Arena - Q Ghana: December 2011

Thursday, 29 December 2011

CAF Sets January 11 Deadline For Squad Lists

The Confederation of African Football has set January 11, 2012 as the deadline for the submission of squad lists for the African Nations Cup. According to Caf, all qualified teams have before the midnight of the deadline date to forward their 23-man
squads, thus ten days ahead of the start of the competition in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea on January 21. Caf have announced that in conformity with its regulations, a qualified team that fails to meet the deadline will attract a fine of $3,000. The sport governing body also cautioned that if seven days before kick off, a side does not submit its complete list of players, that association
will be allowed to register only 20 players for the tournament. On the replacement of injured players, Caf confirmed that in the event of
a serious injury, a listed player may be replaced 24 hours before kick off
of his team's first match. And this provision is subject to approval by the CAF Medical Committee after receiving a detailed medical assessment.

Source: Ghanasoccernet

Tuesday, 27 December 2011

Kotoko Captain Brenya Marries Girlfriend In Classy Ceremony

Asante Kotoko interim captain Henry Ohene Brenya married his long-time girlfriend Elizabeth Boateng at a colourful ceremony in Kumasi on Christmas Day.
The ceremony which took place at the Lighthouse Assemblies of God Church in Asawasi saw in attendance several officials,past and present players of the club in attendance as well as some members of rival camp; Hearts of Oak.

The marriage which was blessed by Rev. Kwame Appiah Kubi drew the largest congregation of the year in the church.
Brenya, 26, who is also a royal of the Ashanti Kingdom was adjudged a lucky charm for the Kotoko team during pre-season games where he
captained the side to win important matches including one against Hearts of Oak. The players thus resolved to maintain the defender as their captain instead of Soulama Abdoulaye who deputizes for now out of favour
goalkeeper Isaac Amoako

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Saturday, 24 December 2011

Its that time of the year

Afihyia Pa ~ Season Greatings

Friday, 23 December 2011

Glo CAF Awards 2011 : Ghana Dominates Africa XI Side

Ghana dominates the Africa XI announced as three internationals are among the selected side. Defender Harrison Afful makes the list alongside midfielders Kevin-Prince Boateng and Andre Ayew.

The list was announced at the Glo-Caf Awards Gala at the Banquet Hall, State House in Accra, Thursday night to honour nominees for the year under review.

Samir Aboud (Libya),

Harrison Afful (Ghana),

Banana Yaya (Cameroon),

Ayoub Eikhiqi (Morocco)

, Taye Taiwo (Nigeria),

Seydou Keita (Mali),

Kevin-Prince Boateng (Ghana) Y

aya Toure (Cote d'Ivoire),

Andre Ayew (Ghana),

Moussa Sow (Senegal) and

Samuel Eto'o

Thursday, 22 December 2011

Yaya Toure Crowned AfricanPlayer Of The Year, AndreAyew Third!

Ivorian Midfielder Yaya Toure has won the Caf Player of
the Year award. Toure, 28, who plays for English club Manchester City beat
Mali’s Seydou Keita (2nd) and Andre Ayew of Ghana (3rd)
to win Africa’s most prestigious individual award. He thus succeeds Didier Drogba as the last Ivorian to win
the award won in 2009. After leaving FC Barcelona, Yaya Toure has become one
of the most valuable players at English club, Manchester
City and reportedly among the highest earners in Premier
League. His impeccable ball control, recovery and his intelligent
reading of the game enabled him contribute in his team’s
success in the FA Cup. He scored the only goal at the semi-final against
Manchester United and repeated the dose in the final
against Stoke City. He was also one of the key players in Cote d’Ivoire’s
successful campaign in the qualifying rounds for the 2012
Africa Cup of Nations with some goals to his credit. Below is the full list of award winners: Africa Player of the Year – Yaya Toure Fair Play award – Libyan National team Coach of the Year – Harouna Doula National team of the Year – Botswana Womens National Team of the Year – Cameroon Club of the Year – Esperence de Tunis (Tunisia) Referee of the Year – Noumandiuez Doue (Cote d’Ivoire) Most Promising Talent of the Year – Souleymane Coulibaly
(Cote d’Ivoire) Womens Footballer of the Year – Perpetua Ijeoma
Nkwocha (Nigeria) Legend Award – Austin Jay Jay Okocha (Nigeria) Legend Award – Mustapha Hadji (Morocco) Platinum Award – John Atta Mills (Ghana) Africa Based Player of the Year – Oussama Darragi
(Tunisia) Africa’s finest XI: Samir Aboud (Libya), Harrison Afful
(Ghana), Banana Yaya (Cameroon), Ayoub Eikhiqi
(Morocco), Taye Taiwo (Nigeria), Seydou Keita (Mali),
Kevin-Prince Boateng (Ghana) Yaya Toure (Cote d’Ivoire),
Andre Ayew (Ghana), Moussa Sow (Senegal) and Samuel
Eto’o
Source:Ghana Soccer Net

Tuesday, 20 December 2011

Stars for Kuffour testimonial match expected on Thursday

Football stars Lothar Matthäus and Andy Cole are among the star names who would arrive in the country on Thursday for Sammy Kuffour's testimonial match in Kumasi on 23 December.

The ex-Ghana international will be joined by a host of world renowned footballers as he bids his final farewell to the game after making his international debut in 1993.

Cameroon's Rigobert Song and Raymond Kalla, Daniel Amokachi and Jay-Jay Okocha from Nigeria and South African duo of Lucas Radebe and Mark Fish will also be on parade on Friday at the Baba Yara Stadium.

According to organisers, Sammy Kuffour will first line up for the 'Friends of Kuffour team' who will be spotting branded Bayern Munich shirts before swapping sides to wear the national jersey for the last time when he joins a select Black Stars team.

Kuffour will then carry with him the Ghana flag and take the final lap of honour in the last ten minutes of the match and will be joined by colleagues who would follow up with the flags of all the sides he played for during his sterling career.

A three-time Ghana Footballer of the Year, Kuffour, announced his retirement in September 2008 after a career spanning over a decade and having appeared at every tournament organized by FIFA; U-17, U-20, Olympics, World Cup as well as four appearances at the Africa Cup of Nations.

He spent a successful period with Bayern Munich from 1993 to 2005 and won everything there in club football from the Bundesliga, UEFA Champions League and the Intercontinental Cup.

Kuffour was named by CAF as one of the 30 best African footballers of all time and was twice, 1999 and 2001, runner-up in the Africa footballer of the year award.

He featured for Torino, Bayern Munich, AS Roma and Livorno

Harrison Afful Not Bothered By Ghana AFCON Snub

Tunisia-based Harrison Afful claims he is not disturbed after being left out of Ghana's provisional squad for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations.

The Esperance versatile player was tipped to be in Goran Stevanovic's squad after clinching the Caf Champions League for the Tunis-based outfit.

Afful also featured in two matches for the Blood and Gold at the just ended Fifa Club World Cup in Japan.

But the Serbian trainer explained he picked untested Genoa teenager Masawudu Alhassan over the 25-year-old.

Afful says he respects the decision of the coach.

"I'm fit to play in any tournament as we speak," he told Goal.com. "However, the coach's decision is final."

"Ghana have a lot of talented players so only a few can make it to the Nations Cup. That doesn't mean those of us who couldn't make it are not good. I'm not worried and I still believe my time will come.

"If someone tells you I'm disturbed then that person is not being fair to me. I have a lot of confidence in the squad and I hope they'll return with the ultimate. That's most important and not about personalities," the former Asante Kotoko player said.

Afful was a member of the Ghana squad which won silver the 2010 finals hosted Angola.

Source: Ghanasoccernet

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Black Stars Coach: 'I Will Resign If…'

Black Stars' Serbian trainer Goran Stevanovic says he will lay down his tools after the 28 th Nations Cup if Ghana failed to impress in the competition.

He stated that there would be no need to hold on to the job should Ghana bow out before the semi finals.

At a press conference at the GFA secretariat last week, he mentioned that should the team go all the way to the final and lose the trophy on penalties after a spirited game then, he will continue to stay as the Stars' manager.

'The nature of our job is such that if you perform, you stay and if you fail you go. I will not resign if, say we lose after a great performance in the final on penalties,' he added.

Plavi, on assuming duty as head coach of the Black Stars, gave the assurance that he has come to win trophies for Ghana and believes that his squad has what it takes to return to Ghana in February with the silverware.

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Kwarasey Is Great’

Black Stars goalkeeper's trainer Eddie Ansah says Adam Kwarasey's stoppage instincts remind him of his youthful days as a goalkeeper.

"I see myself in Adam. He does everything like I did in my youthful days. He has great prospects," were Ansah's words in a post-press conference at the FA Secretariat last Thursday. "Adam is young but very effective, efficient and has good anticipation. Ernest Sowah and Daniel Adjei are equally good," he added.

Reacting to how the absence of senior goalkeepers Richard Kingson and Sammy Adjei would affect the team, he gave the assurance that there was no cause for alarm.

The ex-Black Stars keeper stated that the three young goalkeepers had what it takes to stand the Nations Cup task in Equatorial Guinea/Gabon.

He revealed that the national team door was not completely shut to Kingson and Adjei completely, saying, "They are welcome anytime provided they are in shape as the coach has stated."

Kwarasey, a Ghana international currently playing for a Norwegian side, Stromsgodset, is the Black Stars' number one goalkeeper.

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Andre Ayew Grabs No. 10 Black Stars Jersey

Ghana midfielder Andre 'Dede' Ayew will wear the number 10 jersey at the Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.

The 22-year--old has been officially handed the jersey on a permanent basis after Udinese midfielder Kwadwo Asamoah informed the Ghana Football Association (GFA) that he is no longer interested in the No. 10 shirt due to personal reasons.

Asamoah was given the jersey after former Black Stars captain, Stephen Appiah, retired from international football after the 2010 Fifa World Cup in South Africa.

It is reported that Asamoah has now demanded for the number 20 jersey which is the same number he uses with the Bianconeri .

The development means Ayew will now use the same jersey number his father, Abedi Pele, used whiles playing for the Black Stars.

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Ghana Premier League Takes Two-week Break

The Glo Ghana Premier League goes on a two-week break after 12 rounds of matches and will return next year.

This means where will be no matches on Christmas Day and on New Year's Day but will resume with the week 13 fixtures on 7 January.

The remainder of the three matches will be played before the first half of the season ends on 15 January.

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Ghana Premier League Sides ‘fight’ Over Peter Essien

Peter Essien has been linked with a host of Ghana Premier League sidesBechem United forward Peter Essien has emerged as a transfer target for clubs in the Glo Ghana Premier League. The clubs have invaded the camp of the newly-promoted side in their desperate attempts to lure the player away from the club.Bechem United now face a real battle to keep hold of the former Ghana youth international.The 22 year old says he could be tempted by a switch if any offer meets his club's demand."I want to play at the highest level possibly.

Clubs have expressed interest but it depends on what my club, Bechem United thinks," Essien said."It appears all the interested clubs are all convinced of my play after watching my play in my outings in the Premiership."The striker has scored two goals in their last two matches against AshGold and Berekum Chelsea.Essien was a member of the Ghana Under-17 team who won silver at the 2005 Africa Championship in Gambia and played at the Fifa World Cup in Peru....

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Monday, 19 December 2011

Obuasi Ashgold thrash Mighty Jets in League match

Obuasi Ashanti Gold FC recorded their third win in the Glo Premier League with a 3-0 thrashing of Tudu Mighty Jets in the week 12 matches played at the Obuasi Len Clay stadium on Sunday.

The Miners who played a highly spirited game, opened the scoring in the 15th minute through Yakubu Mohammed from Aaron Amoah's pass to end the first half in their favour.

The second half saw both sides playing all attacking game but it was Ashgold who had the upper hand with the exchanges and went head to increase their goal tally to two in the 76th minute as Mohammed once again delivered a well-taken free-kick from outside the penalty boxas his shot sailed straight into the net with Jets goalkeeper Shaibu Issahaku looking on helplessly.

Aminu Mohammed sealed the doom of Mighty Jets with the third goal in the 80th minute.

Mighty Jets made a last minute effort for at least a consolation goal but all their efforts came to nothing until referee William Agbovi whistled for the end of the game.

GNA

Edubiase hold Liberty in League match

Visiting New Edubiase United held Liberty Professionals to a 1-1 draw in their Week 12 Glo Premiership clash on Sunday at the Carl Reindorf Park, Dansoman, Accra.

Liberty came from behind to snatch a point in the game which was dominated in midfield after the visitors shot into the lead on 23 minutes through Asiedu Attobrah.

Goalkeeper Daniel Adjei levelled from the spot in the second half for Liberty, his second goal in the 12-week old premiership.

The centre of attraction was leading marksman in the Premier League, Emmanuel Baffour, who was on the books of Liberty Professionals three years ago.

Expectations were high of him after his 11-goals earned him a place in the provisional squad of the Black Stars for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations. He failed to silence his critics with a modest performance amidst heavy policing by the Liberty Professional defenders.

The visitors were dominant in the early stages of the match, taking hold of the midfield with Captain Mumuni Abubakar, Sakyi Quaye and Ebenezer Ofori overpowering their opponents.

On 23 minutes, Attobrah capitalised on a loss of concentration by the Liberty defence to score the opener from close range.

Liberty upped their game in the second half in search of the equalizer but the defence of the visitors, which revolved around veteran Iddrisu Yahaha, Richard Adjei, Abeiku Ainooson and Samed Ibrahim remained resolute.

The efforts of Liberty at drawing level yielded dividends for them on 76 minutes after a defender of Edubiase handled the ball in the penalty area from a goalmouth action.

The resultant kick was converted by keeper Adjei, earning his side a point at their favourite grounds.

GNA

Lions roar back to draw with Chelsea

Berekum Chelsea have now gone four consecutive games without a win in the Glo Premier League after Heart of Lions held them at home.

The champions could only draw 1-1 with Lions at the Golden City Park on Sunday.

Striker Emmanuel Clottey put Chelsea in front when he scored from the spot in the 22 minute. But a minute before the break, the visitors equalised through Gilbert Fiamenyo.

And the scoreline stayed the same as Lions run away with a point.

Afcon 2012 team profile - Ghana

Ghana arrives at Afcon one of the clear cut favourites to win the competition if not the favourite. At least on paper. The Black Stars are ranked by Fifa at 29th in the world and 2nd in Africa. We know that they have always played well. It is fact that under the Nkrumah they blossomed and ended up changing the pecking order in African football in the late 50's and 60's.

Till then dominated by the Caf founding nations like Egypt, Sudan and Ethiopia; the West Africans were a showcase of skill and professionalism – on and off the pitch. Yet despite all her accomplishments during that golden era Ghana became notorious for always tripping over her own feet and not making it out of Africa for the World Cup.

Then things changed. She learned to win the games that counted – well except for the one with a Suarez in it – and slowly but surely rose back in the rankings. This can be attributed to a combination of two things. Exceedingly good position players and her Youth program that has to be arguably one of Africa's best farms. Not only has it built continental and World Champions but it has such efficient scouting of the home grown talent, that Black Star Coach Stevanovic does not even watch local games. The scouting is done for him.

Ghana secured her ticket to Afcon 2012 not as efficiently as the Elephants who remained unbeaten, or with the drama Libya went through. Nor were they as quick as the Zebras from Botswana but they dismantled their opponents without really being tested. While the thinning of the herd has nixed such players like GK Kingson it has also created spots for players like GLO League top scorer Emmanuel Boffour.

While Essien remains injured and Boateng is sadly gone the other usual suspects are there and the Black Stars will land at Afcon 2012 to create havoc. Gyan and BBC African Footballer of the Year Ayew will form the engine of team with the clear cut intention of adding one more African Champion star above the GFA crest.

No matter how we try to put it, anything less would be a huge disappointment and herald in changes from top to bottom.

Friday, 16 December 2011

Andre 'Dede' Ayew named BBC African Footballer of 2011 (Ayew's father, Abedi Pele, won the BBC award in 1991

Ghana and Marseille winger Andre "Dede" Ayew has been named the BBC's African Footballer of the Year for 2011.

The 21-year-old took over a third of the votes to follow in the footsteps of his father, Abedi "Pele" Ayew, who won the inaugural BBC award in 1991.

Ayew beat Yaya Toure, Gervinho, Samuel Eto'o and Seydou Keita to the title.

"I'm honoured and surprised to receive this prestigious award, especially considering the great players who have won it in the past," said Ayew.

"I thank all the people who voted for me - in Ghana, in Africa and in the world.

"I'm going to work hard to show them they made a good choice."

The award was voted for by African football fans who nominated their favourites either by text or email.

They chose from a shortlist which was drawn up by football experts from every country in Africa, who based their choices on players' skill, technical ability, teamwork, consistency and fair play.

After making an impact on the international stage in 2010, when he impressed observers at both the Africa Cup of Nations and Fifa World Cup, 2011 marked a year when Ayew became a key figure at club level.

He finished the 2010-11 campaign as a regular starter for Marseille for the first time in his career, with his goal tally of 11 aiding his cause.

At the start of this season, he struck a hat-trick to help Marseille win the French Super League - and has since contested all but one of his side's 17 league games, scoring six times.

Injury ruled him out of Marseille's opening Champions League group game but the Ghanaian has gone on to miss just one minute of European action since then, as the 1993 champions reached the knockout stages.

He will be honoured as BBC African Footballer of the Year 2011 in a short ceremony ahead of Marseille's home game against Lorient on Saturday, on his 22nd birthday.

At international level, Ayew also played a key role in ensuring that the Black Stars qualified for the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations with an unbeaten record.

Abedi "Pele" Ayew was the first winner of the BBC African Sports Star of the Year award for his achievements in 1991, with the title later turning into the current BBC African Footballer of the Year award.

"Dede" becomes the fifth Ghanaian to win after his father, Sammy Kuffour (2001), Michael Essien (2006) and last year's winner Asamoah Gyan.

Previous winners of BBC African Footballer of the Year award:

2010 - Asamoah Gyan (Sunderland & Ghana)

2009 - Didier Drogba (Chelsea & Ivory Coast)

2008 - Mohamed Aboutrika (Al Ahly & Egypt)

2007 - Emmanuel Adebayor (Arsenal & Togo)

2006 - Michael Essien (Chelsea & Ghana)

2005 - Mohamed Barakat (Al Ahly & Egypt)

2004 - Jay Jay Okocha (Bolton & Nigeria)

2003 - Jay Jay Okocha (Bolton & Nigeria)

2002 - El Hadji Diouf (Liverpool & Senegal)

2001 - Sammy Kuffour (Bayern Munich & Ghana)

2000 - Patrick Mboma (Parma & Cameroon)

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Kotoko face tricky test in Wa

As the festive season approaches, the weekend's match-day-12 games in the Glo Premier League throw up some interesting pairings.

The action starts on Saturday at the Bechem Park where relegation threatened sides, Bechem United and Berekum Arsenals clash.

With a three-point lead to their name, Asante Kotoko travel to Wa to face a youthful and impressive All Stars side.

The game would see Kotoko coach, Maxwell Konadu return to the grounds where he started his trade as he meets the Blues and former boss Nuru Ahmed for the first time since he left down south to Kumasi.

It has been a good few weeks for both clubs who have chalked some impressive results lately. Kotoko are favourites to pick all three points but the Blues can make a statement on Sunday.

The Tema Park will host another big game when second-placed Accra Hearts of Oak visits a resurgent Tema Youth side.

Tema Youth's great run of three straight wins was halted last weekend when they drew at 2-2 away to Mighty Jets. But the Tema side would want to re-kick their fine run beginning with the visit of the Phobians.

Ebusua Dwarfs will attempt to get back on track when they travel to the Agyemang Badu Park to face Aduana Stars.

Following their loss to Kotoko, Berekum Chelsea have an opportunity to put their act together when they welcome Heart of Lions to the Golden City Park.

The league's top scorer, Emmanuel Baffour would celebrate his call up into the Ghana senior national team, the Black Stars for the 2012 African Nations Cup, when he leads New Edubiase to the Carl Reindorf Park to play Liberty Professionals.

At the Sekondi Stadium, Medeama will host bottom side, Wassaman in a local derby live on Metro TV at 3:00pm.

AshantiGold will try to put behind them their recent struggles when they play Mighty Jets at the Len Clay Stadium.

GBC/GFA

Black Stars can win title - Stevanovic

Ghana coach Goran Stevanovic believes he has the players to help him achieve his idea of being an African champion next year.

The Black Stars coach on Thursday announced a 25 pre-competition squad for the 2012 African Nations Cup, which will be pruned to 23 by the time the tournament starts in Gabon and Equatorial Guinea.

Amid contrasting views about some of his called up players, Stevanovic has espoused self confidence in his methods and declared himself happy and satisfied with his squad.

With four titles to their credit, Stevanovic is very confident of ending a 30-year wait for an African title by winning a fifth title for Ghana.

"I am happy with the squad," Stevanovic said. "I believe I can take Ghana to become champions [at 2012 Nations Cup]. That's my idea and we must believe it."

"I believe in my work and my staff. During the two weeks [camping period], we can improve."

Though he has expressed his delight with the squad, he admits that, that doesn't mean they are the finished article just yet, he warned.

"It would be a tough competition with every team hungry for the same thing, the title. We can improve and be much better than we are now. We have to prepare well, have good training sessions and approach every game with the same idea of winning.

"It important to win. We always have to play to win, score one goal more than the opponent," the Ghana coach said.

Stevanovic will gather his squad in South Africa on January 7 and stay there until January 19 before travelling for their Nations Cup campaign.

During that period the Black Stars will play top South Africa side Kaizer Chiefs and the Bafana Bafana.

Ghana is in group D of the Nations Cup with Botswana, Guinea and Mali.

Source: Ghanafa.org

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Arsenal face AC Milan in last 16 & Chelsea draw Napoli

Arsenal have been drawn against AC Milan in the pick of the last 16 Champions League match-ups, while Chelsea will play Napoli.

Arsenal and Chelsea, the only remaining English sides in the competition, both face first legs in Italy.

Defending champions Barcelona face German side Bayer Leverkusen.

The first legs will take place on 14/15 or 21/22 February, while the return fixtures are scheduled for 6/7 or 13/14 March.

Champions League last 16 draw:

Lyon (Fra) v APOEL (Cyp)

Napoli (Ita) v Chelsea (Eng)

AC Milan (Ita) v Arsenal (Eng)

Basel (Swi) v Bayern Munich (Ger)

Bayer Leverkusen (Ger) v Barcelona (Spa)

CSKA Moscow (Rus) v Real Madrid (Spa)

Zenit St Petersburg (Rus) v Benfica (Por)

Marseille (Fra) v Inter Milan (Ita)

Kwabena Kwabena, Efya to perform at Glo-CAF Awards

Ghana's award winning hip-life artist, Kwabena Kwabena has been named among the top artists to thrill audience at the Glo-CAF Awards Night slated for December 23, at the Banquet Halll, State House, Accra.

Kwabena Kwabena who is noted for his cool lyrics and love renditions, according to the organisers of the event, is expected to light up the venue with some of his popular songs that has made waves both within and outside the country.

The Ghanaian musician who doubles as a Glo Ambassador in Ghana, has been described as a perfect match for the occasion taking into consideration the calibre of guests expected at the event.

Also on schedule for performance is Efya, one of the new sensations in the music industry in the country and Zaynab, a popular Beninoise musician, who is expected to excite audience with her unique style of music and dance.

GNA Sports gathers that other musicians like Gloria Bossman and Loyiso Bala from South Africa and an Acrobatic Tumbling group known as Troop Agile from Kenya are expected to be part of the rich list of artists for the night.

In a related development, Ex- Ghanaian International and FIFA Ambassador, Tony Baffoe and Super Sports Presenter and analyst, Robert Marawa have been confirmed as the official MCs for the Night.

The former FC Köln and later Fortuna Düsseldorf player, Baffoe now handles several functions for the African Football Confederation (CAF) and Federation of International Football Association (FIFA).

Marawa on the other hand is currently a presenter at SuperSport and a host of several programmes.

Source: GNA

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Metro TV threatens to boycott Kotoko matches

Local television station Metro TV has threatened to boycott Asante Kotoko matches in the Glo Premier League following an attack on two of their journalists.

Commentator Christopher Opoku and his summarizer Nana Agyemang were heckled at the Baba Yara Stadium after Kotoko's 1-0 win over defending champions Berekum Chelsea.

The irate fans were believed to be unhappy with comments from the two seasoned journalists after referee Joseph Lamptey awarded a controversial penalty to the Porcupine Warriors with 10 minutes remaining in the top-flight league.

Nathaniel Asamoah was fouled in the box by goalkeeper Ernest Sowah but television replays showed there was no contact.

But some of their fans took offence and attempted to vent their spleen on, especially, the ex-Okwahu United coach but for the timely intervention of one Opoku who shielded his colleague.

"I want to state on record that we're not going to cover Kotoko matches again and we are making an official report to the PLB to that effect," Metro TV's Head of Sports Christopher Opoku told Accra-based Happy FM.

"After the game we wanted to go and see our crew members only to be attacked by some fans for no apparent reason.

"I had to serve as a shield to Nana Agyeman otherwise it would have been an untold story.

"They destroyed two of our very important cables and I tell you we won't cover their matches again,"

"The penalty against Kotoko was not correct and television replays showed that. But at the first instance we all thought he was spot on until we saw it again. And what is wrong if we commented on it?

"I remember using the word 'con' to describe Nathaniel Asamoah who fooled the referee and all of us in awarding the penalty.

"I am sorry to say this but all these acrimony against us was started by Kumasi-based Angel FM and it's unfortunate."

Source: Myjoyonline

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Thursday, 15 December 2011

Baffour in 25-man CAN squad

Posted: 2011-12-15 08:04

The top goal scorer in the Glo Premier League, Emmanuel Baffour, got the chance to fight for a place in the final squad at the Nations after he was named in the 25-man party for pre-tournament camping.

Baffour whose hot streak of eleven goals in eleven games for New Edubiase has won him many friends in Ghana is the only home based outfield player in the side.

Ghana coach Goran Stevanovic who barely watches local games told a joint meeting of the emergency committee of the GFA and the Black Stars management committee that he picked the striker on the advice of his assistant Kwesi Appiah.

He is one of five strikers for the pre tournament camping with at least one of them likely to drop out.

The others are Asamoah Gyan, Prince Tagoe, Derek Asamoah and Jordan Ayew.

Source: KICK OFF Ghana

Jordan Ayew in Ghana squad

Jordan Ayew is in a 25-man party for Ghana's Nations Cup campaign in a squad of few surprises.

The 19 year-old Marseille forward who has been in form this season will join his brother Andre Ayew in the side that will travel to South Africa in the new year for the pre Nations Cup camping.

Ayew's form for Marseille this season led to massive calls for his inclusion but like a few other players would have to work their way into a final 23.

He will be battling for a slot among the strikers which includes South Korea based Derek Asamoah and Prince Tagoe.

Tagoe's poor goal scoring form for Ghana has led to intense criticism but Stevanovic insist his work rate merits a place.

The top goal scorer in the Glo League, Emmanuel Baffour of New Edubiase, is also in the side following his haul of eleven goals in eleven games.

John Boye of Stade Rennes makes a surprise entry in defence while Masahudu Alhassan who plays for the reserve side of Italian Serie A side Genoa has also been included.

The player would arrive in South Africa on January 7 and stay there until January 19 before travelling for their Nations Cup campaign.

During that period they will play top South Africa side Kaiser Chiefs and Bafana Bafana.

Ghana is in group D of the Nations Cup with Botswana, Guinea and Mali.

Ghana squad:

Goalkeepers: Adam Kwarasey, Daniel Adjei, Ernest Sowah.

Defenders: Samuel Inkoom, John Paintsil, Daniel Opare, Masahudu Alhassan, Lee Addy, John Boye, John Mensah, Jonathan Mensah.

Midfielders: Charles Takyi, Agyemang Badu, Derek Boateng, Anthony Annan, Mohammed Abu, Kwadwo Asamoah, Sulley Muntari, Dede Ayew.

Strikers: Emmanuel Baffour, Prince Tagoe, Derek Asamoah, Asamoah Gyan, Jordan Ayew.

source: KICK OFF Ghana

Andre Ayew shortlisted for Caf Player of the Year

Date : 15-12-11

Ghana's Andre Ayew has been named on the five-man shortlist for the 2011 Caf Footballer of the Year award.

The Olympique Marseille midfielder is joined in the running for the award by Samuel Eto'o Fils of Cameroon, Mali's Seidu Keyta, Moussa Sow of Senegal and Yaya Toure of Cote d'Ivoire.

Asamoah Gyan and Kevin-Prince Boateng dropped out of the 10-man shortlist after the final list was revealed.

According to CAF, the CAF Technical, Football and Media Committees decided on the choice of shortlists for the other categories taking into account the performance of the nominees from January to November, 2011.

Ayew, 21, who is one of Ghana's key performers, helped the Black Stars pick silver at the 2010 Nations Cup and followed up with a great display at the World Cup that same year where the team reached the quarter-finals.

The winner will be announced at the awards ceremony that comes off in Accra, the Ghana capital on Thursday, December 22.

It will be the third time the Ghanaian capital will be hosting the annual event after 2006 and 2009.

The shortlisted nominees are (in alphabetical order);

African Player of the Year 2011

(a) Andre Ayew (Olympique Marseille and Ghana)
(b) Samuel Eto'o (Anzhi Makhachkala and Cameroon)
(c) Seydou Keita (Barcelona and Mali)
(d) Moussa Sow (Lille and Senegal)
(e) Yaya Toure (Manchester City and Cote d'Ivoire)

African Player of the Year 2011 (Based in Africa)

(a) Oussama Darragi (Esperance Sportive de Tunis and Tunisia)
(b) Zouhir Dhaouadi (Club Africain and Tunisia)
(c) Banana Yaya (Esperance Sportive de Tunis and Cameroon)

National Team of the Year

(a) Botswana
(b) Cote d'Ivoire
(c) Niger
(d) Tunisia

Women's National Team of the Year

(a) Cameroon
(b) Nigeria
(c) South Africa

Club of the Year

(a) Esperance Sportive de Tunis (Tunisia)
(b)Maghreb Association Sportive of Fez (Morocco)
(c) Wydad Athletic Club (Morocco)

Most Promising Talent of the Year

(a) Ahmed Elshenawy (El-Masry and Egypt)
(b) Souleymane Coulibaly (Tottenham Hotspurs and Cote d'Ivoire)
(c) Ahmed Musa (VVV Venlo and Nigeria)

Coach of the Year

(a) Harouna Doula (Niger)
(b) Nabil Maaloul (Esperance Sportive de Tunis) - Tunisia
(c) Stanley Tshosane (Botswana)

Women's Footballer of the Year

(a) Nompumelelo Nyandani (South Africa)
(b) Perpetua Nkwocha (Nigeria)
(c) Miriam Paixao Silva (Equatorial Guinea)

Referee of the Year

(a) Alioum Neant (Cameroon)
(b) Noumandiez Doue (Cote d'Ivoire)
(c) Djamel Haimoudi (Algeria)

Legend Award

Mustapha Hadji (Morocco)
Austin 'Jay-Jay' Okocha (Nigeria)

Source: Ghanafa.org

Kotoko beat Chelsea to maintain lead

Asante Kotoko's hold of the Glo league summit gathered pace on Wednesday with a 1-0 win against Berekum Chelsea that moved the club three-points clear at top of the table.

The entertainment of the night for the Porcupine Warriors at the Baba Yara Stadium came in the second half from the spot when Michael Akuffu scored.

The win ends Chelsea's six game unbeaten run as the champions crashed to their second league defeat this season.

Chelsea goalkeeper Ernest Sowah tripped Kotoko attacker Nathaniel Asamoah in the box and a penalty was awarded the home team.

Akuffu converted from the spot with nine minutes left on the clock.

The Porcupine Warriors travel to Wa to face All Stars in their next fixture on Sunday.

Source: Ghanafa.org

Photo: Myjoyonline.com

Wednesday, 14 December 2011

2011 GLO-CAF Awards: Ikpeba, Okocha leads old Eagles to Accra

FORMER African Footballer of the year, Victor Ikpeba and ex Super Eagles Captain, Austin Jay-Jay Okocha will be leading the generation of old Super Eagles' players to the next GLO- CAF Awards ceremony coming up on 22nd December in Accra, Ghana.

Victor Ikpeba, a former player of Monaco FC, popularly known as 'Prince of Monaco' played for the France based team for many years before moving over to Borrussia Dortmund FC in Germany.

He won the African Footballer of the year Award in 1997.

Okocha on the other hand distinguished himself with Einthract Frankfurt FC of Germany, Fernabache of Turkey, Paris St Germain of France and Bolton Wanderers of England.

He has been nominated for Legends Award along with Ex-Moroccan International Mustapha Hadji.

Hearts Eyeing Kotoko Slip Against Chelsea

On Wednesday at the Baba Yara Stadium, league leaders Kumasi Asante Kotoko will lock horns with defending champions Berekum Chelsea in an 11th week outstanding Glo Premier League match, which promises to be full of fireworks, as both sides would like to fire at full throttle to undo each other's dream of snatching the three points at stake.

Having had stuttering start to the league, which was halted with the arrival of Hans Van der Plyum, Berekum Chelsea have done so well in the last couple of weeks which has resulted in their steady rise on the league ladder.

Hearts of Oak's victory over Medeama has ensured their rise to the second spot and are on the same point with the league leaders, Asante Kotoko, who boast of superior goal difference.

As both Kotoko and Chelsea go into action tomorrow, there is no denying the fact that the Phobians would focus their attention on that match, to see how it pans out. A win for Chelsea will see changes at the top, with the defending champions ghosting past both Kotoko and Hearts to the summit of the table, while a win for Kotoko will mean opening the gap wider, while a draw will see Hearts trailing Kotoko by a point, but leading Chelsea by a point.

Indeed, when they had the opportunity to assume the zenith of the league table in the 9th week, Hearts of Oak spurned it, and now they appear to be placing their destiny in the hands of the defending champions, who like Kotoko, are also in contention for the league title.

Hearts of Oak have referee O. B. Amankwaa's incompetence to thank as his bad call in the 70th minute gifted them the winning goal against Medeama S/C, giving Hearts' officials the fillip to hope for better things ahead.

"Now that we have won we will be looking at the Kotoko-Chelsea game with keen interest," Hearts assistant coach, Tanko Ibrahim said. "This is a league and every team will be looking to take full advantage of any team who drops points.

"I mean that is how league titles are won, you capitalise on the other contender's frailties, so we will be hoping Chelsea gets points off them (Kotoko)."

Hearts will be making a trip to the Tema Park to battle newly promoted Tema Youth in their next league outing on Sunday, after which the league will take a respite, as per the programme of the PLB.

Hearts Back to Winning Ways

Accra Hearts of Oak, driven by a determination not to go down again as they did against Liberty Professional last Sunday, yesterday fought grittily from a goal down to chalk up success at the expense of Medeama Sporting Club, winning 2-1 in their 11th week Glo Premier League game at the Accra Sports Stadium.

Medeama Sporting Club did not hide their intention of emulating the example set by Liberty Professionals who outclassed and outscored Hearts of Oak at the same venue, but after drawing first blood in the 25th minute through Francis Coffie from a spot kick, following a foul by Sammy Adjei, their quest to beat the Phobians fell flat.

Aware of the anger and consternation of their fans, following their recent inconsistent poor showing, the Phobians, spurred on by their "never say die" motto fought hard to cancel the Medeama lead two minutes later, through enigmatic striker, Mahatma Otoo.

It was one match which no quarter was given, as both sides did not hide their intention of carrying the day - and the intention to win by either side was so glaring, but it took a 70th minute goal by Prince Atakora Gyimah for Hearts to chalk up victory against the well-lubricated Medeama S/C side.

Indeed, Medeama came so close to securing parity in the dying embers of the game, but for a wonderful save by adroit goalkeeper, Sammy Adjei.

On Saturday at the Accra Sports Stadium, Tema Youth and Mighty Jets played to a pulsating 2-2 draw. Tema Youth still remain unbeaten in their last four outings in the Glo Premier League after picking a point off Mighty Jets.

It took Jets 12 minutes to open the scoring in the game that produced seven yellow cards with six of their players getting booked.

Jacob Quao put Jets in front but four minutes later Benjamin Terry drew Tema Youth level. Jets were back in the lead six minutes after the equaliser through Kofi Owusu, a goal which sent them into the break 2-1 up.

But substitute Hamza Abdulai who came on for Zuberu Salifu in the first half got the equaliser after 69 minutes to earn his side a share of the spoils on match-day-11

Monday, 12 December 2011

Massive Ticket Price Cuts For Sammy Kuffour's Testimonial

Ticket prices for the much-talked about testimonial match of Sammy Kuffour have seen massive cuts to make it affordable for all to attend.

One would have envisaged high ticket prices with an array of stars on show at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi on December 23.

However in their announcement of ticket prices for the historical event; the organizing committee at the insistence of Kuffour himself, have slashed prices across board making it affordable for the ordinary Ghanaian to attend.

The most expensive tickets for VIP seats will be going for 50 Ghana cedis while Center Circle and Popular Stand tickets go for 15 and 5 Ghana cedis respectively.

"It is the hope of Kuffour to see a massive turn out at the stadium on December 23 hence the ticket price cuts," member of the planning committee Kurt Okraku told GHANAsoccernet.com.

"It is going to be a funfair and we want each and every Ghanaian to be part of this so hopefully with these prices, attendance will be massive."

The testimonial match which will be under the distinguished patronage of the King of the Ashanti Kingdom Otumfour Osei Tutu II sees the Black Stars pitch their strength against the friends of Kuffour.

Daniel Amokachi, Samuel Eto'o, Andy Cole, Dwight Yorke, Patrick Mboma, Jay-Jay Okocha, Lothar Mattheus, Oliver Khan, Samuel Eto'O, Rigobert Song, Mohammed Kallon, Pablo Thiam are among the legendary names to feature for friends of Sammy Kuffour against the Black stars.

Meanwhile, all media personel who are interested in covering the historic event are required to send a request for accreditation to:skuffourtestimonial@yahoo.com not later than wednesday 14th December 2011.

Accreditations will be ready for collection on December 22 at the True Vine Hotel(reception area)

Arrangements are far advanced to provide free bus service to media personel who would be interested in travelling from Accra to Kumasi to cover the match.

Source: Ghanasoccernet

@ArenaQGhana

2012 Africa Cup of Nations Tickets On Sale

General admission tickets to the 2012 Africa Cup of Nations will be on sale as from Monday December 12, 2011 in the host nations of the competition, Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, the Local Organising Committee (Cocan) announced during the weekend.

The high commissioner of the Cocan in Gabon, Christian Kerangall, presented a prototype of the ticket at a press conference in Libreville on Friday and gave the list of ticket prices for the Amitie Sino-Gabonaise stadium in Libreville and the Renovation stadium in Franceville, across the different levels of the competition due to kick off on January 21 next year.

"Tickets for the group stage for grandstand and lateral will be 5,000 francs CFA (€7.65) flat both in Libreville and Franceville, while the VIP stands will be at 30,000 frs (€46) in Libreville and 20,000 frs (€31) in Franceville," he said.

In the quarter-finals, grandstands and lateral will cost 10,000 frs (€15.5) in Libreville and 6,000 frs (€9.5) in Franceville. VIPs are 40,000 frs (€61.5) and 50,000 frs (€76.5) in Libreville and 20,000 frs (€31) in Franceville, according to the Cocan chief.

Tickets to the semi-finals in both cities for grandstands and lateral are 30,000 frs (€46) and 20,000 frs (€31) respectively, while VIPs will pay between 60,000 frs (€92) and 80,000 (€122.5) in Libreville and Franceville.

The final of the 28th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations will take place in Libreville on February 12 at the Amitie Sino-Gabonaise stadium and will cost attendants 30,000 frs (€46) for lateral and 50,000 frs (€76.5) for grandstands, with VIP stands at 80,000 frs (€122) and 100,000 frs (€153).

Kerangall also announced that the issuance of entry visas will begin on December 20, and will be based on Caf accreditation confirmation letters.

The special multiple-entry visa is valid for 45 days for entry into both Gabon and Equatorial Guinea, he said. Visitors from countries that do not have embassies of the host nations will have their visas issued at the port of entry.

Source: Goal

@ArenaQGhana