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Hearts of Oak, Great Olympics set for epic showdown in Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Cup

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In a highly anticipated clash of the capital city titans, Accra Hearts of Oak Sporting Club and Accra Great Olympics are gearing up to battle it out for the prestigious Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Cup. This thrilling encounter will not only determine the winner of the cup but also establish who will reign supreme in Accra, the bustling capital city of Ghana.

Scheduled to take place on August 20th, 2023, at the iconic Accra Sports Stadium, this fixture has already garnered immense excitement and anticipation among football fans across the nation. With both teams boasting a rich heritage and a fiercely passionate fan base, the match promises to be an electrifying contest filled with unforgettable moments.

Hearts of Oak, one of the oldest and most successful football clubs in Ghana, will enter the match with a thirst for victory. With a squad comprising talented players known for their technical prowess and attacking flair, the Phobians will undoubtedly rely on their winning mentality and strategic gameplay to claim the coveted Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Cup.

However, their adversaries, the Great Olympics, will not be pushovers. The Dade boys are determined to prove they are a force to be reckoned with on the football pitch. Led by their tactically astute coach and a squad filled with promising young talents, the Great Olympics will be looking to secure a memorable win against their arch-rivals.

As this match marks the clash for territorial supremacy, nerves will be high, and a thrilling show is guaranteed. Fans from both sides will undoubtedly fill the Accra Sports Stadium to capacity, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of the golden era of Ghanaian football.

The Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Cup not only serves to showcase the footballing prowess of these two Accra giants but also aims to raise awareness and contribute to charitable causes supporting the local community. As a testament to their commitment to social responsibility, both clubs will make generous donations to charitable organizations in Accra.

Football enthusiasts and supporters alike are eagerly awaiting this monumental clash, which promises to be a pulsating spectacle for football lovers and an unforgettable event for the city of Accra. The battle for the Gbese Mantse Homowo Charity Cup will not only celebrate the beautiful game but also serve as a means to strengthen community ties through the noble act of charity.

Make sure to mark August 20th, 2023, on your calendars as Accra Hearts of Oak and Accra Great Olympics face off in what is set to be a historic clash for the ages.

Stay tuned for more updates and ticket information as the match draws near.

Jerome Otchere writes: Set for new run

Our inability to settle differences with him was costly. Only those who are dispassionate about issues saw the cost. Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum’s return as Asante Kotoko coach speaks volumes of the trust the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II has in him. Like or loathe it, Ogum’s comeback reinforces the pointlessness of the spat that sent him out. 

Appeals for unity within the fan base are well-placed. Every genuine fan shares the joy of his return because Ogum knows his job and Kotoko deserve a coach of his kind. “I’m so overwhelmed and excited to be here; there’s nothing in my life that can be compared to this apart from the day I got married. The reason is simple; I have been chosen by His Royal Majesty to lead the technical affairs of Kotoko.” 

Ogum has a proven record at the club. He accepts that conditions of his first romance have changed significantly. Along with his technical team, Ogum must be wary of praise singers and critics alike. He wields so much power now. How he uses that and execute his responsibility would have impact that would be etched on our minds. 

“My first year is to put together a very formidable team that can compete both domestically and internationally. However, you can’t be at Kotoko and not think of bringing success” he says which’s true although I do not expect much now. Whether in the upcoming season or the immediate future, Ogum’s success would be dependent on the unity of his technical team, players and of course relationship with everyone on the Interim Management Committee (IMC). 

Transparency, honesty, and truthfulness must be at the centre of their task. Player recruitment must receive a lifeblood of money, consistency, quality, and a defined guideline. Capital injection would make lots of difference regardless of who heads the management because today’s football thrives on money. 

All things considered; support is guaranteed by everyone who sincerely loves Kotoko. Ogum and the current administrators of the team must have useful media engagement while they are careful of what they make public and how they do it. 

Source: Jerome Otchere

OFFICIAL: Asante Kotoko unveil left-back Nana Bayin Amoah

Asante Kotoko Sporting Club has issued an official declaration regarding the successful completion of the signing process for the talented and promising left-back, Nanabayin Amoah, hailing from Venomous Vipers. While the specific details of the transfer fee remain undisclosed, the club is diligently gearing up for the impending 2023/24 season.

Nanabayin Amoah’s acquisition marks the second notable addition to the ranks of the Porcupine Warriors’ squad. The emerging defender has solidified his commitment by entering into a three-year contract that extends until 2026 with Asante Kotoko, positioning himself strategically for the upcoming season.

The inclusion of Amoah significantly fortifies the defensive lineup and ushers in a heightened sense of competition, particularly for the coveted left-back position. This is where John Tedeku and Nicholas Osei Bonsu are also making their presence felt as contenders for prominence.

Even after securing a commendable fourth-place finish in the recently concluded Betpawa Premier League season, Asante Kotoko’s ambitions continue to soar. This is true despite their exit at the quarter-finals stage of the MTN FA Cup against Aduana Stars.

In the present moment, Nanabayin Amoah has seamlessly integrated with the team in Beposo, actively engaging in intensive preparations for the upcoming season. This season is poised to commence in September.

Asante Kotoko is geared to inaugurate the 2023/24 Ghana Premier League season with a compelling match against league returnees, Hearts of Lions. This clash is scheduled to take place at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi, setting the tone for an exciting and competitive season ahead.

Bofoakwa Tano defender Samuel Asamoah to Asante Kotoko almost a done deal

Asante Kotoko and Bofoakwa Tano have reached an agreement for the acquisition of skilled right-back, Samuel Asamoah, during the current transfer window.

Reports indicated on Tuesday that the Porcupines had initiated discussions with the newly-promoted Premier League side to secure the services of the defender. Subsequently, Alexander Ababio, the CEO of the Sunyani-based club, confirmed during an interview with Kumasi-based Silver FM that a deal has been reached between the two clubs for the player. The agreement is set to be finalized on Thursday, August 10, 2023.

Ababio stated, “Samuel Asamoah’s move to Kotoko will be completed by Thursday.”

Asamoah is currently in Kumasi, as he opted not to join Bofoakwa for their pre-season training in Obuasi.

Samuel Asamoah has earned recognition for his exceptional defensive skills and offensive contributions from the right flank. He has consistently displayed his prowess as a standout performer for Bofoakwa Tano in recent campaigns.

His consistent performances and versatile abilities have garnered the attention of scouts and coaches across the nation, particularly after his crucial role in Bofoakwa Tano’s successful promotion back to the Ghanaian top tier.

Recognizing the significance of strengthening the right-back position, Asante Kotoko’s management and coaching staff have identified Samuel Asamoah as the ideal candidate to fulfill the requirements sought by coach Prosper Narteh Ogum.

Former Hearts of Oak midfielder Manaf Umar agrees to join Nsoatreman

Former Hearts of Oak midfielder, Manaf Umar, is on the brink of finalizing a move to Nsoatreman FC as preparations for the upcoming season gain momentum.

Following his stint with Real Tamale United in the previous season, the 29-year-old midfielder has reportedly come to a personal agreement with Nsoatreman FC, a team that successfully navigated their inaugural season in the top-tier league.

Reliable sources indicate that Hearts of Oak have approached the player regarding a potential return to the team for the upcoming 2023–24 season. However, Umar is inclined towards joining the Nsoatre-based side, primarily due to the limited playing time he experienced during his tenure with the Phobians.

Umar achieved a remarkable double with Hearts of Oak in the 2020–21 campaign, clinching both the Ghana Premier League title and the MTN FA Cup.

Having joined Real Tamale United on a free transfer prior to the commencement of the season after departing from Hearts of Oak, Umar enjoyed a stellar season with the Tamale-based club, drawing attention from Asante Kotoko at an earlier stage.

Across 29 appearances in Ghana’s top-flight league with Real Tamale United, he contributed five goals and three assists.

Despite facing challenges in the previous season, Real Tamale United managed to reach the FA Cup quarterfinals, where they were eventually eliminated by Nsoatreman FC.

Black Stars midfielder Baba Iddrisu joins La Liga side UD Almeria

Baba Iddrisu, the proficient midfielder of the Black Stars, has orchestrated a notable move to UD Almeria during the current summer transfer window, with the transfer fee amounting to 2.5 million euros.

The Ghanaian international is set to formalize a substantial three-year agreement with Almeria, thereby transitioning from his former La Liga team, Real Mallorca, on Thursday, August 10.

Iddrisu, who experienced sporadic playing opportunities at Mallorca – a team that clinched a 9th place finish in the previous season’s standings – has opted to join Almeria, driven by the aspiration for more prominent roles on the pitch. His primary goal is to firmly establish himself within the ranks of the Black Stars squad.

Amid their resolute efforts to bolster their roster for the upcoming season, the Rojiblancos have proactively engaged in the transfer market, a strategic move following their narrow escape from relegation.

Having initially joined Mallorca in 2014 from Leganes, Iddrisu accumulated a commendable tally of 91 appearances during his tenure with the club.

Hearts of Oak sign former Asec Mimosas goalkeeper Wilfried Yao Kouassi

Hearts of Oak has successfully completed the acquisition of Ivorian goalkeeper Yao Wilfried Kouassi, according to reports in the local media.

Born on December 20, 1996, the 26-year-old Kouassi has undergone a comprehensive evaluation by the technical team at Pobiman.

After an in-depth analysis of his playing style, strengths, and areas with potential for improvement, Kouassi has left a significant impression and has been granted a two-year contract.

Yao Wilfred Kouassi’s transition to Hearts of Oak was masterminded by former Asante Kotoko and Medeama SC player Amed Toure, who now serves as a football agent. Kouassi’s journey to Hearts of Oak follows his tenure with FC Mouna.

In the 2022/23 season, Kouassi displayed his talents while playing for FC Mouna in the Ivorian lower-tier league, contributing to the team’s promotion to the Ivorian topflight.

His remarkable performances encompassed 12 clean sheets and 15 goals conceded in 25 matches, leading to his recognition as the finest goalkeeper in the lower-tier league.

Kouassi has previously played for Asec Mimosas.

Former Black Stars striker John Antwi joins Dreams FC


Ghana Premier League side, Dreams FC has unveiled the signing of former Ismaily striker, John Antwi Duku.

At 31 years old, Antwi Duku has rejoined Dreams FC following his departure from Jordanian club Al Faisaly.

This addition serves as a significant boost for Dreams FC, particularly as they prepare for their participation in the 2023/24 CAF Confederation Cup.

With an extensive background in continental football, Antwi Duku’s resume includes stints with renowned clubs such as Ismaily, Al Ahly, Misr-El Makasa, and Pyramid FC.

The former Sekondi Eleven Wise forward is anticipated to play a central role in Dreams FC’s upcoming CAF inter-club campaign in the next season.

Remarkably, Antwi Duku’s return to Ghana is accompanied by an impressive reputation, as he remains the foreign player with the highest number of goals in Al Ahly’s illustrious history.

In the upcoming preliminary round of the CAF Confederation Cup, Dreams FC is set to embark on their African journey, facing off against Milo FC during the weekend of August 18-20.

Asante Kotoko complete signing of three new players to augment squad

Asante Kotoko have set their sights on a strong performance as they gear up for the forthcoming 2023/24 football season.

Despite encountering challenges in the previous Ghanaian top-flight campaign, the club managed to secure a respectable fourth-place finish in the division’s standings.

In the current off-season, the esteemed Life Patron of the club, Otumfuo Nana Osei Tutu II, has taken proactive steps to restructure and rejuvenate the team.

With the appointment of Prosper Narteh Ogum as the head coach of Asante Kotoko, the club has embarked on a recruitment drive to enhance its roster.

Reliable sources indicate that three new players have successfully completed the necessary medical evaluations and officially inked contracts to join Asante Kotoko.

Among these new signings are Yahaya Dawuni, recruited from Susubiribi, Nanabayin from Vipers, and Andrews Ntim Manu, who joins the team as a free agent.

Asante Kotoko is evidently working diligently to assemble a competitive squad for the upcoming season, aiming to elevate their performance and make a mark in the league.

Ernest Nuamah named in Danish Superliga team of the week

Ernest Nuamah’s remarkable performance during FC Nordsjaelland’s triumph over Brondby IF has secured him a coveted spot in Sofascore’s Danish Superliga team of the week.

On Sunday, Nuamah showcased his skill by converting a direct free-kick into a well-placed goal, contributing to FC Nordsjaelland’s impressive 3-1 comeback victory against Brondby IF.

Taking up a position in the forward line, Nuamah played a key role for his team in the Week 3 clash of the 2023/24 Danish Superliga season.

Despite a slow start that led to FC Nordsjaelland trailing 0-1 at halftime due to Nicolai Vallys’ goal for Brøndby IF, the team rallied in the second half.

In the 52nd minute, Ghanaian youngster Ibrahim Osman provided the assist to Marcus Ingvartsen, equalizing the score.

Then, in the 74th minute, Ernest Nuamah showcased his prowess once again. FC Nordsjaelland earned a critical free-kick, and Nuamah utilized his potent left foot to curl the ball into the top corner, igniting cheers from teammates and fans alike.

Just six minutes later, Nuamah continued his impressive performance, this time assisting Martin Erese, who sealed the deal with another goal. The match concluded with FC Nordsjaelland securing a convincing 3-1 victory.

Below is the team of the week: