by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 7, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian forward Raymond Asante marked his debut for Patro Eisden in memorable fashion, getting on the scoresheet in a thrilling 4-4 draw against Genk U-23 in the Challenger Pro League.
Playing at the Patrostadion, the hosts burst into life almost immediately, with Leandro Rousseau finding the net inside the opening minute. Asante then announced himself just five minutes later, doubling Patro’s advantage on six minutes to cap an impressive start to his time at the club.
Genk U-23 responded strongly, with Victory Beniangba scoring on either side of the break to level the contest at 2-2 and shift the momentum towards the visitors. Patro Eisden, however, hit back in the second half as Jordan Renson struck in the 62nd minute before Japhet Muanza extended the lead to 4-2 in the 73rd minute.
Despite trailing by two goals late on, Genk U-23 refused to surrender. Jonathan Coenen pulled one back in the 84th minute, and deep into stoppage time, Julien Devriendt’s unfortunate own goal completed a dramatic comeback, forcing the hosts to share the spoils.
Patro Eisden will aim to carry forward their attacking momentum when they travel to face Club Brugge NXT next Friday, while Genk U-23 turn their attention to a home clash against FC Liège a day later.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 7, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
Ghanaian football fans planning to travel for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have been urged to manage their expectations, as possession of match tickets or hotel reservations does not automatically secure a visa.
Regulated Canadian immigration consultant Marie Keita Amarteifio has cautioned prospective travelers that visa approvals are based on strict immigration requirements, not enthusiasm for football.
Speaking to Citi Sports, she stressed that every applicant is assessed individually, regardless of whether they already hold World Cup tickets or confirmed accommodation.
According to Amarteifio, applicants must clearly demonstrate strong ties to Ghana, such as stable employment, family responsibilities, or property ownership, to assure immigration officials of their intention to return home. She added that travelers must also present a clear and credible purpose for their visit, valid travel documents, and sufficient financial resources to cover the entire duration of their stay.
As excitement builds ahead of the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Amarteifio advised fans to begin the visa application process early to avoid unnecessary pressure and errors. She also warned against engaging unofficial agents who claim they can guarantee visa approvals, noting that all applications must go through recognized embassy or consular channels.
The advisory comes at a time when the Black Stars are stepping up preparations for the expanded 48-team World Cup.
Ghana will begin their build-up with an international friendly against Austria in March, as part of efforts to improve on their group-stage exit at the 2022 tournament in Qatar.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 7, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo has been included in Manchester City’s UEFA Champions League squad ahead of the knockout rounds, underlining his strong start since joining the club.
The 26-year-old completed a January move from AFC Bournemouth and has quickly made his mark, scoring four goals in all competitions for the Premier League champions. His performances have convinced Pep Guardiola to register him in City’s List A squad for Europe.
Semenyo is joined by fellow January signing Marc Guehi, who arrived from Crystal Palace, as City submitted a 23-man squad, with UEFA regulations allowing up to 25 players, including a minimum of two goalkeepers.
The squad also features deadline-day arrival Gianluigi Donnarumma, alongside summer additions Rayan Ait-Nouri, Marcus Bettinelli, Rayan Cherki, Tijjani Reijnders, and James Trafford.
With City preparing for a high-profile Premier League clash against Liverpool at Anfield on Sunday, Semenyo is expected to be in contention once again, giving Guardiola added depth in attack as the club chase success both domestically and in Europe.
Manchester City – Champions League List A
Goalkeepers:
James Trafford, Marcus Bettinelli, Gianluigi Donnarumma
Defenders:
Ruben Dias, John Stones, Nathan Aké, Marc Guehi, Rayan Ait-Nouri, Joško Gvardiol, Abdukodir Khusanov
Midfielders:
Tijjani Reijnders, Mateo Kovačić, Rayan Cherki, Jérémy Doku, Nico, Rodri, Bernardo Silva, Savinho, Matheus Nunes, Phil Foden
Forwards:
Omar Marmoush, Erling Haaland, Antoine Semenyo
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 7, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA, World Cup
As Ghana gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, the Ghana Football Association (GFA) has unveiled a strengthened and multi-disciplinary technical team to support Head Coach Otto Addo on the road to the global showpiece.
Blending experience, modern analytics, sports science, and deep knowledge of Ghanaian football, the expanded backroom staff reflects a clear ambition: restore the Black Stars to international relevance after recent setbacks.
Here’s a closer look at the key figures entrusted with Ghana’s World Cup mission.
Otto Addo – Head Coach
Otto Addo remains the driving force behind the Black Stars. Reappointed to lead Ghana through the 2026 World Cup cycle, he has already delivered results, guiding the team to the top of Group I with 25 points.
A product of German Bundesliga football, Addo previously led Ghana to qualification for the 2022 World Cup, eliminating Nigeria in a dramatic playoff. His résumé includes roles at Borussia Dortmund, where he won the 2020/21 DFB-Pokal, as well as spells at Borussia Mönchengladbach, Hamburger SV, FC Nordsjælland, and scouting roles for Ghana at the 2014 World Cup and 2015 AFCON.
John Paintsil – Assistant Coach
Former Ghana international John Paintsil continues his rise in coaching after a decorated playing career. A CAF Licence B holder and current CAF Licence A candidate, Paintsil brings leadership, discipline, and a strong understanding of the Black Stars’ culture, shaped by coaching stints including Kaizer Chiefs and grassroots football development.
Winfried Schäfer – Technical Advisor
Veteran German coach Winfried Schäfer adds vast tournament and advisory experience. Best remembered for leading Cameroon to AFCON glory in 2002, Schäfer has coached national teams across Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, alongside clubs in Europe and the Middle East. His strategic insight is expected to guide long-term planning and big-tournament decision-making.
Gregory De Grauwe – Head of Video Analysis
Belgian analyst Gregory De Grauwe leads opposition scouting and performance breakdowns. With experience at Sporting Lokeren and Beerschot VA, plus a UEFA Licence B, he anchors Ghana’s analytical preparation.
Desmond Ofei – Assistant Coach
Fresh from success at youth level, Desmond Ofei joins as assistant coach after guiding Ghana’s U-20 side to Africa Games gold and earning SWAG Coach of the Year (2024). His modern, data-driven approach strengthens tactical planning and player development.
Kris Perquy – Team Psychologist
Renowned sports psychologist Kris Perquy oversees mental conditioning. With 17 years’ experience and a long association with the Belgian FA, he brings elite psychological preparation to the Black Stars.
Alain Ravera – Assistant Coach
French coach Alain Ravera adds European and international depth, having worked with AS Monaco and the Guinea national team.
Kim Lars Björkegren – Assistant Coach
Swedish tactician Kim Lars Björkegren, also head coach of the Black Queens, joins in a dual role. He guided Ghana’s women to bronze at the 2025 WAFCON and secured qualification for WAFCON 2026, earning recognition for his tactical versatility and leadership.
José Daniel Martínez Alfonso – Assistant Coach & Video Analyst
Spanish analyst José Daniel Martínez Alfonso, currently with Atlanta United (MLS), strengthens scouting, match preparation, and performance analytics.
Medical, Performance & Support Staff
Carlos Lozano Romero – Team Physiotherapist
Dwayne Peasah Paa Kwesi – Performance Coach
Dr. Pambo – Team Doctor (CAF Medical Committee member & FIFA Doping Control Officer)
Bonsu Derrick Kwame – Athletic Performance Specialist
Fatawu Dauda – Goalkeepers’ Trainer
Issah Amadou & Alhassan Abdul Rahman – Equipment Officers
Ameenu Shardow – Team Administrator
With a reinforced technical structure and renewed ambition, the Black Stars are determined to move beyond the disappointments of 2014 and 2022. For a nation that once lit up the world in 2010, the objective is unmistakable: progress, pride, and a deep run at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 7, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has clarified the decision to include Black Queens head coach Kim Lars Björkegren in the Black Stars’ technical team ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers.
Speaking on Akoma 87.9 FM, GFA Communications Director Henry Asante Twum said the appointment was driven by the Swedish coach’s proven competence and consistent impact on Ghana football.
According to Asante Twum, Björkegren’s achievements with the Black Queens demonstrate that he brings added value and tactical depth that can benefit the men’s senior national team.
“With what Kim has achieved so far, he has justified his expertise, and we believe he has something extra to contribute. For now, his full concentration is on the Black Queens, and after March, he will turn his attention to the Black Stars,” he explained.
He confirmed that Björkegren is currently in Ghana, fully focused on preparations with the Black Queens ahead of the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), where qualification for the FIFA Women’s World Cup remains the primary objective.
“Kim is in Ghana to continue with the Black Queens’ preparation for the Women’s AFCON. The mission is clear: to qualify for the World Cup. After the tournament in March, he will then join the Black Stars,” Asante Twum added.
The GFA had earlier announced Björkegren’s inclusion in the Black Stars’ technical team as part of a broader strategy to strengthen the national setup ahead of key international fixtures.
His appointment follows an impressive run with the Black Queens, having guided the team to a bronze medal finish at the 2025 WAFCON and securing qualification for the 2026 WAFCON, which he is also expected to oversee.
The Association believes Björkegren’s experience, tactical insight, and leadership will be a significant boost as both the Black Stars and Black Queens chase World Cup qualification.
