by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 14, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian skipper Jordan Ayew wasted no time making his mark at Leicester City, netting the winning goal in their hard-fought 2-1 pre-season victory over Belgian side OH Leuven on Saturday.
The encounter, staged at Leicester’s Seagrave Training Ground, forms part of the Foxes’ build-up to their Championship campaign as they target an immediate return to the Premier League.
Leicester struck early, capitalizing on an unfortunate own goal from Takahero Akimoto just seconds into the game. OH Leuven regrouped and found a leveller after the break through Jovan Mijatovic, setting up a tense second half.
But Ayew, fresh from his move from Crystal Palace, rose to the occasion. With the clock ticking down, the 32-year-old timed his run perfectly to meet a corner, finishing clinically to secure victory for the Foxes.
The goal, Ayew’s first in Leicester colours, offers an early glimpse of his hunger and determination to lead from the front as the club pushes for promotion. His performance will undoubtedly lift confidence among the squad and fans alike.
Leicester will continue fine-tuning their preparations with more friendlies lined up in the coming weeks.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 14, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
In a heartwarming story of talent meeting opportunity, Ghana’s rising football starlet, Jennifer Awuku, has been selected to serve as a Ball Kid at the prestigious AFCON 2025 Final in Morocco on January 18, 2026. This incredible reward comes on the back of her electric performances at the 2024/25 CAF African Schools Football Championship, where the 15-year-old lit up the tournament in Accra.
Jennifer, a forward from Ridge Church School, made headlines after guiding Ghana to glory in the girls’ division, scooping up the coveted Player of the Competition award. Her sharp instincts, dazzling footwork, and clinical finishing impressed CAF scouts and tournament sponsors, TotalEnergies, who have fully sponsored her trip to the continent’s biggest football stage.
Her AFCON experience won’t just be limited to matchday duties. Jennifer will be treated to football development clinics and cultural tours during her stay in Morocco. CAF and TotalEnergies will also chronicle her journey online, using her story to inspire millions of young girls across Africa.
Speaking after receiving the news, a thrilled Jennifer said:
> “This is more than a reward—it’s proof that young girls in Africa can dream bigger and achieve it.”
CAF General Secretary Véron Mosengo-Omba described the initiative as “an investment in the future of African football”, while TotalEnergies’ Brand Vice-President, Martin Bertran, reiterated their commitment to nurturing young talent.
From the schoolyards of Accra to the grand final of AFCON, Jennifer Awuku’s journey is a glowing example of how dreams can take flight with hard work and opportunity.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 14, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
In a significant boost to Ghana’s football future, highly experienced coach Stuart McLaren has officially taken up the role of FIFA Talent Coach for the Ghana Football Association (GFA), marking the start of a transformative two-year project under FIFA’s global Talent Development Scheme (TDS).
McLaren, a UEFA Pro Licensed Coach with a rich coaching career spanning Europe, Australia, and Asia, arrives with a mission: to sharpen Ghana’s youth football structures and ensure the country’s next generation of footballers get the best possible foundation. His appointment comes at a time when Ghana is keen on revitalizing its long-term football strategy and building on its proud footballing heritage.
Working under the guidance of GFA Technical Director, Professor Joseph Kwame Mintah, McLaren’s tasks will go beyond the pitch. From scouting raw talent in local leagues to mentoring grassroots coaches, he will play a key role in shaping a clearer identity for Ghanaian football. His duties also include conducting performance reviews, setting up player development pathways, and improving coaching standards nationwide.
McLaren brings with him an impressive resume, having managed clubs like Stirling Albion, worked with Celtic’s U-18s, and coached Scotland’s U-16 and Women’s National Teams. His previous experience also includes being part of Ireland Women’s Senior Team technical staff and serving in coaching education roles at the Scottish FA.
Already in action, McLaren has visited the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram and the GFA Elite Academy in Winkogo, signaling his readiness to get to work.
The FIFA Talent Development Scheme, headed globally by Arsène Wenger, aims to ensure every talented young footballer worldwide gets access to proper coaching and structured training. Ghana’s inclusion in this project offers renewed hope for the country’s football future.
Ghanaian football fans will be watching closely—could this be the fresh chapter needed to unearth the next generation of Black Stars?
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 14, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
In the vibrant city of Berkane, the stage is set for a defining moment in Ghanaian women’s football as the Black Queens prepare for a must-win battle against Tanzania in the final group game of the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON).
With just one point from two games—after a tough 2-0 loss to reigning champions South Africa and a gritty 1-1 draw against Mali—the Queens know the stakes couldn’t be higher. Monday’s clash at the Berkane Municipal Stadium isn’t just another match—it’s a fight for survival, for pride, and for a place in the quarterfinals.
Coach Kim Bjorkegren’s side has shown glimpses of their potential, with the electric pace of Doris Boaduwaa and the clever attacking runs of Chantelle Hlorhkah providing sparks of hope. Midfield generals Alice Kusi and Grace Asantewaa will be crucial, bringing much-needed experience and calm in what promises to be a high-pressure affair.
But standing in their way is a determined Tanzania side, equally desperate to keep their tournament hopes alive. With youthful energy, speed, and nothing to lose, Tanzania promises to be a formidable obstacle.
Yet, the Queens carry the weight of history and undeniable talent. Ghana knows this is more than just three points—it’s about redemption, national pride, and reigniting their WAFCON journey.
It’s all or nothing. Do or die. Victory or heartbreak.
Kickoff: Monday
Venue: Berkane Municipal Stadium
Mission: Survive and Advance
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 14, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Rising Ghanaian defensive star Kojo Peprah Oppong is on the verge of a major career breakthrough after confirming French Ligue 1 side OGC Nice have made a formal bid for his signature. Talks are currently underway between Nice and Swedish club IFK Norrköping over a potential transfer.
Speaking to NT-sporten, the 21-year-old expressed his excitement: “All I know is that they have made an offer and the clubs are discussing. I believe this would be a very good step for me.”
Oppong has been a pillar at the heart of Norrköping’s defense this season, clocking 13 appearances in the Allsvenskan and earning plaudits for his strength, calmness, and sharp defensive instincts.
Graduating from Ghana’s renowned Attram DeVisser Soccer Academy, Oppong made his move to Sweden in 2023, including a brief but impactful loan spell with GIF Sundsvall before cementing his place in the Norrköping first team.
Norrköping sporting director Magni Fannberg confirmed the player’s growing demand: “Even after his loan in Sundsvall, the interest was clear… it’s only intensified this spring and summer.”
A move to OGC Nice would mark a significant step forward, offering Oppong the chance to shine in one of Europe’s top leagues.
Stay tuned as Sportsblog247.com keeps you updated on this developing transfer story.
