Osikanitv, Author at Osikani Sports

Police Ladies Set Sights on WAFU Zone B Tournament

The Police Ladies, the 2024–2025 Ghana Women’s Premier League champions, are wrapping up their training for the WAFU Zone B Championship. This competition acts as a qualifying round for the CAF Women’s Champions League. Six other WAFU Zone B champions will compete against the Police Ladies.

The competition between seven champions is scheduled for August 9–24 in Yamoussoukro. Association Sportive de la Garde Nataionale of Niger, Police Ladies, Bayelsa Queens of Nigeria, Asec Mimosas Ladies of Cote D’Ivoire, Union Sportive des Forces Armees from Burkina Faso, Togo’s Association Sportive de Kozah, and Sam Nelly from Benin are among these C7 teams.

Police Ladies gear up for WAFU Zone B Championship

The team has been fine tuning the set up at the Winton Senior High School at Awutu Senya with some new additions to the playing body and technical team.

Notable amongst them is 2021 CAF Champions League finalist Yusif Basigi. The former Simba Queens coach initially joined the team as a technical adviser but will now be working hand in hand with Abu Kassim who led Polas to their first title.

With the addition of experienced playes such as mary Berko and Jane Ayieyam and the inclusion of 3 new players, the team are hoping to pick the only slot available in the zone. The eventual winner will will join 7 others for the CAF Women’s champions league. Meanwhile Police ladies await which teams they will be paired with in the group stage.

Football World

Atalanta chief reveals reason for signing Kamaldeen Sulemana

Luca Perscassi, the CEO of Atalanta, has explained why the team chose to recruit Ghanaian winger Kamaldeen Sulemana.

Early in July, the Black Stars forward, Kamaldeen Sulemana agreed to a four-year contract with the 2024 Europa League winners after joining Southampton of England.

At a press conference held Thursday from the club’s base in Bergamo, Kamaldeen Sulemana was introduced to the supporters.

Atalanta chief reveals reason for signing Kamaldeen Sulemana

“The winger was signed because he has the qualities to perfectly fit at the club,” CEO Percassi said in his presentation.

“He’s of a young age, yet he has gained valuable experience across Europe. It was an added reason for our decision, along with the fact that he already worked with Coach JuriÄ‡ last season. He has qualities that suit our team well. He’s a sharp guy and has immediately shown great eagerness to learn Italian. He’ll fit in perfectly in our environment,” he said.

Sulemana thanked the club’s hierarchy and pledged to give his best to the team.

“I’m very happy for the opportunity I’ve been given, and I want to thank the Percassi family, Sporting Director Tony D’Amico and coach JuriÄ‡ for that. When Atalanta called, I had no doubts: their recent achievements speak for themselves, and I know this is the perfect place to compete in one of Europe’s top leagues. I’m incredibly excited to make my debut in the Champions League. Then I will be reunited with Mr JuriÄ‡. I admire his mentality and work ethic. I am young and eager to learn and improve,” said the Ghanaian forward.

Football World

Nations FC open to Razak Simpson sale amid growing interest

Nations FC Willing to Consider Offers for Razak Simpson

Nations FC, a team in the Ghana Premier League, has stated that they are prepared to let go of star defender Razak Simpson should the proper deal be made.

The 27-year-old has drawn interest from a number of elite clubs both domestically and outside after the Abrankese-based team had a successful 2024–2025 season.

Nations FC open to Razak Simpson sale amid growing interest

Since joining Nations FC from WAFA in 2023, Simpson has emerged as a vital member of the group.

Simpson was recognized as the 2025 Ghana Football Awards’ Home-Based Male Footballer of the Year and most recently played for the Black Stars in the 2025 Unity Cup in London.

Speaking to JoySports, the club’s Chief Executive Officer, Kennedy Boakye-Ansah, said Nations FC are open to a deal once the terms are favourable.

“We’ve received a few offers, but nothing concrete yet. We won’t stand in the way of any player who wishes to leave, provided the deal is right for both the player and the club,” he stated.

“Razak Simpson is Black Stars material, so he certainly won’t come cheap but at this stage, we’re not quoting any figures.”

“There have been approaches from clubs in Algeria and Albania, as well as interest from two local sides,” he added.

Featured

Asante Kotoko present new kit and Toyota Cup trophy to Otumfuo

Otumfuo Receives Asante Kotoko’s New Kit and Toyota Cup Trophy

Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, the King of the Ashanti Kingdom, received the Toyota Cup and President’s Cup trophies from Asante Kotoko SC during their courtesy visit to the Manhyia Palace on Wednesday.

Asante Kotoko present new kit and Toyota Cup trophy to Otumfuo

Additionally, the club gave the king a personalized Kotoko home uniform for the 2025–2026 campaign under the “The Hope” moniker.

The close relationship between the club and the royal family was demonstrated during the presenting ceremony.

Patronage and support from Otumfuo Osei Tutu II have been crucial to the club’s success.

The gesture strengthens the bond between the club and the royal family by demonstrating their mutual respect and appreciation for one another.

Football World

Gremio forward Francis Amuzu attracts interest from Saudi Arabia

Saudi Clubs Show Interest in Gremio Star Francis Amuzu

Only a few months after joining from RSC Anderlecht, Francis Amuzu’s time at Gremio may be coming to an end as Saudi Arabia continues to show interest in the Ghanaian.

With just one goal and one assist in 19 games, the Ghanaian winger has found it difficult to contribute in Brazil’s top division. His progress has been hampered by injuries, which are reminiscent of problems from his Anderlecht days.

Gremio forward Francis Amuzu attracts interest from Saudi Arabia

Gremio may be open to letting him go even though his speed poses a threat, as discussions on a possible transfer to Al-Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, are beginning to take shape.

Amuzu‘s contract expires in mid-2026, and his current market value is €4 million, despite the fact that no formal bid has been made.

With the Saudi Pro League increasingly signing international players, a new chapter for Amuzu could be on the horizon if a suitable deal is reached.

Amuzu’s speed and direct style have not been enough to secure his place in Gremio’s team, and a change of scenery might be beneficial for the 24-year-old winger.

His future in Brazil looks uncertain, and a move to Saudi Arabia could provide a fresh start.

Ghana Sports

Lawyers for Saddick Adams and Angel Broadcasting Pull Out of John Paintsil Defamation Case

Lawyers for Saddick Adams and Angel Broadcasting Exit John Paintsil Defamation Case

In the ongoing slander action brought by former Ghanaian international John Paintsil, legal counsel for sports journalist Saddick Adams and Angel Broadcasting Network has resigned.

The two defendants are no longer being represented by Crabbe & Co., the law firm that handled the matter before, according to sources close to the firm.

Lawyers for Saddick Adams and Angel Broadcasting Exit John Paintsil Defamation Case

Due to claimed defamatory remarks broadcast on Angel FM’s platforms, John Paintsil is requesting GHS25 million in damages, of which GHS20 million is from Angel FM and GHS5 million is from Saddick Adams. Paintsil claims that the remarks have seriously damaged his reputation.

Due to Crabbe & Co.’s withdrawal from the case, neither defendant has legal representation at this time. Additionally, according to court documents, Saddick Adams and Angel Broadcasting Network have not submitted their witness testimonies in the continuing lawsuit, which is against the court’s instructions.

Legal commentators point out that the defendants might have to appear in person to answer the allegations if fresh counsel cannot be found before the next hearing.

Since the case is set to go to trial again in October 2025, the lack of witness statements may potentially have an impact on how their case is presented.

This development adds a new dimension to what has become a closely followed legal dispute between a prominent media house, a well-known journalist, and a former national football star.

Paintsil has maintained that he is seeking to vindicate his reputation through lawful means.

Featured

GFA’s Kurt Okraku Engages Labor Minister on Boosting Youth Employment via Football

GFA President Kurt Okraku Partners with Labor Minister to Enhance Youth Job Opportunities Through Football

Kurt Okraku, the president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), paid Dr. Abdul-Rashid Hassan Pelpuo, the minister of labor, jobs, and employment, a courtesy call on Wednesday.

The purpose of the discussion, which took place in the Ministry’s headquarters, was to discuss potential joint ventures between the two organizations to use football to empower Ghanaian youth and create jobs.

GFA’s Kurt Okraku Engages Labor Minister on Boosting Youth Employment via Football

Executive Council Members Eugene Nobel Noel and Samuel Aboabire, as well as Janice Odonkor, the FA’s Business Development Manager, joined Mr. Okraku.

The president of the GFA emphasized the obvious connection between football and work, characterizing the game as a means of social mobility, job creation, and youth development. He cited football’s wide-ranging influence in local communities as well as its capacity to inspire and empower youth.

“For us in football, we offer opportunities to young boys and girls, using our vast scouting network to identify, nurture and promote talent in every corner of our dear country,” he said

Dr. Pelpuo welcomed the delegation and praised the initiative, expressing the Ministry’s readiness to work with the GFA to develop innovative, sport-based employment programs. Both parties are expected to identify actionable areas of cooperation to promote youth empowerment through the football value chain.

Ghana Sports

Hohoe United in talks to sign Hearts goalkeeper Kwesi Nketiah on loan

Ahead of the 2025–2026 Ghana Premier League season, newly promoted Hohoe United is in advanced talks to recruit Hearts of Oak goalkeeper Kwesi Nketiah on loan.

The 23-year-old, Kwesi Nketiah, who only made three appearances the previous season, is seen as a top target to bolster Hohoe’s team. Before granting the loan, Hearts is requesting that Nketiah sign a contract extension.

There are still talks going on, and if both sides can agree on conditions, a settlement is likely.

But before approving the short-term transfer, Hearts of Oak are allegedly insisting that the goalie sign a contract extension.

The two teams’ negotiations are going well, and once any lingering contractual difficulties are resolved, a deal is probably going to be finalized.

The transfer would give Hohoe United a goalkeeper ready to establish himself at the top level while giving Nketiah a new chance at consistent playing time.

Featured

President Simeon-Okraku Speaks at the Presidency During Black Queens’ Visit

Okraku Addresses the Presidency During Black Queens’ Visit

During the Black Queens’ courtesy call on the presidency after their historic bronze medal finish at the 2024 WAFCON in Morocco, CAF 2nd Vice President and GFA President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku gave an impassioned speech at the Jubilee House.

President Simeon-Okraku Speaks at the Presidency During Black Queens' Visit

Okraku praised the Black Queens’ achievement as a “turning point” for women’s football in Ghana and thanked the Presidency for its ongoing support of the sport.

“The Black Queens’ performance is a testament to the strength, talent, and right investments made in women’s football since this administration took office in 2019,” he said.

He said the accomplishment was more than just a medal, showing Ghanaian girls that their aspirations to play football are realistic and achievable. President Simeon-Okraku commended the players for their discipline, cohesion, and tenacity, as well as head coach Kim Lars Björkegren and his technical staff for changing the team.

Okraku thinks Ghana can become one of the greatest in the world and reclaim its position at the top of Africa with the correct investment, policy support, and steady assistance. He emphasized the need to build on the momentum generated by the team’s recent victory and called for more funding for female players’ welfare programs, youth development, and infrastructure.

President Simeon-Okraku pledged the GFA’s commitment to the government’s agenda in sports, particularly in resetting and developing football. The Black Queens’ visit to the Presidency was part of their official homecoming engagements after a commendable showing at WAFCON 2024.

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Black Queens visit Parliament after WAFCON performance

Black Queens Visit Parliament Following WAFCON Performance

Following Black Queens‘ outstanding performance in the 2024 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco, the Black Queens made a courtesy visit to Parliament on Tuesday.

Members of Parliament gave the squad a standing ovation and a warm welcome, led by captain Portia Boakye and head coach Kim. The team’s bronze medal victory, Ghana’s first WAFCON podium result in almost ten years, was celebrated during the visit.

Black Queens visit Parliament after WAFCON performance

Honorable Andrew Asiamah Amoako, the second deputy speaker, praised the Black Queens as “national heroines,” lauding their bravery, solidarity, and patriotism on the continent.

“You have reignited hope and pride in Ghanaian football. Your resilience on the pitch reflects the strength of Ghanaian women,” he said.

The team received special commendations from both the Minority and Majority caucuses, with MPs expressing admiration for their performance. The visit also sparked discussions on gender equity in sports, with calls for increased funding, improved infrastructure, and better welfare packages for female athletes.

The Black Queens’ achievement has captivated the nation, sparking renewed conversations about the future of women’s football in Ghana.