by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 3, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian forward Bernard Tekpetey added another medal to his growing collection after playing the decisive role in Ludogorets Razgrad’s 1–0 victory over Levski Sofia to claim the Bulgarian Super Cup.
Coming off the bench in the second half, Tekpetey made an instant impact. In the 70th minute, he rose highest to head home from a Son assist, scoring the only goal of a tightly contested final and sealing the trophy for the Razgrad-based side.
The win further underlined Ludogorets’ dominance in Bulgarian football, as the club secured its ninth Super Cup title and 27th trophy overall. It also marked a special moment for head coach Per-Mathias Högmo, who celebrated his first trophy since taking charge of the team.
Despite creating additional chances, Ludogorets were unable to add to their lead, but Tekpetey’s goal proved enough to get the job done. Beyond the silverware, the victory provides a timely psychological boost ahead of the First Professional League restart, with Ludogorets set to face Lokomotiv Sofia next.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 3, 2026 | Africa, Europe, International, Nigeria, Soccer
Nigeria superstar Ademola Lookman has completed a high-profile transfer to Spanish La Liga giants Atletico Madrid, sealing a major move in his career.
In an official statement, Atletico Madrid confirmed they have reached an agreement with Atalanta for the transfer of the 28-year-old forward, who has signed a four-year contract that will keep him at the club until June 30, 2030.
“Atlético de Madrid and Atalanta have agreed on the transfer of Ademola Lookman, who has signed for us until 30 June 2030,” the club announced.
“Our new signing passed his medical at the Vithas-Invictum High-Performance Sports Medicine Centre before completing his contract signing at the Riyadh Air Metropolitano. Welcome, Lookman!”
Lookman arrives in Madrid with a strong reputation as a dynamic and versatile attacker. Although predominantly right-footed, the Nigeria international is equally effective on his left and can operate across the front line — on either wing or as a supporting striker.
Renowned for his pace, dribbling, and direct attacking style, Lookman poses a constant threat whether driving inside from wide areas or stretching defences with his movement.
The signing is viewed as a significant boost for Diego Simeone’s squad as Atletico Madrid look to finish the season strongly and mount a serious challenge for domestic and European honours.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 3, 2026 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The defamation lawsuit involving former Black Stars defender John Paintsil and broadcast personality Patrick Osei Agyemang, popularly known as Countryman Songo, is set to resume on February 17, 2026, as proceedings at the High Court enter a crucial phase.
Paintsil has already undergone cross-examination by lawyers representing Multimedia Group Limited and Patrick Osei Agyemang. At the next sitting, legal teams for the remaining defendants — Christopher Nimley, Saddick Adams, and Veronica Comey — are expected to cross-examine the former Ghana international, marking a decisive stage in the plaintiff’s testimony.
Once Paintsil’s cross-examination is concluded, his legal team will proceed to cross-examine Patrick Osei Agyemang, after which the cases involving the other three defendants will follow in line with the court’s schedule.
Earlier in the proceedings, Paintsil rejected a GH₵100,000 settlement offer, describing it as “disrespectful.” The former right-back is seeking GH₵25 million in damages over alleged defamatory comments made on Multimedia platforms — GH₵5 million from Patrick Osei Agyemang and GH₵20 million from Multimedia Group Limited.
The lawsuit previously led to Countryman Songo being taken off air by Multimedia Group for over a year, sparking widespread public debate. However, sources close to the broadcaster suggest the outspoken presenter is expected to return to radio this month.
This case marks the second major defamation suit involving Patrick Osei Agyemang, following a $2 million defamation and libel action filed in 2016 by former GFA President Kwesi Nyantakyi, who accused him and the Multimedia Group of sustained defamatory campaigns.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 3, 2026 | AFCON, Africa, Soccer
South Africa’s Ministry of Sport, Arts and Culture has dismissed reports suggesting the country is set to host the 2026 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON), reaffirming that Morocco remains the official host of the tournament.
The clarification follows widespread confusion triggered by comments from Deputy Minister Peace Mabe, who indicated that South Africa would assume hosting responsibilities—remarks that fueled speculation that Morocco had withdrawn from staging the competition.
In an official statement, the ministry explained that South Africa has only indicated its readiness to assist the Confederation of African Football (CAF) should the need arise, stressing that this does not amount to a takeover of hosting rights.
The ministry further emphasized that CAF has made no decision to relocate the tournament and has not initiated any process to identify an alternative host.
The 16th edition of WAFCON is currently scheduled to take place in Morocco from March 17 to April 3, 2026. South Africa, which last hosted the competition in 2010, maintains that it is merely on standby, putting an end to days of uncertainty surrounding the future of the tournament.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 3, 2026 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Shrewsbury Town have confirmed the deadline day signing of Ghanaian defender Kevin Berkoe from Salford City, completing the move for an undisclosed fee.
The 26-year-old versatile wingback arrives at the club following a four-year spell with Salford and becomes the first official signing under new head coach Gavin Cowan.
Berkoe, who came through the academies of Chelsea and Wolverhampton Wanderers, was identified as a key addition late in the transfer window as Cowan looked to address balance and depth within his squad.
Explaining the move, Cowan indicated that Berkoe’s ability to operate on both the left and right defensive flanks was a major factor in the decision, offering the team valuable tactical flexibility.
The Ghanaian defender could make his Shrewsbury Town debut this weekend, with the side set to travel to face Colchester United.
The signing underlines Cowan’s intent to reinforce crucial areas as he begins his tenure, with Berkoe’s experience and adaptability viewed as important assets as the club navigates the remainder of the league campaign.
