by Silas Boahene | Aug 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
Black Stars forward Joseph Paintsil continued his impressive form in the United States by scoring in LA Galaxy’s Leagues Cup match against Guadalajara.
The 26-year-old winger netted in the 11th minute of a thrilling encounter that ultimately went to penalty shootouts, with LA Galaxy advancing to the round of 32.
Guadalajara took an early lead through Alan Mozo in the 8th minute, but Paintsil responded with a goal three minutes later. Gabriel Pec then put LA Galaxy ahead with 23 minutes remaining, only for Cade Cowell to equalize and force the game into penalties.
Paintsil successfully converted his penalty, and LA Galaxy triumphed 5-4 in the shootout to progress to the knockout stages, where they will face the Seattle Sounders.
Since joining LA Galaxy from KRC Genk in February, Paintsil has quickly become a fan favorite, scoring nine goals and providing seven assists across all competitions.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Referees in the Ghana Premier League (GPL) and Division 1 are facing financial difficulties due to unpaid bonuses, according to a report by Accra-based radio station Happy FM.
The report reveals that Ghana Premier League referees have not been paid for their services from Matchday 20 through Matchday 34, while Division 1 referees are owed payments from Matchweek 15 through Matchweek 30.
This delay is particularly troubling as the 2023/24 Ghana Premier League season ended two months ago, with the new season set to start in less than two months.
The lack of payments has significantly affected the referees’ ability to prepare for the upcoming season, including completing necessary medical examinations.
The 2024/25 season is scheduled to kick off on September 6, 2024.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
A groundbreaking initiative by the Ghana Football Association (GFA) to boost grassroots football coaching began on Monday with the launch of the inaugural free License D Coaching Course in Kumasi.
Thirty aspiring coaches from Colts clubs across the Ashanti Region have embarked on a two-week intensive training program aimed at enhancing their tactical and technical skills.
The course is led by esteemed coaches Prince Acheampong (Sabuto) and Charles Anokye Frimpong, with oversight from Head of Coach Education Desmond Ofei.
This program is a crucial step in cultivating a new generation of coaches who will help develop young talent and support the growth of Ghanaian football.
The GFA plans to extend similar courses across all regions to ensure that each Colts club has at least one certified coach. By investing in grassroots coach development, the GFA is laying a solid foundation for the future of Ghanaian football.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 7, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Belgian club Anderlecht are targeting a move for English-born Ghanaian winger Jerusun Rak Sakyi.
The 21-year-old Crystal Palace forward has caught the eye with his versatility, playing as a right winger, left winger, and attacking midfielder. Rak Sakyi, who previously trained at Chelsea and Crystal Palace, spent a loan spell at Charlton two seasons ago.
He made his Crystal Palace debut as a substitute in a Premier League match against Chelsea on August 14, 2021. Despite a hamstring injury last season, he scored four goals and provided one assist in 11 appearances.
In addition to Anderlecht’s interest, Rak Sakyi is attracting attention from clubs including Lyon, Leeds, Burnley, Sheffield United, and Southampton.
His current contract with Crystal Palace extends until June 2027, and his market value is estimated at around two million euros. The potential deal with Anderlecht does not include a purchase option.
The young winger is open to leaving the Eagles for more playing time and is considering his options as offers come in.
by Silas Boahene | Aug 7, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian midfielder Enoch Morrison has explained his decision to join Kenyan Premier League side Gor Mahia FC instead of Hearts of Oak, despite strong connections with the Ghanaian giants.
Morrison, who was previously with Asante Kotoko, was heavily linked with a move to Hearts of Oak last month, but the transfer did not materialize. In an interview with Akoma FM, he expressed regret over the deal’s collapse and offered his apologies.
“Hearts of Oak did not communicate with me directly, which complicated the deal. I was aware of their interest, but the process took longer than expected. Had the delay not occurred, I would have signed for Hearts of Oak,” Morrison explained.
He added, “During our discussions, the Hearts coach showed great interest and outlined how I would fit into his team. Since both parties were keen on the move, I cannot blame Hearts for the deal falling through. I apologize for any confusion and hope they understand that it was not intentional.”
Morrison also expressed a desire to potentially play for Hearts of Oak in the future, indicating that a move could still be possible down the line.
