Sports
GFA boss commends DOL clubs
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) President, Mr Kurt Simeon-Okraku commended all the 48 teams on the successful conclusion of the 2024-25 Access Bank Division One League (DOL).
He also extended a heartfelt congratulations to the three clubs that earned promotion to the Ghana Premier League (GPL) – Swedru All Blacks, Techiman Eleven Wonders and Hohoe United.
“Your dedication, resilience, and quality on the pitch have paid off, and you now take your well-deserved place at the top tier of Ghanaian football. We welcome you and urge you to remain true ambassadors of discipline, professionalism, and fair play,” a statement signed by Mr Okraku said.
“Equally, we acknowledge the clubs that will be exiting the DOL. While this outcome is never easy, relegation is not an end, it is an invitation to rebuild, to reflect, and to return stronger.”
According to the statement, there was an improvement in the overall quality of play, match day organization and officiating, adding that “through intensified technical support, enhanced referee development, and greater collaboration with club administrators, we have made important strides in making the DOL hugely competitive.”
Central to this progress, he said has been the unwavering partnership of the title sponsor, Access Bank.
“Their continued commitment to Ghanaian football has been a catalyst for growth and transformation in the DOL. Together, we have been able to invest in club capacity building, grassroots scouting, and marketing initiatives that are elevating the standard of the game,” the statement said.
It commended the regional football associations, technical teams, match commissioners and all other stakeholders whose tireless efforts ensured a smooth and successful season across all three zones.
The statement affirmed the FA’s commitment to expanding opportunities, deepening investment, and introducing innovative reforms to make the League stronger and commercially viable.
Officials from the Ghana mission in the United Arab Emirates have paid a morale-boosting visit to the camp of the Black Queens.
The delegation, made up of Consular Officer Percy Okudzeto, Consul and Head of Chancery Abdul-Jalil Sigli Yakubu Abdulai and Head of Transport Anas Shaibu, visited the team to assure them of the government’s support and commitment to their safety and welfare.
During the visit, the officials interacted with the team and offered words of encouragement, urging the team to remain focused on the tournament despite concerns surrounding unrest in parts of the UAE.
Consular Officer Percy Okudzeto emphasised that the Ghanaian government, through its diplomatic mission, is closely monitoring the situation and is committed to ensuring the team’s safety throughout their stay.
“We want the team to stay calm and focus on the competition. The government and the embassy are doing everything possible to ensure your safety and well-being.” he said.
Consul and Head of Chancery Abdul-Jalil Sigli Yakubu Abdulai also reiterated the mission’s readiness to provide any assistance required by the team during the tournament.
Leadership of the team expressed appreciation for the visit, describing it as timely and motivating.
With the backing of Ghana’s diplomatic officials in the UAE, the Black Queens remain determined to represent the country proudly and deliver strong performances in the Pink Ladies Cup.
The Black Queens have arrived in the United Arab Emirates to participate in the upcoming Pink Ladies Cup in Dubai. The team touched down at the Dubai International Airport via Emirates Air on Wednesday morning and were warmly received by the competition’s organising officials.
The squad will be based at the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, where they will begin their final preparations for the tournament. Organised as part of the international women’s football calendar, the Pink Ladies Cup is expected to feature four national sides using the competition to assess their squads and fine-tune strategies for upcoming tournaments.
Ghana will open their campaign today with a clash against Hong Kong, while Russia and Tanzania face off in the other opening match.
The Black Queens are then scheduled to return to action on March 3, when they take on Russia in a match expected to test them against a physically strong opponent.
The final round of games will be played on March 6, with Ghana closing their campaign against Tanzania at 9:00 pm.
With three matches in eight days, the tournament promises to be a crucial phase in Ghana’s preparation, as the Black Queens aim to return to continental action sharper, stronger, and more competitive.
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