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.
Sports
WAFU B U20 BOYS CUP: Black Satellites Set for Must-Win Clash Against Benin in Final Group Game
The Black Satellites will return to action on Wednesday, July 17, when they take on Benin in a decisive Group A fixture of the 2025 WAFU Zone B U20 Boys Championship at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
The match, which is both teams’ final group outing, kicks off at 15:00 GMT.
Ghana currently sit on one point after drawing 1-1 with Nigeria in their opening match. Benin, on the other hand, are bottom of the group following a 4-1 defeat to the Flying Eagles of Nigeria.
For Benin, it’s all or nothing — only a win will see them through to the semi-finals. Ghana, however, need just a draw to advance.
Black Satellites head coach Desmond Ofei has made it clear that his team is going all out for victory. Despite Benin’s heavy loss to Nigeria, Ofei expects a tough challenge.
“It’s an important game for us because we have to win to qualify,” he stated.
He added, “Despite their loss to Nigeria, they played well. We have to be sharp and hungry, show that we are the better side to get the 3 points.”
Benin coach Raymond Tchalè is also confident his side will respond strongly, likening their approach to that of a wounded lion.
“We know what is at stake. We are going to throw in everything. Nothing but a win matters, and we’ll fight for it,” he said.
The game promises high tension and drama, as both teams aim to secure a place in the semi-finals and keep their hopes of qualifying for the Africa U20 Cup of Nations alive.
The equation is simple: Black Satellites must avoid defeat, Benin must win.
With a place in the knockout stage on the line, Wednesday’s clash is shaping up to be one of the tournament’s most gripping encounters.
Sports
Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah credits teammates for Black Queens’ Quarterfinal progress
Chantelle Boye-Hlorkah expressed her delight after Ghana’s 4-1 win over Tanzania propelled the Black Queens into the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals.
Boye-Hlorkah’s stunning finish sealed the victory, setting up a quarterfinal clash against Algeria.
Ghana took the lead early through Princella Adubea, but Tanzania equalized before halftime courtesy of Stumai Abdallah. The Black Queens dominated the second half, with Alice Kusi and Evelyn Badu adding to the scoreline.
“I’m so proud of the girls,” Boye-Hlorkah said after the game.
“They’ve got my back out there. As a vocal player, I try to lead and push the team to its best, and it’s amazing to see everyone working together.” she added.
