Sports
GFA cuts sod for the construction of 40-bed accommodation facility at Prampram
The President of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, today August 26, 2024, cut the sod for the construction of a 40-bed accommodation facility at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
The President was supported by members of the Executive Council, delegates to Congress, former GFA top officials including former Vice-Chairman Fred Pappoe, former General Secretary, Emmanuel Gyimah, and the media to perform the ceremony at the new-look Technical Centre.
The construction of the 40-bed accommodation facility marks a significant and pivotal step towards upgrading the centre to meet international standards.
The construction of the new edifice is part of a grand plan by the leadership of the Ghana Football Association to give the Technical Centre a befitting status in the scheme of African and World football.
Funded in part by the World Cup 2022 allocation from government, the project aims to elevate the centre’s infrastructure to accommodate various national teams and host matches.
President Simeon-Okraku applauded Government for the support as he cut the sod for the start of the legacy project, which is expected to be delivered in accordance with very high standards and specifications.
“I am very excited to see today and celebrate the decision to construct a 40-bed accommodation facility here in Prampram. I want to use this opportunity to express my gratitude to the Executive Council and members of Congress for their support for such a major project for the forward march of our game,” President Simeon-Okraku said
He said, “I am equally grateful to the Government for showing leadership in offering financial support in ensuring the realization of this fantastic project. The project includes many basic amenities to create a professional environment that will directly serve the national teams and contribute to the growth of Ghana football.”
“The effect of what I spoke about is what is manifesting and I hope that when we gather here again, we’ll be happy to inspect a fully constructed 40-bed accommodation facility.” he concluded, amidst applause.
The installation of floodlights at the AstroTurf and the construction of top of range natural grass pitches, as well as the construction of a gymnasium, swimming pool and Futsal Arena are additional components of the comprehensive upgrade of the facility.
These enhancements signify the GFA’s commitment to bolstering football infrastructure and providing adequate facilities for training and development.
Since its inception, the Ghanaman Soccer Center of Excellence has served as a key training and camping base for several of Ghana’s national teams.
With these planned improvements, the centre is poised to further solidify its role in nurturing and developing football talent while facilitating the growth of the sport at the national level.
Sports
Benjamin Asare’s call-up inspires local players – Osei Asibey
Hearts of Oak defender, Osei Asibey, has acknowledged that the call-up of Benjamin Asare, the current number one goalkeeper of the Ghana Black Stars, has given confidence to many local players to work hard.
Asibey explained that playing for the senior national team is time-based, and at the right time, every local player will get their chance.
“The Black Stars belong to Ghanaians, and everybody will get the chance to play for the Black Stars when the time is right. Benjamin Asare is a local player, and he has gotten the chance. I’m sure when it is our time, the country would call us to serve,” he asserted
Osei Asibey added that Asare’s achievement shows that with hard work, local players can also receive Black Stars call-ups.
By: Jacob Aggrey
Sports
World Cup Qualifiers: Ghana beats Mali to boost qualification hopes
The Ghana Black Stars on Monday evening secured a vital 1–0 win over Mali in the FIFA World Cup qualifiers, a result that strengthens their chances of booking a ticket to the 2026 tournament.
The Match
The only goal of the game came in the 52nd minute when Alexander Djiku powered home a header to put Ghana ahead at the charged Accra Sports Stadium.
Ghana dominated possession and created more chances, with Antoine Semenyo and Mohammed Kudus troubling the Malian defense.
Coach Otto Addo’s side managed the game well, with substitutes, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Iñaki Williams and Joseph Paintsil helping to protect the narrow lead.
Mali pushed for an equalizer but Ghana’s defense held firm until the final whistle.
What the win means
The victory takes Ghana to the top of their qualifying group, giving them a strong advantage in the race to secure a direct World Cup spot.
It also boosts team confidence as the Black Stars aim to make their fifth appearance at the global showpiece.
Games Remaining and Qualification Path
Ghana now has two games left in the qualifiers. To qualify directly, they must finish first in their group.
If they end up second, they will have to compete in the CAF play-offs to keep their World Cup hopes alive.
About the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The next FIFA World Cup will kick off on June 11, 2026, and run until July 19, 2026. For the first time in history, the tournament will feature 48 teams, an expansion from the usual 32.
It will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with matches spread across 16 cities.
By: Jacob Aggrey
