Sports
TotalEnergies U-20 AFCON: “We’re Ready and Motivated for DR Congo Test”
Captain of Ghana’s U-20 national team, Ofori McCarthy, has indicated the team’s determination ahead of their opening match against DR Congo in the ongoing TotalEnergies U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, Egypt 2025.
The tournament kicked off on April 27, and Ghana finds itself in a competitive Group C, with DR Congo presenting a formidable first challenge. Speaking to the media, McCarthy noted the team’s confidence and readiness for the tournament.
“We expect a very competitive game, but we are ready,” he said. “Our preparations have been good, and the team is highly motivated. This is a strong group, and our first game is crucial—we’re looking forward to it with great anticipation.”
While showing respect to their Congolese opponents, McCarthy emphasized that the Black Satellites are focused on giving their all. “We respect Congo, but we will give our best. It’s all about going into the game with the right mentality and how we approach the game.”
The captain underlined that Ghana’s primary objective is to secure qualification from the group stage, setting the stage for a strong run in the tournament.
The Satellites, drawing on the nation’s rich history in youth football, will aim to start their campaign on a high as they chase a fifth continental title for Ghana.
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
