His rapid treble is the second earliest a player has scored three goals in a World Cup match, behind only Erich Probst of Austria, who netted in the 4th, 21st and 24th minutes against Czechoslovakia in 1954.

Dembele opened the scoring in the 7th minute after latching onto a diagonal ball from Kylian Mbappe, beating two defenders on the dribble before firing home. He doubled the lead in the 20th minute with a similar run, cutting inside from the right and unleashing a left‑footed strike. He completed his hat‑trick in the 32nd minute, again with his left foot, after an overlapping run from Michael Olise created space for him in the penalty area.

Norway pulled one back through Thelo Aasgaard, but Desire Doue added a fourth for France in stoppage time.

He also became the first player to score a first‑half hat‑trick at the World Cup since Oleg Salenko did so for Russia against Cameroon in 1994.

France, who are without head coach Didier Deschamps as he returned home for his mother’s funeral, will now face Sweden in the Round of 32.

Dembele, the reigning Ballon d’Or winner, has now scored four goals in the tournament and will be aiming to add more as France chase a third World Cup title.

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The I.G.P. Special Operations Team, working with the Ashanti Regional Police Command, targeted locations identified as hubs for the sale and distribution of drugs within the metropolis.

At Asawase, Kwame Afriyie, 61, alias “Con Papa” also known as “American Man”, was arrested. Police recovered 33 compressed parcels of suspected cannabis from his room and 48 more from his provision shop.

-Additionally, at Asafo, Kofi Acheampong alias “Mokobiley” was arrested with 311 transparent sachets of dried leaves suspected to be narcotics, 13 compressed parcels, 10 brown paper wraps containing black rock-like substances suspected to be cocaine, and restricted pharmaceutical products.

The operations continued to Krofrom, where Michael Owusu Agyeman, 22, a National Service personnel, was arrested with 15 bottles of fruit juice suspected to be laced with cannabis.

Other operations at Atonsu-Bokuro, Krofrom, Kenyase, Asokwa, Buokrom and Asafo BB led to the arrest of Adamu Ibrahim, 44; Stanley Boahene, 24; Favour Emmanuel, 23; Abubakar Sadick, 28; Adwoa Serwaa Boamah, 36; Paul Quagraine, 40; Nana Kwasi Amo Peprah, 47; Hamdiyah Ibrahim, 37; Nicholas Adorku, 39; and Natson Yaaba, 31.

Exhibits retrieved include compressed parcels of suspected cannabis, tramadol tablets, ecstasy, amphetamine, suspected cocaine and other controlled substances. All items have been secured for forensic examination.

All suspects have been arraigned and remanded into Police custody pending further court dates.

The Police Service says the operation forms part of its ongoing fight against drug trafficking and abuse. It urged the public to provide credible information on drug-related activities.

The Command commended the I.G.P. Special Operations Team and Ashanti Regional officers for their professionalism and efforts to disrupt criminal drug networks and maintain public safety.

By Edem Mensah-Tsotorme

The post Ghana Police arrest multiple suspects in Kumasi drug crackdown appeared first on Ghanaian Times.

The feat is the first time a team has had three players achieve a goal and an assist in a FIFA World Cup match since Germany's unforgettable 7-1 victory over Brazil in the 2014 semi-finals, where Toni Kroos, Sami Khedira, and Thomas Müller accomplished the same.

Ismaïla Sarr scored the second goal after Habib Diarra's opener and later turned provider for Senegal's third goal. Pape Gueye added another goal and assist, while substitute Iliman Ndiaye also found the net and set up a teammate after coming off the bench.

The record is a testament to Senegal's attacking depth and selflessness, with multiple players contributing directly to the historic victory.

The comparison to Germany's 2014 performance brings back memories of one of the most iconic World Cup matches. Senegal's achievement is a reminder of how far African football has come, and the Teranga Lions are now etching their own names into the history books.

Senegal's record-breaking performance, which included 8 goals in the group stage - the most by an African nation - and a 5-goal haul in a single match, has rewritten the record books for African football.

The Teranga Lions now await their knockout fate, but they have already made history.

For Sarr, Gueye, and Ndiaye, the shared achievement will be a lasting memory of their contribution to Senegal's historic World Cup campaign

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The party’s National Organiser, Henry Nana Boakye, announced the decision and said the petitions relate to remarks that are believed to be harmful to the party’s unity and cohesion.

According to him, the National Disciplinary Committee has been given two weeks to investigate the matter and submit its report to the party’s leadership.

“The position is that we have referred all petitions received regarding Kennedy Agyapong’s comments to the National Disciplinary Committee, and we have given them two weeks to deal with the matter,” he said.

He explained that after receiving the committee’s report, the National Executive Committee (NEC) will hold another meeting to discuss the findings and decide on the next course of action.

The petitions stem from recent comments by Mr Agyapong in which he alleged that contracts awarded under the previous NPP administration, including those linked to the construction of the 37 Military Hospital, required contractors to pay a 10 per cent kickback before securing the deals.

He also accused some party officials of engaging in practices that contributed to the NPP’s defeat in the 2024 general election.

By:Jacob Aggrey

The post NPP refers Kennedy Agyapong to disciplinary committee over alleged anti party behavior appeared first on Ghanaian Times.

Ndiaye entered the fray against Iraq in the 57th minute and made an immediate impact, producing a performance that will be remembered for years to come. His goal and assist came in the closing stages of the match, contributing to Senegal's historic 5-0 victory.

According to Opta statistics, Ndiaye's output is unprecedented for a substitute in World Cup history

The 26-year-old Everton forward has been one of Senegal's standout performers at the tournament, showcasing his ability to change games from the bench. His performance against Iraq is a testament to his talent and determination, and it has cemented his place in World Cup history.

Senegal's record-breaking victory rewrote the African record books, with the Teranga Lions scoring 8 goals in the group stage—the most ever by an African nation—and registering a 5-goal haul in a single match for the first time.

For Ndiaye, the performance is a personal milestone that reflects his growing influence on the international stage. His impact has been undeniable and will be remembered as one of the tournament's standout moments.

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Delivering his inaugural lecture at the University of Ghana’s Great Hall on Thursday, June 25, under the theme, “Disease Smuggling: The Unseen Cargo in Global Health Security – Lessons from Cholera and COVID-19 in Ghana,” Prof. Kenu said disease-causing germs move silently through contaminated water, poor sanitation, overcrowded spaces and weak surveillance systems.

According to him, Ghana’s first documented cholera case was recorded in September 1970 after a traveller from Togo collapsed at the then Accra International Airport.
However, he said the outbreak’s actual source was a Ghanaian fisherman who had died in Togo and whose body was brought back home by relatives, unknowingly carrying the cholera bacteria.

Since then, he said, Ghana has recorded more than 15 cholera outbreaks, with poor sanitation continuing to fuel the disease.

Prof. Kenu disclosed that in 2014, Greater Accra alone recorded 20,199 cholera cases and that nearly 80 per cent of the country’s index cases were linked to prior travel to the capital.

He further revealed that during the 2016 cholera outbreak in Cape Coast, visiting a treatment centre increased a person’s chances of becoming infected by twelve times, turning healthcare facilities into centres of transmission.

The epidemiologist stressed that simple handwashing with soap and running water could reduce diarrhoeal diseases by between 32 and 48 per cent and provide a return of two dollars for every one dollar invested in handwashing programmes.

Touching on the COVID-19 pandemic, Prof. Kenu said the virus entered Ghana in March 2020 through travellers from Turkey and Norway.

He said the government responded quickly by closing the country’s borders, imposing restrictions and introducing enhanced surveillance measures, including testing everyone living within a one-to-two-kilometre radius of a confirmed case.

According to him, studies on the first 17,763 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Ghana showed that nearly 80 per cent of infected persons had no symptoms, allowing the virus to spread unnoticed.

He revealed that only 12.3 per cent of people observed proper hand hygiene in public spaces, while nearly 60 per cent of people wore face masks incorrectly during the pandemic.

Prof. Kenu said delays in laboratory test results, which in some cases lasted up to 10 days, also contributed to the spread of the virus.

He noted that when Ghana reopened its borders, health authorities successfully integrated COVID-19 surveillance into the country’s existing influenza-like illness surveillance system, improving efficiency and strengthening disease monitoring.

In an unexpected development, Prof. Kenu said a Phase II clinical trial for a new cholera treatment conducted between 2021 and 2023 failed because there were no patients to enrol.

He explained that the improved handwashing and hygiene practices introduced during the COVID-19 pandemic had reduced cholera transmission so significantly that the trial ended without recording a single cholera case.

The professor noted that poor sanitation and inadequate hygiene practices currently cost Ghana between US$290 million and US$500 million annually, representing about 1.6 per cent of the country’s Gross Domestic Product.

Warning of future threats, Prof. Kenu said Ghana could face outbreaks from antimicrobial-resistant cholera strains, new coronavirus variants, Ebola or other unknown diseases emerging from environmental and ecological changes.

He called on the country to invest in field epidemiology training, decentralised laboratory systems, community-based surveillance and integrated digital disease monitoring systems.

“Disease smuggling will never stop at passport control points. It ends when our systems function effectively and when every citizen becomes part of disease surveillance,” he stated.

Prof. Kenu urged authorities to improve access to safe water, strengthen sanitation systems, enforce infection prevention measures in health facilities and promote proper handwashing practices to protect the country from future outbreaks.

Chairperson of the event and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ghana, Professor Nana Aba Appiah Amfo, said Professor Kenu’s lecture had highlighted the fact that some of the world’s greatest public health threats are often invisible and can spread silently if systems are not prepared to respond.

She noted that the lessons from Ghana’s experiences with cholera and COVID-19 showed the importance of investing in strong health systems, disease surveillance and preventive measures to protect lives and livelihoods.

Prof. Amfo further urged policymakers, researchers and the public to apply the lessons from the lecture by prioritising public health and strengthening the country’s preparedness for future disease outbreaks, stressing that health security is a shared responsibility.

By: Jacob Aggrey

The post Disease outbreaks stem from system failures, not border issues – Prof. Ernest Kenu: appeared first on Ghanaian Times.

The highly anticipated event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at the Oak Plaza Hotel, off the Spintex Road in Accra.

The auditions will mark the official commencement of Ghana’s longest-running beauty pageant, initiating a nationwide search for young women who possess the intelligence, confidence, leadership qualities, and purpose-driven vision required to wear the coveted Miss Ghana crown.

This year’s competition runs under the theme Empowering Women, Enduring Legacy, celebrating nearly seven decades of promoting purpose-driven leadership, cultural pride, and female empowerment.

Leading the formidable judging panel is Inna Mariam Patty, Esq., a legal practitioner, social entrepreneur, and Miss Ghana 2004. Having served as the franchise holder and National Director for Miss World Ghana for over a decade, Patty brings a unique dual perspective as both a former queen and a veteran administrator, ensuring the highest standards for the pageant’s future.

Joining her is celebrated media personality, actress, and producer Stacy Amoateng.

With nearly three decades of experience in broadcasting and media management through landmark programs like Music Music and Restoration with Stacy, Amoateng is also a dedicated philanthropist whose foundation focuses on women’s empowerment and supporting vulnerable groups.

The panel also features the award-winning musician and renowned social advocate Okyeame Kwame. Born Kwame Nsiah-Apau, his influence spans over 25 years across music and entrepreneurship.

A former Ghana Music Awards Artiste of the Year, he has consistently used his platform to champion global causes with UNICEF and the World Bank, including climate action, literacy, and youth empowerment.

Completing the quartet is Kafui Dey, one of Ghana’s most respected broadcasters and corporate communications professionals.

Known for his eloquence and commitment to mentorship, Dey’s expertise will be crucial in identifying contestants with the superior public speaking skills and leadership potential necessary to excel on both national and international stages.

At the audition stage, the four judges will evaluate contestants on a holistic range of qualities that extend far beyond physical appearance.

Aspiring queens will be assessed on their confidence, communication skills, patriotism, poise, and understanding of contemporary social issues. Crucially, candidates will also be judged on their genuine passion for and commitment to community-driven social intervention projects.

To be eligible for the competition, prospective contestants must be between the ages of 18 and 26. Candidates are expected to be confident, morally upright, and community-minded.

During the session, aspiring queens will have the opportunity to showcase their unique creative talents: ranging from singing and dancing to spoken word and rap, while engaging with the judges on matters relating to national development.

Established at the dawn of independence in 1957, Miss Ghana has evolved from a traditional beauty contest into a premier platform that empowers young women to become impactful advocates for social change, education, healthcare, and entrepreneurship.

The post Exclusive Events Ghana unveil star-studded judges for 69th Miss Ghana auditions appeared first on Ghanaian Times.

The emphatic victory rewrote the African record books at the World Cup. Firstly, their eight goals at the group stage is the most ever scored by an African nation in a single World Cup campaign (and group stage). Their five strikes against Iraq is also the highest single-match goal tally ever achieved by an African side at the tournament.

Sadio Mané was the star of the show, scoring twice and providing an assist, while Abdallah Sima, Mamadou Camara, and Bamba Dieng also got on the scoresheet.

The result is a testament to Senegal's attacking firepower and their ability to dominate opponents. However, despite the impressive display, the Teranga Lions finished the group stage with only 3 points after earlier defeats to France and Norway.

Senegal now face an anxious wait to see if they will advance to the round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams. The record-breaking win has improved their goal difference significantly, but they will need results from other groups to go their way.

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Held in commemoration of World Music Day, the 27th Telecel Ghana Music Awards Music Summit brought together some of the industry’s most respected voices to discuss two critical pillars of today’s music business: brand endorsements and music contracts.

Opening the Summit, Robert Klah, TGMA Lead and Head of Public Events and Communications at Charterhouse, welcomed participants and highlighted the purpose of the gathering.

He emphasised the importance of creating platforms that go beyond celebrating musical excellence to strengthen the business and professional capacity of industry stakeholders.

He noted that while talent remains the foundation of success, knowledge, strategic partnerships and legal awareness are increasingly becoming the differentiators in today’s music ecosystem.

The Summit also created valuable networking opportunities, enabling artistes, managers, music business professionals, media practitioners and other stakeholders to connect, exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations.

The Summit also received strong endorsement from the leadership of the music industry. Delivering a solidarity message, MUSIGA President and renowned highlife musician, Bessa Simons, commended Charterhouse for creating platforms that contribute to the professional development of musicians and music stakeholders.

He encouraged emerging artistes and young music professionals to actively participate in educational initiatives such as music business seminars and industry workshops, stressing that knowledge remains one of the most valuable assets for building a successful and sustainable career.

Bessa Simons further called for deeper collaboration between event organisers and industry associations, emphasizing the important role collective effort plays in advancing the interests of musicians and strengthening Ghana’s music ecosystem.

The first session focused on one of the most important yet often misunderstood revenue streams available to artistes and creatives: brand endorsements.

Leading the conversation was Mariam K. A-Buahin, Chief Operating Officer of Akuna Group, who brings over eighteen years of experience in marketing and brand management across multiple industries.

Her presentation, “Brand Endorsements: What Companies Look For,” provided participants with a deeper understanding of how brands evaluate potential ambassadors and partners.

She explored the importance of personal branding, audience alignment, credibility, consistency, professionalism, values and long-term influence.

The session underscored an important reality within today’s music industry: as music consumption patterns evolve, endorsement deals have become a significant source of income for artistes.

To successfully attract and retain corporate partnerships, artistes and music professionals must understand exactly what brands seek before committing their resources and reputation to a partnership.

The presentation was followed by an engaging question-and-answer session during which participants sought practical guidance on positioning themselves for brand opportunities and building mutually beneficial relationships with corporate organizations.

The second half of the Summit shifted focus to music contracts, an area that continues to have a profound impact on the careers and livelihoods of musicians and creatives.

The session began with an overview of the music business and the role of contracts by Grammy-recognized creative entrepreneur and music business executive Kofi Boachie Ansah, who provided participants with a foundational understanding of how contractual agreements govern relationships across the music value chain.

Award-winning entertainment entrepreneur and Founder and CEO of Lynx Group, Richie Mensah, followed with a presentation exploring seven key contract areas every artiste and music professional should understand.

Drawing from his personal experiences building one of Ghana’s most successful entertainment companies, he illustrated how contracts influence artist development, business growth and long-term success.

Entertainment lawyer Bobby Banson then highlighted critical issues that creatives must examine before signing any agreement. His presentation reinforced the importance of due diligence, legal representation, ownership rights, obligations, termination clauses and intellectual property protections.

Throughout the session, one message remained clear: the legal system is ultimately what protects the work of musicians and creative professionals. Without a proper understanding of contractual terms and obligations, artistes risk signing away rights, revenue opportunities and control over their creative output.

The contracts conversation culminated in an insightful panel discussion moderated by respected arts and culture journalist Kwame Dadzie of Joy FM and Hitz FM.

The panel featured an accomplished group of industry experts, including Seven Xavier (George O. Yartey), Music Executive and Industry Strategist; Patrick Tetteh Odestsi, Legal Practitioner and Contract Law Expert; Daniel Ahenkorah (Yaw Dan), A&R and Music Licensing Specialist; Khadijat El-Alawa, Music Executive and Talent Strategist; and Emmanuel Sedo (Electro Mirror), Founder and CEO of Flip The Music.

Together, they unpacked practical issues relating to contract negotiations, music licensing, rights management, publishing, talent development, artiste performance and navigating the evolving realities of the music business.

Their diverse perspectives provided attendees with a rare opportunity to engage directly with professionals whose experience spans legal practice, talent management, licensing, strategy and music entrepreneurship.

Music, Recognition and Celebration
Adding to the vibrant atmosphere was a musical interlude by emerging Alternative Hiphop and Pop artiste Elsie Raad, whose performance provided another reminder of the exciting new talent emerging within Ghana’s music landscape.

The Summit also featured the presentation of commemorative plaques to winners of the 27th Telecel Ghana Music Awards who were present, recognizing their achievements and contributions to Ghanaian music.

As the day’s discussions concluded, attendees continued networking over refreshments courtesy of Guinness Ghana, rounding off an event defined by knowledge-sharing, collaboration and professional growth.

Beyond the presentations and performances, the 27th TGMA Music Summit reinforced the growing importance of music business education in Ghana’s creative economy.

By creating a platform where emerging talents can learn directly from accomplished professionals, the Summit continues to bridge the gap between creativity and commerce, helping artistes and industry practitioners make informed decisions that protect their careers and unlock new opportunities.

Produced by Charterhouse with support from British Council, Closeup, Guinness Ghana and TV3, and powered by Telecel Ghana under its inspiring brand promise, “Connecting Energies,” the 27th TGMA Music Summit once again demonstrated that the future of Ghanaian music will be shaped not only by artistic excellence, but also by knowledge, strategic partnerships, legal awareness and strong industry collaboration.

As the conversations sparked during the Summit continue beyond the event, participants left with new insights, stronger networks and a renewed appreciation for the business structures that support successful music careers.

From understanding what brands seek in potential ambassadors to learning how contracts can protect—or potentially compromise—creative rights, attendees were reminded that success in today’s music industry requires both talent and informed decision-making.

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Mr. Ibrahim Mahama was part of the strong delegation led by Ghana’s Ambassador to the United States, H.E. Victor Smith, that visited the team’s camp following their 0-0 draw with England. He was joined by Sports and Recreation Minister Hon. Kofi Adams and Foreign Minister Hon. Samuel Okudjeto Ablakwa.

Addressing the players and technical staff, Mahama revealed he had stopped following football after Ghana’s 2010 World Cup exit. “In 2010, the President and I went to South Africa to watch the match and were robbed,” he said. “And from then, I just said to myself that I won’t follow football again. My son has actually been following football, and he has actually encouraged me to look into football.”

“And I’m very happy. I thought we were just having to see players, but I’ve seen the technical team, and I’m very impressed.”

Mahama said meeting the squad brought back memories of past Black Stars sides.

He added “I just hear the names and I can’t put their faces together. And I’ve heard the name Semenyo, and I say, where is Semenyo from? And coming to see this team, it just reminds me of how they came up and how they made us proud.”

He told the team he would now follow their World Cup run closely. “So, listen, you guys, I’m going to follow your journey, and I’m going to also make sure that I invest in you, because not you alone, the technical team, you’ve done very well,” Mahama said. “And let’s find many more Ghanaians who have untold stories to see how we can make it together.”

The businessman then announced a personal incentive separate from government bonuses.

According to him, “Apart from the government’s bonus, I have a special bonus,” he said. “I was going to run away, but they’ve held me hostage, so I can’t fly back home. So, I’m going to stay and watch you. But I say, I have a much better bonus for you than the taxpayers. So please do us proud, and then you’ll be rewarded.”

Ghana face Croatia at Lincoln Financial Field in Philadelphia on Saturday, June 28, at 5 p.m. The Black Stars sit joint top of Group L on four points and will qualify for the Round of 32 with a win.

Also present at Thursday’s meeting were President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, Vice President Mark Addo, Dr. Randy Abbey, Stephen Appiah, Moses Armah and Samuel Aboabire.

The post I have a special bonus for you — Businessman Ibrahim Mahama pledges appeared first on Ghanaian Times.

Mr. Obeng in a one on interview with Ghanaian Times journalist, Edem Tsortorme said affordable and reliable energy is key to achieving his development agenda for Gomoa and attracting businesses to Ghana.

According to him, he has been travelling across the world to engage investors interested in developing low-cost energy solutions for the country.

“We are currently in the process of developing what we believe will be the biggest solar energy facility in Africa,” he said.

He explained that the project is expected to reduce the cost of electricity and make Ghana more attractive to investors and manufacturers.

Mr. Obeng compared Ghana’s energy costs with those of China, noting that cheaper electricity in the Asian country has made it a preferred destination for manufacturing.

“If you look at the energy cost in China and compare it to the energy cost in Ghana, you understand why many people choose to produce in China instead of producing in Ghana,” he said.

The MP expressed confidence that significant progress would be made on the project before the end of the year.

He revealed that his recent trips abroad were aimed at attracting investment into the country.

According to him, he has held meetings with mobile phone manufacturers, producers of mobile phone accessories, ceramic manufacturers, car parts companies and electric vehicle manufacturers.

Mr. Obeng said many of the companies have shown interest in investing in Ghana because of the country’s strategic location.

He stressed the need for Ghana to move beyond exporting raw materials and instead focus on producing finished goods locally to create jobs and strengthen the economy.

“We want to produce goods with our raw materials so that Ghana does not continue to live in an enclave economy,” he said.

By: Jacob Aggrey

The post A Plus announces plans for Africa’s largest solar energy facility in Gomoa appeared first on Ghanaian Times.

Toney was a surprise wild-card pick in Tuchel's 26-man England squad, with the head coach describing the striker as a "specialist". However, the forward has pushed back against the assumption that he is only in the United States in case England are involved in a penalty shoot-out.

"I like to think I bring more than just penalties. I think I can bring more to the game. But if I'm just to come on for one minute and take a penalty, I'd never turn that down. I'm here to help the team," Toney said.

The Brentford striker famously scored a no-look penalty for England in their quarter-final shoot-out win over Switzerland during the European Championships two years ago. Asked whether he will repeat the approach at this World Cup, Toney kept his cards close to his chest.

"I can't share that. We'll have to see if I get one, then we'll find out. It's an opportunity to help my team, and that's what I'm here to do."

Tuchel is yet to give Toney a single minute at the World Cup ahead of England's final Group L game against Panama in New Jersey. The striker has remained professional despite his limited role.

"It's every game I can't wait to get on, but the coach is in charge, and I have to respect his decision whether I think I should be on the pitch or not. Maybe he'll have different ideas, which he did the other night. But, listen, I'm ready for whenever he chooses me and have to show him why I'm here and what I'm capable of."

Ahead of the World Cup, Tuchel held clear-the-air talks with Toney after the former Brentford star had failed to impress during an international camp in June last year. Toney claimed Tuchel now knows "the real me".

"It wasn't really an apologising situation on both sides. I think it was just more of because he doesn't really know me as a person. So it's more like speaking more and diving in deeper into what I'm about and what he's about also. We both cleared the air, and I think he got good feedback on myself, from other players and other people not in football – outside the game. And I think now he's starting to see the real me."

Toney has remained sharp in training, scoring hat-tricks for England in behind-closed-doors practice games against Miami FC and Sporting Kansas City. He is drawing on his experience of waiting for opportunities earlier in his career.

"I've been here before, been on the bench and been scrambling to try and get on the pitch. The prime example was when I was at Peterborough. I didn't play for the first nine games, and the players in the team were playing well. I waited for my chance and managed to take it and, thankfully, scored a good amount of goals. So you just have to be ready for your chance and take it, and if it comes, I'll be ready."

For Toney, the message is clear: he is ready when called upon, whether that means taking a penalty or contributing more to the team's cause.

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The Chelsea captain reported tightness after England's 0-0 draw against Ghana in Boston on Tuesday. He did not train with the squad in Kansas City on Friday and will miss Saturday's final group game against Panama, as well as the last-32 tie that could follow.

James has a history of hamstring issues, having sustained a setback playing for Chelsea against Newcastle on 14 March that kept him out for nearly two months. Tuchel considers him his first-choice right-back and had relied on him for 90 minutes against both Croatia and Ghana.

However, there was always an element of risk given how James has to have his minutes managed and the congested nature of the World Cup. England hope to play eight matches in 33 days during their stay in North America.

The injury leaves Tuchel with a headache in the right-back position. He had selected Tino Livramento as his backup, only to lose the Newcastle player on the eve of the tournament to a calf injury. The manager responded by calling up Chelsea centre-half Trevoh Chalobah and suggesting that Jarell Quansah, a central defender by trade, could cover at right-back.

Tuchel's other options are Ezri Konsa, also a centre-half, and Djed Spence. Notably, he opted against calling up Real Madrid right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, a player he does not appear to trust. Tuchel has only selected Alexander-Arnold for one camp, in June of last year.

The loss of James is a significant blow for England, who have already seen their defensive options stretched. With the knockout stages looming, Tuchel will need to find a solution to ensure his defence remains solid.

For England, the focus now shifts to securing top spot in Group L and preparing for the challenges ahead.

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Senegal kept their FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification hopes alive in emphatic fashion on Friday night after producing a dominant 5-0 victory over 10-man Iraq in their final Group I encounter.

Both nations entered the contest knowing only a win would keep their slim hopes of progression alive after suffering defeats in their opening two group stage matches.

However, Senegal quickly took control and never looked back against an Iraqi side reduced to ten men early in the game.

The Lions of Teranga wasted little time imposing themselves on the match and opened the scoring in the fourth minute.

Habib Diarra reacted quickest inside the box after a corner delivery and bundled the ball over the line to hand Senegal an early advantage.

The turning point of the match came in the 10th minute following a dangerous challenge from Rebin Sulaka.

Referee Anthony Taylor initially issued a yellow card, but after being advised to review the incident through VAR, he overturned the decision and produced a straight red card instead.

The dismissal left Iraq facing an uphill task for the remainder of the match and allowed Senegal to dominate possession and attacking opportunities.

Despite controlling the game for long spells, Senegal had to wait until the second half to extend their lead.

In the 56th minute, Ismaila Sarr capitalised on a defensive mistake and calmly slotted the ball home from close range to make it 2-0.

Just three minutes later, Pape Gueye added Senegal’s third goal with a powerful strike that found the inside of the right post.

Gueye continued his impressive performance in the 71st minute when he unleashed a superb first-time effort from the edge of the penalty area to score Senegal’s fourth of the evening.

Senegal completed the demolition in the 82nd minute through Iliman Ndiaye. The forward latched onto a pass outside the box before curling a brilliant strike into the top right corner beyond the helpless goalkeeper.

The goal capped a commanding display from Senegal, who delivered one of the most convincing performances of the tournament so far.

The emphatic victory gives Senegal renewed hope of reaching the knockout stage, although their final fate will depend on results from other group games to determine their standings among the best third-placed teams.

For Iraq, meanwhile, the heavy defeat brings a disappointing end to their World Cup campaign after a difficult tournament in which they failed to secure a single point.

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Sports and Recreation Minister Kofi Adams has hinted that Ghana could extend the contract of Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz but insists any discussions about his future will only take place after the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Queiroz has overseen an impressive start to Ghana's World Cup campaign, guiding the Black Stars through their opening two matches unbeaten. Ghana currently sit second in Group L with one match remaining against Croatia on Saturday.

The Portuguese tactician has won over many Ghanaian supporters with his tactical approach and the team's disciplined performances, prompting growing calls for the Ghana Football Association to retain him beyond the tournament.

Speaking to Citi Sports, Kofi Adams acknowledged the public support for Queiroz but stressed that the immediate focus remains on the World Cup.

"Well, surely it's something that we will be looking at, and if you listen to many persons across the country, even before the ministry spoke or even the FA said anything, Ghanaians are already giving the indication that we should keep him for some time," Adams said.

"But let's finish this project. We have the World Cup project ahead of us. Let's finish this, and like we said before we came here, that when we finish this project, we can then make decisions about the future of anybody."

The minister's comments suggest the government is encouraged by the direction of the national team under Queiroz, although no formal decision has been taken regarding his long-term future.

For now, all attention remains on Ghana's final Group L encounter against Croatia before preparations begin for the knockout stages, where the Black Stars will hope to continue their impressive World Cup run.

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