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Real Oviedo Women have confirmed the signing of Ghanaian midfielder Nancy Amoh, strengthening their squad ahead of the run-in.

The Black Queens international has joined Real Oviedo Femenino following her exit from Liga F side DUX Logroño, committing her future to the Spanish club until June 30, 2026.

Black Queens midfielder Nancy Amoh joins Real Oviedo

A WAFCON bronze medalist, Amoh is expected to bring composure, balance, and defensive stability to Oviedo’s midfield. Known for her intelligence on the ball and strong positional sense, the left-footed midfielder adds both experience and energy despite her young age.

Announcing the signing on their official website, the club wrote:

“Nancy Amoh (18/09/2005, Kumasi, Ghana) becomes a new player for Real Oviedo Women until June 30, 2026. A full international with Ghana, the left-footed midfielder arrives from DUX Logroño to provide solidity and balance in the midfield.”

Amoh rose to continental prominence at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, where she calmly converted the decisive penalty against South Africa to help Ghana secure a bronze medal.

The talented midfielder began her career with Ampem Darkoa Ladies in Ghana before making the move to Europe, and her arrival in Oviedo marks another important step in her steadily rising career.

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco has already made history, setting a new benchmark as the most prolific edition ever. With 120 goals scored before Sunday’s final, the tournament has eclipsed the previous record of 102 goals achieved at AFCON 2019 in Egypt.

The milestone underlines the attacking intent, growing technical level, and self-belief shown by teams across the continent, as matches consistently delivered excitement and end-to-end action.

Star forwards and rising talents shine

Africa’s heavyweight nations have powered the scoring spree. Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire all displayed impressive depth in attack, while young prospects stepped up to rival established names in decisive moments.

AFCON 2025 breaks scoring barrier with 120 goals before final showdown

Morocco’s Brahim Díaz currently tops the scoring chart with five goals, with Egypt’s Mohamed Salah and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen close behind on four each. With the third-place match and final still to come, the Golden Boot race is far from settled.

Bold tactics drive attacking football

AFCON 2025 has been marked by a clear tactical shift, as coaches opted for more adventurous approaches that gave attackers greater freedom to express themselves.

Dramatic comebacks, last-minute winners, and high-tempo clashes became hallmarks of the tournament, thrilling supporters from the group phase through to the knockout rounds.

The expanded 24-team format has added variety and competition without sacrificing quality, proving that a larger field can still produce entertaining, goal-heavy football.

Reaching 120 goals is about more than statistics. It reflects a transformation in African football, with players more adaptable, technically polished, and physically ready than ever before.

Teams are increasingly choosing creativity and attacking ambition over defensive caution, and the vibrant atmosphere inside Morocco’s packed stadiums only amplified the spectacle of a tournament defined by goals, energy, and evolution.

Nigerian football supporters have turned their frustration toward Ghanaian referee Daniel Laryea after the Super Eagles’ painful semi-final exit at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations against host nation Morocco.

The tightly contested encounter, played on Wednesday night in Rabat, ended goalless after extra time before Morocco triumphed 4–2 in a penalty shootout. Missed efforts from Samuel Chukwueze and Bruno Onyemaechi proved costly, as goalkeeper Yassine Bounou denied Nigeria a place in the final.

In the aftermath, attention quickly shifted from the result to the officiating. Many Nigerian fans expressed anger over what they felt were questionable refereeing decisions throughout the match. On social media, supporters accused Laryea of inconsistency and claimed the Super Eagles were treated harshly compared to their opponents.

Nigerian Fans Criticise Referee Daniel Laryea Following AFCON Semi-Final Loss to Morocco

Statistics from the game further fueled the backlash. Nigeria were whistled for 29 fouls, while Morocco committed 19, yet only the Super Eagles received disciplinary action, picking up two yellow cards. Morocco, despite repeated challenges, completed the match without a single booking — a detail that sparked widespread debate online.

Some fans suggested that Morocco’s home advantage influenced the officiating, while others controversially linked the referee’s nationality to perceived bias, referencing the historic rivalry between Nigeria and Ghana.

Criticism was not limited to fans alone. A number of sports commentators and media personalities also questioned the overall standard of refereeing, arguing that poor officiating decisions overshadowed what was otherwise a tense and tactical contest.

Unconfirmed reports later emerged claiming that angry supporters mass-reported the referee’s social media account, allegedly leading to its temporary suspension. However, no official confirmation was available at the time of writing.

As Nigeria’s AFCON journey comes to an end, debate continues to rage among supporters, with the referee’s performance remaining a central talking point and a source of lingering disappointment.

Jerry Afriyie impresses in defeat as La Louvière fall to Antwerp in Belgian Cup extra-time drama

Jerry Afriyie may have ended the night on the losing side, but the Ghanaian teenager left a lasting impression as RAAL La Louvière were narrowly beaten 2–1 by Royal Antwerp after extra time in the Belgian Cup quarter-finals on Tuesday.

The 18-year-old forward was one of the standout performers at the Bosuil Stadium, completing the full 120 minutes in a fiercely contested encounter. Despite La Louvière’s exit, Afriyie’s lively movement, tireless work rate, and calm presence on the ball caused constant problems for Antwerp’s defence and showcased his growing maturity on a big stage.

Jerry Afriyie stands out in Belgian Cup quarter-final clash

With the match finely balanced, it was Royal Antwerp who ultimately found the edge through Gyrano Kerk. The winger produced a brilliant two-goal display, including a heartbreaking winner in the 116th minute that shattered La Louvière’s hopes after a brave and disciplined performance against top-tier opposition.

While the late goal denied Afriyie the chance to cap his display with a memorable result, his contribution did not go unnoticed. The young striker has continued to shine since arriving at La Louvière on a season-long loan, quickly establishing himself as a vital figure in the squad.

Since making the move from Spanish club CD Lugo, Afriyie has adapted impressively to Belgian football, delivering consistent performances and already scoring twice for his new side. His steady rise is further evidence of his potential and reinforces his status as one of Ghana’s brightest young prospects.

Despite the cup disappointment, Afriyie’s display was another clear signal that his future remains firmly on an upward path.

After scoring once more in Man City’s victory over Newcastle, Pep Guardiola commends Antoine Semenyo.

Antoine Semenyo, a Ghanaian attacker who continued his explosive start at Manchester City with another impactful performance in the Carabao Cup, has received a ton of praise from Pep Guardiola.

After completing a five-and-a-half-year transfer from AFC Bournemouth earlier this season, Semenyo scored his first goals for City against Exeter City over the weekend. He continued to play well in Tuesday night’s first leg of the semi-final against Newcastle United.

Shortly after halftime, the 26-year-old broke the stalemate with the first goal in City’s 2-0 triumph at St James’ Park. Ryan Cherki then clinched the win in stoppage time.

Pep Guardiola praises Antoine Semenyo after scoring again in Man City win at Newcastle

Guardiola was delighted by his team’s improvement after the restart, especially in attack, even if he noted that his team struggled for flow in the first half.

“They-Semenyo and Erling Haaland- were not completely connected. They were not ready to get that ball,” Guardiola told Sky Sports after the game.

“Second half, they were ready. We know Bournemouth did an incredible job with him [Semenyo], and every time the ball arrives at him, he is always there.”

Semenyo appeared to have added a second goal, only for it to be ruled out following a VAR review. Guardiola offered a measured response to the decision, stressing the need for focus as the competition reaches its decisive stage.

“Four officials and VAR were not able to make the decision; they had to go to the referee. We know how it works, and that will make us stronger. It’s the semi-finals. We play a lot to reach the finals,” he added.

The goal took Semenyo’s tally to 12 in all competitions this season, and he will look to sustain his impressive momentum when City turn their attention to Saturday’s Manchester derby against Manchester United.

Andre Ayew has admitted he is not yet at full fitness following his recent switch to NAC Breda, but the seasoned forward remains calm and optimistic as he works his way back to peak condition.

The Ghana captain made his first appearance for the Dutch club last weekend and acknowledged that, although he kept himself physically prepared while without a team, nothing compares to the intensity of competitive match action.

Despite this, Ayew is taking a disciplined and patient approach, confident that regular minutes on the pitch will soon restore his sharpness.

Andre Ayew

“I’m aware I’m not fully fit yet, but I’m progressing,” Ayew explained. “I’m putting in a lot of work with the fitness staff. I stayed active, but matches are different from training. It’s a step-by-step process, and I believe I’ll reach my best level very soon.”

Ayew is fully focused on making an immediate and positive impact for NAC Breda, both through his performances and leadership, as the club fights to avoid relegation from the Eredivisie. His experience is expected to be especially valuable during the second half of the campaign, with the team currently placed 16th, having collected 14 points from 18 games.

With a home fixture against NEC Nijmegen up next, Ayew will be aiming to build on his debut and continue his gradual return to top form, as he seeks to play a key role alongside familiar Ghanaian faces at the club.

Ghana midfielder Majeed Ashimeru is edging closer to an exit from Belgian giants RSC Anderlecht, with newly promoted La Louvière emerging as the frontrunners to secure his signature.

The 28-year-old has endured a frustrating period in Brussels, struggling to secure consistent first-team opportunities and slipping down the pecking order under head coach Besnik Hasi. As Anderlecht embark on a squad overhaul, the Ghana international has been informed that he no longer features in the club’s long-term plans.

Ashimeru was considered surplus to requirements even before the start of the season and has spent much of the campaign maintaining match fitness with Anderlecht’s U23 side in Belgium’s second-tier league. Despite his absence from senior football, he has still managed to find the net at youth level, a reminder of his quality and readiness for a fresh challenge.

With the transfer window in full swing, Anderlecht are keen to resolve Ashimeru’s future quickly as they look to streamline their squad. La Louvière, eager to bolster their midfield, are understood to be confident of completing a deal that would offer the Ghanaian a chance to revive his career through regular top-flight action.

EXCLUSIVE: Majeed Ashimeru Set for Anderlecht Exit as La Louvière Close In

Should the move materialise, Ashimeru is expected to play a key role in La Louvière’s fight for survival. The newly promoted side currently sit 14th, inside the relegation zone, and view the midfielder’s experience and composure as vital to their Belgian Pro League campaign.

A product of WAFA SC in Ghana, Ashimeru joined Anderlecht in the summer of 2021 and remains under contract until 2027. However, with his role at the club now significantly diminished, an exit appears imminent—one that could provide the experienced midfielder with a timely opportunity to rediscover form, consistency, and momentum in Belgian football.

Prior to the Cameroon quarterfinal, Eto’o and Roger Milla were temporarily detained at the stadium gates.

Cameroon Football Federation (FECAFOOT) president Samuel Eto’o and legendary former player Roger Milla were temporarily barred from entering the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium prior to Cameroon’s quarter-final clash with host nation Morocco at AFCON 2025 on Friday.

Eto’o arrived at the venue just before kick-off without a match ticket, accompanied by Milla—who did have a valid entry pass. Confederation of African Football (CAF) officials initially prevented Eto’o from entering, enforcing strict ticketing protocols that require all attendees, including federation officials, to present proper credentials.

Witnesses described a brief but tense confrontation as stadium security held firm on verifying accreditation. After several minutes of discussion, Eto’o was ultimately permitted to enter before the match began.

AFCON 2025: Eto’o, Roger Milla held briefly at stadium gates before Cameroon quarter-final

The episode highlighted the persistent off-pitch turmoil surrounding the Cameroonian delegation throughout the tournament. Even before AFCON 2025 began, Eto’o’s leadership of FECAFOOT has been clouded by controversy and internal disputes.

A very public feud with former coach Marc Brys led to the circulation of two separate squad lists and competing assertions of authority over the national team. Brys, who was dismissed shortly before the tournament, openly accused Eto’o of prioritizing personal agendas over the interests of the team.

Away from the field, Eto’o’s administration has faced ongoing scrutiny over governance. Earlier this year, his eligibility to run for a seat on the CAF Executive Committee was initially revoked due to disciplinary issues, though it was later restored following a successful appeal to the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

The former star striker also received a six-month ban from FIFA related to disciplinary breaches during a youth tournament in 2024—which barred him from attending Cameroon matches, though legal appeals have delayed its enforcement.

These administrative conflicts have unfolded alongside contentious team selections, including the omission of key figures such as goalkeeper André Onana and captain Vincent Aboubakar from the final AFCON squad decisions many critics have linked directly to the ongoing instability within Cameroonian football leadership.

Borussia Dortmund, the renowned German football club, has officially revealed plans to open its first football academy in Africa, with Ghana selected as the location.

This initiative marks Ghana as the inaugural African nation to partner with the Bundesliga side in establishing a youth academy, which will be based in Accra. The academy is designed to train and develop emerging young football talent, with operations set to begin in February 2026. Aspiring players between the ages of six and eighteen will be eligible for admission.

The academy’s core mission is to embed Dortmund’s football philosophy, maintain high sporting standards, and support the holistic personal growth of young athletes—both on and off the field.

Borussia Dortmund Set To Mount Their First Academy In Ghana

Dortmund is widely recognized for identifying and nurturing young prospects, refining them into top-tier talents, and preparing them for the global stage. Notable success stories include Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham, and Jadon Sancho, all of whom rose to prominence after developing at the club.

Beyond player training, the academy will also emphasize coach education and community outreach programs. Dortmund’s investment is expected to contribute significantly to strengthening football infrastructure in Ghana.

Watch the official announcement from the club below:

https://youtu.be/MyyPZQmG–w

The Reasons Behind European Scouts’ Growing Interest in Ghanaian Players

Ghana has emerged as a hotspot for football talent, attracting growing interest from European clubs. Scouts are paying closer attention to the country, seeking players capable of excelling in Europe’s competitive leagues. This trend reflects Ghana’s rising youth talent, improved football development systems, and the proven success of players abroad.

A New Wave of Talent

Ghanaian players are gaining a reputation for technical skill, tactical awareness, and strong work ethic. Their adaptability to European football has made them appealing to clubs in England, Germany, Spain, and other top leagues. Success stories of young Ghanaian professionals abroad have encouraged scouts to explore the local talent pool more thoroughly.

Improved Local Football Development

Structured youth programs and football academies are key to this trend. Ghana’s academies, including Right to Dream, focus on holistic player development—technical skills, tactical intelligence, physical conditioning, and personal growth. Graduates from these programs are better prepared for European football, making them easier for scouts to integrate into professional teams.

Scouting Events and Partnerships

Local tournaments, showcase events, and strategic partnerships between Ghanaian clubs and European teams provide direct access for scouts to evaluate talent. Collaborations such as the one between Accra Lions and Germany’s Eintracht Frankfurt create a structured pathway for young players to transition to European leagues, while reducing the risks associated with international transfers.

Data-Driven Scouting

European clubs increasingly rely on data analysis, player metrics, and long-term potential when selecting talent. This approach allows scouts to identify Ghanaian players who fit specific tactical roles, even if they are young and relatively unknown. Frequent visits to local leagues and networks with grassroots coaches have made Ghana an efficient scouting destination.

The Role of Success Abroad

The success of Ghanaian players already active in Europe enhances the country’s reputation. Players who excel at top clubs validate scouting investments and demonstrate that Ghanaian athletes can compete at the highest levels. This encourages European teams to maintain a consistent presence in Ghana in search of similar talent.

Challenges Ahead

Despite increased attention, challenges remain. Not all young players secure legitimate pathways abroad, and some face exploitative recruitment schemes. Strengthening local league structures, improving regulatory oversight, and ensuring proper player welfare are crucial to sustaining Ghana’s reputation as a talent hub.