Sports
Kotoko, Gold Stars to thrill Bibiani fans
Match day 32 games of the Ghana Premier League (GPL) will be honoured this weekend with exciting clashes across the various centres.
It started yesterday with an Accra derby involving Accra Hearts of Oak against relegation threatened, Accra Lions, at the Accra Sports Stadium.
The Phobians would hope to maintain their winning streak against the Accra Lions side that would need a win to boost their fight to avoid relegation.
In Bibiani, Gold Stars FC face a difficult task as they host Asante Kotoko in the weekend’s biggest fixture.
The outcome of this clash can define their status as both sides aim to stake claim to the title.
Goldstars suffered a surprise defeat two weeks ago, losing to another relegation-threatened side, Karela United, and need the win to strengthen their grip at the top.
But Kotoko would be in no mood to let the points slip through their fingers, knowing that catching up on the leaders with only two matches would be a difficult task.
It would be an exciting clash both sides would give their very best but the side with the best attack would emerge victorious.
League leaders, Nations FC, would welcome defending champions, FC Samartex 1996, to the Dr Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in a clash that could shape the final standings.
Elsewhere, Dreams FC return to the Tub Astro Turf aiming to bounce back against Berekum Chelsea, while Aduana FC take on Legon Cities at the Nana Agyemang Badu I Park in Dormaa.
In Bechem, Premier League newcomers, Basake Holy Stars, face a stern challenge against Bechem United at the Nana Gyeabour Park. The Holy Stars are desperate for points as they fight to stay afloat in the top flight.
At the bottom of the table, Vision FC lock horns with fellow strugglers Karela United in a must-win encounter for both sides. With the season nearing its end, this match could prove pivotal in the battle for survival.
Young Apostles, still reeling from their recent loss to Vision FC, aim to return to winning ways when they welcome a resurgent Heart of Lions side to the Wenchi Stadium. A victory would provide a timely boost as they seek to consolidate their Premier League status.
By The Spectator Reporter
Asante Kotoko SC has announced with deep sadness the passing of its former Brands and Marketing Manager, Kweku Hammond.
In a statement released by the club, Kotoko described Hammond’s death as untimely and expressed heartfelt condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones.
“Although his time with the club was brief, Kweku served with dedication, diligence, and unwavering commitment to Asante Kotoko,” the club stated. “His contributions and loyalty to the club will not be forgotten.”
Kweku Hammond served in the club’s Brands and Marketing department, where he played a role in promoting the Porcupine Warriors’ brand and engaging supporters.
The club assured that it will continue to honour his memory and legacy.
“May his soul rest in perfect peace,” the statement concluded.
Fans and members of the football fraternity have since joined the club in mourning, sharing tributes to Hammond for his professionalism and commitment during his time at club.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Captain of Ghana’s National U-15 Boys team, Abdul Aziz Issa, says the exposure gained at the FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026 in Azerbaijan will be vital for the development of the squad.
Ghana finished 7th out of 189 countries after an impressive campaign, winning eight of ten matches.
“I think we played well, the exposure was good for our development, and we can’t thank FIFA and the GFA enough for this amazing platform,” Issa said.
“I’m so very happy to be part of this FIFA U-15 World Cup and Festival 2026 in Azerbaijan. I want to thank my colleagues for how far we have brought Ghana in this tournament.”
The captain believes the experience will prepare the group for future challenges at U-17 and U-20 level.
Ghana enjoyed an outstanding tournament, scoring 44 goals and establishing themselves among the top seven teams.
Their dominant group stage saw them score 27 goals while conceding just three. Salifu Fatawu’s side opened with a commanding 4-1 win over Uzbekistan, thrashed Myanmar 7-1, recorded emphatic 7-0 wins over Guam and the Bahamas, before rounding off the group with a 2-1 triumph over Kazakhstan.
Their pursuit of a higher finish suffered a setback in the knockout phase after elimination by Paraguay in a dramatic encounter.
The team bounced back to finish 7th, including a commanding 4-0 victory over Colombia in their final game, despite suffering a 7-1 defeat to Brazil in the Tier A Ranking Play-Offs.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
