Rawlings Congratulates Stars

Former President Rawlings has congratulated the senior national soccer team, the Black Stars for their qualification to the World Cup.The former President who is in Oslo, Norway attending inaugural activities of NDC Norway said he was delighted after hearing that the Stars had clinched the single slot from their group.³The current group of Black Stars players have remained focused since they first appeared at the World Cup in 2006. Though there have been significant additions to the team, the level of discipline and dedication to duty has not waned and today¹s result is due simply to hard work.²President Rawlings however cautioned against complacency, saying Ghana was now being watched carefully by all, meaning there would be tougher opposition in South Africa next June.³The journey has just started and I enjoin, the players, their technical staff and all Ghanaians to pool their energies and resources together to ensure that Ghana performs creditably at the World Cup.³The tournament is on our continent and we have to ensure that we prove that bringing it to Africa was no favour to us. Me ma mo Ayeekoo,² President Rawlings stated.

Visit Former President Rawlings¹ blog site - http://jjrawlings.wordpress.com/
Source:GHP

Maiden Pool Tournament in Accra ends in a grand style

The Stone/Yfm Pool Tournament 2009 drew to a close last Saturday at Jokers night club, with 25 year old Emeka Chukwudi emerging the winner. Saturday’s final was the culmination of three weeks of competitive pool played in pubs in Accra and Tema, including 8-Ball pub, Pool Bar, Neighbourhood Pub, Baze Lounge and Vanity night club.
Eight finalists from the competing pubs faced each other for the crowning of the champion of champions. The finalists reflected the cultural diversity of Accra, with the line up including a Liberian, a Nigerian and a national of Hong Kong. Twenty four year old Ruth Annang, a salsa instructor in her spare time, and a member of Pepsi’s sales team, proved to be a sensation but was eventually kicked out by Lawrence Tetteh.
The final game between Emeka Chukwudi and Rufus Earley was a tense affair, but Emeka prevailed to win the first prize of a pool table, and a 42 inch Haier Thermacool plasma screen donated by PZ electricals. Other prizes donated by PZ for the finalists include mobile phones, a home theatre system, and a lap-top.
Naomi Nelson, Client Relations Manager at Yfm, said that, the station staged the competition with its partners to promote the game of pool in Ghana. “As you know, Yfm is the foremost youth station in the capital, and the purpose of this successful event was to support a sport which is very popular among our audience, but neglected by most sponsors. For this reason, we are very grateful to Accra Brewery Ltd and PZ Electricals, who were our major supporters”.
The night ended with a packed after-party, hosted by Yfm Programmes Manager/Presenter, Nana Kwame Osei Sarpong and Kandyman. Artistes on the bill included Bob Skinny, Macho Rapper, Ayigbe Edem and the irrepressible Trigmatic.
George Eddah, Brands Manager for Stone Beer said that his brand was proud to be associated with the event, and revealed that a nation-wide inter-university pool tournament would soon be launched in association with Yfm.

Source:Brooke Nuwati/Global Media Alliance.

VODAFONE OPENS FIRST EVER ANNUAL GOLF TOURNEY AT ACHIMOTA.

Vodafone Ghana opened its first ever Golf Tourney at the Achimota Golf course in Accra. The match which was fully sponsored by Vodafone Ghana, will be reciprocated as an annual event as done by their antecedent Ghana Telecommunication company. The event which took off this last weekend brought together about 200 golfers and non golf players to witness the match. Speaking at the event, the Chief Technology Officer of Vodafone Ghana Mr. Tony Dolton said, it was the great pleasure of his outfit as a new company in the country to continue with the good works of former Ghana Telecom in terms of sports and most particularly Golf and pledged total support of hosting the Golf tourney annually as it was been done. “Yes Vodafone has the right passion for sports but not only Golf, we ready to help project all forms of sports in Ghana”.
Mr. Dolton further added that, Vodafone will do all kinds of sports as it has done in England and Rugby in South Africa and among other countries where it operates. “We encourage everybody to get associated to play the Golf game”. He said the tourney was also important to us because it served as platform for interact among customers.
The President of the Achimota Golf Club, Captain Mike Aggrey thanked Vodafone for opening the annually tourney at the Achimota Golf Course. “Our doors are open to you all to help in the development of sports in Ghana.” He thanked all who participated in the match. The overall winner of the game went to Mr. Doe Viva with 43 stable points and Mrs.Yaa Konadu Sarfo-Debrah who won in the ladies division and Ayesa Ale winning for the professional division. All winners were awarded trophy, cash prizes and Vodafone branded products.
Source: Michael Amedor

Another Sports Scandal: Ghana misled IAAF for Grant

The Ghana Athletics Association misled the International Association of Athletics Federation (IAAF) into believing the Association (GAA) held its Congress in 2006 to merit grant from the global body.A communiqu=E9 sent to the IAAF by then Chairman of the Ghana Athletics Association (GAA), Sandy Osei-Agyeman, in the possession of the GNA Sports claimed the Association's constitution had been approved on February 15, 2006 at a Congress that never took place.The communiqu=E9 which included the supposed approved constitution was meant to qualify the country for an annual grant from the IAAF. With the IAAF now convinced by the "documentary" evidence, Ghana has received unspecified grants for three years.There are however contradictory reports on the exact amount the country received as grant even though a statement of expenditure for the 2008 grant to the IAAF in the possession of the GNA Sports totaled 109,958.12 dollars.Contrary to Mr Osei Agyeman's handing over notes to the Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Chairman and the Secretary General of the GAA pegged the IAAF's annual grant from 11,000 to 15,000 dollars depending on deductions made.In the handing over notes, the former Chairman raised the clamour for a Congress since 2008-2009 and lamented on the Ministry's and the National Sports Councils' (NSC) policy of appointing officers that thwarted the efforts of "the GAA to organize the first Congress and elect new officers."Mr Osei-Agyeman in his expenditure statement for the 2008 grant to the IAAF was said to have expended 13,500 dollars as payment to a Marketing Consultant for fund raising and sponsorship for the GAA. A further 9,832.54 dollars of the grant was spent on "air freight clearing of Puma goods for local and international competitions and clearing of electronic starting gun."
Source:GNA

Scandal: Deaf Men Hearing

Deaf Football Australia threatens Ghana with ban

The Deaf Football Australia has threatened to drag the Association of Sports for the Disabled of Ghana (ASBOD) to the International Sports Confederation for the Disabled (ISCD) for sanctions after allegations that Ghana sent hearing players to Australia for an international friendly.
The GNA Sports can confirm that Deaf Football Australia is also demanding USD 14,789.00 from Ghana, as refund which covered the cost of Ghana's contingent in Australia with deadline fixed for August 14, 2009.
A letter sent to the secretariat of ASBOD and signed by Brian Seymour, Secretary of Deaf Football Australia said "I'm writing to inform you that, Deaf Football Australia and its deaf community are very disappointed and disgusted with your organization sending hearing players to an international assignment".
The letter said "the invoice is for expenses for 39 persons who travelled to Australia."
Investigation conducted by the GNA Sports revealed that 25 hearing persons were sent Australia to represent Ghana instead of the non-hearing persons of the Association.
An official of ASBOD who spoke to the GNA Sports on condition of anonymity suspected fraud in the trip that implicates some high profile officials of ASBOD.
According to the ASBOD official, the 25 hearing persons who went to Australia were not players but people seeking travelling opportunity. It is believed that each of the 25 hearing persons parted with 4000 dollars each to get a place on the trip in July.
The ASBOD has referred the letter to the National Sports Council (NSC).
Source:GNA

Agbeko arrives home after defending boxing title

Joseph Agbeko, the IBF Bantamweight World Boxing Champion returned to Accra on Wednesday morning after successfully defending his title against Armenian, Vic Darchinyan in the United States of America on July 11th, 2009.The IBF Bantamweight champion showed his class when he defeated the unified Super Flyweight champion Darchinyan by a unanimous decision a fortnight ago at the Bank Atlantic Centre in Sunrise, Florida, USA. Agbeko was met at the Kotoka International Airport by a large crowd of cheering fans and supporters as well as a number of dignitaries and boxing enthusiasts.Former Ghanaian Featherweight champion, Azuma Nelson, congratulated Mr. Agbeko and commended him for his humility and hard work that ensured his victory and added it is his hope that the champion would hold his title for a long time.Former President, Jerry John Rawlings who made a surprise appearance at the Airport to welcome the champion, wished the boxing champion well and encouraged him to do better.Mr Abdul-Rashid Pelpuo, Minister of Youth and Sports, described the appearance of the former President at the airport to welcome the boxer as both divine and timely and thanked him for his encouragement. The Minister pledged government's support to all sports men and women, adding that lesser known sports would be a major focus of the ministry.He said government would build a national boxing team where boxing champions like Azuma Nelson and Joseph Agbeko would motivate young and up-coming boxers.Agbeko thanked Azuma Nelson, former President Rawlings and his numerous supporters for their support and pledged that with hard work he has the hope of following in the footsteps of Nelson.He also thanked Ghanaians for their unyielding support. Agbeko is expected to be treated to a dinner on Wednesday evening and also address a press conference at the MTN Soccer Academy house at Ridge on Thursday afternoon.
Source:GNA

Agbeko wins decision, retains bantamweight belt

Joseph Agbeko retained his International Boxing Federation bantamweight title with a unanimous decision over Vic Darchinyan on Saturday night.Using solid rights to the head, which eventually opened cuts above both of Darchinyan's eyes, Agbeko spoiled Darchinyan's goal of winning his third world title in a different division.Two judges scored the bout 114-113 for Agbeko, while the third had it for the native of Ghana, 116-111.The bout had one disputed knockdown in the seventh round, when television replays showed Darchinyan pushed Agbeko to the canvas. But referee Tommy Kimmons ruled it a scoring punch for Darchinyan.Agbeko (27-1) shook off the knockdown and peppered Darchinyan with repeated rights to the head the rest of the fight.Darchinyan, a native of Armenia now living in Australia, did his best work in the middle rounds, when he scored with left hooks to the head. A former flyweight and junior-bantamweight titleholder, Darchinyan is now 32-2-1.The victory was Agbeko's second as bantamweight champion. He won the 118-pound crown with a seventh-round technical knockout over Luis Perez in 2007 and beat William Gonzalez on Dec. 11 in his first defense.Agbeko weighed 116 pounds for Saturday's bout, one less than Darchinyan. Earlier, former IBF cruiserweight champion Steve Cunningham won a unanimous decision over Wayne Braithwaite.Cunningham was the busier fighter in the 12-round cruiserweight bout, scoring repeatedly with left jabs to the head and rights to the body. Braithwaite, also a former cruiserweight titleholder, tried cutting Cunningham's distance but only scored sporadically with short combinations to the head. All three judges scored the fight Cunningham: 119-109, 118-110, and 117-111. The fight was Cunningham's first since losing his title to Tomasz Adamek on Dec. 11.
Source:AP

President Mills congratulates Black Stars

President John Evans Atta Mills has congratulated the senior national team, Black Stars on their last Sunday's victory over Mali in Bamako in a 2010 World Cup/Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.Second half strikes from Kwadwo Asamoah and Matthew Amoah powered the Stars to a 2-0 victory over the Eagles to keep alive their World Cup ambitions.The congratulatory message by President Mills was contained in a statement issued and signed by Mahama Ayariga, Presidential Spokesperson."By their victory they have put Ghana in good stead as the country works towards qualification for the World Cup. "Discipline, hard work and love for country will ensure our qualification for South Africa 2010 FIFA World Cup," President Mills said.The Stars lead the pack in Group D on six points, Benin follow on three points, with Sudan and Mali in that order with a point each. The Stars will play the Desert Hawks of Sudan in Omdurman on June 20.
Source:GNA

WCQ Preview: Mali - Ghana

The odds favour Mali to take full advantage of playing in front of their fans to pick up maximum points against next-door neighbours Ghana this weekend.
The Eagles from Bamako were held to a 1-1 draw in Sudan in March, and a win over a Ghanaian team weakened by several withdrawals on Sunday would certainly get their campaign back on track.
Ghana struggled to beat Benin 1-0 in Kumasi in March, but Mali coach, Stephen Keshi, has insisted that he is not fooled by this performance and his team will have to work hard to stop the five-time African champions.
"It is being rumoured that they played below their capacity, yet they are top the table," said the Nigeria-born coach.
"Let everyone else be fooled by the performance of the Black Stars but count me out, I won't fall for this.
"I know the quality of the Ghanaian side and I will not allow a single performance to distort the reality about their strength."
In April, Keshi had a chance to look more closely at the players in the domestic league when they engaged their Guinean counterparts in a friendly.
Injury-Hit Ghana Face Tough Road Trips
Group leaders Ghana go into their match in Bamako with a long list of players who will not be available no thanks to injuries - Sulley Muntari (Inter Milan), Asamoah Gyan (Rennes), Laryea Kingston (Hibernians), Stephen Appiah (no club) and Derek Boateng (FC Cologne).
There are also very much aware that the conditions could be very difficult in this poor, land-locked country, meaning they have to be at their very best to avoid a defeat.
That explains why they prepared for this encounter in the northern Ghanaian town of Tamale, which shares similar arid weather conditions with next-door Mali.
A 2-1 victory over Uganda in a warm-up game would also have done a world of good to the confidence of the Black Stars, who were not at their best against visiting Benin two months ago.
Centre-forward Junior Agogo, who was overlooked for the Benin match as a result of his troubles at Egyptian club Zamalek, has been recalled and has a tough job playing as a lone striker against a team, who are known to play out of their skin at home.
Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien was a major doubt for this match, but he has since gone through with his court hearing over a compensation claim brought against him by a former lover.
He will therefore be involved on Sunday and said he is looking forward to a battle against Mali's Seydou Keita (Barcelona) and Momo Sissoko (Juventus).
“They have some of the best midfielders in the world so it will be a special battle and I am looking forward to it,” he said.
“Hopefully we should come out well because I believe we have the men to do well.” TEAM NEWS
Mali
Going by the latest FIFA ruling 23-year-old Olympique Marseille striker Mamadou Samassa, who was included in a 25-man squad for World Cup ties this month, can now play for the birth place of his parents.
Real Madrid star and skipper Mohamadou Diarra is still out of action no thanks to a long-term injury. Squad:
Goalkeepers: Maha (Greece), Sissoko (Metz), Soumbeyla (Stade Malien)
Defenders: Adama Tamboura (Helsingborg), Coulibaly(Auxerre), Diamoutènè(AS Roma), Drissa Diakité(Nice), Cheick Ballo(ASKO), Tori(Fes), Soumaré(Chigago fire),Amadou Sidibé (Auxerre)
Midfielders: Lassana Fane (Elmerriekh sudan),Bakaye Traore (Amiens), Momo Sissoko (Juventus), Se. Keita,sambou Yatabare (Caen), El haj Mahamane (Nice), J.B. Kebe (Reading), Dembele (Dac)
Strikers: Modibo Maiga (le Mans), Mad Diallo (Le Havre), Kanouté (Seville), Moustapha Yatabaré (Clermont), Samassa (Marseille), Cheick Tdianne Diabaté (Ajaccio)
Ghana
Fulham defender John Paintsil has insisted that the Black Stars have the mental strenght to stand up to Mali in Bamako, saying their opponents big-name players do not intimidate them.
Coach Milovan Rejavac said the pressure is on Mali to win."They are the ones playing at home, they are the ones who must deal with the pressure," reasoned 'Milo'.
Squad:
Goalkeepers: Richard Kingson and George Owu.Defenders: John Mensah, John Paintsil, Samuel Inkoom, Harrison Afful, Jonathan Quartey and Eric AddoMidfielders: Anthony Annan, Moussa Narry, Samuel Kyere, Michael Essien, Kwadwo Asamoah, Bernard Yao Kumordzi, Haminu Draman and Isaac Vorsah.Strikers: Joetex Frimpong, Prince Tagoe, Opoku Agyeman, Junior Agogo, Ernest Papa Arko and Mathew Amoah.
PLAYERS TO WATCH
Mali - Kanoute - The 2007 African Player of the Year will be relied on for the goals in this West African fray. He has kept his form in front of goal for Spanish club Sevilla and the home fans will now expect to translate such form on Sunday.
Ghana - Michael Essien - The Chelsea ace is back from a long-term injury and showed he is still top-class act with some great displays for his English club in both the UEFA Champions League and the Premier League. He will lead the Black Stars out in Bamako and he is expected to lead by example.
PREDICTION
The battle will be won and lost in the midfield with Mali to sneak it by an odd goal. The Black Stars are without several of their quality players and this will impact on them.Victory two weeks later against Benin also in Bamako could then set up a keen rivalry between Mali and Ghana leading to qualification for the World Cup by November.
Source:Samm Audu, Goal.com

Rajevac names 32-man Ghana squad

Miloavn Rajevac has named a 32-man squad for Ghana’s double 2010 World Cup qualifier, with Mali and Sudan next month.
Announcing the squad to www.ghanafa.org, Rajevac said: "I have selected a squad of 32 who I strongly believe would ensure our progress in the qualifying campaign over the next two games."
Ghana plays both games away with the match against the Malians coming up first in Bamako on June 7 before the Black Stars fly out for the third qualifying match with Sudan on June 20 in Omdurman.
FC Cologne attacker Dereck Boateng together with Yusif Chibsah, Joe Tex Frimpong and Prince Buabeng all make a return to the team.
There is a first-time call for Opoku Agyemang and Papa Arko.
The Black Stars lead the Group D standings with 3 points after securing an opening day win at home over Benin.
Squad in full:Goalkeepers: Richard Kingston (Wigan Athletic, England), William Amamoo (Etasaalat, Egypt) and George Owu (Al Masry, Egypt)
Defenders : John Paintsil (Fulham, England), Samuel Inkoom (Asante Kotoko, Ghana), Harrison Afful (Asante Kotoko, Ghana), John Mensah (Lyon, France) Jonathan Mensah (Free State Stars, South Africa), Jonathan Quartey (Kaizer Chiefs, South Africa), Eric Addo (Roda JC, Holland)
Midfielders : Daniel Yeboah (Heart of Lions, Ghana), Isaac Vorsah (Hoffeinham, Germany),Moussa Narry (Auxerre, France), Stephen Appiah (Unattached), Michael Essien (Chelsea, England), Anthony Annan (Rosenborg, Norway), Sulley Muntari (Inter Milan, Italy) Kwadwo Asamoah (Udinese, Italy), Bernard Kumordzi (Panionios FC, Greece) Rahim Ayew (Eleven Wise, Ghana) Prince Buabeng (Dundee United, Scotland) Yusif Chibsah (Gefle, Sweden) Dereck Boateng (FC Koln, Germany) Opoku Agyemang (Al Sadd, Qatar) Haminu Draman (FC Locomotiv Moskva, Russia)
Strikers: Asamoah Gyan (Rennes, France), Mathew Amoah (NAC Breda, Holland), Samuel Yeboah (Hapoel Tel Aviv, Israel), Prince Tagoe (Al-Ittifaq, Saudi Arabia) Joe Tex Frimpong (BSC Young Boys, Switzerland) Papa Arko (El Geish, Egypt)
Source:Ghanafa.orgs

GJA to commemorate World Press Freedom Day

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) will commemorate this year's World Press Freedom Day on May 3 with a number of activities.A statement issued in Accra on Monday by Mr Bright Blewu, General Secretary of the GJA, said the celebration would begin with a symposium and flag-raising ceremony at the Ghana International Press Centre on Monday, May 4 at 0930 hours.The topic for the symposium is the same as the global theme for the celebration, which is, "Media, Dialogue and Mutual Understanding". The statement said speakers would include the Minister of Information Mrs Zita Okaikoi, the President of the GJA, the Private Newspaper Publishers Association of Ghana and the Ghana Independent Broadcasters Association.The rest are the President of the Institute of Public Relations, Ghana, and the Executive Director of the Media Foundation for West Africa.The message of the UN Secretary General and the Director General of UNESCO for the Day would be presented at the symposium, which will be chaired by Mr Paul Adu-Gyamfi, Chairman of the National Media Commission.The event is being sponsored by Accra Brewery Limited and supported by Voltic Mineral Water.The statement said on May 6, there would be a dialogue in Accra under the theme, "Transforming GBC into a true Public Service Broadcaster - Challenges and the Way Forward". It would be organized in collaboration with the Friedrich Ebert Foundation (FES) and KAB Governance Consult, as part of an initiative by the GJA to promote quality public service broadcasting. The statement said Mr Berifi Apenteng, Broadcasting Consultant, will make the lead presentation, while Mr George Sarpong, Executive Secretary of the National Media Commission and Mr William Ampem-Darko, Director General of GBC, would be the lead discussants. Participants will be drawn from statutory bodies, the media, academia and civil society.The statement said the dialogue was a follow-up by the GJA to collaborative efforts in the last quarter of 2007 and early 2008 to improve Public Service Broadcasting. It said recommendations from the forum would be presented to the National Media Commission, Ministry of Information and the Vice President, Mr John Dramani Mahama.The statement said there would be another dialogue on May 7 with Ms Anna Bossman, Acting Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice (CHRAJ) on the topic "Towards Better Human Rights and Administrative Justice in Ghana". It is being organized by the GJA in collaboration with FES.It said World Press Freedom Day among other things provided an opportunity to affirm the importance of freedom of expression and press freedom - a fundamental human right enshrined in the Ghanaian Constitution and in Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.It said GJA considered the theme for World Press Freedom Day celebration a good reminder to the Ghanaian media to intensify their efforts to promote unity and national cohesion and to help instil in Ghanaians the spirit of dialogue, tolerance, civility and mutual understanding in the body politic and social discourse.
Source:GNA

GHANA PLAYS BENIN TODAY!!!

Kick-off: Sunday, March 29 2009, 17:00(GMT) Baba Yara Sports Stadium, Kumasi.

African powerhouse nation Ghana host Benin in the opening game of the second phase of joint qualifying for both the 2010 FIFA World Cup and the 2010 African Nations Cup.
Man Under Fire: The pressure is on for Ghana coach Milovan Rajevac, who has made one of the most daring selections by a national coach in recent years. The Serbian kept an entire nation guessing before releasing a list that came as a shock to some fans. The 22-man squad to face Benin in the opening 2010 World Cup qualifier is part of a wider pool of players he will be relying upon during six games that could catapult him to hero status if he eventually achieves World Cup qualification.
Previous coach, Ratomir Djukovitch managed to send the Black Stars to their first ever World Cup finals, and Rajevac is under intense pressure to deliver similar results for the Ghanaian people. The tactician, who doesn’t have much support in the country, is still struggling to integrate himself with the culture and after failing to lead the Local Black Stars to glory in the CHAN tournament in Cote d’Ivoire earlier this month, the fans are calling for him to be sacked.
Benin Looking To Surprise
Ghana have traditionally been slow starters in major competition qualifiers and in 2006 lost their opening final group qualifier against Burkina Faso before recovering to qualify ahead of South Africa. They come up against a Benin side that is, for the most part, based in the French leagues. Only two of the players in the squad picked for this encounter ply their trade in the Benin top flight.
Home advantage will no doubt be a big factor in this game, but the visiting minnows should not be counted on, as they will certainly put up a fight. The clash will be the first meeting between the two sides since Ghana beat Benin 4-2 in the finals of the Zenith Four Nation tourney in Accra in November 2007, a competition proving the fact that Benin can hold their own in Africa.
TEAM NEWSGhanaHearts Midfielder Laryea Kingston has been ruled out for two months with a torn ligament, and will therefore be unavailable. NAC Breda striker Matthew Amoah is also out with an injury to his knee suffered in January. Asamoah Gyan and Michael Essien are back in the squad after recoveries from injury, while defender John Mensah will not recover in time for the game. Junior Agogo and Haminu Dramani were not selected for the Benin game.
Squad: Richard Kingston, Philemon MacCarthy, John Paintsil, Samuel Inkoom, Harrison Affu), Nana Akwasi Asare, Jonathan Mensah, Jonathan Quartey, Isaac Vorsah, Eric Addo, Daniel Yeboah, Rahim Ayew, Moussa Narry, Stephen Appiah, Michael Essien, Anthony Annan, Sulley Muntari, Kwadwo Asamoah, Asamoah Gyan, Mathew Amoah, Samuel Yeboah, Prince Tagoe.
Benin
The squad includes the influential trio of Sessgnon Stephane of Paris Saint-Germain, burly striker Razak Omotoyossi of Saudi side, Al Nasr and Maiga Abou of French second division side, US Creteil. The rest of the team is dominated by players from French Lower divisions and has only two local players in Patrice and Salomon Junior.
Squad: Djidonou Yoann, Tardieu Beno, Adenon Khaled, Adjamossi, Agnide Moustapha, Chrysostome Damien, Glele John, Johnson Reda, Salomon Junior, Ahoueya Jocelyn, Angan Pascal, Boco Romuald, Djokoue Patrice, Kobena Nouhoum, Koukou Djiman, Olou Oscar, Tchomogo Seidah, Sessegnon Stephane, Omotoyossi Razak, Pote Micka, Maiga Abou.
PREDICTIONGhana will make the most of home advantage in this game, using the support from their fans to motivate themselves to a win over opposition that, on paper, is inferior to them. Benin will fight in the game, but I feel that anything short of a good win for Ghana is an unlikely prediction. Home advantage will certainly be a tough obstacle for Benin to overcome.Ghana 3-0 Benin

BY:Peter Pedroncelli, Goal.com

VOLTA REGION READY FOR NATIONAL ATHLETICS COMPETITION

The Volta Regional Sports Development Officer, Mr Gabriel Yao Missodey on Monday affirmed the readiness of the Region to host this year's National Athletics competition. He said all necessary preparations have been made to make the competition a success.Mr Missodey who was speaking to the GNA Spots in an interview at Ho said "arrangements for accommodation and feeding have already been completed to forestall any unforeseen challenges."He said the Region is also prepared to stage a "Host and Win" campaign and called for the support of all from the region. "We've got our 16-member team in place made up of 10 men and six women and we are confident of their capability of guiding the region to chalk sucess in the competition," Mr. Missodey said. Mr Missodey said the Regional Sports Council has instituted measures to keep the team in form by organizing some international competitions with neighbouring Togo.He said the team would be on standby for all national and international competitions and appealed for support from financial institutions and other corporate organizations to support the team and its efforts at reviving sports in the Region.Mr Adolf K. Ladji, Regional Administrative Officer of the Sports Council said the regional team includes Abdul Karimu, Quashie Justice, Kpadangble Mawufemor, Prosper Awasiame and Aborli Michael.The others are Zaccheaus Mamo, Mempene Richard, Gbadago Bless, Fefe Christian and Muhamed Salifu, Mavis Latey, Dortsu Mary, Ahu Celestine, Torbi Patience, Ablormeti Angela and Krah Edith.The competition scheduled for March 29, this year is yet to be confirmed.The competition would include athletes from all the ten regions, security services and the Ghana Universities Sports Association.
Source:GHP

MILO TURNS ATTENTION TO WORLD CUP

Milovan Rajevac has talked of his desire to see Ghana become a very big football team in the world by 2010 as he seeks to qualify the Black Stars to the World Cup finals.The Serbian will lead his side into the final qualify stage beginning March 29 when the Black Stars host Benin at home in Group D and knows that anything short of victory against Ghana’s eastern neighbours will complicate matters.Rajevac, who watched Ghana play their debut World Cup in Germany three years ago on TV says, qualifying to the finals in South Africa remains his motivation.“I am here because of the World Cup. I believe in the ability of the Ghana national team to qualify for the World Cup once again. It’s a wonderful challenge which wouldn’t be easy but I am hopeful of leading Ghana to South Africa.”After guiding the local Black Stars to silver honours at the maiden African Nations Championship, Rajevac has quickly turned his focus on the World Cup qualifiers as he prepares his side for the opening game at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi.“I want to set up my team for the first World Cup game against Benin. That’s an important game we have to win and it’s also important to have a large pool to work with,” the Ghana coach said.As Rajevac attempts to qualify Ghana for a second successive World Cup, the selection of players will be integral to his plans.“There is a little bigger list that we can choose from but I have my list".“Even though I have some players in mind, in football there would be changes as always because of loss of form and injuries.”Despite any setback that might affect his plans, Rajevac has made room for some ‘special players’.“There will always be special players. These are players who have to do something different for the team at different times. They play special roles for us,” he said.Milovan Rajevac remains very confident in Ghana’s chances but calls for respect for all opponents especially, the Black Stars’ opponents for March 29, Benin.“We don’t fear any team and we won’t underestimate any team".“There are a lot of teams that for some people look not very good. But such teams have a lot of their players playing in Europe. Benin for instance has a lot of players playing in the French First Division. Such teams deserve respect.” gfa.org
Source:GHP

DR CONGO BEAT GHANA TO LIFT CHAN CUP.

History repeated itself at Houphouet Boigny Stadium, Abidjan, Cote d'Ivoire on Sunday when Democratic Republic of Congo's Leopards beat Ghana Black Stars by 2-0 to become the first team to win the African Nations Championship (CHAN). Two second half strikes from Kaluyituka Dioko and Mbenza Bedi sounded the death kneel of the Stars, which soccer pundits had predicted to lift the CHAN Cup, a competition restricted to footballers playing in their countries of birth.
In the 1968 African Cup of Nations Championship hosted by Ethiopia, Ghana beat DR Congo at the group stages in Asmara by 3: 1 but when the two teams met in the finals in Addis Ababa, DR Congo beat Ghana 1:0 to lift the cup.Incidentally the Leopards, had suffered a 0-3 loss at the hands of their West African counterparts in their earlier meeting at the group stage played at Bouake.The two teams were equally matched in the first half as both made incursion after incursion into each other's vital area. As the game wore on the Congolese found their rhythm as their Tresor Mputu Mabi proved to be a headache for the Ghanaian defence. Black Stars goalie Philemon MacCarthy was up to his responsibilities when in 12th minute he parried away Mputu's goal-bound shot from a close range.When the pendulum swung, Ghana succeeded in putting the ball into the Congolese net but it was ruled off-side. Skipper Edmund Owusu-Ansah's header from Charles Taylor's cross beat onrushing Leopards goalie Kidiaba Muteba. The Congolese began the second half on fast note and took the lead under a minute into the half through Kaluyituka who headed home from Lofo Bongeli cross.The Ghanaians from then on threw everything into the game but could not find the net. However, it was the Congolese who had a second bite of the pie in 74th minute when Mbenza Bedi blasted home after receiving a pass from Lofo from the left. This was the first major championship the Congolese have won since the 1974 African Cup of Nations feat in Cairo, Egypt.
Source:GNA

BLACK STARS HELD BY LIBYA

Ghana's Black Stars maintained their winless status at the ongoing African Nations Championship (CHAN) after being held to a one all draw by Libya in their Group B clash on Wednesday at the Stade de la Paix, Bouake.Earlier the one all draw between DR Congo and Zimbabwe had made the group open, but the Stars failed to make use of it.Stars coach Milovan Rajevac, sent off during the latter stages of the game, made four changes to his squad with Wa All Stars defender, Isaac Owusu, Jordan Opoku and Kwadwo Poku (Asante Kotoko) and Harrison Afful all getting places in the starting line-up.Opoku replaced Captain Edmund Owusu-Ansah in midfield, Afful for Habin Mohamed at the left back, Poku for Yaw Antwi in attack and Owusu for the suspended Ofosu Appiah.Both teams struggled to make any meaningful impact in front of goal in the early stages of the game characterized by midfield action.But the Libyans who paraded a side similar to the squad that beat the Black Stars by a lone goal in Tropoli in the penultimate clash of the first round qualifiers for the 2010 World Cup/Africa Cup of Nations appeared deadly when in possession.In the 25th minute Osama Ahmed broke the deadlock after finishing off a free-kick. Burly defender Younes Shibani deceived the Ghanaian human wall who had envisaged a direct kick by squaring to Dawoud Omar. Omar fetched Ahmed who shot past goalkeeper Philemon McCarthy for the opener.Five minutes on, Shibani almost added to his side's lead with a thunderbolt from the same spot from another free-kick, but this time McCarthy was up to task.Milovan brought on Antwi for the second half in his quest to strengthen his attack, but the result was not forthcoming.Three minutes to the half hour, the Serbian introduced Hearts of Oak's injury-stricken midfielder Charles Taylor for Francis Coffie, and the former's first touch almost gave the equalizer.Taylor's glancing header from Ibrahim Ayew's cross from the right hit the cross bar with Libyan goalie Samir Abud completely beaten.The introduction of Taylor brought some bite into the Stars attacking line and consistently the Greens were pinned to their half.In the 69th minute the crossbar again denied the Ghanaians the equalizer before Edmund Owusu scored in 75th minute.Ghana had to play the last three minutes without coach Rajevac who was sent off for consistent crossing the technical area.The Serbian watched the remainder of the game from the VIP Tribune as his side claimed their second draw at the championship.The Black Stars will face leaders DR Congo in the final group fixture at the same venue on Sunday while Libya faces Zimbabwe in Abidjan.Line-upGhana - Philemon McCarthy, Samuel Inkoom, Harrison Afful, Isaac Owusu, Godwin Osei Bonsu, Daniel Yeboah, Jordan Opoku, Emmanuel Agyemang Badu, Ibrahim Ayew/Edmund Owusu Ansah, Kwadwo Poku/Yaw Antwi, Francis Coffie/Charles TaylorLibya - Samir Abud, Dawoud Omar, Younes Shibani, Esnani Mohamed, Allafi Riyad, Osman Ahmed, Zuway Ahmed, Abdusalam Nader, Hmadi Osama, Ben Saleh Osama, El Mughrabi Mohamed
Source:GNA

GLOBACOM DONATES US$9MILLION TO GHANAS NATIONAL TEAM

Nigerian based telecommunication company, GLOBACOM ready to launch its services in Ghana has donated an amount of US$ 9 million to The Ghana Football Association GFA as the official telecommunication partner for the national team.

The package amountig to eight million Ghana cedis - is over a period of five years and an annual US$ 1.5 million will be paid and products worth US$ 300,000. The US$ 1.8 million exceeds the 1.5 million dollars paid by headline sponsors Goldfields Ghana Limited. The deal with Globacom was expected after MTN's US$ 750,000 sponsorship package with the Black Stars expired last month.The huge package will lubricate the Black Stars 2010 World Cup qualification campaign.Globacom has secured the headline sponsorship rights of the Premier League in an annual US$ 3 million deal for five years. The Nigeria-based telecommunication company also sponsors the Super Eagles of Nigeria.

BY:Michael Amedor

ALL BLACKS REVERT TO SWEDRU SPORTS STADIUM

Gamba All Blacks has reverted to the use of the Swedru Sports Stadium with effect from Sunday, January 4 next year.
The change of venue follows the successful completion of the rehabilitation of the playing field to the required standard.
A statement signed by Kwaku Ampim-Darko, Deputy General Secretary in charge of Technical Affairs of the Ghana Football Association (GFA) said the Premier League Board (PLB) therefore wishes to inform all Premier League Clubs and the general public of the change of venue which begun on Sunday, January 4, 2009.
The change of venue therefore means that Gamba All Blacks will play their first match at their traditional home grounds this season during their Week 6 tie against Obausi Ashantigold on Sunday, January 18, 2009.
The 'Ozi Ozaa' boys as they are nicknamed pitched their camp at the Robert Mensah Stadium in Cape Coast for some time following the closure of their home grounds by the Premier League Board prior to the commencement of the season.

AGBEKO IS SWAG PERSONALITY OF THE YEAR

International Boxing Federation (IBF) Bantamweight champion, Joseph Agbeko has been crowned the Sports Personality of the Year, 2007 by the Sports Writers Association of Ghana (SWAG).
Agbeko, who made a successful defence of his title two weeks ago against Nicaraguan William Gonzalez, courtesy a majority decision was decorated by the Association with the topmost honour at its 33rd Awards Night held at the Round Pavilion, Ghana International Trade Fair Centre in Accra last Saturday.
The petit-boxer who turns 29 next March becomes the first from the noble art of self defence to win the flagship award in recent times after almost half a decade of dominance by athletes and footballers. Dressed in a black suit with black shoes, Agbeko who was also adjudged the Professional Boxer of the Year received his prize from Special Guest of Honour, Peter Osei Duah, Managing Director of State Insurance Corporation (SIC) amidst cheers and jeers from the almost-packed pavilion dominated by the cr=E8me de la cr=E8me of Ghana sports.
"I dedicate this award to peace and to all Ghanaians and I urge all to conduct themselves peacefully during the forthcoming run-off of the Presidential election scheduled for Sunday, December 28. "I also thank my fans, members of my team and above all SWAG for the recognition," Agbeko said after receiving his award.
Injured Black Stars and Chelsea midfielder, Michael Essien was named the Best Footballer of the Year.
The London-based star, whose award was received on his behalf by ex-Black Stars defender Tony Baffoe, beat compatriots Sulley Muntari and Laryea Kingston to the prize.
The surprise package of the night was the National Paralympic Team, backed by their impressive outing at the last All Africa Games in Algiers, Algeria to claim three awards.
The Paralympic team was honoured as the Team of the Year, with Armstrong Aidoo and Ajara Mohammed picking up the Coach of the Year and Female Athlete of the Year awards respectively.Other award winners included Ransford Osei - Promising Player of the Year, Moussa Narry Discovery of the Year, John Ainoo - Dedication and Valour, Mirabel Lamptey - Female Hockey Player of the Year, Joseph Appiah - Male Hockey Player of the Year, Rozina Lomo - Handball Player of the Year, Afful Williams - Cyclist of the Year and Manyo Plange - Amateur Boxer of the Year.There were also Special Awards for Atta Eddie Pappoe, Daniel Arhin and Margaret Simpson for their contributions to boxing, disabled sports and athletics.The highlight of the night was the induction of retired commentator and first president of SWAG, Joe Lartey into the Association's Council of Patrons.In his remarks, The Special Guest of Honour, Mr Duah commended the award winners for their untiring efforts to bring sports to the limelight and urged them to build on their successes for the future. Ackah Anthony, President of SWAG also thanked corporate institutions and individuals who contributed immensely towards the success of the event.Ghana Commercial Bank (GCB), Graphic Communications Group Limited, Gemini Life Insurance Company (GLICO). Kenpong Construction Works, Guinness Ghana Breweries Limited, Kasapreko Distilleries, Coca Cola Bottling Company of Ghana and Voltic were amongst the main sponsors for the event.

Source:GNA

KPAKPO ALLOTTEY GETS BAPTISM OF FIRE IN THE UNITED STATES

Last Wednesday in Far away U.S.A, Joshua Kpakpo Allotey aged 28 alias exciting failed to conjure his exciting instincts and also by continuing the good works of his compatriots Joshua Clottey and Joseph Agbeko when he lost by TKO to American Micheal Torres in a Welterweight bout at Robert Treat Hotel,Newark, New Jersey.Allotey¢s first fight in the States did not only turn a nightmare for him but also a baptism of fire as he went down twice in the first round and t wice in the third round in a fight which had been scheduled for six rounds.Referee Eddie Cotton who officiated Tyson and Lennox Lewis match had no option but to stop the fight 2minutes 15 seconds into round three to save Allottey from further punishment . It was Allotey¢s third fight outside Ghana .He had previously fought in Nottingham-England and Glasgow-Scotland. Kpakpo Allotey record now stands at 22 fights ,won 16 with 14 coming by way of knockout, lost 6 with 3 being by way of knockout.

FROM; GHP