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Ghana U-15 Girls crowned Champions of 2025 African Schools Football Championship

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Ghana U-15 Girls crowned Champions of 2025 African Schools Football Championship

Ghana’s U-15 girls’ team etched their name into the history books on Saturday, April 26, by capturing the 2025 African Schools Football Championship (ASFC) title with a commanding 2-0 victory over Uganda at the University of Ghana Stadium.

Belinda Kpentey and Daniella Abass were the heroes of the day, each finding the net to cap off a stellar tournament run for the young Ghanaian side.

Brimming with confidence after an unbeaten group stage — with victories over Morocco, Benin, and Malawi — the young Ghanaian female team carried their momentum into the semifinals, where they edged past defending champions South Africa in a thrilling encounter to book their place in the final.

Uganda, equally impressive en route to the final, secured their spot after overcoming Morocco in the semifinal clash.

The championship match almost began on a sour note for Ghana, as an early error by goalkeeper Precious nearly gifted Uganda an opener. Fortunately, Uganda failed to capitalize, and Ghana quickly took control of proceedings. Daniella Abass and Hajara Adam came close to breaking the deadlock, but the sides went into halftime level.

After the break, Ghana’s determination shone through. Belinda Kpentey opened the scoring after a brilliant solo effort by Christiana Ashiaku, who sprinted onto a loose ball, beat her markers, and provided a perfect setup for Kpentey to finish.

Daniella Abass then doubled Ghana’s advantage, showcasing remarkable composure with a clinical run and finish to seal the victory.

Despite Uganda’s attempts to claw their way back, Ghana’s defense remained resolute, ensuring a famous and emotional triumph — made even more remarkable as it came during the Black Damsels’ debut appearance in the competition.

The twin successes of Ghana’s U-15 teams underline the country’s bright future in youth football and provide a proud moment for the nation.

Source: GFA

Asante Kotoko settles $20,000 debt owed former Coach Prosper Narteh Ogum — Severance package still outstanding

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Asante Kotoko settles $20,000 debt owed former Coach Prosper Narteh Ogum — Severance package still outstanding

Asante Kotoko SC has made progress in resolving its financial obligations to former head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum, having settled a $20,000 debt owed to him, according to Kessben Sports intelligence.

However, Kotoko is not off the hook just yet, an outstanding severance package amounting to $16,000 still remains unsettled.

The $20,000 that has been paid was part of various entitlements owed to Coach Ogum from his most recent stint with the club. While details surrounding the components of this payment have not been fully disclosed, sources close to the situation confirm it covers unpaid bonuses and portions of salary arrears.

What remains is the severance package — a contractual obligation of $16,000, which is yet to be honoured by the club. This package is believed to cover compensation due following the termination of his contract and related settlement terms.

However, with the severance package still pending, all eyes are now on the Porcupine Warriors to complete the process and avoid potential legal repercussions or further strain on their reputation.

Prosper Ogum, who enjoyed a successful first spell with Kotoko, notably leading the team to the Ghana Premier League title in the 2021/22 season, had a more turbulent return in the 2023/24 campaign. His departure from the club, marked by internal disagreements and inconsistent results, left fans divided, but many still hold him in high regard for his earlier achievements.

Source: Kessbenfmonline.com

Karim Zito has what it takes to change Kotoko’s fortunes – George Kennedy backs new Kotoko boss

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Karim Zito has what it takes to change Kotoko’s fortunes – George Kennedy backs new Kotoko boss

Former Asante Kotoko stalwart, George Kennedy, has thrown his full support behind newly appointed coach Karim Zito, describing him as a “game changer” capable of turning around the club’s fortunes despite recent struggles.

Speaking on Akoma FM, Kennedy expressed unwavering belief in Zito’s abilities, citing his rich credentials and recent accomplishments as a foundation for optimism.

“Looking at Coach Zito’s credentials, I believe he can achieve it. I believe it’s not over. There are six matches remaining, and winning all of them will give us 18 points, which makes a big difference, so I don’t think it’s over yet.

Karim Zito, who previously led Dreams FC to continental qualification, brings with him international experience and a track record of success.

Kennedy believes that with the right support and logistics, Zito can replicate such success at Kotoko.

“Zito is a game changer, as far as I know… With his international experience and securing qualification for Dreams FC to play in Africa, I believe he can accomplish it. He merely needs help and logistics to improve his performance.

Despite being six points off the top, Kennedy remains confident that the league title is still within reach.

“For him (Zito), winning the league is doable. Six points is only two matches—if Gold Stars lose and we (Kotoko) win, we will catch up to them.

He concluded with a passionate call to the players and fans, urging unity and a fresh mindset to support the club’s new direction.

“We are only praying that the players will work together, forget about the current situation, stay injury-free, and reset their minds that there is a new coach. There should be a new attitude toward whatever we’re going to undertake, and with that, we can accomplish the task.”

With six crucial games left, the Porcupine Warriors still have a fighting chance—and George Kennedy believes Coach Karim Zito is the man to lead them there.

By Texas Kadri Moro

Ghana’s U-15 Girls defeat Morocco to begin African Schools Championship on a blistering note

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Ghana’s U-15 Girls defeat Morocco to begin African Schools Championship on a blistering note

Ghana’s U15 girls’ team kicked off their 2025 CAF African Schools Football Championship campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Morocco on Wednesday at the University of Ghana Stadium.

Midfielder Jennifer Awuku delivered the decisive moment of the match, finding the net in the second half to secure all three points for the host nation in their opening fixture. The match, like all in the tournament, was played over two 20-minute halves.

It was a disciplined and determined performance from the Ghanaian side, who showed composure and resilience against a technically skilled Moroccan team. The victory gives Ghana a strong platform as they look to progress from the group stage.

The girls will return to action on Thursday with a clash against Benin at 12:00 p.m., followed by a group finale against Malawi at 4:00 p.m. later the same day.

In the other games,  Uganda beat South Africa 1-0 while Benin pip Malawi by same scoreline to conclude Day 1.

The 2025 CAF African Schools Football Championship is being held in Accra from April 23 to 26, with the University of Ghana Stadium serving as the sole venue.

Source: GFA

Ghana U-15 Boys open CAF African Schools Football Championship with convincing win over Uganda

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Ghana U-15 Boys open CAF African Schools Football Championship with convincing win over Uganda

Ghana’s U15 boys’ team made a confident start to their 2025 CAF African Schools Football Championship campaign, securing a 2-0 victory over Uganda on Wednesday at the University of Ghana Stadium.

Winger John Andor emerged as the star of the match, netting both goals in a dominant display.

His first was a stunning strike that left the goalkeeper rooted, while his second came as a result of a goalkeeping error, sealing a well-deserved win for the host nation.

Despite making their debut in the tournament, the Ghanaian side showed impressive maturity and tactical discipline, controlling proceedings throughout the 40-minute contest, which is divided into two 20-minute halves.

With this win, Ghana claimed all three points in their opening group match and set a positive tone for their campaign on home soil.

The young Ghanaian team will continue their group stage journey on Thursday with a clash against South Africa at 11:00 a.m., followed by a decisive match against Algeria at 3:00 p.m. later the same day.

In Wednesday’s other Group A game, Tanzania drew 1-1 with Senegal in the Boys Division while South Africa overpowered Algeria 2-0.

Source: GFA

Karim Zito highlights Kotoko’s issues, says the players “feel so comfortable”

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Karim Zito highlights Kotoko’s issues, says the players “feel so comfortable”

Asante Kotoko interim coach, Abdul Karim Zito, is of the view that the players of the club feel ‘so comfortable’ and that could be one of the problems of the team.

The former Dreams FC coach has replaced Dr Prosper Narteh Ogum, who was sacked on Monday, April 23, 2025, following the poor run of results at the club.

Zito has been tasked to lead the club back to the top of the table and possibly win the FA Cup, with the Reds at the semi-final stage of the competition.

“We met the players, we saw their predicament, so many problems. We went to the club house and I saw that they feel so comfortable. I don’t know Hearts of Oak but I know Dreams FC, if sometime human beings feel so comfortable, they forget their target in life,” he told reporters.

“So it is our problem not only on the field of play, and that is why as a coach you need to study psychology,” he added.

Kotoko will host Aduana Stars in Zito’s first game in charge of the Kumasi-based giants at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday.

“It’s never over until the end” – Karim Zito on Kotoko winning the Ghana Premier League

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“It’s never over until the end” – Karim Zito on Kotoko winning the Ghana Premier League

New Asante Kotoko Technical Director and interim head coach Abdul Karim Zito has indicated that it will be difficult for the club to regain its top position in the ongoing Ghana Premier League although it is possible.

Zito rejoined the Porcupine Warriors on Tuesday following the exit of Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum.

The team has struggled to be consistent in their bid to win the league title, causing the sacking of the gaffer.

Zito, a highly experienced gaffer and former Ghana U-20 coach, takes over the technical duties at a crucial point in Kotoko’s season.

Speaking during his unveiling, Zito expressed confidence in the team’s ability to get back, saying: “Getting back to the top of the table is difficult but not impossible, and it’s never over until the end.”

Kotoko aims to breathe life into their campaign and push for a stronger finish in the Ghana Premier League.

Kotoko currently are 4th on the league log and will be hoping to return to winning ways under the new leadership having gone four games without a win.

Zito’s first challenge will be a home game against Aduana FC at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Sunday.

By Moro Texas Kadri

2024/25 Women’s Football Festival set for May 10 at University of Ghana Stadium

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2024/25 Women’s Football Festival set for May 10 at University of Ghana Stadium

The Ghana Football Association (GFA) Women’s Football Festival 2024/25, a fun-fair of finals usually organized by the GFA to climax the Women’s Football season, is set for the University of Ghana Stadium, Legon.

May 10, 2025, has been designated as the date for the grand finale of the Women’s FA Cup and the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League 2024/25 season in a thrilling doubleheader.

Jonina Ladies will face off with Faith Ladies in the FA Cup final, following their victories over Rootz Sistaz and Hasaacas Ladies, respectively, in the semis.

In the semifinals, Army Ladies FC qualified for the Women’s FA Cup final with a 2-1 victory against Epiphany Warriors at the Madina Astro Turf, while Police Ladies FC advanced by defeating Supreme Ladies FC 3-1.

The runoff final of the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League will see winners of the Northern Zone, Ampem Darkoa, take on Police Ladies, who dethroned Hasaacas Ladies to emerge winners of the Southern Zone.

The FA Cup final is scheduled for a 3:00 pm kickoff, while the Malta Guinness Women’s Premier League Final kicks off at 6:00 pm.

Both games are free and open to the general public:

Source: GFA

Asante Kotoko appoint Prince Yaw Owusu as new assistant coach

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Asante Kotoko appoint Prince Yaw Owusu as new assistant coach

Asante Kotoko have announced the appointment of Prince Yaw Owusu as the club’s new Assistant Coach, as part of a broader technical restructuring aimed at revitalising the Porcupine Warriors.

Owusu, a seasoned football coach with over two decades of experience, brings a wealth of expertise to the role.

His coaching career spans across Ghana, Sudan, and the United States, where he has held various prestigious positions, including head coach at Medeama SC, Inter Allies, and Khartoum National Club.

Notably, Owusu has also served as the assistant coach of the Ghana U-17 national team and head coach of the Ghana U-20 national team (Black Satellites).

In addition to his coaching roles, Owusu is widely respected for his player development work. He has nurtured numerous talents who have gone on to play for top clubs in Europe, such as AC Milan, Genoa, Sassuolo, and Fiorentina.

Owusu’s appointment forms part of the club’s strategic plan to strengthen its technical department and ensure sustained success in both domestic and international competitions.

As part of the reshuffled technical team, Owusu will work closely with interim head coach and newly appointed Technical Director Abdul Karim Zito.

Kotoko parted ways with Prosper Ogum on Monday following back-to-back defeats in the Ghana Premier League. Kotoko are hopeful that the new appointments will inject a fresh wave of energy as they aim for a domestic double.

Currently sitting fourth in the league, Kotoko have also reached the semifinals of the FA Cup.

Source: GSN

Accra Lions join forces with Eintracht Frankfurt in game-changing Partnership

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Accra Lions join forces with Eintracht Frankfurt in game-changing Partnership

Accra Lions have announced a cooperation with German Bundesliga side Eintracht Frankfurt. The partnership takes effect in June 2025 and includes several exciting aspects. Among other things, it will contribute to the development of our players through optimized training conditions and knowledge transfer.

The goal is to promote Accra Lions FC players and open up opportunities for them in international football. In return, Eintracht Frankfurt would like to learn more about the circumstances and background of West African football in order to better understand the growing number of African players in international football.

Eintracht Frankfurt, a powerhouse in European football, have won the German championship once, the DFB-Pokal five times, the UEFA Europa League twice and finished as runner-up in the European Cup once. Eintracht was one of the first Bundesliga clubs to count on African players.

Players like our compatriot Anthony Yeboah and Nigerian Jay-Jay Okocha achieved legendary status in Frankfurt already over thirty years ago.

“This partnership is a significant step for our club. We are proud to have a renowned Bundesliga club like Eintracht Frankfurt on our side. Our players and coaches can benefit enormously from this collaboration – both athletically and personally.

“We see it as a fantastic opportunity for cultural exchange between two football-loving countries, which can extend far beyond football-specific topics,” said Oliver Koenig, the Chairman of Accra Lions.

Eintracht Frankfurt is also enthusiastic about the collaboration:

“We are very pleased about the partnership with Accra Lions FC, which opens up new opportunities for both clubs. This initiative will not only help us discover talent from Africa, but also contribute to sharing our sporting and organizational experience with a dynamic club like the Accra Lions,” said Markus Kroesche, Sporting CEO of Eintracht Frankfurt.

The cooperation is in line with Eintracht Frankfurt’s strategic goal of expanding its international network and promoting youth development worldwide. The club sees great opportunities in the growing importance of the African football market – both in sporting and social terms – and wants to actively shape this dynamic.

Source: Accra Lions FC

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