Sports
A final determined by Adaari?
Analysing an Asante Kotoko goal or penalty with a Phobian lense. It would surely be an exercise in futility. This is because no explanation would sound convincing to a Phobian.
That is an apt description of the scene witnessed after a controversial penalty was awarded Asante Kotoko late in their MTN FA Cup win over Division One League (DOL) side, Golden Kick last Sunday.
That is not to say that fans of the Oak tree are not reasonable, no, far from that; but followers of the game in Ghana would appreciate this analogy, owing to the huge rivalry that exists between them.
Let it also be on record that a few Red fans also expressed reservations over the decision.
Surrounded by numerous Golden Kick fans most of whom were genuine supporters of Hearts of Oak, bitter rivals of Asante Kotoko, referee Latif Abdul Adaari’s decision generated so much debates between them and the Reds faithful.
Interestingly, supporters put up sound arguments with different angles of the action that led to the penalty. Some shared the same videos but saw them differently.
But without a Video Assistant Referee (VAR), Adaari’s decision stood and Kotoko smiled home with a 10th FA Cup victory.
Had there been a VAR intervention, leading to a review and subsequent overturn of the decision, Kotoko fans would have definitely been up in arms, protesting vehemently like the Golden Kick disguised fans did.
But that is the beauty of football; momentarily dividing and the next moment uniting.
But for the controversy which is ongoing, Sunday’s game was by far the finest in the FA Cup finals witnessed in the last decade.
Kotoko were overwhelming favourites and Golden Kick massive underdogs.
However, the winners would be the first to admit that they were involved in a game of their lives.
Coach Karim Zito did not hide this fact. In a post-match interview, he stated “I am not surprised at all. I actually predicted it because it would have been better and more comfortable with a top division side. This is a DOL side with nothing to lose. Getting to the finals of the FA Cup is already an achievement. Playing Kotoko is another motivation. They have nothing to lose but have all to gain if they win.”
But in celebrating Kotoko, it is equally important to commend the effort of the Golden Kick side for their gallantry.
They proved that the class between the GPL and DOL is only vast on paper but slender on the pitch.
The likes of Kelvin Kofi Saaba, Roland Gripman, Owusu Dacosta, Paul Yeboah, Abdulai Zakari and Bless Ege clearly outshone their more experienced Kotoko stars.
Their pace, athleticism, control, dexterity and composure were superb, forcing the Porcupine Warriors to be unnecessarily physical to contain them.
While brooding over a lost opportunity to lay hand on a major silverware, Coach Fiifi Parker Hanson should feel worthy about the good work he is doing with this young generation of talents.
\He may have been undone by a contentious decision but what was seen from his charges will remain in the memory of football fans for a long time.
But the debate as to whether Adaari’s call was precise or erroneous would continue for a long time without answer
By Andrew Nortey
Sports
A walk to honour memory of late Nana Kwesi Gyan-Apenteng
A rare occasion to stay away from the air-conditioned offices, screens and other work demands was presented to journalists and staff of MTN on Saturday when they hit the streets of the capital for its annual health walk.
The participants who form the MTN Media Republic walked and worked out, climaxing it with an intense aerobic session. The entire exercise lasted for close to three hours.
The exercise is held bi-yearly for members of the Republic to make time out of their hectic schedules.
Saturday’s edition had the numbers in hundreds and was dedicated to the memory of a late member of the Republic, Nana Kwesi Gyan-Apenteng, a former Editor, National Media Commission chairman and a Communication Consultant.
He was the Apagyahene of Tafo Eti in the Eastern Region.
Under a decent weather, the members walked from the MTN Ghana office near Ridge and passed through areas such as the National Theatre, Ministries Police Station, Accra Sports Stadium, State House, and Police Headquarters and back to the starting point.
In separate interviews, members welcomed the initiative and called for its sustenance while paying tribute to the late member who showed loyalty and commitment to the group’s activities.
By Spectator Reporter
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.
