina lifted their first World Cup title

    1982: Italy defeated West Germany in a memorable final

    Football’s global audience expanded significantly during this period as television broadcasting reached millions across continents.

    Modern Icons Era (1986–1998)

    This period produced some of football’s greatest legends and most memorable individual performances.

    1986: Diego Maradona inspired Argentina to glory in Mexico

    1990: West Germany edged Argentina in a tense final

    1994: Brazil defeated Italy on penalties in the United States

    1998: France won their first World Cup title on home soil under Zinedine Zidane’s leadership

    The World Cup transformed into a major global entertainment and commercial phenomenon during this era.

    Modern Football Era (2002–2022)

    The modern era has been defined by tactical evolution, increased competitiveness, and the globalisation of football talent.

    2002: Brazil won a record fifth title in South Korea and Japan

    2006: Italy defeated France on penalties in Germany

    2010: Spain won their maiden World Cup in South Africa

    2014: Germany humiliated Brazil 7-1 before lifting the trophy

    2018: France secured their second title in Russia

    2022: Argentina defeated France in one of the greatest finals in history

    The Qatar 2022 tournament also became the first-ever World Cup staged during the winter period.

    FIFA World Cup Winners (1930–2022)

    Brazil — 5 titles

    Germany — 4 titles

    Italy — 4 titles

    Argentina — 3 titles

    France — 2 titles

    Uruguay — 2 titles

    England — 1 title

    Spain — 1 title

    Brazil remain the most successful nation in FIFA World Cup history.

    Individual Awards and Legendary Figures

    Golden Boot Winners

    Among the notable top scorers in recent tournaments are:

    Ronaldo (2002)

    Miroslav Klose (2006)

    Thomas Müller (2010)

    James Rodríguez (2014)

    Harry Kane (2018)

    Kylian Mbappé (2022)

    Golden Ball Winners

    The tournament’s best player award has been claimed by several football icons, including:

    Diego Maradona (1986)

    Ronaldo Nazário (1998)

    Zinedine Zidane (2006)

    Diego Forlán (2010)

    Lionel Messi (2014, 2022)

    Luka Modrić (2018)

    Golden Glove Winners

    Legendary goalkeepers have also left lasting marks on the competition:

    Oliver Kahn (2002)

    Gianluigi Buffon (2006)

    Iker Casillas (2010)

    Manuel Neuer (2014)

    Thibaut Courtois (2018)

    Emiliano Martínez (2022)

    Evolution of the World Cup

    Over the decades, the FIFA World Cup has undergone remarkable transformation:

    Expansion from 13 teams to 32 teams

    Introduction of Video Assistant Referee (VAR) technology

    Increased global television and digital coverage

    Greater competitiveness across continents

    Rising participation from African, Asian, and North American nations

    The tournament continues to evolve with changing football trends and technological advancement.

    Road to 2026 — A New Chapter

    The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time three countries will stage the competition together.

    Key Highlights of the 2026 Tournament

    Introduction of an expanded 48-team format

    Increased qualification slots for Africa and other regions

    Matches to be played across major cities in North America

    Expected record-breaking attendance and global viewership

    Host Nation History

    United States: Hosted in 1994

    Mexico: Hosted in 1970 and 1986

    Canada: Hosting the men’s World Cup for the first time

    The expanded format is expected to reshape international football by providing opportunities for more emerging nations to compete on the biggest stage.

    From its humble beginnings in Uruguay to its current status as football’s grandest spectacle, the FIFA World Cup has remained the ultimate dream for players, coaches, and nations alike.

    Every era has produced legendary champions, iconic moments, and unforgettable stories that continue to define the beautiful game.

    As the world turns its attention to 2026, the tournament prepares to enter another historic chapter — one built on expansion, inclusivity, and the promise of fresh football history waiting to be written.

  • Queiroz Names 28-Man Black Stars Squad for World Cup Preparatory Camp Ahead of Wales Friendly

    Queiroz Names 28-Man Black Stars Squad for World Cup Preparatory Camp Ahead of Wales Friendly

    Ghana Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has announced a strong 28-man squad for the team’s 2026 FIFA World Cup preparatory camp, as focus shifts to an international friendly against Wales in Cardiff.

    The training camp, scheduled for May 25 to June 2, 2026, forms a key part of Ghana’s long-term build-up to upcoming international assignments. The Wales fixture is expected to offer a stern test of the Black Stars’ tactical progress and squad cohesion under Queiroz.

    Skipper Jordan Ayew headlines the squad, which blends experience with youthful energy. Established names such as Thomas Partey, Inaki Williams, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Ernest Nuamah, and Antoine Semenyo all retain their places, alongside emerging talents including Prince Kwabena Adu, Christopher Bonsu Baah, and Caleb Yirenkyi.

    In the goalkeeping department, Queiroz has handed call-ups to Benjamin Asare, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Anang, Solomon Agbasi, and Paul Reverson.

    The defence unit features returnee Baba Abdul Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Marvin Senaya, Alidu Seidu, Abdul Mumin, Jerome Opoku, Jonas Adjetey, Kojo Oppong Peprah, and Alexander Djiku.

    In midfield, Ghana will rely on the creativity and control of Thomas Partey, Elisha Owusu, Kwasi Sibo, Augustine Boakye, and Caleb Yirenkyi, offering balance between defensive discipline and attacking support.

    The attack is packed with firepower, led by Jordan Ayew and Inaki Williams, with support from Kamaldeen Sulemana, Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Christopher Bonsu Baah, and Prince Kwabena Adu.

    The friendly against Wales is expected to provide Queiroz and his technical team with a valuable opportunity to assess tactical flexibility, player combinations, and overall squad depth against European opposition.

    Black Stars Squad (28)

    Goalkeepers: Benjamin Asare, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Joseph Anang, Solomon Agbasi, Paul Reverson.

    Defenders: Baba Abdul Rahman, Gideon Mensah, Marvin Senaya, Alidu Seidu, Abdul Mumin, Jerome Opoku, Jonas Adjetey, Kojo Oppong Peprah, Alexander Djiku.

    Midfielders: Elisha Owusu, Thomas Partey, Kwasi Sibo, Augustine Boakye, Caleb Yirenkyi.

    Forwards: Jordan Ayew, Inaki Williams, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Antoine Semenyo, Ernest Nuamah, Abdul Fatawu Issahaku, Brandon Thomas-Asante, Christopher Bonsu Baah, Prince Kwabena Adu.

  • Hearts of Oak Part Company With Mas-Ud Didi Dramani After Season Review

    Hearts of Oak Part Company With Mas-Ud Didi Dramani After Season Review

    Accra Hearts of Oak have officially parted ways with head coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani and his technical team following the conclusion of the 2025/26 football season.

    The club confirmed the decision in an official statement released on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, after what management described as a “comprehensive technical review” of the season.

    According to the statement, the Board of the club resolved to end its association with the experienced tactician despite guiding the Phobians to a third-place finish in the Ghana Premier League campaign.

    “Hearts of Oak secured a third-place finish in the just-ended season, and we acknowledge the discipline and effort they brought to the technical setup,” the statement noted.

    The Rainbow Club expressed appreciation to Dramani and his backroom staff for their professionalism, commitment, and service during their time with the club.

    The statement further revealed that the team is currently on recess, with the Board expected to communicate the club’s new technical direction in the coming weeks as part of efforts to align with its long-term football philosophy and ambitions.

    “Hearts of Oak SC wishes to announce that, following a comprehensive technical review of the 2025/26 football season, the Board has decided to part ways with the Technical Team led by Coach Mas-Ud Didi Dramani,” part of the statement read.

    Dramani’s departure is expected to spark conversations among the Hearts faithful as the club begins the search for a new head coach ahead of the 2026/27 season.

    The former Black Galaxies and Asante Kotoko trainer joined Hearts of Oak with hopes of restoring the club to its glory days and managed to keep the side competitive throughout the season.

    Management also thanked supporters for their loyalty and assured fans that every decision being taken is in the best interest of the club’s future success both locally and on the continent.