Jude Bellingham has been in impressive goal-scoring form for Real Madrid, leading Gary Lineker to envision the versatile 20-year-old taking on a striker role in the future.
Bellingham’s reputation has primarily been built as a midfielder, where he has showcased his work ethic, passing ability, and knack for finding the back of the net while playing in a deep-lying position.
However, he has also displayed his creativity when deployed as a No. 10, and there are suggestions he could move even further up the field in the coming years.
With 11 goals in 12 appearances for Real Madrid in all competitions this season, Bellingham is making a strong case to be utilised as a forward.
The Liga giants have occasionally employed him as a ‘false nine,’ and Lineker believes the immensely talented young player can excel in any role he is assigned.
Ex-England striker Lineker has told The Sun ahead of seeing his former club Barcelona take on Bellingham and Madrid in El Clasico on Saturday: “The way he has started at Real gives Gareth Southgate a great option.
“If something happens to Harry Kane, or after he is finished because Harry is now 30, Jude could play at centre-forward, as a false nine, if you like.
“He is now scoring poacher’s goals. He’s even doing the ‘easy’ bits that I used to do! He has been playing as a No. 10 for England in his last few games. He can play in a deeper role as a No. 8; he is probably the most complete English footballer I’ve ever seen and he’s only 20. No one knows what Jude’s best position is because he is so good in several roles but I could see him playing up front for England.”
Bellingham, with 27international caps for the England national team, has managed to score just two goals for his country. As England starts preparing for another opportunity to compete for a major championship next summer at Euro 2024, he will likely aim to increase his goal-scoring record.
Trent Alexander-Arnold expressed admiration for the “amazing” Luke Chambers after the Liverpool academy graduate made his full debut for the Reds in a Europa League match against Toulouse at Anfield.
In a commanding performance, Liverpool secured a 5-1 victory with goals from five different players.
Manager Jurgen Klopp opted to rest some regular starters for this European fixture, granting Chambers an opportunity to showcase his skills at left-back.
The young player seized this chance and delivered an impressive performance, increasing the pressure on Klopp to provide him with more opportunities in the future.
Alexander-Arnold, himself a product of Liverpool’s youth system, was delighted to witness another academy talent thrive on the grand stage and commended Chambers for his display.
“I’ve seen it was seven years yesterday since my debut,” Alexander-Arnold told TNT Sports post-match. “And I still know exactly how it feels. That excitement you’ve worked so hard for
He’s put in all the hard work, he’s shown himself, and he’s been outstanding every time.
“He’s been in and around the team on and off the pitch, and he plays amazing football. It’s amazing to see him out there, and he’s a really amazing player and he has great potential. I’m sure he and his family will have a great night because it’s one he’ll never forget. He put in an amazing performance out there, was very mature, and contributed to a big win for us.”
An injury to Andrew Robertson could pave the way for more minutes for Chambers. The defender revealed that it was a dream come true for him, as he has been a lifelong Liverpool fan.
“I’ve dreamt of this moment since I was six years old,” the 19-year-old said.
“And a win as well. I’m lost for words. I found out yesterday and had a little bit of time with my family at night and a bit of reality this morning when I woke up. But I loved every minute of it.”
Chambers will hope to retain his place in the starting XI when Liverpool host Nottingham Forest on Sunday in the Premier League.
The England international is clearly holding the Red Devils back right now and no longer deserves to be an automatic starter Erik ten Hag probably feels a debt of gratitude towards Marcus Rashford, which is understandable.
The Manchester United forward made sure that the Dutchman’s debut season in the Old Trafford dugout was a successful one by scoring 32 goals across all competitions, as he finally seemed to have come of age.
With the help of first-team strikers’ coach Benni McCarthy, whom Ten Hag hired a month after his own arrival at United, Rashford added a clinical edge to his game that had previously been lacking due to his erratic decision-making in the final third.
More often than not, he was taking his chances and playing the right passes, which helped United clinch a top-four finish and their first trophy in five years in the form of the Carabao Cup.
Rashford earned the right to be the first name on Ten Hag’s teamsheet, and deserved all of the praise that came his way. But just 12 games into the 2023–24 campaign, Rashford has used up all of the credit he had in the bank. Ten Hag has started the 25-year-old in all but one of United’s fixtures – the third-round Carabao Cup win over Crystal Palace—and he’s only managed to score once.
Rashford is currently enduring an eight-match barren run in front of goal at club level, with his latest ineffective display coming against Copenhagen in the Champions League. United scraped a 1-0 victory in spite of Rashford’s presence, as he seemed to be doing his best to squander almost every promising attack while shirking his defensive duties.
Still, Ten Hag kept him on for the full 90 minutes.
Rashford still enjoys the manager’s full faith because of his exploits last season, but Ten Hag is wrong to blindly trust that his star man will eventually return to form.
Rashford’s composed finishing was a joy to behold last season, as he scored some brilliant goals from a variety of angles, but he’s regressed dramatically in that department in recent months.
The United Academy graduate is still taking plenty of shots but has a shooting accuracy of just 38.9 percent in the Premier League, which puts him way behind the top marksmen for 2023–24 so far.
The fact that Rashford is missing the target so often suggests he is rushing his execution and attempting to score from unrealistic positions. His wastefulness in possession must also be a great source of frustration for his teammates.
Summer signingRasmus Hojlund has the most reason to complain, having only scored three times since his £72 million ($87 million) switch from Atalanta, despite making a hatful of intelligent runs and getting into great positions. His output would undoubtedly be better if Rashford was playing with his head up and putting a few crosses into the box.
United have struggled to string passing sequences together in general this term, and Rashford must shoulder most of the responsibility for that.He is misplacing simple passes and running down blind alleys week in, week out.
Rashford can be anonymous for lengthy periods, too, and he doesn’t do nearly enough to aid the team’s press when out of possession. Supporters have every right to demand a lot more from a man who is now into his ninth year of senior football at Old Trafford.
Sandro Tonali has been handed a 10-month ban for violating betting regulations in Italy, which would typically rule him out for the rest of the 2023–24 Premier League season and Euro 2024.
However, the suspension is still pending final approval, keeping Tonali eligible to play until it is officially ratified.
This approval process might conclude before Newcastle’s match against Wolves on Saturday, and as of now, the 23-year-old midfielder is still part of Eddie Howe’s plans.
Magpies boss Howe told reporters prior to receiving confirmation of Tonali’s ban: “We’ve not had official confirmation as a football club.
We’ve not had anything from the Italian authorities so we are waiting for that official confirmation to come through. There’s a high chance he could be available for us. A few things need to happen before the ban is imposed so let’s see. You saw from the Dortmund game he did very well. He’s been bright and he’s trained.
“The only way I can judge him is on that. He’s been good around the group and the training ground. From how I can see, he’s handling himself in the right way.
“I think I said in the press conference the other day that I can’t work with hindsight. We didn’t know this was even a possibility. There’s a frustration that we won’t have him now, as I liked him as a footballer.”
Tonali made a high-profile move to Newcastle from AC Milan in the summer transfer window for a fee of £55 million ($67 million).
Despite having only played in 12 matches this season, he is now expected to remain unavailable for competitive matches until August 2024.
However, he will retain the ability to train with his Newcastle teammates and participate in any friendly matches.
Liverpool is reportedly leading the race to acquire the services of Sporting CP’s Goncalo Inacio, with a price tag of €49 million (£43 million or $52 million).
The Portuguese defender has drawn the attention of several Premier League giants due to his consistent performances in the Primeira Liga.
It was previously reported that Liverpool had inquired about Inacio during the summer, as they are actively seeking long-term replacements for the aging Joel Matip and Virgil van Dijk.
Manchester United had also shown interest, but their pursuit was halted as Harry Maguire remained at Old Trafford.
As per Sport Bild, Manchester United has withdrawn from the competition, making Liverpool the front-runners.
Jurgen Klopp holds Inacio in high regard and views him as the preferred choice to bolster the defense.
Inacio, a left-footed player, exhibits composure with the ball at his feet and is seen as a potential successor to Van Dijk, aligning with Liverpool’s long-term plans.
Liverpool recently dispatched scouts to observe Inacio’s performance while representing Portugal against Bosnia, alongside experienced center-back Ruben Dias.
The match proved relatively uneventful for Inacio, as his team secured a dominant victory, with all five goals scored in the first half.
Inacio’s contract with Sporting is valid until 2027, but his €49 million release clause may tempt Liverpool to make a move.
Liverpool is scheduled to face Nottingham Forest on Sunday, while Inacio’s Sporting will take on Boavista in a league encounter a day later.
Liverpool legend Robbie Fowler has been unexpectedly dismissed from his position as the head coach of Al-Qadsiah, even though the team was performing well, securing the second spot in the league.
Fowler’s tenure lasted only four months, during which the team achieved six wins and two draws in the opening eight matches.
Remarkably, Fowler was honoured with the Manager of the Month award for his team’s impressive performance in September.
This decision has raised eyebrows, particularly considering the team’s strong showing.
The team’s sole significant setback came in the King Cup of Champions, when they were defeated 2-0 by Al-Taawoun, a Saudi Pro League team.
#القادسية ينهي علاقته التعاقدية مع المدرب "روبي فاولر" ويقدم شكره للمدرب على ماقدمه خلال الفترة التعاقدية مع الفريق. pic.twitter.com/FGEMihTW2J
Nora Hauptle, who serves as the head coachof the Black Queens, is underscoring the significance of maintaining the team’s excellent performance during her tenure.
Since taking on the role in February, the Ghana women’s national team has achieved an impressive record, playing seven games, scoring 26 goals, and not conceding any.
During a media briefing ahead of the second round of the 2024 Olympic qualifiers against Benin, Hauptle conveyed her determination to sustain this positive momentum when they take the field this Friday.
She also expressed her contentment with the team’s diligent preparations in anticipation of the upcoming match.
“We’ve arrived in Benin well for the second Olympic round qualifier, and we are still on our mission, Volta,” Nora said.
“We are still unbeaten and have not conceded any goals; we want to continue this way.
“We’ve worked hard this week, first of all on our values. It is all about defending well, our unity and our determination.”
The initial match is scheduled for tomorrow,Friday, October 27, in Benin, while the return fixture will take place in Ghana four days later.
Dreams FC striker John Antwi has expressed his eagerness to respond to any invitation to join the Black Stars, Ghana’s national football team.
After returning to the Ghana Premier League during the last transfer window, Antwi, formerly associated with Al Ahly and Pyramids, has rapidly become a standout performer for Dreams FC.
His contributions played a crucial role in helping Dreams FC secure a historic qualification to the group stage of the CAF Confederations Cup.
Despite his prior commendable performances, Antwi’s last call-up to the national team was in 2017 and 2020 for World Cup and AFCON qualifiers.
Since his debut, the seasoned striker has only made two appearances for theBlack Stars.
Nevertheless, at the age of 31, he has openly expressed his willingness to represent his country once more, showing his ongoing commitment to international duty.
“I will leave that to the technical team. They are monitoring every player around the world and if they deem it fit that I am qualified and fit to join the team and they give me a call-up, why not? I am ever ready to join the team,” he said.
The eagerly anticipated tour of Inter Miami, featuring the iconicLionel Messi, to China has already encountered turmoil even before it commences.
Soccer enthusiasts across Asia were thrilled at the prospect of witnessing the legendary Messi’s presence once again, especially following what is anticipated to be his eighth Ballon d’Or win in 2023.
The Argentine icon is poised to add another Golden Ball to his collection during the glamorous ceremony scheduled for October 30 in Paris.
Shortly after this prestigious event, Major League Soccer (MLS) outfit Inter Miami had plans to embark on a tour to China, where they were slated to play a series of friendly matches.
Originally, their itinerary included a match against Qingdao Hainiu on November 5, followed by a game against Chengdu Rongcheng three days later.
According to the South China Morning Post, the second of those fixtures has been cancelled, with “various reasons” being cited for the late change in plans.
Inter Miami, with Lionel Messi expected to be a part of their travel contingent, are still scheduled to compete against Qingdao.
Nevertheless, there have been adjustments made to the schedule, relocating the match from the initially planned 50,000-seat Qingdao Youth Football Stadium to the 41,500-capacityWuyuan River Stadium in Haikou.
There have been conflicting statements from event organisers regarding the ticket sale date, and now there is only one game for fans to look forward to.
This has left disgruntled supporters expressing their discontent on social media, as their initial feelings of joy and anticipation have turned into frustration and bewilderment.
Roma continued their flawless performance in the 2023/24 UEFA Europa League (UEL) group stage, securing a relatively comfortable victory against Slavia Prague with two early goals.
The atmosphere before the match was charged with the bitter memories of a heart-wrenching extra-time defeat to Jiri Vavra’s goal in the 1995/96 UEFA Cup.
However, Roma’s current squad wasted no time seeking revenge.
In the very first minute, Stephan El Shaarawy set up Edoardo Bove, who unleashed a remarkable long-range shot into the far corner of Ales Mandous’ net, making it Bove’s third consecutive opening goal.
La Lupa’s dream started to improve further in the 17th minute.
Slavia mistake allowed Roma to initiate an attack from the back.
El Shaarawy, with his quick thinking, played a clever pass to put Romelu Lukaku through the defensive lines. Lukaku, with his powerful prowess, charged towards the goal and slotted the ball into the net at the near post with his left foot, maintaining his perfect scoring record in the UEL group stage.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ln90VtL4YTQ
Lukaku continued to trouble Slavia throughout the first half, although the Czech team was fortunate to trail only 2-0 at halftime, with a low shot from Mick van Buren narrowly deflected wide by Mile Svilar.
While the second half didn’t see a repetition of Roma’s explosive start, both teams maintained a consistent passing tempo. El Shaarawy struck the crossbar after a pass from Zeki Celik, while Slavia’s Ivan Schranz missed a chance to score, which was their best opportunity until that point.
With one eye perhaps focused on their upcoming challenging match against Inter Milan, Roma seemed content to allow Slavia more possession, limiting the Czech team to long-range attempts.
In reality, there was little doubt about Roma’s third consecutive victory in the UEL group stage, marking their sixth consecutive win overall.
Their impeccable home record against Czech teams remained unblemished. Despite their early mistakes, Slavia is still comfortably positioned in second place, with a five-point lead, as Servette and Sheriff Tiraspol played to a 1-1 draw in another match.
The future of Kevin De Bruyne continues to be a topic of speculation, as per reports from Football Insider.
Clubs from the Saudi Pro League are reportedly poised to take action.
Currently, the 32-year-old midfielder has 18 months left on his contract with Manchester City.
However, his season has been marred by a significant hamstring injury, which has limited his playing time.
This situation has led to the conjecture that Manchester City might consider parting ways with De Bruyne, and a move to Saudi Arabia appears to be the most financially beneficial option for both the player and the club.
The report further suggests that there have been preliminary discussions with the Belgian international about a potential move nextsummer.
The most probable exit route for winger Jadon Sancho from Manchester United now appears to be through Saudi Arabia, as reported by The Athletic.
Borussia Dortmund, the club where Sancho developed before his move to Manchester United, currently faces financial constraints that prevent them from reacquiring the player.
At just 23 years old, Sancho seems destined to leave Old Trafford in January due to a fallout with manager Erik ten Hag, primarily concerning his behaviour during training sessions.
This dispute has resulted in Sancho’s exclusion from the first-team squad, and he hasn’t made an appearance for Manchester United since August.
Despite not living up to expectations at United following his £73 million transfer from Dortmund in 2021, Sancho has garnered interest from various European clubs.
However, his high wages pose a significant obstacle.
Initial sources from ESPN suggested thatDortmund was keen on bringing Sancho back to the club.
However, they reportedly cannot match his substantial £200,000-a-week salary, making a move to Saudi Arabia the most feasible option for the English international.
While a move to Saudi Arabia was strongly rumoured at the end of the summer transfer window, it never materialised.
Nevertheless, it is expected that Saudi clubs will pursue Sancho in January, as such a deal would likely benefit all parties involved.
Meanwhile, Erik ten Hag faced difficulties in securing several of his desired signings in the summer, largely due to the inability to offload surplus squad players.
Thus, he is likely motivated to facilitate Sancho’s departure, which would free up funds for Manchester United to pursue their own targets in the upcoming transfer window.
The Goldfields Ghana Foundation has recently unveiled an impressive $13 million investment plan for the development of the T and A Stadium, which is poised to become the new home ground for Medeama SC, a notable football club.
In a remarkable move, the mining company has taken on the responsibility of constructing this stadium, which is designed to comfortably host a crowd of up to 10,400 enthusiastic spectators.
This strategic initiative has been spurred by Medeama’s recent achievement in successfully qualifying for the group stage of the prestigious CAF Champions League, showcasing their growing prominence in the African football scene.
Notably, earlier this month, Medeama publicly acknowledged receiving communication from Goldfields Ghana regarding the finalisation of their sponsorship agreement.
While the company has not officially refuted this information, they have now offered an update on the ongoing progress of the stadium’s construction, further cementing their commitment to this promising partnership.
According to a statement from the company, “The Foundation has so far invested over US$13 million in the stadium, out of a budgeted US$16 million, and this has proven to be one of the high-cost ticket items it has funded besides the Tarkwa to Damang asphalted road.”
Additionally,Goldfields Ghanahas allocated an amount of US$100,000 to support the Tarkwa-based club in its advertising efforts.
“The advertising package, which covers various areas including jersey and bus branding, is for a period of one year, 2023-2024,” the statement further specified.
Former Auditor-General Daniel Yaw Domelevo has unequivocally dispelled any speculation surrounding his potential candidature as the running mate for the National Democratic Congress (NDC) in the upcoming elections.
During an interview on TV XYZ on October 24, 2023, Domelevo firmly asserted that he is not drawn towards a career in politics. Instead, he emphasised that his primary focus lies in the sphere of ensuring correction and accountability, distancing himself from any political aspirations.
“I would like to make it clear that on the political one, where somebody is talking about running mate, I am not a political animal.
“I don’t think any party that makes the mistake of choosing me as a running mate will win the election, because on the platform where we are campaigning, I will be correcting them and we are not going to be successful,” he said.
There were earlier reports by Ghanaian media personality Paul Adom-Otchere, suggesting a growing push for former President John Dramani Mahama to reconsider his 2020 running mate, Professor Jane Nana Opoku-Agyemang, and instead contemplate selecting Daniel Yaw Domelevo as his running mate for the upcoming 2024 general elections.
Paul Adom-Otchere asserted that this recommendation was based on his belief in Domelevo’s innocence concerning corruption allegations.
According to him, several voices have encouraged President Mahama to explore the possibility of having Domelevo as his running mate as a way to address and dispel all the corruption charges against him.
These sentiments were shared during Adom-Otchere’s appearance on his “Good Evening Ghana Show” on Metro TV on June 10, 2023.
He maintained that the pressure for this change had escalated following Domelevo’s legal victory in the Supreme Court regarding his dismissal by the president.
“Can you imagine my friend Domelevo as the running mate to President Mahama? That is the new agenda being pushed.
“There is immense pressure on President Mahama, which is why Professor Kwamena Ahwoi was compelled to state last week that John Mahama should retain Jane Naana Opoku Agyemang,” he alleged.
Ghana’s standing in theOctober 2023 FIFA World Rankings has remained unchanged, despite the humiliating losses to the USA and Mexico during the recent international break.
The updated rankings were officially unveiled on FIFA’s website on Thursday, October 26.
The Black Stars have held steady in the 60th position worldwide and continue to be the 11th best-ranked team on the African continent.
These rankings mirror the same positions that Chris Hughton’s team occupied in the September rankings.
During the recent international break, Ghana suffered disappointing defeats, conceding goals in a 2-0 loss to Mexico in the first of two friendly matches on October 15 and enduring a humiliating 4-0 defeat to the US three days later.
The Black Stars’ head coach, Chris Hughton, will be aiming to regroup and improve their performance ahead of the November 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the upcoming 2023 Africa Cup of Nations tournament in January.
Zaire-Emery was part of the starting lineup for PSG in their 3-0 victory over AC Milan in the Champions League on Wednesday. So far this season, he has contributed to five goals in 11 appearances across all competitions for the team.
Although there have been recent speculations linking the midfielder with Manchester City, considering his contract runs until 2025, his impressive performances have spurred PSG’s eagerness to secure a contract extension.
Asked about Zaire-Emery, Luis Enrique said in his post-game news conference, “Is he ready to play for the national team? That is [France coach Didier] Deschamps’ job, not mine.
“He is surprising at 17. He does everything well. He can score; you will see that he will score goals.
“He can also assist. He is the perfect example for all young players who wantto be footballers from PSG’s academy; that is what Zaire-Emery is. I’m very pleased with his level.”
Pep Guardiola reportedly views Jamal Musiala as the natural successor to Kevin De Bruyne in the Manchester City squad, according to Diario Sport.
Kevin De Bruyne, at the age of 32, has been plagued by injuries, causing him to miss nearly the entire current season after being forced to leave the opening game.
There are growing concerns within City about his long-term fitness, despite him only missing 14 league games over the last two seasons.
A recent report suggested that Al Nassr might consider signing De Bruyne, potentially teaming him up with Cristiano Ronaldo.
De Bruyne’s contract with Manchester City is set to expire in the summer of 2025.
Jamal Musiala, a 20-year-old talent, is being viewed as a seamless replacement for De Bruyne in the City squad.
However, Bild suggests that Liverpool will also pose strong competition for his signature.
Musiala, a German international, previously played for Southampton and Chelsea at the youth level before joining Bayern Munich at the age of 16.
He alleges that certain chiefs who had united to summon Archbishop Agyinasare, the head of Perez Chapel International, have been influenced or compromised, resulting in their decision to remain silent on the matter.
During an appearance on the Mama Grace show, Nufialagah Mawufemor disclosed that their initial intentions, which were meant to address the Archbishop Agyinasare case, shifted course due to attempted bribes and other corrupt influences.
He explained that when Archbishop Agyinasare was summoned to Nogokpo over his comments labelling the entire community as a “demonic headquarters,” several political leaders reached out to him, offering a substantial $100,000 bribe.
“The way we wanted to handle this Agyinasare-Nokogpo issue, trust me, Nogokpo would have been a heaven where investors and a lot of people would have flocked with various opportunities,” Nufialagah Mawufemor stated.
“It got to a point with what I saw happening; I had to go live on Facebook to disassociate myself from the issue because people are looking up to me, and I don’t want anybody to tag me as going to take a bribe.
“I was already accused of taking bribes, and yes, people called me to make offers during the issue. I was promised 100,000 dollars to drop the issue but for the love of the people, I declined. People have taken it and I leave it to their conscience,” he added.
Furthermore, he mentioned that pastors, political leaders, and traditional leaders had also made attempts to mediate in the matter. However, the Nogokpo community remained resolute in their stance until compromise efforts began to surface.
Nufialagah Mawufemor also asserted that Togbui Adamah III, the Paramount Chief of the Volta Region and President of the Some Traditional Council, who was initially involved in the plan, distanced himself from the press conference they had called. He believes that the chief may have been influenced or compromised.
In June 2023, the Chiefs of Nogokpo summoned Archbishop Charles Agyinasare, granting him a 14-day window, expressing their dissatisfaction with his comments characterising Nogokpo as the “headquarters of demons” in the Volta Region.
Archbishop Agyinasare subsequently clarified his statement, assuring that he harboured no ill will towards Nogokpo or its residents. He explained that his comment was in reference to a specific incident and not a general characterization of the town.
There are speculations that Manchester United may consider re-signing David De Gea on a short-term contract to offer competition and backup for Andre Onana, according to The Sun.
Onana could potentially be called up to represent Cameroon in the Africa Cup of Nations, leaving United without their primary goalkeeper for a six-week period in the upcoming year.
David De Gea, aged 32, remains without a club since his contract with Manchester United expired at the conclusion of the last season.
The former Spain international had a 12-year tenure at Old Trafford, amassing 545 appearances across all competitions.
Although United have acquired Altay Bayindir from Fenerbahce, there are purported concerns about his readiness to step intoOnana’s role.
Sandro Tonali, while facing a looming 10-month ban due to alleged illegal betting activity, received a warm welcome from Newcastle United fans.
Earlier this month, Newcastle confirmed that the 23-year-old midfielder was under investigation by the Italian Prosecutor’s Office and the Italian Football Federation for reportedly placing bets on his former team, AC Milan.
He has since admitted to these wagers, which could lead to a 10-month suspension.
In the meantime, ahead of any potential disciplinary action, Tonali was warmly embraced by the Magpies’ supporters at St James’ Park when he came off the bench during his team’s 1-0 loss to Dortmund on Wednesday.
Tonali, who joined Newcastle from AC Milan in a £55 million ($66.6 million) deal in July, has made a positive impact on the North East club so far.
However, his impending ban is a significant setback for Eddie Howe’s team, which aspires to advance in the Champions League and climb the Premier League table.
Should Tonali face a suspension, Newcastle is likely to seek another midfielder during the January transfer window.
Interestingly, Juventus’ Nicolo Fagioli has already been banned for seven months in connection with the ongoing betting scandal.
Tonali and Newcastle will soon learn the midfielder’s fate, but they have a forthcoming game against Wolves on Saturday.
Their nextChampions League match is scheduled for November 7, when they face Dortmund in Germany.
Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Sustainable Energy for All, Alhaji Dr. Kandeh Kolleh Yumkella, has advised African nations, with a particular focus on Ghana, to make substantial investments in clean energy solutions.
While acknowledging Ghana’s significant achievements in electrification, he emphasised the importance of further investments in clean energy solutions.
Dr. Yumkella made these remarks during his guest appearance at the Future of Energy Conference (FEC), which has replaced the annual Africa Oil Governance Summit (AOGS) as the flagship program of theAfrica Centre for Energy Policy (ACEP).
The two-day conference is under the theme “Resource Abundance, Sustainable Choices, and Innovation: Shaping Africa’s Energy Landscape”.
In his address, he commended Ghana for its substantial progress in electrification, as nearly 85% of the population now has access to electricity, and the nation is steadily moving towards achieving universal electrification.
However, he pointed out that despite this impressive milestone, a significant portion of Ghanaians, ranging from 70 to 80 percent, still rely on charcoal and firewood for their energy needs.
He argued that the absence of access to clean energy solutions is resulting in the loss of life, with the World Health Organisation identifying it as one of the top five causes of mortality in Africa.
He highlighted that a substantial number of people, particularly women and children, are falling ill, with increased occurrences of conditions like premature pneumonia, asthma, and even cancer.
“It is killing a lot of people and killing the forest as well,” he added.
He emphasised that African nations can collaborate to collectively tackle these challenges and other energy-related issues.
The Future of Energy Conference (FEC) serves as a platform for stakeholders within and beyond the energy sector in Africa and worldwide.
It provides a forum to engage in substantive discussions on effective and pragmatic approaches for advancing sustainable and inclusive development within the energy industry.
These conversations will primarily revolve around the African perspective on the energy transition, addressing potential risks, and identifying solutions that promote economic advantages.
The conference signifies a broader shift in focus from merely addressing oil and gas governance to a more comprehensive approach to energy sector governance.
As a result, FEC is dedicated to a thorough exploration of the energy transition within the African context.
Customs Monitoring Team situated along the Eastern Corridor has intercepted a significant quantity of contraband.
This haul includes 11,200 pieces of wax prints and 6,000 mobile devices, which had been illicitly brought into the country by a group of traders.
The customs officials unveiled this smuggling operation when they discovered an attempt to understate the value of these goods, effectively avoiding the associated duties and taxes.
The wax prints were confiscated at the Dabala border post in the Volta Region.
Regarding the wax prints, the tax evasion amounted to GH¢1.3 million.
In a separate operation at the Juapong Check Point, the 6,000 mobile phones and tablets were intercepted, and their value is currently being assessed.
Dari Abdallah, the leader of the Eastern Corridor Monitoring Team, shed light on the scale of these smuggling activities.
He revealed that the declared value of the goods entering the country was only GH¢25,000, despite containing over 11,000 concealed wax prints. This substantial inconsistency prompted customs officials to seize the goods.
Emmanuel Parker, serving as the deputy in charge at the Aflao Border Check Point, discussed the challenges confronting border officials.
He emphasised the requirement for greater resources to assist border personnel in identifying traders attempting to evade their tax obligations.
Mr. Parker further underscored the vulnerability of specific border regions, emphasising the urgent necessity for heightened patrols to address these issues.
In the meantime, theGhana Revenue Authority (GRA) is in the process of evaluating the traders’ duty and tax evasion. This assessment will determine the penalties and outstanding duties owed as a result of this illicit activity.
A protest has recently occurred in Offinso, located in the Ashanti Region, urging Nana Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the overlord of the Ashanti Kingdom, to reconsider the nomination of Dr. K. K. Sarpong as the new chief of the area.
Previously, the Asantehene had rejected the nomination put forth by the Queen mother of Offinso, Nana Ama Serwaa Nyarko, and some elders, and he reiterated this rejection just two weeks ago, citing concerns about a perceived breach of tradition.
Despite this, some residents and natives of Offinso held a demonstration, expressing divergent views from those of the Asantehene. Their protest served as both an appeal to the overlord and a call for him to permit the nomination and installation of Dr. Sarpong as the new chief.
Wearing read and black attires with head, arm and writs bands, the people carried placards that bore inscriptions such as “No KK, No Chief.” “We need someone who can develop Offinso.” “Everyone has a dream!”
Others read: “Offinsoman has accepted KK Sarpong already,” “Offinso existed before Ashanti,” “There is no curse on Anyirem regal royal,” etc.
GhanaWeb is unable to confirm whether they presented any petition to any quarters with respect to their concerns.
Otumfuo’s warning to Offinsohemaa
According to Otumfuo, he would never countenance any actions on the part of the queen and the elders that would undermine the tradition of Asanteman when it comes to the election and selection of chiefs.
“No one can arrogate powers that do not exist to themselves. None of the elders have the right to sell land when there is no Offinsohene, specifically when it is the Offinsohene who must sign off on the sale.
“There is no such power. You are to take charge until a new chief is installed and then account for your stewardship.
“So be very careful in Offinso. I am very aware of all the things you’re doing at Offinso. You’re friends with Pitin Abontengdomhene and you have recorded a tape… I am very aware of your plot and that you will go ahead and install a new chief when I travel by Monday.
“Offinso Hemaa, you are aware of this; be very careful… I would never allow you to cause the downfall of Offinso,” Otumfuo stated through his linguists in an audiotape of his Asantemen court sitting shared by Royal Palace Multimedia.
The quest for a new Offinsohene
The passing of Nana Wiafe Akenten III, the former Paramount Chief of Offinso, has left a void that has sparked a legal dispute over the selection of his successor.
Dr. K. K. Sarpong’s nomination has faced rejection, both in a Council meeting and publicly, by Otumfuo.
Otumfuo’s objection is based on the belief that it is incorrect for the queen mother to propose K. K. Sarpong as a candidate due to her royal lineage, contrary to historical and traditional practises.
Otumfuo has cautioned Nana Ama Serwaa Nyarko and the Offinso elders to adhere to the proper procedures in presenting their candidate, or else face the possibility of permanent rejection.
Ministries of Works and Housing in Ghana and Human Settlements in South Africa have jointly announced their intent to collaborate in advancing the development of crucial areas related to housing, human settlements, and urban development in both nations.
This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of Ghana and South Africa to address the intricate challenges associated with housing and human settlements.
This development emerged during a bilateral meeting held in Accra between South Africa’s Minister for Housing and Human Settlements, Mmamoloko Kubayi (MP), andGhana’s Minister for Works and Housing, Francis Asenso-Boakye (MP).
Minister Kubayi’s official visit to Ghana is part of a comprehensive effort to strengthen diplomatic relations and seek new opportunities for collaboration in the domains of housing delivery and human settlement development between the two nations.
This visit comes in the wake of productive discussions that transpired between the respective ministers in the housing sector in Poland and South Africa, laying the foundation for exploring partnerships, particularly in enhancing the institutional framework for housing delivery in both countries.
In his welcoming address, Asenso-Boakye stressed that the intricacies associated with housing delivery not only demand immediate attention but also call for innovative solutions, underscoring the importance of a shared commitment from the governments of both nations.
Asenso-Boakye’s opening remarks emphasised that addressing the complexities of housing delivery necessitates not only a sense of urgency but also a dedication to innovative solutions, rooted in a mutual commitment from both governments.
“Our joint efforts in pressing issues of slum upgrading and improving informal settlements and the lives of those who inhabit them can have profound impacts on the well-being and living conditions of a significant portion of our populations,” Ghana’s sector minister noted.
On her part, Minister Kubayi said South Africa’s government stands ready to commit to a new partnership that will work out how to resolve the many myriads of problems in both countries’ housing delivery.
“To us, this partnership and commitments also include sharing experiences, knowledge and best practises in the housing sectors of our countries and how we can practicalize the implementation of what we seek to accomplish,” Minister Kubayi added.
Minister Kubayi and her delegation are expected to call on President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addoas well as partake in other engagements, notably a business session to be hosted by the Ghana Investments Promotion Centre (GIPC) for housing sector players from both countries.
Alan Kyerematen, having resigned from the New Patriotic Party (NPP) on September 25, 2023, has officially declared his intention to run as an independent presidential candidate in the 2024 elections.
His decision to leave the NPP was driven by his concerns over unfair treatment and allegations of intimidation during the party’s superdelegates elections.
Kyerematen expressed apprehension that these issues might resurface in the NPP’s forthcoming election to determine the party’s flagbearer.
Meanwhile, there are calls from some NPP leaders to explore avenues for Alan Kyerematen’s return to the party’s ranks in preparation for the 2024 polls.
1. Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, Majority Leader and MP for Suame Constituency
Osei Kyei-Mensah-Bonsu, in making the call, emphasised the fact that Alan is a valuable asset and that the NPP shouldn’t lose him, stating that he was willing to explore every option, no matter how slim, to achieve this.
“I think that every effort must be made, even if it’s a one percent possibility. Let’s see what comes out of it. We are talking about Alan’s situation, where we are saying that let’s still engage if he comes back.
“To go into specifics will be a difficulty; it may hamper the reconciliation I’m suggesting. It’s possible to bring him back,” he said in an interview with Joy News.
2. Prof. Aaron Mike Ocquaye, chairman of NPP presidential election committee
Prof. Mike Ocquaye described Alan Kyerematen as a “man of excellence” and lamented the loss of such a valuable party member.
He stressed the importance of engaging Kyerematen to return, recognising that politics is a numbers game and that Kyerematen’s inclusion would strengthen the party.
“He is a fine gentleman. I’m sorry that today, we don’t have him but like the Majority Leader said, we will need to engage him because politics is a game of numbers and he (Alan) is a man of excellence.
“The party will engage him in all possible ways because the Akans say ‘nsamanfo koraa pɛ wɔn dodoɔ na ateasefoɔ’ to wit; even ghosts love their numbers, how much more the living,” he made this call in an interview with Metro TV.
3. Hackman Owusu-Agyeman, Chairman of the NPP Council of Elders
In reference to Alan Kyerematen, Hackman Owusu-Agyeman, who serves as the Chairman of the Council of Elders of the NPP, described him as a “prodigal son” and conveyed that the party would extend a warm welcome should he opt to rejoin.
Owusu-Agyeman underscored the significance of party unity and the value of numerical strength in the realm of politics.
“If he wants to come, the rules are very clear. He has said openly that he has resigned; if he wants to come back, he has to reapply. The rules are in Article 3. So he would have to do that.
“He’s welcome to come; we need the numbers; a party is made up of numbers; we’re not pushing anybody away. All of them are coming over. I’m not a priest but there’s something called a prodigal son; if you go out and you want to come, you’re welcome.
“And I don’t think he’s going to—with his butterfly—be the one who’s going to ‘revolutionarise’ political thinking and political activities in this country. He must come back. If he has erred, we will look at it, consider it, and bring him back,” myjoyonline.com quoted him to have said in an interview.
4. Kennedy Agyapong, NPP flagbearer hopeful
Kennedy Agyapong, a contender for the NPP’s flagbearer position, has made a commitment to reintegrate Alan Kyerematen into the party should he secure the flagbearer nomination.
Agyapong stressed the paramount importance of unity within the NPP and appealed for the support of Alan’s followers in achieving this goal.
“All Alan supporters here, I want you to support me because I want unity.
“And if you vote for me and I become the flagbearer, I assure you that I will bring Honourable Alan Kyerematen back to the party,” Ken, who is the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, said to NPP delegates in the Tamale South and Tamale Central constituencies in the Northern Region.
This comes in light of Haaland’s somewhat inefficient performance against Young Boys, where the Norwegian striker had endured a goal drought in the Champions League, failing to score in his previous five matches.
Nonetheless, Haaland managed to break this streak by netting twice in Manchester City’s 3-1 victory over Young Boys in Bern on Wednesday evening.
During the first half of the match, Haaland squandered a clear-cut opportunity while one-on-one with the goalkeeper. Guardiola, however, defended his striker’s performance, emphasising the overall positive impact he had on the game.
“It is important to have the chances; the people want him to fail,” Guardiola told TNT Sports after the match.
“I am sorry, but this guy will score goals all his life. With his chances, he is an incredible threat.
“The players need the ability to find the pass, like Kevin de Bruyne and Ilkay Gundogan. But he is going to score until the last day he plays football.”
Haaland’s recent penalty kick was his first goal in continental competition after a drought lasting 543 minutes since his last goal against Bayern Munich in the previous edition’s quarterfinal second leg.
The timing of Haaland’s resurgence is particularly crucial, given that City is about to face their arch-rivals, Manchester United, at Old Trafford in the upcoming derby on Sunday.
A report by Relevo asserts that Barcelona is monitoring Pedro Soma, a 17-year-old United States U17 international.
Soma, who was born in Florida and has Brazilian heritage, grew up in Spain and currently plies his trade for Cornella, a lower-league club located near Barcelona.
His performances for both club and country, with plans to participate in the U17 World Cup representing the U.S. next month, have attracted Barcelona’s attention.
The Catalan giants are consistently in search of emerging talent in Catalonia.
Described as a midfielder with a playing style akin toReal Madrid’s Toni Kroos, Relevo notes that several MLS clubs are also keeping an eye on his development.
Brazilian football icon Rivaldo holds the opinion thatNeymar erred in his decision to depart Camp Nou and sign with Paris Saint-Germain in 2017.
“Neymar made a mistake to leave; he must realise this. I would like to see him return to Barcelona and if not to the Camp Nou, for the good of Spanish football I would want to see Real Madrid try to sign him.”
PSG shattered the world transfer record with a staggering £200 million to secure Neymar’s services following his highly successful four-year tenure at Barcelona.
Since his transfer to the French giants, the 27-year-old has notched 32 goals and contributed 19 assists in 33 Ligue 1 appearances, and he is on the cusp of clinching his second consecutive French title.
Nonetheless, his career trajectory at the Parc des Princes has arguably stagnated, with PSG faltering to advance beyond the UEFA Champions League’s round of 16 in both seasons of his tenure.
Neymar was expected to be the pivotal player who would transform PSG into bona fide Champions League contenders, but that ambition has yet to materialise.
In contrast, Barcelona has advanced to the semi-finals of Europe’s premier tournament this season and stands as the favoured team to claim the title.
Ever since the Brazil international departed fromCamp Nou, there have been persistent rumours linking him with a return, and Real Madrid is reportedly considering a summer move for him, as mentioned by Daniel Matthews of MailOnline.
Neymar is under contract with PSG until 2022, which means that only a substantial offer would potentially convince the club to part with him this summer.
However, if he remains in Paris for the upcoming season and PSG once again falls short of fulfilling their considerable potential, the prospect of a return to Spain might become a more viable possibility.
Manchester City have changed their usual preparations for an away game in the Champions League ahead of a meeting with Young Boys on the Swiss team’s artificial pitch at its Wankdorf Stadium.
City do not normally take up the option available to the team of training at the stadium where they are playing the game, instead preferring to work in Manchester before travelling.
However, City flew to Bern early Tuesday and had a run-out inside Young Boys’ stadium on its unfamiliar terrain.
Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola leads his players in a training session at Wankdorf Stadium on the eve of their Champions League meeting with Young Boys. FABRICE COFFRINI/AFP via Getty Images
Speaking at a news conference later Tuesday, City manager Pep Guardiola said he would prefer to be playing on natural grass but accepted the conditions. “If UEFA allows games to be played here, it’s because it is in good conditions,” Guardiola said.
“That’s one of the reasons we never train away but this is an exception. This is why we travel in the morning for the players to feel how the ball runs and how to move left, right, backwards, and forwards. That’s why. We’ll try it and the players will know it immediately.”
Asked if he was concerned about injuries, Guardiola said, “I don’t know—hopefully not, for both sides, but I don’t know.
“We are not used to it. Any team that plays here is not used to it. It suits the Swiss League, and in the Champions League, the teams that come here have to adapt. We will not be the first in this situation. We have to use it as a benefit but the grass is better.”
Serie A has imposed a €10,000 fine on AS Roma for their deliberate delay tactics involving ball boys during Sunday’s league match against Monza.
Under the management of Jose Mourinho, Roma clinched a thrilling 1-0 victory over Monza, with Stephan El Shaarawy netting the decisive goal in the 90th minute.
Italy’s sports judge determined that Roma’s ball boys intentionally slowed down the process of returning the ball after the home team had scored the winning goal.
A league statement read: “Roma, by way of objective responsibility, to have its own ball boys after the goal has been scored, systematically slowed down the regular restart of the game, forcing the referee to extend injury time by two minutes.”
Mourinho also received a one-game touchline ban following his dismissal near the end of the match, during which he mocked Monza’s bench by gesturing as if crying.
Due to the red card, Mourinho will not be able to be on the bench for Roma’s upcoming league fixture, which will be an away game against his former club, Inter Milan.
It’s worth noting that the Portuguese manager has previously expressed his strong opinions about the role of ball boys.
During his tenure at Tottenham Hotspur, Mourinho commended a club ball boy for swiftly delivering the ball, which led to a quick throw-in by Sèrge Aurier, ultimately sparking an equalising goal in a 4-2 Champions League victory over Olympiakos.
“I love intelligent ball boys, like I was,” Mourinho said at the time. “I was a brilliant ball boy as a kid. This kid today was brilliant. He reads the game, understands the game and made an important assist.”
Nevertheless, the former Manchester United manager expressed his discontent with the ball boys at Old Trafford for their sluggish response in returning the ball. In response, he decided to replace them with academy players.
Back in 2014, during his tenure at Chelsea, Mourinho also voiced his frustration with Newcastle United’s ball boys, accusing them of time-wasting during his team’s 2-1 defeat at St. James Park.
Senegalese football star Sadio Mane has successfully acquired a majority stake in Boyrges Foot 18, a French club. This investment, confirmed in a Twitter post by Ghanaian sports marketer Jon Boafo, fulfils Mane’s long-standing desire to be involved with a football club.
His close relationship with former Bourges Foot 18 president Cheikh Sylla played a significant role in his decision to invest, as Sylla will retain his position as the club’s president.
This club acquisition is viewed as a platform to facilitate the development of young Senegalese players aspiring to reach the top levels of football.
💰 Sadio Mane is the new owner of French Championnat National 2 club, Bourges Foot 18.
The Senegalese 🇸🇳 has completed the takeover of the club after acquiring majority stake in the French outfit.
The purchase of the club is seen as an avenue to help young players from Senegal… pic.twitter.com/UQsR5X9N6u
Reportedly, Mane provided financial support to the club for player recruitment during the previous summer transfer window.
Situated in central France, approximately 250 kilometres from Paris, Bourges Foot 18 has not previously competed in a league higher than the French second division.
Currently, the club holds the second position in Group B of the Championnat National.
Sadio Mane, celebrated for his accomplishments at Liverpool, where he secured six trophies, including the Champions League in 2019 and the Premier League in 2020, is now playing for Al Nassr in the Saudi Arabia Pro League.
Inspector General of the Ghana Police Service(IGP) Dr. George Akuffo Dampare, has asserted that the organisers of the #OccupyJulorbiHouse protest have not provided any evidence of police brutality, despite making extensive allegations.
During a year-end dialogue session with various stakeholders, Dr. Dampare stated that the organisers have failed to substantiate their claims of police assault and brutality, even though such allegations were raised on the first day of the three-day protest.
“Recently, there was some demonstration that they said they wanted to demonstrate for three days thereabout. We went through a process, and based on what they wanted to do, we served them.
“They said they still want to demonstrate, then the police went there, and then they said no, what they doing was unlawful gathering, so they picked about 48 people up just to discourage people from even showing up the more so that at the end of the day, we wait for the court to make a determination as to how the demonstration should go.
“As soon as they were arrested, they went round making all sorts of allegations and all sorts of noise and said police have brutalised us; they have done this; they have done that. I took it upon myself the following day to meet their leaders, some of them and told them that if we had respected the process and allowed the court to tell us how we should go about it, we wouldn’t get to where we have gotten to,” he said.
He continued, “But because you have succeeded with all the propaganda… and also the lies about the fact that the police have brutalised you, we will let you continue the demonstration, and we will let you finish with all the days that you want to do the demonstration, but we will challenge you to bring any evidence that speaks to the fact that you were brutalised.
“As I speak, after months of completing that demonstration to today, not a shred of evidence has been brought up to indicate that the police have brutalised them.”
Between September 21 and 23, 2023, a group of Ghanaians staged street protests to voice their concerns about economic challenges and governance issues.
The protest, known as#OccupyJulorbiHouse on its first day, was overshadowed by the arrest of more than 40 demonstrators, and the organizers accused the police of assault.
Nevertheless, the police have steadfastly denied any wrongdoing in response to these allegations.
Vice President of IMANI Africa, Bright Simons, has reacted to Justice William Atuguba’s (Rtd) description of the court’s judgement in the trial of the Member of Parliament for Assin North, James Gyakye Quayson, as ‘scandalous’.
In a post shared on X on Tuesday, October 24, 2023, Bright Simons said that comments by the former justice of the apex court of Ghana are serious and an indication that not all is well with the court.
He added that if care is not taken, the Supreme Court would ‘sink’ in the future.
“For a former Justice of the Apex Court and one-time senior-most Justice on that same court to break ranks this way, you can judge how low the standing of the Supreme Court is bound to sink if it does not do the necessary soul-searching,” he wrote.
Speaking at a public lecture on ‘Protecting Our Democracy: The Role of the Judiciary’, on Tuesday, Justice Atuguba described the ruling of the court on the trial of Assin North legislator James Gyakye Quayson as scandalous.
He clarified that the court should not have entertained the case initially since it had already been adjudicated by the High Court.
Such a decision, he argued, contradicts fundamental legal principles.
Furthermore, he emphasised that the Supreme Court should have upheld the High Court’s decision rather than initiating a new trial.
“The decision in the Gyakye Quayson case was scandalous. The Supreme Court re-adjudicated the matter already decided by the High Court,” he said.
Justice Atuguba asserted that the Supreme Court made an error in its decision to invalidate Quayson’s election victory.
This decision came despite the Member of Parliament’s clear renunciation of his Canadian citizenship in November 2020, just a month before the December 2020 election.
He pointed out the inconsistency of the court’s stance, questioning the rationale behind the court’s assertion that Quayson owed allegiance to Canada, especially when the court had cited the renunciation certificate issued in 2019 as evidence to the contrary.
Vice Chairman of the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry, Nana Opare Kwafo I, and also holding the position of Kyidomhene of Aburi Atwiesin, have expressed their astonishment at the accusations made by former GIMPA Rector, Prof. Stephen Adei.
Prof. Adei had raised concerns about the role of bribery in the process of awarding road contracts in Ghana.
Prof. Adei had voiced his concerns regarding corruption within the road contract award process and revealed information indicating that individuals vying for road contracts were allegedly required to pay a one million Ghanaian cedi bribe upfront.
The Ministry of Roads and Highways issued a statement refuting the allegations, emphasising that the procedures leading to the award of road contracts are transparent, open, competitive, and adhere to Ghana’s legal framework.
Furthermore, they have called upon the Economic and Organised Crime Office (EOCO) to conduct an investigation into the matter.
Nana Opare Kwafo I expressed his endorsement of the Roads and Highways Minister, Kwasi Amoako-Attah’s decision to involve EOCO in a comprehensive inquiry into Prof. Stephen Adei’s claims.
He stated, “I am surprised about Prof. Adei’s allegations; he is a friend, his allegations need to be investigated, and I am glad the Minister of Roads has referred the case to EOCO for further investigations.”
Nana Opare Kwafo I raised questions about the feasibility of contractors paying such a substantial bribe, given that some contractors have not been paid for several years.
“In recent times, we contractors have not been paid, and how will a contractor get such an amount to even pay the government? We have done contracts for over 3 years, and I am part of them; we haven’t been paid, and I think Prof. Adei should have fished out the contractor who paid the government to be prosecuted.”
During a conference organised by the Ghana Chamber of Construction Industry in Accra, Nana Opare Kwafo proposed that Prof. Adei disclose the identity of the contractor who is believed to have paid a bribe to the government.
This, he suggested, would enable the initiation of the necessary legal actions.
Sadio Mane has notched his first goal in the Asian Champions League, securing a spot on the list of scorers in Al Nassr’s triumph over Al Duhail.
In the second half of the match, the Senegalese forward extended his team’s lead to two goals, setting the stage for a dramatic end that resulted in a 4-3 victory for the Saudi Pro League powerhouse.
Cristiano Ronaldo contributed a pair of goals alongside Anderson Talisca’s strike, despite Al Nassr facing a late challenge from the visitors in this thrilling encounter.
Ismail Mohamed, Almoez Ali, and Michael Olunga were the players who found the net for the Qatari giants.
In a video posted on social media, the 31-year-old expertly concluded a superb right-sided cross, delivering a powerful shot from within the penalty area.
This triumph maintains Al-Nassr’s position at the summit of Group E, having secured a perfect record with three wins in as many matches.
Sadio Mane has displayed outstanding form for the Saudi Pro League team since his transfer from German powerhouse Bayern Munich during the summer transfer window.
In ten Saudi Pro League appearances, Mane has netted six goals and supplied two assists. Furthermore, he has added one more goal to his tally in two matches in the Asian Champions League.
Mane challenges Talisca in free kick drill
Earlier, Sports Brief reported that Senegal forward Sadio Mane tested his set-piece ability against Al Nassr teammate Anderson Talisca, during a free kick drill at training.
Talisca scored an outstanding free kick as Al Nassr defeated Damac in the Saudi Pro League on Saturday.
Mane is not known as a free kick specialist but has in the past converted a couple for the Senegalese national team and Liverpool.
The Ballon d’Or has restated the criteria that will guide their selection of this year’s award recipient, to be announced next week.
The grand ceremony will take place at the prestigious Theatre du Chatelet in Paris, France, where Lionel Messi and Erling Haaland are the frontrunners.
In the Women’s Ballon d’Or category, Aitana Bonmati is the clear favourite, poised to succeed her teammate Alexia Putellas.
Through their official social media channels, the Ballon d’Or has outlined three key factors that will determine the winner.
Sports Brief takes a closer look at each of these criteria in relation to the leading contenders:
Individual Performance, Crucial Actions, and On-Field Conduct: The jury will assess which player demonstrated superior individual performance during the 2022–2023 season. Erling Haaland stands out with his remarkable record of 52 goals in 53 appearances, showcasing exceptional individual prowess.On the other hand, Lionel Messi, with 20 goals in both Ligue 1 and the Champions League, has made a significant impact on the field.
Crucial contributions to the team’s success and honours
Lionel Messi’s most significant asset in the upcoming award considerations is his World Cup victory, undoubtedly his strongest bargaining point. During the tournament in Qatar, he played a pivotal role, contributing to every goal scored by his team. Furthermore, the Argentine star secured both the Ligue 1 and French Cup titles.
In contrast, Erling Haaland played a crucial role in guiding Manchester City to an impressive treble, which encompassed the club’s maiden Champions League victory. The extent of the “vital role” played by each contender, a pivotal factor in the decision, will be at the discretion of the jury.
3. Be fair-play and classy on-field
Both Messi and Haaland boast nearly flawless disciplinary records, having avoided receiving any red cards during the scrutinized period.
Nevertheless, Messi found himself embroiled in a heated altercation with Louis Van Gaal during the World Cup quarterfinals. The intense match concluded with the former Barcelona captain confronting the Dutch coach, followed by reported insults directed at Wout Weghorst.
Rasmus Hojlund is resolute in his desire not to be likened toErling Haaland as they gear up to meet in the upcoming Manchester derby on Sunday.
Hojlund, following his £64 million transfer to Manchester United, has had a promising start, netting three goals in as many Champions League appearances. With his Scandinavian background and robust playing style, comparisons have emerged with Manchester City’s prolific Norwegian striker, Haaland.
However, the 20-year-old Danish international is committed to crafting his unique identity and making his mark in the Premier League as he continues to adapt to the English top flight.
In the aftermath of United’s 1-0 win over Hojlund’s former club FC Copenhagen last night, he remarked, “Like I’ve said many, many times. I don’t want to be compared to him.
“He’s incredible and he’s probably the best striker in the world. I hope we can improve and then we’ll see what [happens].”
Hojlund will hope to net his first league goal when City head to Old Trafford, and the striker cannot wait to be a part of the fiercely contested derby. He added, “It will be a big, big experience. I’m looking forward to it.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=V9AdxgHBqgM
“It’s always special to play a rival. If we win the game, we can get closer to the top.”
Despite failing to score in domestic competition since joining United, Hojlund is confident there is plenty more to come.
Reflecting on his start with Erik ten Hag’s side, he said, “[It’s been] alright.
“I’ve tried to do my best every time I play but I’m still finding the rhythm.
“We’ve been struggling a little bit but we’re getting there now. We have three wins in a row.
“[Each] Premier League game, you get more used to the league and the physicality of it.
“I’m improving every day and my teammates are starting to see my patterns in the game as well, so it’s getting better.
“I know I have to perform every day. But at the end of the day, I’m only 20.
Following his defeat to Senegalese boxer Seidu Konate during the 2024 Paris Olympics qualifiers in Dakar in September, Ghanaian boxer Seth Gyimah, known professionally as Freezy Macbones, is contemplating a rematch against the Senegalese fighter.
The highly anticipated bout is set to take place at the Bukom Boxing Arena on Saturday, October 23, 2023, as announced in a tweet by Code Micky.
Seth Gyimah, a UK-based Ghanaian boxer, experienced a setback in his amateur debut, preventing him from securing an automatic spot in the Olympics.
Nonetheless, he now has another opportunity to qualify for the Olympics through the Asia and Europe play-offs scheduled for 2024.
Freezy Macbones has relocated to the United Kingdom to ensure thorough preparation for the upcoming match, as Seidu Konate aims for another victory against the powerful Ghanaian puncher.
Since his professional debut against Christopher Wood in February 2023, Seth Gyimah has maintained an unblemished record with two wins out of two bouts.
Prominent sports journalist Saddick Adams, known as Sports Obama, has revealed the cause of death of the revered Asante Kotoko icon, Robert Eshun, widely known as Ebo Electric, during his prime.
Saddick Adams reported that Eshun tragically suffered a cardiac arrest while en route to his workplace.
As previously reported by GhanaWeb, Robert Eshun passed away on Monday, October 23, 2023, in London, United Kingdom. In response to this sad news, Kumasi Asante Kotoko has issued a statement in which they have offered heartfelt tributes to their former player.
“We are saddened by the news of the passing of our 1990 FA Cup
winner, 1990 CAF Champions League semifinalist and ex-Black Stars skilled winger, Robert Eshun. Our heartfelt condolences to his family” wrote Kotoko on social media.
Eshun, affectionately known as ‘Ebo Electric,’ is fondly remembered for his remarkable goal in the 1990 FA Cup final. His reputation was built on nimble footwork and exceptional soccer skills, which catapulted him to prominence when he joined Asante Kotoko while still a student at T.I. Ahmadiyya Senior High School in Kumasi.
His extraordinary talent quickly endeared him to football enthusiasts throughout Ghana.
During his tenure at Asante Kotoko, he made a significant impact, contributing numerous goals to the club. One of his most unforgettable moments was his pivotal goal in the 1990 FA Cup final. Additionally, he played a vital role as a member of Kotoko’s squad in the CAF African Cup Championship.
Eshun’s dazzling performances didn’t escape the notice of European clubs, who expressed a strong interest in signing the young sensation after his outstanding performance for Ghana in a U-21 AFCON qualifier tournament held in Egypt.
He subsequently made the move to Europe, where he played for various clubs in Belgium and Turkey, including Turnhout, Tielen, Lommel, and Dessel.
Throughout his active football career, Eshun’s extraordinary dribbling skills consistently left opponents and fans alike in admiration. These exceptional abilities earned him the moniker ‘Ebo Electric’ among local football enthusiasts.
Juventus is reportedly eyeing a January move to secure the services of Atletico Madrid midfielder Rodrigo De Paul, according to reports from Tuttosport.
De Paul, aged 29, is currently under contract with Atletico until June 2026 but has struggled to secure a regular spot in Diego Simeone’s squad.
Juventus is keen on bolstering their midfield and has identified De Paul as their top choice.
With the experience of being a World Cup winner with Argentina, De Paul is no stranger to Serie A, having previously played five seasons with Udinese.
The plan for Juventus involves making a loan offer to acquire De Paul in January, with the added inclusion of a permanent option in the deal.
Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr has reportedly made initial contact with Kevin De Bruyne’s agent, as reported by journalist Rudy Galetti.
This development marks an ongoing situation, as Al Nassr aims to arrange a meeting with the 32-year-old Manchester City midfielder to discuss their sporting project in detail.
Kevin De Bruyne is widely acknowledged as one of the world’s most talented players, boasting an impressive record at Manchester City, including 96 goals and 153 assists, along with significant achievements such as winning the Champions League, multiple Premier League titles, FA Cups, League Cups, a UEFA Super Cup, and several individual awards.
Nonetheless, there have been growing speculations regarding the Belgian international’s future at the Etihad.
His injury history is a key consideration in these discussions, as he is currently sidelined due to an injury sustained just 23 minutes into the Premier League opener against Burnley.
If these uncertainties persist, it is likely that interest from other clubs will increase, particularly given that De Bruyne’s contract is set to expire in the summer of 2025.
Al Nassrhas demonstrated their ambition in the transfer market by securing prominent signings, including Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, Seko Fofana, Aymeric Laporte, and Marcelo Brozovic.
Paul Mullin was not only wearing the captain’s armband, but he also delivered a standout performance.
He opened the scoring for Wrexham with an impressive goal in the 14th minute.
Moreover, he demonstrated his commitment to the team by frequently dropping deep to assist his fellow players.
Under coach Phil Parkinson’s leadership, Mullin led by example throughout the match.
In one instance, he was spotted throwing his body into the line of the ball, which led McClean to write “f*cking love the dedication lad” on his Instagram story.
Mullin later reposted the playful teasing from James McClean, appending two laughing emojis to the post.
This lighthearted exchange followed Wrexham’s dramatic victory, secured by an 89th-minute goal from Elliot Lee, which propelled them to the third position in the league standings.
Wrexham is currently riding a seven-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, and Paul Mullin has been instrumental in their success, contributing four goals and an assist in his nine appearances during this campaign.
Looking ahead, Wrexham aims to continue their unbeaten run as they face familiar rivals Notts County in another league fixture scheduled for Saturday.
Former footballer Mesut Ozil, who has played forReal Madrid and Arsenal, praised the performances of Manchester United’s Andre Onana and Harry Maguire in their recent victory over Copenhagen.
In this match, Maguire scored the decisive goal that secured the win, while Onana made a critical penalty save in the 90th minute, helping Manchester United secure their first victory in the UEFA Champions League.
Ozil took to Twitter to assert that these two players, who have faced ongoing criticism, had heroic moments that could silence their detractors.
Many Manchester United fans saw Onana’s penalty save and Maguire’s winning goal as a fitting response to critics, who have often been quick to point out their occasional errors.
Andre Onana delivered an outstanding performance that night, highlighted by his crucial penalty save.
Despite facing an expected goal rate of 1.69, he made four saves and kept a clean sheet.
His performance earned him FotMob’s Man of the Match award, with a rating of 8.4.
The narrow victory elevated Manchester United to third place in their group, trailing second-place Galatasary by one point (4 points to 5).
Bayern Munich led the group with 9 points, while Copenhagen remained at the bottom with 1 point.
Harry Maguire & Andre Onana deserve that – silencing their haters 🤫 #UCL#ManUnited
🔺 Harry Maguire—stripped of the captaincy over the summer 🔺 André Onana—fallen under heavy criticism early in his United career pic.twitter.com/iECZLQ98Uc
Andre Onana and Harry Maguire have been subject to brutal and unpleasant criticism from both Manchester United fans and several individuals alike.
Harry Maguire was stripped of his role by manager Erik ten Hag, losing his role to teammate Bruno Fernandes on July 20, 2023, for his lacklustre form and mistakes, and to make matters worse for the forward, the scoring of his own goals, one in 2020 against Everton and the second in 2022 against Tottenham Hotspur.
West Ham United had a bid for him accepted but the 30-year-old opted to remain at Old Trafford, having slipped to fifth-choice central defender behind left-back Luke Shaw.
Harry Maguire & Andre Onana deserve that – silencing their haters 🤫 #UCL#ManUnited
Consequently, he expressed his discontent with playtime at Manchester United. During an interview with SkySports, he said “I’m not going to sit at Manchester United and play once a month”.
Andre Onana, on the other hand, impressed Manchester United and gained their admiration because of his impressive performances for Inter Milan and Ajax, where he worked with Erik ten Hag, the current United manager.
Known for his agility and penalty-saving skills, United made a move for him to replace David Gea, who was on his way out as a free agent in the summer.
Onana with the save
He helped Inter Milan win the Serie A title in 2022 and Ajax reach the Champions League semi-finals in 2019.
However, his performance since joining Manchester United has been nothing but disappointment, subjecting him to several criticisms by fans, pundits, and even his own manager for his lack of confidence and concentration.
However, last night, October 25, 2023, was a night to silence his ‘haters’ and glorify his team.
While Maguire scored United’s winning goal, Andre Onana on the other hand, saved a penalty against Copenhagen in the Champions League, which secured a vital win for United.
President of the Concerned Cocoa Farmers Association, Nana Boateng Bonsu, has called for the dissolution of the Ghana Cocoa Board (COCOBOD), citing its collapse.
This comes in the wake of concerns raised by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) regarding COCOBOD’s substantial annual losses, which are seen as a significant threat to both the cocoa sector and the government’s fiscal efforts.
In response to these concerns, Finance Minister Ken Ofori-Atta disclosed last week that his office, in collaboration with the Bank of Ghana, is working on establishing a monitoring desk within COCOBOD to enforce financial discipline.
However, Nana Boateng Bonsu’s stance is that COCOBOD should be eliminated entirely.
“Both the Governor of the Central Bank and the Minister of Finance, myself, will now be on the Board and we are also setting up a desk at the Finance Ministry that will interact with the finance division of COCOBOD to make sure the issues of fertilisers and cocoa road are all brought into an ambit of discipline. Those begin to tell you how we are getting into the issue of expenditure,” Mr Ofori-Atta said.
Mr Bonsu, in response to that move, however, said, “Cocobod is a collapsed institution”, insisting, “We know it; we foresaw it and said it several times but they never listened”.
“So, for this situation, we don’t need Ken Ofori-Atta and his people. What are they coming to do?” he wondered.
“If they had something better to offer, by now, Ghana’s economy would have shot up”, Mr Bonsu noted.
He said, “They have nothing to offer. Cocoa farmers are capable of doing their own things” and demanded that “they should forget about Ken Ofori-Atta and his people”.
“If they know COCOBOD has collapsed, we should know so that cocoa farmers can sell their products directly to the buyer to make our money rather than relying on the government, because the government has nothing better to offer the farmers,” he said.
“Right now, a lot of farmers are cutting down their cocoa trees and shifting to different crops, all because they’ve realised that they have been enslaved for so many years”, Mr Bonsu revealed.
In his view, “COCOBOD has put wax in their ears and are not listening to the farmers”.
He complained that COCOBOD takes decisions willy-nilly without the input of the farmers.
“There’s nothing happening on the ground. There is no dialogue between farmers and COCOBOD. Anything that comes to them and they think is beneficial to them or us, they just implement.
“There is nothing like an engagement or ‘let’s sit down with the farmers since they are those on the ground and see what they want’”, he told Joy News on Monday, October 23, 2023.
COCOBOD was set by ordinance in 1947 to encourage and facilitate the production, processing and marketing of good-quality cocoa, coffee and sheanuts in all forms in the most efficient and cost-effective manner.
It was given ¢27 million (being Ghana’s share of the net profit of the West African Produce Control Board) as its initial working capital.
The Board traces its beginnings further back to the cocoa hold-up of 1937.
The Board first rented and occupied the old premises of the Export Produce Control Board on the 28th February Road, Accra, and when Swan Mill, which was built by the United Africa Company Limited, was completed, it rented part of it at an annual cost of approximately ¢ 4,500.00, after which it acquired its own building.
In 1957, Ghana’s inaugural president, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, laid the foundational stone for the construction of Cocoa House, situated at 41 Kwame Nkrumah Avenue in Accra.
This edifice was intended to serve as office space for the Board.
The development of Cocoa House served a dual purpose. It aimed to not only eliminate the need for renting office space but also symbolize the Board’s unwavering faith in the future of the cocoa industry. Furthermore, it stood as a tangible tribute to the tireless efforts of Ghanaian cocoa farmers.
This six-story structure, known as Cocoa House, was erected at a cost of nearly ¢2 million and was officially inaugurated in November 1960 by the late President. Beyond housing the Board, Cocoa House also accommodated various foreign and local organisations, including Ethiopian Airlines and ARB Apex Bank.
Dr. Kwame Kyei, the former Executive Board Chair of Asante Kotoko, has announced his personal commitment to repairing the damaged seats at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.
The prominent business figure emphasised his deep connection to Asante Kotoko and expressed his intention to address the situation without involving any external parties.
This declaration comes in the aftermath of a turbulent episode during which passionate Asante Kotoko fans vandalised seats at the Dr. Kwame Kyei Sports Complex.
The incident took place during the Porcupine Warriors’ Ghana Premier League week six match against Nations FC on Sunday.
The chaos erupted when a penalty was awarded to Nations FC, a decision that some Asante Kotoko fans found contentious.
This led to the destruction of seats and a temporary halt in the game before Prosper Ogum took the penalty. The match ultimately concluded with a 2-2 draw.
In response to the incident, Dr. Kwame Kyei, who also owns Nations FC, clarified that the disturbance was caused by a specific group of individuals and was not representative of all Asante Kotoko fans.
“I am pleading with everyone; this issue I am addressing, I want it to reach everywhere,” he told Light FM.
“The destruction that has happened at the stadium—the stadium is also for Asante Kotoko; we will fix it. I am also part of Kotoko; I will fix it.
“It is not now that we are going to do a report and send itsomewhere and tell them that this number of seats have been destroyed so they should fix them. No, I will do it myself.”
Constituency chairman of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) in Sagnarigu, Alhaji Musah Fuseini Dangoomah, has openly criticised Kennedy Agyapong, a presidential flagbearer hopeful, labelling him as a disruptive force within the ruling party.
In an interview on Wontumi TV on October 23, 2023, Chairman Dangoomah recounted the unfolding events, expressing his distress over Kennedy’s repetitive actions, which he believed were undermining the unity and reputation of the NPP.
Dangoomah went on to suggest that Kennedy should consider shifting his allegiance to the main opposition party, the National Democratic Congress (NDC), and leave the NPP alone.
“Ken is a bad person; he doesn’t have the interest of the party at heart, always creating problems. What I want to tell him is to switch to the NDC and leave our party,” he stated.
Dangoomah issued a stern warning to Kennedy Agyapong, the Member of Parliament for Assin Central, cautioning him against disseminating false information and accusations about himself and other constituency chairmen.
This conflict between Dangoomah and Kennedy Agyapong escalated over the weekend during an event where Kennedy reiterated his allegations that certain individuals, including chairmen, had accepted financial incentives to influence their votes during the NPP’s super delegates’ election in August.
Kennedy Agyapong claimed that sums of GH¢100,000 and brand-new pickup trucks were exchanged for votes.
In response, Chairman Dangoomah vehemently denied these allegations, deeming them groundless and unfounded.
On the issue of Ken’s allegation, he explained that the lawmaker later denied accusing him directly but rather that the chairman in question was from the Ashanti Region.
“He admitted that I was not the one who made the said claims. When I got angry, a lot of people came to calm me down and he repeated that I was (sic) not the one who told him. He reaffirmed that the chairman in question was in the Ashanti Region, not me and that he was sorry,” the chairman added.
Kennedy will contest for the flagbearership slot along with three other contenders, including Dr Bawumia, Dr Owusu Afriyie Akoto, and Francis Addai-Nimoh.
The NPP has slated November 4, 2023, to elect a successor to President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo as leader of the party.
Arsenal is reportedly considering the possibility of making another attempt to sign Aston Villa midfielder Douglas Luiz, as per 90min.
The 25-year-old Brazilian midfielder has been performing admirably in the Premier League this season, including scoring twice in a recent 4-1 victory over West Ham.
It’s worth noting that Villa had previously rejected three offers from Arsenal, with the last one coming in at around £25 million, in September 2022, as reported by sources to ESPN.
With another midfielder on Mikel Arteta’s transfer wishlist, whether in the upcoming January window or next summer, several players have been linked with a potential move to the Emirates.
These players include Andre from Fluminense, Quinten Timber from Feyenoord, Javi Guerra from Valencia, and Arthur Vermeeren, a promising talent from Royal Antwerp.
National Democratic Congress (NDC) parliamentary candidate for the Ketu South Constituency,Edem Agbana, has voiced his criticism of broadcaster Nana Aba Anamoah regarding a video in which children recall former President John Dramani Mahama in connection with ‘dumsor,’ the era of irregular power supply, during her show.
Agbana, who is a former deputy youth organizer of the NDC, shared his views during an interview on GHOne’s GHToday program on Monday, January 23, 2023.
He contended that the children appeared to have been coached to make disparaging remarks about the former president because it seemed unlikely that they could personally recall the ‘dumsor’ days, as they would have been very young at the time.
Furthermore, he criticized the broadcaster for not providing proper guidance to the children as they made these misinformed comments about the former president.
“I’m utterly disgusted with what I saw on that video. I’m utterly disgusted with the fact that Nana Aba Anamoah, whom I respect so much as a journalist with so many years of experience, allowed those little children to peddle so much falsehood and ignorance about the former President, John Dramani Mahama.
“When you watch the video carefully, I can tell you on authority that those little children were coached… It is obvious they were coached; you know why, what are their ages, and they were talking about these that happened 8, 9, or 10 years ago.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KxQDSAtksec
He added, “So, subtract 9 years from children who are 13, 12 years old. And it was an opportunity for Nana Aba Anamoah to educate these children, not to allow them to peddle this ignorance.”
The host of GHToday, Serwaa Amihere, however, rejected the assertion that the children who spoke on Nana Aba’s programme were coached.
He said that the children made comments on other political figures in the country, including Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia.
What the kids said on Nana Aba’s programme:
Media personality and TV show host, Nana Aba Anamoah, created a significant buzz on social media with the launch of her new TV series, “Actual Bosses.”
This show features children engaging in discussions about various current topics in the country.
The inaugural episode of the series saw these children delving into the performance of both the current and previous governments, as well as sharing their thoughts on who they would support in the upcoming elections.
Some clips from the program, circulating on social media, caught particular attention as the children were questioned about former President John Dramani Mahama.
Their intriguing responses provoked various reactions online, as they associated the former president with ‘dumsor,’ a term used to describe the frequent power outages that plagued the country during his time in office.
In another segment, the children were asked to express their hypothetical voting preferences, and they indicated Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia as their choice
Jamal Musiala, the 20-year-old playmaker, might contemplate a move to Real Madrid or Manchester City if he feels that his aspirations of winning the Champions League and the Ballon d’Or are becoming unattainable at Bayern Munich.
This is as according to a report by Sky Sport Deutschland.
It’s worth noting that Musiala is not currently considering leaving Bayern in the near future; however, a potential move, possibly around 2025, could be on the horizon if he believes that achieving these goals with the German club is improbable.
The report from Sky reveals that Musiala’s existing Bayern contract is set to run until 2026 and is valued at €9 million annually, a figure well within the financial capabilities of clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester City.
Despite this, discussions regarding a new contract are not on the immediate horizon.
Additionally, the report indicates that Real Madrid president Florentino Perez is keen on pairing Musiala with his friend Jude Bellingham, who made a move from the Bundesliga to La Liga during the most recent summer transfer window.
Musiala’s journey to the top tier of football began as he progressed through the youth systems ofSouthampton and Chelsea before joining Bayern at the age of 16.
