by Emmanuel Atanga | Sep 3, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Russian giants Spartak Moscow have struck an agreement with Turkish side Fenerbahce for the transfer of Ghanaian defender Alexander Djiku, according to reports from Sportsblog247.com.
Turkish outlet A Spor reveals that the deal is worth €4 million. Spartak are expected to finance the move through the sale of Paraguayan centre-back Alexis Duarte, who is set to join Brazilian side Santos.
Djiku, 31, has struggled for playing time this season, featuring in just one match for Fenerbahce without making a notable impact. Despite his limited action, his current market value is estimated at €6.5 million, and his contract with the Istanbul club runs until June 30, 2026.
If the transfer goes through, Djiku will become Spartak’s latest defensive reinforcement as the “Red-Whites” look to strengthen their backline ahead of a demanding campaign.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Sep 2, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Soccer, World Cup
The journey to the 2026 FIFA World Cup is becoming more intense with each passing round, and after Matchday 6, the African qualifiers have taken an exciting shape. Powerhouses are being tested, underdogs are rising, and the standings are beginning to reveal which nations have the grit to push for a ticket to North America.
With 10 groups in play, every point now feels like gold dust. Traditional giants are holding their ground, but surprises continue to unfold, reminding fans that in African football, nothing is guaranteed. From North to Southern Africa, the dream of reaching the expanded World Cup burns brighter than ever.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Sep 2, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The race for Africa’s places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup is heating up, with just a few rounds left to determine who books a ticket to Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
For decades, the continent’s football stage has been dominated by North and West African heavyweights, but this qualifying campaign has produced a dramatic shift. Teams from Southern Africa — long considered outsiders — are emerging as serious contenders. South Africa, Mozambique, Namibia, Comoros, and Madagascar are shaking up the order, challenging the status quo and chasing history.
Still, the established giants are fighting to defend their dominance. Egypt, seven-time African champions, remain top of Group A with 16 points after six games, though Burkina Faso lurk close behind. DR Congo lead Group B with 13 points, with Senegal breathing down their necks just one point adrift.
In Group C, South Africa lead the way with 13 points, while Nigeria — shockingly in fourth — are in a desperate battle to revive their campaign. Group D has produced another surprise, with Cape Verde outpacing Cameroon to sit at the summit.
Elsewhere, Morocco look untouchable in Group E, sitting comfortably with 15 points, while Côte d’Ivoire and Gabon are locked in a one-point tussle in Group F. Algeria head Group G but are under pressure from a resurgent Mozambique, and Tunisia hold a four-point cushion over Namibia in Group H. Ghana lead Group I, but Comoros and Madagascar remain very much in contention.
The expanded format of the 2026 World Cup, which grants Africa nine slots, has fueled belief among smaller nations. With just days to go before another round of crucial fixtures, the dream of reaching football’s biggest stage feels closer than ever for several underdogs.
Fixtures (3–5 September 2025):
Seychelles vs Gabon
Chad vs Ghana
Algeria vs Botswana
Tunisia vs Liberia
South Africa vs Lesotho
Côte d’Ivoire vs Burundi
Egypt vs Ethiopia
The battle lines are drawn, and as giants face spirited challengers, African football fans can expect thrilling drama in the days ahead.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Sep 2, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The Ministry of Youth and Sports has sanctioned a budget of $860,000 for Ghana’s upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier against Chad.
Sports Minister Kofi Adams revealed that the Ghana Football Association (GFA) initially submitted an estimated budget of over $1 million for the away fixture, but following a thorough review, the Ministry reduced the amount to $860,000.
“The estimate submitted for Match Day 7 [against Chad] was over $1 million. After review, the Ministry approved about $860,000,” Mr. Adams disclosed at a press briefing.
He further explained that flight arrangements contributed significantly to the overall cost, with a flat rate of $6,000 set per ticket for each of the 28 players and officials. According to him, the Ministry has been proactive in cutting down costs by sourcing more affordable travel options compared to the initial submissions by the GFA.
The Black Stars have already departed Accra for Chad ahead of the crucial September 4 clash. After the game, Ghana will travel to face Mali on September 8 as part of their quest to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be staged in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Sep 2, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
Columbus Crew midfielder Derrick Jones Acheampong has confirmed his intention to represent Ghana at senior level after previously turning out for the United States at youth level.
The 27-year-old, who featured for the USA U20 and U23 teams, revealed in an exclusive interview with Sportsblog247.com that he is ready to switch allegiance to his country of birth and compete for a place in Otto Addo’s squad.
“Yes, I am looking forward to see if I can get the opportunity to represent them and you know it is my mother nation, so it’s always going to be good to play for them,” Jones said.
Jones joined Columbus Crew in 2023 and played a role in their Leagues Cup triumph. Despite limited minutes this season, he remains one of coach Wilfried Nancy’s most experienced players.
With Ghana edging closer to qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup—set to be staged across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—Jones believes featuring for the Black Stars would be the ultimate dream.
“Yes, especially it being here. My family is here and it would be very nice to play in front of friends and family. Like I said, I am just waiting for an opportunity to prove myself,” he added.
If selected, Jones could join a growing list of diaspora players strengthening Ghana’s World Cup push as they prepare for crucial qualifiers against Chad and Mali.
