Abdul-Rasheed Saminu Crowned 2025 Male Athlete of the Year at Stampede of Champions Awards

Ghanaian sprinter Abdul-Rasheed Saminu Crowned 2025 Male Athlete of the Year

By Kwame Bediako 

Talented Ghanaian sprinter, Abdul-Rasheed Saminu has been named Male Athlete of the Year at the 2025 Stampede of Champions. This prestigious award recognizes his outstanding performances while representing the University of South Florida. Saminu’s impressive track record, including shattering multiple indoor and outdoor records, has solidified his position as a top athlete in the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA).

Saminu’s achievements extend beyond the Stampede of Champions. He earned the Top Individual Performance award for last year’s marks, which qualified him for the Paris Olympics. His recent performances have been remarkable, including a wind-assisted 9.87 seconds in the 100-meter dash, the fastest time in the NCAA this season, and a new program record. This impressive start to the outdoor season puts him on track to break the 10-second barrier.

Since joining the University of South Florida track team, Saminu has consistently pushed the boundaries of athletic excellence. He was recently named a First Team All-American in the 60m dash during the indoor season. His personal bests include a 100m dash time of 10.02 seconds and a 200m dash time of 20.12 seconds, showcasing his exceptional speed and agility.

Saminu’s outstanding performances have not only earned him recognition but also secured his spot in the Paris Olympics. Representing Ghana on the world stage, he aims to make a lasting impact and bring glory to his nation. With his current form, expectations are high for Saminu to deliver a remarkable performance at the Olympics.

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Ghana U-15 Boys Show Potential Despite Inexperience – Coach Kwadwo Danso

Ghana U-15 Boys Show Potential Despite Inexperience – Coach Kwadwo Danso

By Kwame Bediako 

Ghana’s U-15 boys team made a strong start at the African Schools Football Championship, defeating Uganda’s U-15 team 2-0 in their opening match. Head coach Kwadwo Danso expressed his pride in the team’s performance, despite acknowledging missed opportunities to score more goals. He emphasized that while the team could have buried the game with at least four goals, their overall effort was commendable and a good foundation for future matches.

Danso explained that the team’s slow start was due to the players’ limited exposure to high-pressure competitions, which caused some to panic in the initial minutes. He noted that this lack of experience affected their performance early on but assured that they would work on building their confidence and exposure. 

“In the game plan, we saw the boys didn’t start well. We didn’t start well because some of the boys, they don’t have exposure to this kind of competition. So you could see that some of them were panicking.So that accounted for that first five minutes non-performance. We are going to work on that. For now, they have experience”; Kwadwo Danso mentioned. 

He further revealed that the team is focused on rapid attacks, which proved effective in securing their two goals in each half. “We told them that this kind of competition, we don’t solely rely on game flow.But we practise on rapid attack. And it helped.The rapid attack gave us two goals. First half, one. And then second half, one. So based on our strategy, they performed very well.”

Looking ahead, Danso stated that there are several areas for improvement based on their first game. He stressed the importance of mental preparation and supporting the players through increased exposure and encouragement. 

He called on the Football Association to organize more support from schools and urged fans to come out in larger numbers to cheer for the team. The team’s morale, he said, is significantly boosted by home support, which helps the boys perform at their best.

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Ghana U-15 Boys Beat Uganda in Strong Start to CAF African Schools Championship

Ghana U-15 Boys Beat Uganda in Strong Start to CAF African Schools Championship

By: Belinda Nketia and David Kwaku Dzaku

Hosts Ghana got off to a flying start in the opening match of the CAF African Schools Football Championship on Tuesday April 23 2025, defeating Uganda 2-0 at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

With confidence and familiarity on home turf, the Ghana U-15 team proved a formidable challenge for their East African opponents. Midfielder John Andoh, wearing jersey number 8, opened the scoring just two minutes into the game, giving the hosts an early advantage.

Uganda responded with determination, gradually growing into the match and creating chances of their own. However, Ghana’s defense remained solid, and the first half ended with the hosts holding on to their 1-0 lead.

Ghana nearly doubled their lead early in the second half when Emmanuel Drah unleashed a powerful shot that struck the post. Minutes later, John Andoh seized on a mistake by the Ugandan goalkeeper in the 29th minute to net his second goal of the match, extending Ghana’s lead to 2-0.

Despite Uganda’s late efforts to get back into the game, Ghana maintained control and secured all three points after 40 minutes of action.

With this win, Ghana tops Group A and will next face South Africa in their second group match on Thursday 24th April 2025 at the same venue.

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Ghana U-15 Boys Beat Uganda in Strong Start to CAF African Schools Championship

Ghana U-15 Team Defeat Uganda Team 2-0 at CAF African Schools Championship

By: Belinda Nketia and David Kwaku Dzaku

Hosts Ghana got off to a flying start in the opening match of the CAF African Schools Football Championship on Tuesday April 23 2025, defeating Uganda 2-0 at the University of Ghana Sports Stadium.

With confidence and familiarity on home turf, the Ghana U-15 team proved a formidable challenge for their East African opponents. Midfielder John Andoh, wearing jersey number 8, opened the scoring just two minutes into the game, giving the hosts an early advantage.

Uganda responded with determination, gradually growing into the match and creating chances of their own. However, Ghana’s defense remained solid, and the first half ended with the hosts holding on to their 1-0 lead.

Ghana nearly doubled their lead early in the second half when Emmanuel Drah unleashed a powerful shot that struck the post. Minutes later, John Andoh seized on a mistake by the Ugandan goalkeeper in the 29th minute to net his second goal of the match, extending Ghana’s lead to 2-0.

Despite Uganda’s late efforts to get back into the game, Ghana maintained control and secured all three points after 40 minutes of action.

With this win, Ghana tops Group A and will next face South Africa in their second group match on Thursday 24th April 2025 at the same venue.

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Jennifer Awuku Fires Ghana U-15 Girls to Victory Over Morocco in African Schools Championship

Jennifer Awuku Fires Ghana U-15 Girls to Victory Over Morocco in African Schools Championship

By: Kwame Bediako 

Ghana’s Under-15 girls team made a promising start to their campaign in the African Schools Football Championship with a 1-0 victory over Morocco’s U-15 girls team. The match was a display of Ghana’s disciplined defense and determination, setting a positive tone for their tournament journey.

The young Ghanaians showed resilience and strategic play throughout the game, earning their first crucial points.

The only goal of the match came from Jennifer Awuku, who scored a decisive strike that ultimately secured the win for Ghana.

Her goal was a testament to her offensive prowess and ability to capitalize on scoring opportunities, giving her team the edge over their Moroccan opponents.

Awuku’s performance was a highlight of the game, demonstrating her importance to the team’s success.

Throughout the match, Ghana maintained a solid defensive structure, effectively neutralizing Morocco’s attacking threats.

The young Ghanaians displayed good organization and teamwork, which prevented the Moroccan girls from finding an equalizer.

This defensive strength was instrumental in ensuring Ghana’s narrow but meaningful victory on the opening day of the tournament.

Morocco’s team fought hard to level the score, but Ghana’s goalkeeper and defenders stood firm. Despite the pressure, the Ghanaian girls stayed focused and disciplined, managing to preserve their slim lead until the final whistle.

The match ended with Ghana celebrating a well-earned victory that boosts their confidence going forward in the competition.

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Ghana U-20 Coach Desmond Ofei Targets AFCON Title and World Cup Berth

Ghana U-20 Coach Desmond Ofei Targets AFCON Title and World Cup Berth

By Kwame Bediako

Ghana’s U-20 national team, the Black Satellites, is gearing up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with high ambitions under the leadership of head coach Desmond Ofei. The talented young squad, seeking to reclaim their status as one of Africa’s top youth sides, has set its sights on winning the tournament, scheduled to take place in Egypt from April 27 to May 18, 2025.

Drawn into a tough Group C, Ghana will face defending champions Senegal, as well as DR Congo and the Central African Republic. The competition promises to be fiercely contested, with Ghana aiming to navigate the challenging group stage successfully. Their first priority is to advance beyond the initial phase, which will set the tone for their overall campaign.

In an interview with CAF media, Coach Desmond Ofei highlighted the importance of taking the tournament step by step.
“Our immediate goal is to get out of the group stage. From there, we take it one step at a time. Of course, the long-term aim is to win the tournament and qualify for the U-20 World Cup, but we’ll do that by staying consistent and focused on the process,” he said.

The tournament format will see the top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, advance to the quarter-finals. Ghana knows that every match will be crucial, and the team is determined to perform at its best. The aim is to reclaim their dominance on the continent, reflecting their rich history of success in youth football.

After recent setbacks, Ghana is eager to return to the continental summit and showcase the talent that has historically made them a force in African youth football. With a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, the Black Satellites are motivated to make their mark and bring glory back to Ghana in the 2025 AFCON.

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Ghana U-20 Coach Desmond Ofei Targets AFCON Title and World Cup Berth

Ghana’s U-20 head coach Desmond Ofei Targets AFCON Title and Fifa World Cup

By Kwame Bediako

Ghana’s U-20 national team, the Black Satellites, is gearing up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) with high ambitions under the leadership of head coach Desmond Ofei. The talented young squad, seeking to reclaim their status as one of Africa’s top youth sides, has set its sights on winning the tournament, scheduled to take place in Egypt from April 27 to May 18, 2025.

Drawn into a tough Group C, Ghana will face defending champions Senegal, as well as DR Congo and the Central African Republic. The competition promises to be fiercely contested, with Ghana aiming to navigate the challenging group stage successfully. Their first priority is to advance beyond the initial phase, which will set the tone for their overall campaign.

In an interview with CAF media, Coach Desmond Ofei highlighted the importance of taking the tournament step by step.
“Our immediate goal is to get out of the group stage. From there, we take it one step at a time. Of course, the long-term aim is to win the tournament and qualify for the U-20 World Cup, but we’ll do that by staying consistent and focused on the process,” he said.

The tournament format will see the top two teams from each group, along with the two best third-placed teams, advance to the quarter-finals. Ghana knows that every match will be crucial, and the team is determined to perform at its best. The aim is to reclaim their dominance on the continent, reflecting their rich history of success in youth football.

After recent setbacks, Ghana is eager to return to the continental summit and showcase the talent that has historically made them a force in African youth football. With a mix of experienced players and emerging talents, the Black Satellites are motivated to make their mark and bring glory back to Ghana in the 2025 AFCON.

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CAF Unveils African Schools Championship Groups

CAF Unveils African Schools Championship Groups as Young Stars Chase Glory

By: Belinda Nketia

The stage is now officially set for Africa’s brightest young footballers as the draw for the 2025 CAF African Schools Football Championship was successfully conducted on April 21, 2025, in Accra.
The championship is scheduled to run from April 23 to 26, 2025, at the University of Ghana Stadium.

The draw, which took place at MultiChoice Ghana, brought together top football figures, including Ghanaian legend Asamoah Gyan and Ivorian coach Clémentine Touré, who conducted the draws for the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively.

In the boys’ category, host nation Ghana lands in Group A alongside South Africa, Uganda, and Algeria, each boasting a strong pedigree in youth football. Ghana’s home advantage and history of technical play make them a team to watch, but South Africa’s structure and Uganda’s recent investments in school football could provide stiff competition.

Group B sees defending champions Tanzania grouped with DR Congo, Senegal, and debutants Côte d’Ivoire. Tanzania will be confident, but Senegal’s athleticism and DR Congo’s unpredictability offer a real threat in what appears to be a tight group.

In the girls’ division, Ghana headline Group A with Morocco, Malawi, and Benin. Morocco brings a tactical edge, but Ghana’s balanced squad could make a strong impression. Group B features title-holders South Africa, joined by Uganda, DR Congo, and The Gambia which is happens to be a group packed with speed, power, and technical flair.

The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, with the winners earning their shot at the title in the grand final.

Speaking during the event, Asamoah Gyan urged players to take education seriously alongside football. “They should focus on their education, and have it support their natural talent which no one can take from them,” he said.

Touré, highlighting the broader impact of the event, noted: “We are not just developing players, we are developing people. That’s what we want.”

Also present were Amanda Dlamini, a former South African captain and now a CAF Women’s Football Development Officer, and Ghana Football Association Vice President Mark Addo.

Ahead of the tournament, CAF is also rolling out youth-focused programs in refereeing, sports journalism, coaching, medical care, and safeguarding bringing this year’s theme, “Encourage, Educate, and Engage,” to life both on and off the pitch and further portrays the championship not only as a showcase of emerging football talent, but a platform to support education, build confidence, and cultivate leadership among Africa’s next generation.

The CAF African Schools Football Championship is fast becoming a cornerstone of youth football development on the continent. With its blend of high-level competition and grassroots empowerment, the tournament brings together rising stars from across Africa in a showcase of talent, teamwork, and determination to compete internationally.

This year’s finals in Ghana brings together the best school teams from across Africa in both boys’ and girls’ divisions.

This is about pride, progress, and the future of African football.

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Ghana Drawn in Group A of 2025 African Schools Football Championship

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CAF Unveils African Schools Championship Groups

Confederation of African Football (CAF) Unveils 2025 African Schools Championship Groups

By: Belinda Nketia

The stage is now officially set for Africa’s brightest young footballers as the draw for the 2025 CAF African Schools Football Championship was successfully conducted on April 21, 2025, in Accra.
The championship is scheduled to run from April 23 to 26, 2025, at the University of Ghana Stadium.

The draw, which took place at MultiChoice Ghana, brought together top football figures, including Ghanaian legend Asamoah Gyan and Ivorian coach Clémentine Touré, who conducted the draws for the boys’ and girls’ categories respectively.

In the boys’ category, host nation Ghana lands in Group A alongside South Africa, Uganda, and Algeria, each boasting a strong pedigree in youth football. Ghana’s home advantage and history of technical play make them a team to watch, but South Africa’s structure and Uganda’s recent investments in school football could provide stiff competition.

Group B sees defending champions Tanzania grouped with DR Congo, Senegal, and debutants Côte d’Ivoire. Tanzania will be confident, but Senegal’s athleticism and DR Congo’s unpredictability offer a real threat in what appears to be a tight group.

In the girls’ division, Ghana headline Group A with Morocco, Malawi, and Benin. Morocco brings a tactical edge, but Ghana’s balanced squad could make a strong impression. Group B features title-holders South Africa, joined by Uganda, DR Congo, and The Gambia which is happens to be a group packed with speed, power, and technical flair.

The top two teams from each group advance to the semi-finals, with the winners earning their shot at the title in the grand final.

Speaking during the event, Asamoah Gyan urged players to take education seriously alongside football. “They should focus on their education, and have it support their natural talent which no one can take from them,” he said.

Touré, highlighting the broader impact of the event, noted: “We are not just developing players, we are developing people. That’s what we want.”

Also present were Amanda Dlamini, a former South African captain and now a CAF Women’s Football Development Officer, and Ghana Football Association Vice President Mark Addo.

Ahead of the tournament, CAF is also rolling out youth-focused programs in refereeing, sports journalism, coaching, medical care, and safeguarding bringing this year’s theme, “Encourage, Educate, and Engage,” to life both on and off the pitch and further portrays the championship not only as a showcase of emerging football talent, but a platform to support education, build confidence, and cultivate leadership among Africa’s next generation.

The CAF African Schools Football Championship is fast becoming a cornerstone of youth football development on the continent. With its blend of high-level competition and grassroots empowerment, the tournament brings together rising stars from across Africa in a showcase of talent, teamwork, and determination to compete internationally.

This year’s finals in Ghana brings together the best school teams from across Africa in both boys’ and girls’ divisions.

This is about pride, progress, and the future of African football.

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Ghana Drawn in Group A of 2025 African Schools Football Championship

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Mondo Duplantis Crowned Laureus Sportsman of the Year

By Kwame Bediako

Swedish pole vaulter Mondo Duplantis has been named Laureus Sportsman of the Year. Duplantis, who has consistently demonstrated exceptional talent and determination, received the prestigious award at the 2025 Laureus World Sports Awards. The ceremony, attended by many of the world’s top athletes, highlighted the significance of his achievement.

The award was presented to Duplantis by tennis superstar Novak Djokovic, the 2024 World Sportsman of the Year. The moment underscored the camaraderie and mutual respect among elite athletes in the global sporting community.

Duplantis’s recognition comes on the back of a remarkable season. In February, he broke the men’s pole vault world record for the eleventh time, cementing his status as one of the sport’s all-time greats. His consistent record-breaking performances and dedication throughout the season earned him widespread admiration from fans and fellow athletes alike.

This win also marks a historic milestone for field events. Duplantis becomes the first male field athlete to claim the Laureus Sportsman of the Year award. Until now, only one other male track and field athlete — Usain Bolt — has won the accolade, making Duplantis’s accomplishment even more significant and a testament to his exceptional abilities.

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