by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 18, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The Institute of Community Sustainability has called on President-elect John Dramani Mahama to consider increasing the betting tax to 50% to address the escalating issue of sports betting among Ghanaian youth.
In a statement signed by Executive Director Eric Jerry Aidoo, the Institute highlighted the detrimental effects of gambling addiction, noting that many young people spend excessive amounts of time and money on betting platforms. Some even reinvest significant portions of their winnings, leading to a dangerous cycle of losses and dependency.
The proposal, however, clashes with Mahama’s campaign promise to abolish the current 10% tax on betting wins. The president-elect has pledged to implement broad tax reforms aimed at resetting Ghana’s economy, including removing the betting tax to provide relief for citizens.
Despite this, the Institute argues that increasing the betting tax to 50% could act as a deterrent while generating funds to establish rehabilitation centers and support programs for those affected by gambling addiction—services currently lacking in Ghana.
The statement urged swift action to protect young Ghanaians from the social and financial harm associated with unchecked gambling habits, stressing the need for policies that prioritize the well-being of the nation’s future leaders.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 18, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Black Galaxies head coach, Mas-Ud Didi Dramani, has expressed confidence in Ghana’s chances of qualifying for the 2024 African Nations Championship (CHAN) as they gear up for a crucial playoff clash with Nigeria.
This marks the second consecutive year the two West African giants face off in the playoff round. Ghana famously edged out Nigeria on penalties two years ago to secure a spot in the last CHAN tournament.
Speaking ahead of the first leg, set for Sunday, December 22, Dramani emphasized the quality of both teams but remained optimistic about Ghana’s preparation and potential.
“We are playing against one of the best footballing nations in Africa, and Ghana is equally renowned for its footballing strength. The chances are bright, and we are focused on building cohesion and tactical fluidity in the team,” he told SuperSport Blitz.
Dramani highlighted the team’s preparation, including a recent friendly victory over Togo, where Albert Amoah and Issah Yakubu found the back of the net.
The CHAN tournament, exclusively for players active in their domestic leagues, will be hosted across Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania next year. With Ghana’s preparations in full swing, fans eagerly await the highly anticipated encounter against their rivals.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 18, 2024 | Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Breaking news from the medical team brings a sigh of relief for fans of Lamine Yamal. Following thorough examinations, it has been confirmed that the external lateral ligament of his ankle remains unaffected. This discovery significantly simplifies the rehabilitation process, paving the way for a quicker return to action.
The young talent’s recovery journey, which initially raised concerns, now appears far less complicated than anticipated. With optimism growing among medical staff and supporters alike, Lamine’s return to full fitness could come sooner than expected.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 17, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, International, Soccer
Despite being overlooked for the 2023 CAF Women’s Player of the Year award, Super Falcons captain Rasheedat Ajibade continues to make waves both on and off the pitch. The Atlético Madrid forward, who has been in stellar form this season with five goals and two assists in her last nine games, received well-deserved recognition in Spain for her humanitarian efforts.
At the IV European Women’s Football Gala, Ajibade was honored with the Hyundai Sports Values Trophy for her impactful work through the Rasheedat Ajibade Foundation. Her foundation focuses on empowering young women, particularly the underprivileged, with a goal of sponsoring at least 50 students for next year’s school and examination fees.
Ajibade’s efforts come at a time when she is nursing a back injury that kept her out of Atlético Madrid’s recent 2-1 defeat to Real Betis. Nonetheless, her contributions this season—both on the field and in the community—have not gone unnoticed.
While CAF awarded Zambia’s Barbara Banda the Women’s Player of the Year honor, Ajibade was still included in the FIFPro Women’s Team of the Year alongside her compatriots Asisat Oshoala, Osinachi Ohale, and Michelle Alozie. Additionally, Super Falcons goalkeeper Chiamaka Nnadozie earned her own recognition, winning Best Female Goalkeeper for the second consecutive year.
Ajibade’s dedication to football and humanitarian work continues to inspire, proving that her influence goes far beyond the pitch.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 17, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Nigeria, Soccer
The stage is set for Nigeria’s Flying Eagles as they prepare for the 2025 U20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), with Côte d’Ivoire officially confirmed as the tournament host. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) made the announcement during its congress in Marrakech, Morocco, finally putting an end to months of speculation.
The 2025 U20 AFCON is scheduled to kick off on April 26, 2025, and will feature 12 of Africa’s best youth teams. Interestingly, Côte d’Ivoire’s selection as hosts raised eyebrows, as the Ivorians did not qualify for the tournament. The decision followed unsuccessful hosting bids from Egypt and South Africa.
For Nigeria, this confirmation marks the beginning of crucial preparations. The Flying Eagles enter the tournament with confidence, having secured their place by winning the WAFU B U20 Championship last October. A thrilling 2-1 victory over rivals Ghana in Lomé, powered by a brace from rising star Kparobo Arierhi, underlined Nigeria’s strength and hunger for success.
Historically, the Flying Eagles are one of the continent’s strongest youth teams, with three U20 AFCON titles to their name, though their last triumph came nearly a decade ago in 2015. Rivals Ghana remain the most successful team in the competition with four titles, setting up an enticing challenge for Nigeria in Côte d’Ivoire.
The tournament will showcase teams from across the continent, including Nigeria, Ghana, Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Congo, DR Congo, Kenya, Tanzania, South Africa, and Zambia.
With preparations underway, the Flying Eagles will look to reclaim their continental dominance and inspire the next generation of Nigerian football stars.
