Sports
RTU dare Hearts in fiery Tamale cracker
• Manaf Umar – RTU’s attacking midfielder
The Aliu Mahama Stadium will come to a standstill tomorrow when Real Tamale United (RTU) host Hearts of Oak to a cagey encounter in a scorching betPawa Premier League match-day 16 tie.
The hosts, who succumbed to an embarrassing 6-2 defeat to Bechem United on Wednesday, would have to appease their fans and get back to winning ways.
RTU have won six of their seven games on home soil, losing 1-0 to Medeama SC on match-day 3, which gives the team huge boost of replicating their home dominance over Hearts.
With the exit of skipper David Abagna Sandan to Sudanese club Al Hilal, the likes of Manaf Umar, Issah Kuka, Mohammed Sadat and Stephen Badu have been instrumental in RTU’s resurgence and would ensure they give Hearts a run for their money.
Hearts were held to a pulsating 0-0 goalless draw by Legon Cities in the Accra derby in midweek, a result which has left the fans still in big doubt as to whether their sweat merchant – Slavko Matic, could turn things around.
The Phobians have managed only a win in their last four outings against Medeama SC – with all three ending in draws against King Faisal, Samartex and Legon Cities.
The likes of Kojo Obeng Jnr, Eric Esso, Samuel Inkoom, Caleb Amankwah, Amankwah Baafi and new inclusion Linda Mtange have been an integral part of Hearts progress – and with the return of Suraj Seidu, Gladson Awako and Dennis Korsah, the Phobians stand the favourite.
League leaders Aduana Stars will hope to continue their fine form when they welcome Nsoatreman at the Nana Agyeman Badu I Park tomorrow.
It will be a battle for survival when two struggling clubs – Tamale City lock horns with bottom-placed Kotoku Royals at the Aliu Mahama Stadium today.
In other games, second-placed Bechem United will battle Berekum Chelsea at the Golden City Park tomorrow, while impressive Goldstars welcome poor-performing Karela United to the Dun’s Park same day.
At the Accra Sports Stadium, Great Olympics will face Dreams FC while new entrants Nsoatreman take on Medeama SC.
On Monday, reigning champions, Asante Kotoko will have a tough hurdle to cross when they welcome Accra Lions to the Baba Yara Sports Stadium at Kumasi.
By Linus Siaw Nartey
Ludogorets forward Bernard Tekpetey has questioned the Black Stars’ selection decisions after being overlooked once again despite his consistent performances in Europe.
In an interview, the Ghanaian winger, who has been featuring regularly in the UEFA Champions League and Europa League, said he is hurt by the continuous snub, especially when players with little to no impact at club level are preferred ahead of him.
“If it’s not my time to be called up, why did they call me when I was 18? I came to prove to Ghanaians that I could do it. So why wasn’t I called up again after that?” Tekpetey asked.
Tekpetey, who earned his Black Stars debut as a teenager, believes his current form deserves a recall. He has been scoring goals and providing assists for Bulgarian champions Ludogorets, yet he continues to be left out of recent squads.
“When you’re playing in Europe, competing in the Champions League or Europa League, scoring goals and providing assists, but the national team comes around and you’re overlooked for players from Slovakia, Cyprus or the Czech Republic who have zero goals and assists, how would you feel? You would feel very bad,” he said.
His comments have sparked massive debate among Ghanaian football fans, with many calling for transparency and fairness in Black Stars call-ups.
Tekpetey’s outburst adds to growing concerns about selection criteria under the current technical team, as Ghana continues its rebuild ahead of major tournaments.
By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme
Shoes are more than just items worn to protect the feet; they are essential fashion accessories that can transform an outfit, express personality and add a touch of elegance to one’s appearance.
From casual outings to formal occasions, the right pair of shoes can make a simple outfit look stylish, sophisticated and complete.
High heels remain a favourite among women who want to add elegance and sophistication to their appearance.
Available in different designs, including stilettos, block heels and kitten heels, they can be worn to weddings, parties, formal gatherings and other special occasions.
While stilettos create a sleek and glamorous look, block heels offer greater stability for those who prefer a more comfortable option.
Flats are ideal for people who value comfort without compromising on style. Ballet flats, pointed-toe flats and loafers can be paired with dresses, skirts, trousers and jeans. They are suitable for office wear, shopping trips, church services and other everyday activities.
Sneakers have become a major feature of contemporary fashion. Once associated mainly with sports and exercise, they are now worn as everyday fashion statements.
White sneakers, in particular, pair beautifully with jeans, casual dresses, shorts and even tailored trousers. Sandals are popular for their lightness and versatility, especially in warm weather. They come in flat, heeled, strappy and platform designs, making them suitable for casual outings, holidays and social gatherings.
Loafers offer a blend of sophistication and comfort.
Wedges and platform shoes are suitable for those who want extra height while exploring alternatives to traditional high heels.
Despite the variety of shoes available, fashion enthusiasts should consider comfort, fit, quality and the occasion before making a choice. Shoes that are too tight or poorly fitted can cause discomfort, regardless of how attractive they look.
