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Former Employment Minister, two others arrested in connection with the death of popular Asante Kotoko supporter

The Ghana Police Service has confirmed the arrest of three people in connection with the death of a supporter of Kumasi Asante Kotoko.

The Three include Ignatius Baffour Awuah, who is the club owner of Nsoatreman FC, one Agyeman Duah and Kyeremeh Joseph.

The police statement indicates that a search conducted in the room of Agyemang Duah found two shirts stained with blood, an MP 23 pistol, and 15 rounds of ammunition.

The three are in custody, assisting the police with their investigation.

Meanwhile, Asante Kotoko SC has condemned the violent events during their Matchweek 19 fixture against Nsoatreman FC, highlighting the tragic stabbing of one of their supporters.

The incident occurred amidst escalating hostilities from the home crowd, which included throwing missiles and attacks on players.

According to the club, a supporter identified as Pooley who had travelled from Kumasi was stabbed during the violence and tragically succumbed to his injuries at the hospital.

“This senseless loss of life is devastating, and we extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and the entire Asante Kotoko fraternity,” the club stated.

The club also reported attacks on media personnel, destruction of equipment, and the unsafe environment created by the home crowd.

Asante Kotoko called for stronger security measures at league venues and vowed to cooperate with the Ghana Football Association in the investigation. 

They stressed the importance of ensuring football is played in a secure and fair environment, urging all stakeholders to act decisively to prevent such violence in the future.

Source:Mynewsgh.com

Ghana FA name Kim Lars Björkegren as Black Queens new head coach

Swedish Football Coach, Kim Lars Björkegren, has been appointed new Head Coach of the Senior National Female team, the Black Queens. He replaces erstwhile Coach, Nora Hauptle, whose contract with the GFA expired at the end of December 2024.

Kim Lars Björkegren started out as a footballer and played for his community club in Ljungsbro, later featuring for Allsvenska Åtvidabergs FF (Swedish First Division club at the time). An injury he sustained at the age of 22 put an end to his football career and he chose to pursue a career in Coaching.

In a career covering 18 years, Kim, now a UEFA License A Coach, has gained significant experience and success coaching in Sweden and other countries. Kim’s successes include his winning the Cyprus top Women’s league with Apollon Ladies as well as the Damallsvenskan (Swedish Women’s top league) with Linkopings FC. In the 2020-2021 season, he was adjudged the Coach of the season in Cyprus.

Kim holds the joint record with the renowned Sven Goran Eriksson as being the second Swedish manager to win two domestic titles in two different countries.

Kim Björkegren worked with the Finland Women’s National Team as a Scout and Analyst.

He has also coached Beijing BG Phoenix in the Chinese Super League (placing third in both the Chinese Women’s FA Cup and Super Cup in 2018) and has worked as Technical Director of Manila Digger FC of the Philippines. Kim also coached a number of male teams at various levels of the Swedish Football League system.

Most recently, Kim has been manager of Racing Louisville in the National Women’s Soccer League of the United States of America [USA].

Kim’s philosophy of football is to play possessive attacking, purposeful and entertaining football, utilizing the skills of his players in the best possible way, thus making him a flexible and adaptable Coach. He places a lot of emphasis on discipline, team organization, hard work, teamwork, dynamism and flexibility. This philosophy merges well with Ghana’s football philosophy.

With his coaching experience in Women’s Football, coupled with a background in Education and Sports Psychology, Kim Björkegren is viewed by the GFA as the ideal choice to take over the coaching reins of the Black Queens and lead them to greater heights.

GFA

Justice Blay extends his contract with Asante Kotoko

Asante Kotoko SC has announced that Vice-Captain of the side Justice Blay has signed a new deal to stay for an additional one and a half years.

This extension reflects Blay’s unwavering commitment to the club and his desire to help us achieve our goals.

Blay first joined Kotoko on loan during the 2019/2020 season from Medeama SC, making an instant impact by scoring 2 goals in 12 appearances. His impressive performances earned him a permanent move to the club in the 2021/2022 season, and since then, he has become a cornerstone of the team with 56 League appearances under his belt.

Renowned for his passion, leadership, and commanding presence in midfield, Justice Blay has earned the love and respect of both fans and teammates.

Sharing his thoughts on the new deal, Blay said:

“Kotoko is my home. I’m grateful for the trust the club has shown in me and the incredible support from the fans. I’m ready to continue giving my all for this badge.”

Head of the IMC, Nana Apinkra Akwasi Awua, highlighted Blay’s importance to the club:

“Justice is not just a player; he’s a leader and a symbol of what Kotoko stands for. We’re thrilled he’s chosen to continue this journey with us.”

Head coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum added:

“Justice brings so much to the team both on and off the pitch. His extension is great news for all of us.”

Source: Asante Kotoko Media

Asibey’s stoppage time howler hands Asante Kotoko win in Super Clash [+video of the goal]

Asante Kotoko beat Hearts of Oak for a third successive league victory over their sworn rivals in a pulsating encounter in Kumasi on Sunday, where it appeared all game the spoils would be shared, but Kotoko’s leading marksman Albert Amoah took advantage of a slack moment of defending deep into added time to nick all three points for the hosts.

The game began with Kotoko asserting early dominance, unsettling Hearts of Oak with their aggressive play. Within 27 seconds, Benjamin Asare made a stunning save to deny Kotoko an early lead. However, Hearts gradually settled into the game, controlling possession but failing to create significant chances. Their efforts were limited to a few off-target shots from outside the box.

Kotoko had chances to go ahead in the first half, as Amoah’s header from close range missed target while Kelvin Osei Asibey tackled Amoah from a clear goal-scoring chance. Meanwhile, Hearts were nearly ahead too when Baba Yahaya left his marker and shot from inside the box over the bar just before recess.

The second half saw Hearts of Oak begin brightly with Salim Adams dictating the pace of their attacks. Adams laid Kwabena Boateng through for the breakthrough, but a timely tackle denied what looked sure to be a goal. Both teams continued to fashion opportunities, though Kotoko’s Baba Yahaya missed another clear chance. With the game wearing on, it seemed both teams would take a share of the spoils.

However, all that changed in added time when a moment of indecision between Kelvin Osei Asibey and Benjamin Asare presented Amoah with a gilt-edged chance, which he coolly converted for his seventh of the season. The costly error overshadowed earlier stellar performances from both players and handed Kotoko a memorable victory.

This result lifts Kotoko above Hearts of Oak into sixth place on the Ghana Premier League table, leaving the Phobians in seventh.

Source: 3news.com

Kwame Poku rejoins Asante Kotoko

Asante Kotoko has confirmed the return of forward Kwame Poku, who has signed a two-and-a-half-year contract with the club, subject to medical and international transfer clearance.

The 27-year-old striker rejoins the Porcupine Warriors after a memorable stint in the 2020/21 season, during which he netted 6 goals and provided 3 assists in just 16 appearances. His impressive performances saw him earn a move to USM Alger in Algeria before continuing his career at Moroccan outfit Olympique Khouribga.

Poku will now wear the iconic number 31 jersey as he returns to bolster the Kotoko attack and contribute to the team’s ambitions in both domestic and continental competitions this season and beyond.

Speaking about his return, Head Coach Dr. Prosper Narteh Ogum said: “Kwame is a player who has grown tremendously since his first spell here. His time in Algeria and Morocco has sharpened his skills and added to his experience. He’s a proven goal scorer and creator, and I’m confident he will bring a lot of quality to our squad.”

Poku himself expressed his excitement about rejoining the club: “It’s a great feeling to be back at Kotoko. This club has always felt like home to me, and I’m eager to contribute to the team’s success. The support from the fans has been incredible, even during my time away, and I’m ready to give everything on the pitch to make them proud.”

Revenge for OKESS as they beat SIMMS to win the Ashanti Schools and Colleges championship

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Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School gained revenge over Simms SHS via penalty shootouts in the 2024-25 Ashanti Regional Inter-School and College Boys’ Soccer Competition Final, at Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Wednesday, December 4, 2024.

After a 2-2 stalemate, the Old Tafo-based OKESS defeated Simms 3-2 on penalties to clinch the trophy for the ninth(9th) time in the history of the competition

OKESS did not win the trophy on a silver platter as they had to shrug off threats from Sakafia SHS and Osei Tutu in the process before meeting Simms SHS.

Simms were hoping to win the trophy for the second time, having defeated OKESS to win their first ever trophy, but failed despite being favourates at kick-off.

The match was a repeat of the 2023 final, which Simms won 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw, and OKESS came into the game on the back of failing to win the tournament for the past 16 years.

OKESS opened the lead in the early minutes of the game, but Simms pulled parity just a few minutes before the break, with OKESS missing several chances to consolidate their lead.

After recess, OKESS maintained their momentum and were expected to extend their lead, but all efforts were fluffed.

Simms gradually warmed themselves into the game and subsequently snatched the equalizer, pushing the tie to penalty shootout.

OKESS eventually ended their 16-year-old trophy drought by winning 3-2 on penalties.

Opoku Ware School secured the third place spot with an emphatic 4-1 victory against Sakafia SHS.

REPEAT or REVENGE: OKESS beat Sakafia to set up epic final clash against SIMMS

After several days of exciting scenes and scintillating performances, the 2024/25 Ashanti Regional Inter-school and College Boys’ Soccer Competition will be climaxed with the final fixture between Simms SHS and Osei Kyeretwie Senior High School.

Simms SHS reached the final after edging out Opoku Ware School with a slender 1-0 victory on Tuesday afternoon.

Record champions OKESS also advanced to the final to set up a repeat of the 2023 finals against Simms SHS after beating Sakafia SHS 5-4 on penalties following a goalless stalemate.

In the 2023 edition, after a 1-1 stalemate, the Fawoade-based Simms defeated the eight-time winners OKESS 5-3 on penalties to clinch the trophy for the first time in the history of the school.

Jonathan Edwards netted for Simms with Farouk Omar Awidana equalising for OKESS.

Is it going to be a repeat or revenge?

The final is slated for Wednesday, December 4, 2024, at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi. The game is scheduled to kick off at 15:00 GMT (3p.m.).

The final duel promises to be cagey, as both sides have been amazing among the 32 schools that started the competition on Wednesday, November 27, 2024.

Opoku Ware School will battle Sakafia SHS for third place at 12:00 PM.

Semifinal results

Opoku Ware School 0-1 Simms SHS

Sakafia 0-0 OKESS
OKESS won 5-4 on penalties.

Third Place – December, December 4, 2024 at 12PM

Opoku Ware School vs. Sakafia SHS

FINAL – 3pm

Simms SHS vs OKESS

DAY 4 Results of 2024/25 Ashanti Regional Inter-School and College Boys’ Soccer Competition: OKESS maul O.T, SIMMS knocks out AMASS as OWASS, Sakafia progress [+Semifinal fixtures]

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The 2024-25 Ashanti Regional Inter-School and College Boys’ Soccer Competition is getting interesting following exciting moments in the quarterfinals of the tournament on Monday at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

The first game of the day saw favourite T.I AMASS exit the competition after failing to beat SIMMS SHS. After a highly competitive contest, the 2023 champions SIMMS secured semi-finals berth with a 6-5 victory through shootouts.

Opoku Ware School, under the tutelage of former Asante Kotoko assistant coach, Prince ‘Sabuto’ Acheampong picked a hard fought 3-2 win over heavyweight Adu Gyamfi SHS. OWASS after a 2-0 lead, nearly lost the tie, as Adu Gyamfi crawled back to level the scores. However, with few minutes to end the game, OWASS scored the needed goal to pick a spot in the semi-finals stage.

Record champions Osei Kyeretwie SHS mauled Osei Tutu SHS Akropong 4-1 in the third match of the day. OKESS took a 4-0 lead ,but with a few minutes to end proceedings, O.T grabbed the consolation.

Sakafia’s first half goal was enough to secure them a spot in the semi-finals as they defeated Aduman SHS in the final game of the day.

Full results of Day 3:

AMASS-Kumasi 0-0 SIMMS
(SIMMS won 6-5 on penalties)

Opoku Ware School 3-2 Adu Gyamfi SHS

Osei Tutu 1-4 OKESS

Aduman SHS 0-1 Sakafia Islamic SHS

DAY 5 Fixtures: Semi-finals
Tuesday, December 3, 2024

SIMMS SHS vs Opoku Ware School

OKESS vs. Sakafia SHS

DAY 3 Results of 2024/25 Ashanti Regional Inter-School and College Boys’ Soccer Competition: O.T knocks out Prempeh, SIMMS ousts KASS; OWASS, OKESS, Sakafia through to quarterfinals [+Quarterfinal Fixtures]

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The 2024/25 Ashanti Regional Inter-School and College Boys’ Soccer Competition continued today with the round of 16 clashes at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

The postponed round of 32 match between Konongo Odumase SHS and Komfo Anokye SHS, delayed due to weather conditions, was first on the schedule.

Komfo Anokye edged Konongo Odumase SHS 1-0 to secure a spot in the round of 16, where they faced Adu Gyamfi SHS.

The first round of 16 match saw giants AMASS-Kumasi secure a slender 1-0 victory over Mankranso SHS, following an impressive display of performance by both teams.

In the next game, 2022/23 champions SIMMS claimed an impressive 2-0 win over defending champions Kumasi Anglican Senior High School (KASS). A goal in each half was enough to send the Fawoade-based SIMMS to the quarterfinals.

After a pulsating goalless draw, Opoku Ware School advanced to the last 8 by defeating Fast Track SHS 6-5 in a penalty shootout.

Former champions Adu Gyamfi SHS earned a hard-fought 1-0 victory over neighbors Komfo Anokye SHS. Komfo Anokye came close to leveling the score in the second half but failed to convert a penalty awarded to them, with the ball striking the upright.

A masterful defensive performance by Osei Tutu SHS saw them progress to the next round after a 1-0 victory over Prempeh College. Prempeh had several chances to equalize but squandered all opportunities.

Record champions Osei Kyeretwie SHS (OKESS) defeated Obuasi SHTS 2-0 to book their place in the quarterfinals.

The last game of the day saw Sakafia Islamic SHS beat Asanteman SHS 5-4 on penalties after a goalless stalemate.


FULL RESULTS OF DAY 3 Fixtures – Round of 16
Friday, November 29, 2024

  • Mankranso SHS 0-1 AMASS-Kumasi

  • SIMMS 2-0 KASS

  • Fast Track SHS 0-0 Opoku Ware School
    (OWASS won 6-5 on penalties)

  • Adu Gyamfi SHS 1-0 Komfo Anokye SHS

  • Osei Tutu SHS, Akropong 1-0 Prempeh College

  • Obuasi SHTS 0-2 OKESS

  • Jacobu SHS 0-1 Aduman SHS

  • Asanteman SHS 0-0 Sakafia
  • (Sakafia won 5-4 on penalties)

DAY 4 FIXTURES
Monday, December 2, 2024

  • AMASS-Kumasi vs SIMMS
  • Opoku Ware School vs Adu Gyamfi SHS
  • Osei Tutu SHS vs OKESS
  • Aduman SHS vs Sakafia Islamic SHS

DAY 2 Results of 2024/25 Ashanti Regional Inter-School and College Boys’ Soccer Competition: KUHIS Eliminated; Prempeh, OKESS, Asanteman, O.T Progress to Round of 16 [+DAY 3 Fixtures: Round of 16]

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The 2024/25 Ashanti Regional Inter-School and College Boys’ Soccer Competition continued today with the remaining Round of 32 matches, delivering exciting encounters at the Baba Yara Sports Stadium.

The first match of the day saw Osei Tutu SHS secure an impressive 2-0 victory over Agona SDA SHS, advancing to the Round of 16.

In the second match, Prempeh College faced Osei Tutu SHS, Tetrem, in a thrilling encounter that ended 1-1. Prempeh College triumphed 4-3 in a tense penalty shootout to claim their spot in the next round.

Obuasi SHTS also advanced after edging Bosome SHS 5-4 on penalties following a goalless draw in regulation time.

Record holders OKESS came from behind to defeat Asare Bediako SHS 2-1 in a spirited performance.

Former champions Kumasi High School (KUHIS) were eliminated after a goalless draw with Jacobu SHS, losing 4-2 in the subsequent penalty shootout.

A strong second-half performance by Asanteman SHS earned them a 2-0 win over Apagya SHS, securing their place in the next stage.

The final match of the day saw Fomena SHS push Sakafia Islamic SHS to the limit. The match ended 0-0 after regulation time, but Sakafia emerged victorious, winning 5-4 on penalties to book their place in the Round of 16.

On Friday, November 29, 2024, the postponed Round of 32 clash between Konongo Odumase SHS and Komfo Anokye SHS, which was interrupted by weather conditions on Wednesday after a pulsating goalless first half, will be played before the commencement of the Round of 16 matches.


DAY 2 Full Results:

  • Osei Tutu SHS, Akropong 2-0 Agona SDA SHS

  • Prempeh College 1-1 Osei Tutu SHS, Tetrem
    (Prempeh College won 4-3 on penalties)

  • Obuasi SHTS 0-0 Bosome SHS
    (Obuasi SHTS won 5-4 on penalties)

  • Osei Kyeretwie SHS (OKESS) 2-1 Asare Bediako SHS

  • Kumasi High School 0-0 Jacobu SHS
    (Jacobu SHS won 4-2 on penalties)

  • Our Lady of Grace SHS 1-2 Aduman SHS

  • Asanteman SHS 2-0 Apagya SHS

  • Sakafia Islamic SHS 0-0 T.I AMASS, Fomena
    (Sakafia won 5-4 on penalties)

DAY 3 Fixtures – Round of 16
Friday, November 29, 2024

  • Mankranso SHS vs AMASS-Kumasi

  • SIMMS vs KASS

  • Fast Track vs Opoku Ware School

  • Adu Gyamfi SHS vs KOSS/Okomfo Anokye SHS

  • Osei Tutu SHS, Akropong vs Prempeh College

  • Obuasi SHTS vs OKESS

  • Jacobu SHS vs Aduman SHS

  • Asanteman SHS vs Sakafia