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U-20 AFCON: Zambia to test Black Satellites in pre-tournament friendly

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U-20 AFCON: Zambia to test Black Satellites in pre-tournament friendly

Following two days of training in Cairo ahead of the Total Energies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Black Satellites will, on Tuesday, 22nd April 2025, play a friendly match against Zambia at 6pm local time at the Folip Gardens Hotel football grounds located in Cairo.

This match will give Coach Desmond Ofei and the Technical team the opportunity to try out strategies and tactics that they have put the team through over the final weeks of their preparation for the tournament.

Zambia’s Under-20 team are also in Egypt for the Total Energies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and have been drawn in the five-nation Group A alongside tournament hosts, Egypt, as well as South Africa, Sierra Leone and Tanzania.

It is the expectation of the Management and Technical team that the Black Satellites have a good game against Zambia (who have a good pedigree at U-20 level) and apply the learnings and strategies practised during their training sessions.

Zambia has qualified for the FIFA U-20 World Cup on previous occasions in 2007 and 2017. They have also qualified to the U-20 African Cup of Nations on numerous occasions, winning the 2017 edition after defeating Senegal 2-0 in the final. Coached by the experienced Boyd Mulwanda, the Junior Chipolopolo, as the Zambia U-20 are affectionately called, are expected to give the Black Satellites a stern test in the upcoming friendly.

Monday’s training included a combination of tactical training, focusing on strategies and teamwork, and other exercises to fine-tune the team’s skills.

The Black Satellites will commence their campaign in the tournament on May 2, 2025, with a potentially tough Group C encounter against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).

Karim Zito replaces Malik Jabir as Asante Kotoko Technical Director

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Karim Zito replaces Malik Jabir as Asante Kotoko Technical Director

Ghana Premier League heavyweights Asante Kotoko have named former player club Abdul Karim Zito as their new technical director, replacing another club legend Malik Jabir.

Zito, a former player and head coach of Asante Kotoko, takes over the role from Jabir, who will remain involved with the club as a Technical Advisor.

Coach Zito returns with vast experience from both club and national levels, including guiding Dreams FC to a historic CAF Confederation Cup semi-final and leading Ghana’s U-20 team to the 2021 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations title.

The announcement was made on Tuesday in a statement by the Porcupine Warriors.

“Abdul Karim Zito has been appointed as the club’s new Technical Director. He will also serve as Acting Head Coach on an interim basis until a substantive head coach is appointed,” the statement said.

Jabir had been in charge of the technical director position since November 2024, overseeing technical operations and player recruitment.

OFFICIAL: Asante Kotoko announces Karim Zito as acting head coach

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OFFICIAL: Asante Kotoko announces Karim Zito as acting head coach

Asante Kotoko SC have announced key changes to the club’s technical leadership as part of an ongoing strategic restructuring.

Abdul Karim Zito has been appointed as the club’s new Technical Director. A former player and head coach of Asante Kotoko, Coach Zito returns with vast experience from both club and national levels, including guiding Dreams FC to a historic CAF Confederation Cup semi-final and leading Ghana’s U-20 team to the 2021 Africa U-20 Cup of Nations title.

He will also serve as Acting Head Coach on an interim basis until a substantive head coach is appointed.

Additionally, Prince Yaw Owusu has been appointed as Assistant Coach. Coach Owusu is a seasoned football technician with over two decades of coaching experience across Ghana, Sudan, and the United States. His career includes head coaching roles at Medeama SC, Inter Allies, Khartoum National Club, and the Ghana U-20 national team (Black Satellites), as well as assistant coach of the national U-17 side. Known for his work in player development, Coach Owusu has nurtured talents who have gone on to play for top clubs including AC Milan, Genoa, Sassuolo, and Fiorentina.

The club also confirmed that Malik Jabir, who has previously served as Technical Director, will now assume the role of Technical Advisor, providing strategic guidance to support the club’s long-term objectives.

These appointments are part of Asante Kotoko’s renewed commitment to building a strong, visionary technical structure aimed at sustained competitive success.

Prosper Ogum’s dismissal was tough but necessary – Sarfo Duku

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Prosper Ogum’s dismissal was tough but necessary – Sarfo Duku

Asante Kotoko Communications Manager, Samuel Sarfo Duku Esq. in a candid interview on Kumasi-based Akoma 87.9 FM, has clarified that Coach Prosper Ogum’s dismissal is purely performance-based.

The Ghanaian giants on Monday afternoon announced the exit of Ogum following an unimpressive run in the ongoing Ghana Premier League, which has seen the club drop from the 1st position to the fourth position on the log.

While some may argue that the team is just six points behind league leaders Gold Stars, Duku emphasized that the decision goes beyond mere numbers.

“We were once leading the table, even tied with second place at a point, but the trend has been worrying,” he noted. “We started poorly, improved briefly, and now we’re declining again. What do you expect?”

Duku was quick to acknowledge Ogum’s technical prowess, stating, “There’s no debate about his competence—he remains one of the best in the country.” However, in football, results matter. When things don’t go well over time, changes at the top become inevitable.

“We gave him full control over player recruitment, and management fulfilled its responsibilities. If the team’s performance is faltering, the technical team bears that responsibility,” Duku added.

He opined that though Ogum gave his all, his best wasn’t enough to meet expectations of the record winners, making it necessary to chart a new course for the club.

Reports suggest that Asante Kotoko are done with talks, and will soon announce former player Karim Zito as Ogum’s replacement.

Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum

OFFICIAL: Asante Kotoko sack head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum

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OFFICIAL: Asante Kotoko sack head coach Prosper Narteh Ogum

Asante Kotoko Sporting Club has announced the departure of Head Coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum following a string of disappointing results, according to an official statement released by the club.

The statement read: “This decision was reached following constructive discussions between both parties, with a shared understanding that it is in the best interest of the club at this time.

“We thank Coach Ogum for his dedication and service to the club, and we wish him the very best in his future endeavors.

“We urge our supporters to remain calm and continue to support the club during this transition. Further updates will be communicated in due course,” the statement ended.

The Porcupine Warriors have recently slipped in form, dropping from first place in the Ghana Premier League standings. They now sit in fourth place with 47 points, six points behind the league leaders.

This downturn includes back-to-back 1-1 draws against Heart of Lions and Bechem United, followed by heavy defeats, 3-0 to Accra Lions and 2-0 to Nations FC.

Meanwhile, Dreams FC Coach Karim Zito has emerged as the frontrunner to replace Dr. Ogum.

Source: Metrotvonline.com

Asante Kotoko to sack Prosper Narteh Ogum

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Asante Kotoko to sack Prosper Narteh Ogum

Asante Kotoko Interim Management Committee (IMC) is widely reported to have held an emergency meeting on Monday morning in a bid to end their contract with the head coach of the side, Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum following the club’s abysmal performance in the ongoing Ghana Premier League.

This is due to the club’s two consecutive defeats – a 3-0 defeat to relegation-threatened Accra Lions and a 2-0 loss tp neighbours Nations FC yesterday.

The poor results have pushed the Porcupine Warriors to fourth on the log with 47 points after 28 rounds of matches in the Ghanaian top-flight.

According to the multiple sources in Kumasi, the IMC has already made their decision and are not ready to maintain the former WAFA gaffer. The report further suggests that the hierarchy has made contacts with Ogum’s potential successors.

An official announcement is expected to be made soon by the club.

Kotoko has secured 13 wins, 8 draws, and 7 defeats, scoring 28 goals and conceding 21 in the process.

The club is also in the FA Cup and will be facing Berekum Chelsea in the Semifinals next month.

By Moro Kadri Texas

World Cup 2026 Qualifier: Thomas Partey scores twice as Ghana maul Madagascar to open 5-point lead

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World Cup 2026 Qualifier: Thomas Partey scores twice as Ghana maul Madagascar to open 5-point lead

Thomas Partey scored twice, once in each half, while Mohammed Kudus ended his goal drought, as Ghana defeated Madagascar 3-0 in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group I qualifier on Monday. Seeking to solidify their lead, the Black Stars dominated the game, scoring three goals to secure a convincing win.

Coach Otto Addo made two changes to the starting lineup that thrashed Chad 5-0 on Friday, bringing in Francis Abu and Jerome Opoku in place of Ernest Nuamah and Inaki Williams.

Ghana asserted their control from the outset, dictating the pace and dominating possession. Thomas Partey opened the scoring in the 12th minute, heading home a delightful Jordan Ayew free kick.

After the break, Madagascar made several substitutions, introducing fresh legs in an attempt to alter the game’s dynamics. However, Ghana remained resolute. Thomas Partey scored his second goal in the 54th minute, courtesy of another impressive Jordan Ayew corner kick.

Mohammed Kudus added Ghana’s third goal in the 59th minute, providing a comfortable cushion. The West Ham United ace coolly slotted home after being put through by Jordan Ayew.

As the game progressed, Coach Addo made several substitutions, bringing on Ernest Nuamah, Razak Simpson, and Inaki Williams for Francis Abu, Mohammed Kudus, and Antoine Semenyo. Gideon Mensah, who had a stellar game in the wingback position, was replaced by Ebenezer Annan, while Jonas Adjetey came on for Jerome Opoku.

Throughout the match, Ghana’s attacking trio Jordan Ayew, Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus posed significant problems for Madagascar’s defense, creating scoring opportunities aplenty.

Ghana’s win solidifies their position at the top of Group I with 15 points. Madagascar has 10 points from five matches, with three wins, one draw, and one loss.

Ghana has scored 12 goals in the qualification group stage, averaging 2.40 goals per match.

World Cup 2026 Qualifier: Ghana tops Group I with emphatic win over Chad

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World Cup 2026 Qualifier: Ghana tops Group I with emphatic win over Chad

The Black Stars of Ghana delivered a stellar performance, defeating Chad 5-0 in their FIFA World Cup qualifier at the Accra Sports Stadium on Friday, March 21, 2025.

Otto Addo reposed confidence in Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Benjamin Asare after an impressive display in training. Thomas Partey anchored Ghana’s midfield with Ernest Nuamh complimenting him in the heart of the pitch.

Captain Jordan Ayew led the attack with Mohammed Kudus playing behind him as Antoine Semenyo and Inaki Williams operated on the wings.

Ghana dominated the first half, with Antoine Semenyo opening the scoring in the 2nd minute. The Stars continued to press, and their efforts paid off when Iñaki Williams doubled the lead in the 31st minute. Jordan Ayew converted a penalty kick in the 36th minute, further increasing Ghana’s advantage.

The Black Stars maintained their momentum in the second half, with Mohammed Salisu scoring in the 56th minute. Ernest Nuamah sealed the win with a goal in the 68th minute, capping off an impressive display by the Ghanaian team.

This convincing victory propels Ghana to the top of Group I with 12 points, having played five matches. Ghana will travel to Morocco to play Madagascar in another epic clash on Monday, March 24, 2025.

World Cup 2026Q: Ghana’s Black Stars eye redemption in Chad showdown

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World Cup 2026Q: Ghana’s Black Stars eye redemption in Chad showdown

For 24 years, the Black Stars of Ghana have never lost a World Cup qualifier at home, and the target will be to keep that intact when Ghana face Chad.

The two teams face each other on matchday five of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers on Friday, March 21, at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Otto Addo’s side are looking to move to the top of the table in Group I following Comoros’ defeat to Mali on Thursday at home.

The Black Stars currently sit second on the table with nine points and a game in hand, one behind Madagascar.

Ghana have picked up three wins from their earlier four games, coming against Madagascar, Mali and Central African Republic in 2024.

Chad, on the other hand, are rocked to the bottom after suffering four defeats in their opening games of the qualifiers.

They are hoping the game against Ghana will be an opportunity to pick up their first point of the qualifying series.

Ghana will be counting on the fact that they have not lost a World Cup qualifier at home since 2001. In that period, they have picked up 22 wins and 7 draws from 29 games, scoring 59 and conceding just 13.

This will be the first meeting between Ghana and Chad across all competitions.

Getting back into the good books of Ghanaians

The year that went by was one that got Ghanaians mad at the national team. They were left frustrated by the team’s performance, and their anger at the team was fueled by the team missing out on a place at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations. It will be the first time the Black Stars are not making the continental showpiece for the first time in over two decades.

The team won just two of their 10 games last year under Otto Addo, losing four and drawing four. Hence, the game against Chad is of massive importance in their quest to win back the hearts of Ghanaians.

Source: Joy Sports

Asante Kotoko withdraw from Ghana Premier League

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Asante Kotoko withdraw from Ghana Premier League

Ghana Premier League giants Asante Kotoko have announced their withdrawal from the GPL following the death of staunch supporter Nana Pooley.

In a statement released on Tuesday, February 4, 2025, the club stated that all first-team activities have been put on hold and will only resume after justice is served.

The club have suspended all first-team football activities, however, announced that juvenile activities will continue as required.

“Asante Kotoko wish to state that all footballing activities of the senior team are on hold until further notice. Our stance remains unchanged; we will not resume footballing duties until justice is served, and concrete steps are taken to prevent such barbaric acts from ever happening again,” the club wrote.

“In the meantime, management has decided to suspend all activities relating to football on the pitch until further investigations into the matter. However, our juvenile team and players recovering from injuries who require rehab will be allowed at our training center.”

The Ghana Police Service have already begun making arrests in connection with the violent clash that erupted during the match between Nsoatreman FC and Kumasi Asante Kotoko FC on Sunday, February 2, 2025.

Former Minister of Employment and Labour Relations and owner of Nsoatreman Ignatius Baffour Awuah, Agyemang Duah Owusu, and Kyeremeh Joseph have all been arrested as suspects as police undertake thorough investigations.

Meanwhile, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has suspended matchday 20 fixtures as they lease with the Police to ensure justice.

Asante Kotoko led the GPL table with 34 points after 19 games, winning 10, drawing four and losing 5.

Source: Ghanaweb

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