Ghanaian Businesses Advised To Take Advantage Of African Games dubbed ‘Accra 2023’

Mr. Yaw Sakyi, Chairman of the Marketing and Sponsorship Committee of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 13^th African Games (Accra 2023) has called on Ghanaian companies to support and sponsor the upcoming continental sports festival from March 6^th to 23^rd in Accra.

Leading sports journalists to inspect facilities for the Games on Wednesday, he said there are opportunities for businesses to advertise and market their products and services through sports.

He noted that many people love sports in Ghana and there are spaces for bill boards, banners and other electronic advertising opportunities.

Mr. Yaw Sakyi who is a keen Basketball and Boxing enthusiast urged the media to come out with positive news reports and coverages because people are still skeptical about whether the Games would be held in Ghana.

“The 13^th African Games is certainly coming on in March, you can see we are ready and putting finishing touches, we are ready to host Africa” he expressed.

Over 5,000 sportsmen and women, coaches and officials from 55 countries  are expected to grace the Games to compete in 25 sports disciplines at facilities in Legon, University of Ghana and Borteyman where the 20 journalists inspected a new sports hall, tennis courts, aquatic center for swimming, tartan track and football field.

Present at the tour was Mr. Dan Kewku Yeboah Chairman of the Media / Publicity Committee and Mr. Maurice Quansah, member of the Committee.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

*1957: Abdelahziz Abdallah Salem*

The original Africa Cup of Nations trophy was named after its donor and the first CAF president Abdelahziz Abdallah Salem. The trophy, made of silver, resembled in shape the trophy awarded to the winners of the English League Cup. Ghana are the permanent holders of the trophy.

*1980: Trophy of African Unity or African Unity Cup*

The second trophy was named the Trophy of African Unity and it was awarded from 1980. The trophy had cylindrical piece with Olympic rings and a map of the continent engraved over it. It had a squared base and stylised triangular handles. Cameroon became the first nation to win this trophy three times.

*2001: Africa Cup of Nations Trophy*

The Africa Cup of Nations Trophy, a gold-plated cup made in Italy, was revealed in 2001. Egypt became the first team to win the new trophy three times (Unlike other teams, they won it three consecutive times). They were presented with a special full size replica that they got to keep.

Credit: Johannes Masiteng

Image Credit: Transfer Market

In a display of unparalleled excitement and unity, football enthusiasts flooded various MTN viewing centres across Ghana last Sunday to witness the Black Stars in action during the ongoing AFCON tournament.

Despite the national team's less-than-stellar performance, fans departed with lasting memories of an electric atmosphere and community spirit.

The watch party, a collaborative effort between MTN Ghana and GTV, unfolded simultaneously in multiple locations throughout the country. Offering a premium viewing experience on expansive screens, the event also featured a range of engaging activities, including cheerleading and trivia contests that saw fans walking away with coveted prizes and souvenirs.

One of the standout venues, Labadi Beach Hotel at the Laguma bar, played host to VIP clients who reveled in an atmosphere of unlimited fun and excitement. Patrons were treated to sumptuous meals and beverages, capping off the experience with the presentation of replicas of the Black Stars jersey, further solidifying the memorable nature of the event.

Numerous other centres joined the festivities, turning locations such as the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, Pure FM's forecourt in Patasi, Kumasi, the Takoradi Mall car park, Freeman Methodist Astro Turf Park in Koforidua, and the Starlite Park in Community 22, Ashaiman, into hubs of celebration.

Adwoa Afriyie Wiafe, the Chief Corporate Services and Sustainability Officer at MTN Ghana, expressed her delight at the success of the initiative. "We are proud to be the driving force in bringing Ghanaians closer to the Black Stars and the AFCON experience," she stated.

"This is our way of celebrating our love for football and the unifying power it brings. We can't wait to witness the passion and unwavering support of Ghanaians, both in the Ivory Coast and across the nation, as we cheer the Black Stars to victory."

As the AFCON tournament continues to unfold, the MTN viewing centres stand as vibrant hubs of communal celebration, showcasing the enduring love for football and the unifying spirit it fosters among Ghanaians.

Source MTN

After the disappointing defeat to Cape Verde in Ghana's first Group B match at the ongoing African Cup of Nations (AFCON), some Ghanaian fans are optimistic of a better performance in the next game against Egypt on Thursday.

Cape Verde shocked the Black Stars to a 2-1 defeat on Sunday to occupy the summit of the table with three points while Ghana stays at the bottom.

Egypt and Mozambique occupy the second and third positions with a point each after their pulsating two all draw in the other Group B encounter.

Unperturbed by the setback, some Ghanaian fans here in Abidjan are looking forward to a massive comeback against Egypt to ensure the team qualified to the next stage of the competition.

With the national team usually slow starters to tournaments, they believe that the Black Stars can secure three points against the Pharaohs.

Speaking to our reporter, Kwame Owusu, a Ghanaian said,with proper lineup for Thursday's game, Ghana would beat Egypt and qualify to the next stage.

"We can get three points against Egypt and probably beat Mozambique to qualify. The team must just get things right this time," he said.

The Chief Drummer for the Black Stars, Joseph Langabel who blamed the players for their abysmal performance in the first game, said there was always room for improvement.

"This kind of football by the Black Stars is clearly unacceptable. They play as if there is nothing at stake and would at the end, break our hearts," he stated.

"They really need to sit up in the next game, otherwise we would not qualify to the next stage of the competition," he stressed.

Afua Serwaa, who was hoping to hit the streets of Abidjan to celebrate Ghana's victory said, "I am sure there would be victories in subsequent games. We must trust the boys to deliver."

"Dede Ayew and his team must win the next match to compensate Ghanaians for the heartbreak," she added.

Meanwhile, in expressing their confidence ahead of the next game, the fans on Monday, stormed a local restaurant, Maquis Du Val to celebrate ahead of Thursday's game.

Numbering over 100, they sang jama songs and other local melodies amidst wild dance moves much to the admiration of staff and patrons of the restaurant.

Source MTN

The 6th edition of the Willie Williams Athletics Championship comes up on Saturday 20th January 2024.

It will be held at the Athletics Oval of University of Ghana, Legon. The events to be competed include 100m, 200m, 400, 1500m and 5000m for track, as well as long jump and high jump for field events.

This competition has produced many athletes for Ghana, the organizer of the competition Mr. James Thompson says it is time the Sports Minister and the Government of Ghana support the Championship to enable it produced more future talents for Ghana.

Sponsors of the championship include, Dr. Caesar, Producer of Lina Energy Tea and Indomie Ghana.

Medals will be presented to all winners, and the general public is invited to come and cheer the rising athletes.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

In the aftermath of a disappointing start in the AFCON 2024, the spirit of Ghanaian supporters remains unbroken and full of optimism as they look ahead to the upcoming games.

Despite their team's initial loss, fans are embracing the challenges with heightened enthusiasm and anticipation.

Rather than being disheartened by the defeat, it seems to have ignited an even stronger determination among the supporters. Fueled by a renewed passion, they are actively gearing up to rally behind their team, showcasing an enduring commitment to stand by them throughout the competition.

Injecting a burst of energy into this commitment, Maquis DurVal Hotel hosted a special live band performance. The Select Singers from Ivory Coast orchestrated a mesmerizing musical experience, presenting a diverse repertoire that encompassed both Ivorian and Ghanaian songs. The dynamic leadership of Celine and Maguey led the live band, infusing the atmosphere with infectious energy and excitement.

Standout performances included renditions of "Vis à vis" and "Zoblazo" by Meiway, contributing to a rich cross-cultural celebration. The event took a distinctly patriotic turn as fans, immersed in the festive atmosphere, spontaneously joined in singing along to beloved Ghanaian tunes, such as the classics "Adwoa Ei" by AB Crentsil and "Awurade Kasa" by Cindy Thompson.

The convergence of music, boundless enthusiasm, and unwavering national pride at Maquis DurVal Hotel underscored the resilience and passionate support that Ghanaian fans persistently provide for their team. This event sets a vibrant and positive tone for the remainder of the tournament, reflecting the enduring spirit of unity and camaraderie that defines the nation's fervent backing for their football team.

Over 163 Ghanaian fans, stakeholders, and football enthusiasts embarked on a journey from Accra to Ivory Coast, driven by their ardent desire to support the Black Stars in the ongoing 2023 African Cup of Nations (AFCON).

This was courtesy of an all-expenses paid trip by Telecommunications giants, MTN as part of their support to the senior national team to make the nation proud at the continental showpiece.

Source MTN

Lionel Messi retained his title, winning the top men’s player award

Aitana Bonmatí was acclaimed as the best player in the women’s game

Mary Earps, Ederson, Sarina Wiegman, Pep Guardiola, Guilherme Madruga and Marta amongst other winners

The Best FIFA Football Awards 2023™ ceremony, held in London on Monday, 15 January, crowned Aitana Bonmatí and Lionel Messi as the outstanding players since the last edition, alongside recognising the outstanding performances of coaches, goalkeepers, and more across the men’s and women’s game.

The winners of The Best FIFA Football Awards 2023 are:

The Best FIFA Women's Player : Aitana Bonmatí (Spain / FC Barcelona)

The Best FIFA Men's Player : Lionel Messi (Argentina / Paris Saint-Germain / Club Internacional de Fútbol Miami)

The Best FIFA Women's Goalkeeper : Mary Earps (England / Manchester United)

The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper : Ederson (Brazil / Manchester City FC)

The Best FIFA Women's Coach : Sarina Wiegman (Netherlands / England Women’s National Team)

The Best FIFA Men's Coach : Pep Guardiola (Spain / Manchester City FC)

The FIFA Puskás Award : Guilherme Madruga (Brazil / Botafogo Futebol Clube)

The FIFA Special Award: Marta

The FIFA Fair Play Award : Brazil men’s national team

The FIFA Fan Award : Hugo Daniel “Toto” Iniguez

Lionel Messi has been crowned The Best FIFA Men’s Player 2023, retaining the title he won in 2022. Messi topped an incredibly closely contested poll, which was voted for by national team coaches and captains, as well as expert journalists and supporters across the globe.

With the FIFA World Cup 2022™ winner and Manchester City FC and Norway international forward Erling Haaland locked together on 48 points, they were separated by the number of first-choice nominations received in votes from national team captains, as per the Rules of Allocation (article 12). France striker Kylian Mbappe finished third with 35 points.

Aitana Bonmatí has been named The Best FIFA Women’s Player for the first time. The coveted award is richly deserved for this magnificent midfielder, who in 2023 inspired Spain to their maiden world title, and Barcelona to a domestic and European treble.

In topping the poll, which followed the same protocol as the men’s award but with women’s national team coaches and captains voting, Bonmatí succeeded her team-mate, 2022 winner Alexia Putellas, fending off competition from fellow finalists Linda Caicedo and Jennifer Hermoso.

Mary Earps has been voted The Best FIFA Women’s Goalkeeper for a second successive year, becoming the first two-time winner in the award’s history.

Earps dazzled once again as the Lionesses won the Finalissima, and reached their first-ever FIFA Women’s World Cup™ final. Outstanding saves and shootout heroics paved the way to both of those achievements, with Earps’ displays at the latter tournament rewarded with the adidas Golden Glove award. She was also named the best ‘keeper in England’s WSL, having racked up a remarkable 14 clean sheets from just 22 Manchester United appearances last season.

Ederson has been named as The Best FIFA Men’s Goalkeeper of 2023. The Brazilian shot-stopper was awarded the honour following a stellar year in which the 30-year-old backstopped Manchester City’s historic treble-winning campaign.

Ederson topped the poll with 23 points, ahead of fellow finalists Thibaut Courtois (20 points) and Yassine Bounou (16 points).

Sarina Wiegman has been named The Best FIFA Women’s Coach for 2023. The England boss enjoyed a record-breaking year in which she led the Lionesses to the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup™, and the Arnold Clark Cup and Women’s Finalissima titles.

Wiegman beat Emma Hayes and Jonatan Giraldez to the honour at The Best FIFA Football Awards™ on Monday with 28 points, ahead of Hayes' 18 points, and Giraldez's return of 14 points.

Pep Guardiola has been named The Best FIFA Men’s Coach 2023 after overseeing an incredible period of success at Manchester City. The Spaniard led the club to a historic Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and FA Cup treble in 2022/23.

Guardiola’s all-conquering team won a further two trophies in 2023, lifting the UEFA Super Cup before rounding off the calendar year in perfect style by triumphing at the FIFA Club World Cup™.

Guardiola came out on top in the voting with 28 points, ahead of Italian duo Luciano Spalletti (18 points) and Simone Inzaghi (11 points).

The Best FIFA Football Awards ceremony also recognised the standout goal of the year as Brazilian midfielder Guilherme Madruga won the FIFA Puskás Award 2023 for his astonishing overhead kick.

The Botafogo-SP star's acrobatic effort came out on top ahead of an audacious rabona from Sporting's Nuno Santos, and Brighton teenager Julio Enciso’s long-range thunderbolt.

The accolade recognises the most spectacular goal in men’s and women’s football across the qualification period, which was between 19 December 2022 and 20 August 2023, and is named in honour of legendary Hungarian forward Ferenc Puskás.

Marta was honoured with The FIFA Special Award in recognition of her illustrious career. She scored a staggering 115 goals in 175 appearances for Brazil and inspired millions, passing on her passion for football in a career that saw her reign supreme in Brazil, Sweden and the USA.

As of 2025, FIFA will introduce a new award to honour her legendary achievements - the best goal scored in women’s football will receive the ‘Marta Award’.

Hugo Daniel “Toto” Iniguez was awarded The FIFA Fan Award for 2023, after the dedicated Colon de Santa Fe fan went viral after he was seen feeding his son during an Argentine Primera Division game against Barracas Central in May 2023.

The heart-warming scene displayed the father’s desire to build a relationship between his two-month-old son and his favourite club from the earliest possible age, with the moment now cemented in history.

The Brazil men’s national team were recognised with the FIFA Fair Play award for their powerful stand against racism. In a friendly against Guinea in June 2023, The Seleção swapped their traditional yellow jerseys for an all-black kit in a show of solidarity with star forward Vinicius Junior, who had been subjected to sickening racist abuse while in action for Real Madrid.

The Best FIFA Football awards™ 2023 ceremony concluded a thorough and democratic process facilitated by FIFA to recognise world football’s top players, coaches, goalkeepers, fans, goals, and acts of fair play.

Source FIFA

In a groundbreaking revelation, Joseph Awinongya Jr, a 16-year-old prodigy from Illinois, has risen to the top as the #1 boxer in the United States among the top 6 under-20 amateur boxers. This remarkable feat was unveiled in a video titled "Top 6 Best under 20 amateur boxers in the United States."-IP Combat

Joseph "Jojo" Awinongya Jr., whose style and boxing IQ is often compared to Terrance Crawford, Andre Ward and Floyd Mayweather, asserted his dominance in the ring recently at the USA Boxing Nationals held at the Cajundome, in Lafayette, Louisiana, in December. The 165 lb youth division witnessed an awe-inspiring display of skill and determination as Joseph secured a resounding victory over formidable opponent Damian Banuelos, making him a 20x National Champion and gaining him a spot on the USA Boxing Youth Travel Team.

Looking ahead Awinongya sets his sights on the grand stage of the 2028 Olympics, aspiring to represent the nation with his unparalleled boxing prowess. Additionally, he gears up for the Youth World Tournament in Germany slated for 2024, aiming to etch his name further in boxing history."

Joseph Awinongya Jr's journey to the pinnacle is nothing short of extraordinary. At just 16 years old, he has already secured the title of a 20-time national champion, boasting an impressive amateur record of over 130 wins and 14 losses. Awinongya Jr's dedication to the sport began at the age of 6, and his achievements extend beyond the ring, as he graduated from college at the age of 16.

What sets Joseph apart is not only his physical prowess but also his exceptional fighting IQ and technique. With long limbs, impeccable distance management, and masterful defensive skills, he poses a formidable challenge to anyone who steps into the ring with him. Awinongya Jr's fighting style is characterized by its discomforting nature, making him a force to be reckoned with.

While the transition to professional boxing is still on the horizon for Joseph Awinongya Jr, the anticipation is high among boxing enthusiasts. His undeniable talent and intellectual acumen make him a boxer who is expected to be avoided by the top Elite once he enters the professional arena.

The video, which showcases the top 6 under-20 amateur boxers in the United States, can be viewed here

https://youtu.be/JvIneZECGs0?si=hFZ8QVpyp4WtVQSP

Top 6 Amateur Boxers In USA

#1 Joseph Awinongya Jr.- Illinois, #2 Emanuel Chance- East Orange, #3 Troy Nash- Colorado, #4 Marcus Luther- Washington, #5 Kumar Prescott- Oakland, #6 Zakin Moses- New York.

Expressing gratitude for his remarkable journey, Joseph attributes his rise to the unwavering support of his dedicated team, #teamjojo, whose backing has been instrumental in his success. He extends heartfelt thanks to the Mayor of Joliet, Terry D'Arcy, for his unwavering support and encouragement throughout this incredible journey. Also, a special thanks to Mickey's Tire and Service, in Joliet for making sure his car is right for those long travels on the road. He also thanks Wasfi Tolaymat of Sibley Store Fixtures, former Mayor Roger C. Claar for being a day one supporter.

Joseph Awinongya Jr.'s journey to the pinnacle of boxing excellence continues to captivate fans worldwide, and his remarkable triumphs serve as a testament to his unwavering dedication and talent in the sport which was recently recognized by WBC, after receiving the Amature Champion Best of the Best Award.

From Sammy Heywood Okine

The Ghana Wrestling Association has named 17 wrestlers for camping ahead of the 2023 African Games. This decision was made on Tuesday, 10th January 2024, after the wrestlers underwent a justify your inclusion process supervised by President Norbert Amefu and his technical team.

The wrestlers began residential camping on Friday, 12th January 2024, and they will remain there until the Ministry of Youth and Sports relocates them to Cape Coast for general camping with other disciplines.

The male athletes selected are Jerry Quansah (Accra) - 57kg, Fuseini Issah (Accra) - 97-117kg, Emmanuel Lamptey (Accra) - 79-90kg, Emmanuel Osei Sarfo (Ashanti) - 120kg, Frimpong Miles (USA) - 57kg, Richmond Mishimawu (Volta) - 65kg, Joshua Ashiyey (Accra) - 65kg, Richard Nyamador (Accra) 74kg, Philip Twumasi (Ashanti) - 78kg, Richard Mensah (Volta) - 75kg, Bright Gakpetor (Volta) - 77kg, Seyram Tsidi (Volta) – 83kg and Wawuni  (Greco Roman).

The females are Emmanuella Serwaa Karikari (Ashanti) - 68kg, Latifatu Mohammed (Ashanti) - 57kg, Alberta Tetteh (Accra) - 50kg, Mercy Delali Akorli (Accra) - 65kg and Jemma Ofori Nyarko (Accra) 76kg.

The 13^th African Games will be held in Accra, Ghana in March.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Ghana defender, Alexander Djiku put up a solid performance to win the TotalEnergies Man of the Match accolade despite his country’s 2-1 defeat to Cape Verde in their Group B opener of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Côte d'Ivoire 2023.

Djiku scored the equalizer and also cleared his lines to prevent a clear goalscoring chance from Cape Verde.

His excellent performance earned him the Man of the Match award on Sunday night and according to the defender, his side deserved more than what they got from the game.

“We deserved more from the match. Just when we were coming into the game, we conceded the second goal, even though we were on top of the game. We didn't create many chances, we didn’t utilize the few chances we created, it is why we couldn’t win” Djiku said.

Defeated by the Blue Sharks, Ghana is last in Group B with zero points.

The Black Stars are already somewhat up against the wall.

“I was in the team during the last AFCON, our elimination in the first round remains the worst memory of my career and I don't want to relive that"

Chris Hughton's men will have to revive against Egypt, who were held to a 2-2 draw by Mozambique.

Source CAF