Ghana U20 head coach Maxwell Konadu says his side is fully prepared for Monday's highly anticipated Group B opener against Nigeria at the 2026 WAFU B U-20 Championship in Yamoussoukro, Cote d'Ivoire.

Ghana will face the defending champions at the Lycée Scientifique Stadium in a clash that renews one of West African football's fiercest rivalries.

The Black Satellites will also be aiming to avenge their 2-1 defeat to the Flying Eagles in the final of the previous edition held in Lomé, Togo.

Speaking ahead of the encounter, Konadu expressed confidence in his team's preparations after a series of friendly matches.

"I think we've prepared enough. The boys are ready. We played a couple of friendly games before coming here and I think the boys are ready for the assignment," he said.

The coach disclosed that Ghana suffered a setback after losing a key defensive midfielder to injury before departing for Cote d'Ivoire but insisted the squad has enough depth to cope with the absence.

Konadu believes both teams possess equal quality despite Nigeria's status as defending champions.

"We are game ready. We pose the same threat to our Nigerian brothers. Matches between these two nations are always top-liners," he added.

Ghana will also face Burkina Faso and Togo in Group B as they seek qualification for the knockout stage and a place at the 2027 CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations, which will be hosted by Ghana.

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Black Satellites coach Maxwell Konadu has revealed Ghana's tactical approach ahead of Monday's crucial WAFU B U-20 Championship opener against defending champions Nigeria.

The experienced trainer acknowledged Nigeria's traditional strengths but believes discipline and intelligent play will be key to securing victory in Yamoussoukro.

"Nigeria has always been aggressive, which we're aware of. Let's see how our boys respond to that. Maybe we have to circulate the ball a bit. We'll try to think before they act, and I think that will be one of the key areas we have to exploit," Konadu explained.

Although Ghana's technical team has had limited opportunities to study the Flying Eagles, the former Black Stars assistant coach is confident in the quality of his squad.

"We haven't seen their team yet, but we believe we have the boys who can go out there and defend the flag of Ghana," he said.

Konadu expects the fierce rivalry between the two football nations to motivate both sides and produce another entertaining contest.

"We're motivated because it's Nigeria, and they will also be motivated because they are playing Ghana. I think the best team will carry the day."

The Black Satellites are targeting regional glory and qualification for the 2027 TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations.

Ghana, who will host the continental tournament, are grouped alongside Nigeria, Burkina Faso and Togo in Group B and will be hoping to make a strong statement with victory over the defending champions.

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Ghanaian forward Ibrahim Zubairu continued his impressive start to the 2026-27 season by scoring his first Serbian Super Liga goal as Partizan Belgrade defeated FK Macva Sabac 3-1 on Sunday evening.

The former Ghana U20 captain maintained his fine form by opening the scoring after just 10 minutes. Zubairu was played through by Montenegrin midfielder Milan Vukotic before calmly slotting home to hand Partizan an early advantage.

The goal was another highlight in what has been a superb start to the campaign for the 22-year-old, who starred in the UEFA Conference League qualifiers in midweek with two goals and an assist.

Macva Sabac fought back after the interval, with forward Milan Vidakov finding the equaliser shortly after the restart to level proceedings and set up an entertaining finish.

Zubairu remained a lively presence in attack before being substituted in the 63rd minute, making way for Senegalese forward Demba Seck.

The substitution proved inspired as Seck restored Partizan's lead with a composed finish two minutes from full-time, putting the hosts back in front when the match appeared to be heading for a draw.

Young Ivorian attacker Chaka Traore then added further gloss to the scoreline in stoppage time, netting Partizan's third goal to seal an emphatic 3-1 victory.

Zubairu's strike was his first in the Serbian Super Liga this season and further underlined his growing importance to the Belgrade club.

Having already delivered standout performances in European competition, the Ghanaian attacker is quickly becoming one of Partizan's most influential players.

With goals now flowing in both domestic and continental competitions, Zubairu will be hoping to extend his excellent run of form as Partizan continue their pursuit of silverware on multiple fronts.

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Ghana international Osman Bukari marked his return to the Serbian Super Liga in style by scoring his first league goal since rejoining Red Star Belgrade in their 2-1 victory over FK Vojvodina Novi Sad on Sunday.

The 26-year-old winger continued his impressive start to life back at the Serbian champions, opening the scoring just 15 minutes into his second league appearance after returning to the club.

Bukari latched onto a well-timed pass from Brazilian striker Bruno Duarte before calmly finishing to hand Red Star an early advantage at the Rajko Mitic Stadium.

Red Star wasted little time in extending their lead as teenage midfielder Vasilije Kostov doubled the hosts' advantage just four minutes later, putting the reigning champions firmly in control of the contest.

Vojvodina responded before the break through Bosnian forward Nardin Mulahusejnovic, who reduced the deficit in the 32nd minute to set up a competitive second half.

The hosts wrapped up all three points deep into stoppage time when 17-year-old Dimitrije Sarić capped an impressive team performance by scoring Red Star's third goal to seal a comfortable 3-1 victory.

Red Star held on to secure all three points and maintain their perfect start to the new Serbian Super Liga campaign.

Bukari's latest contribution continues an encouraging run of form since his return to Belgrade.

The Ghana winger also registered an assist in Red Star's UEFA Champions League qualifying victory in midweek on his second debut for the club.

After an energetic first-half display, Bukari was substituted at the start of the second half, with Nigerian defender Franklin Tebo Uchenna coming on as Red Star adjusted their shape to protect their lead.

The goal will come as a major boost for Bukari, who has quickly re-established himself as a key figure for the Serbian giants following his return.

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Newly promoted Ghana Premier League side Debibi United have strengthened their defence with the signing of centre-back Kwame Paul on a two-year contract.

The experienced defender joins on a free transfer from Hohoe United after the club withdrew from the Premier League midway through last season and was subsequently demoted to the lower divisions.

Paul had impressed with his consistent performances before Hohoe United's exit from the league, attracting interest from several clubs looking to bolster their defensive options.

Debibi United have now secured his signature as they continue to build a squad capable of competing in their maiden Ghana Premier League campaign.

The club views the 25-year-old as an important addition, with his experience expected to provide stability at the back as they prepare for the challenges of top-flight football.

Debibi have been active in the transfer market since earning promotion, with the club prioritising experienced players to complement its existing squad in a bid to secure Premier League survival.

Paul's arrival represents another statement of intent from the newcomers as they continue preparations for the 2026/27 season, where avoiding relegation will be their immediate objective.

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Somalia international goalkeeper Abdirahman Maaman is attracting interest from Ghana Premier League heavyweights Medeama SC and Asante Kotoko as both clubs continue their search for reinforcements ahead of the new season.

The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the goalkeepers being considered by the two clubs following his performances for the Somali national team, with scouts keeping a close watch on his progress.

Medeama, who are preparing for another CAF Champions League campaign after winning the Ghana Premier League title, are keen to strengthen key areas of their squad, including the goalkeeping department.

Kotoko are also evaluating their options between the posts as they look to assemble a squad capable of challenging for domestic honours in the 2026/27 campaign.

While neither club has submitted an official bid, Maaman remains under consideration as recruitment discussions continue.

The Somali shot-stopper has built a reputation for his commanding presence, shot-stopping ability and composure, qualities that have attracted attention from clubs outside his home country.

If a move materialises, Maaman would become one of the latest foreign players to join the Ghana Premier League, reflecting the growing appeal of the competition to talent from across the African continent.

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The Ministry of Sports and Recreation has thrown its full support behind the Black Queens ahead of their participation in the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations, urging the team to represent Ghana with pride on the continental stage.

In a statement addressed to the team, the Ministry praised the Black Queens' contribution to African women's football, highlighting their commitment, determination, and passion over the years.

The team's bronze medal finish at the 2025 tournament was described as a testament to their quality and continued competitiveness.

"Your storied history in the Women's Africa Cup of Nations reflects your dedication, skill, and passion. With a bronze medal in 2025, you have consistently demonstrated that you are the true pride of Africa, inspiring us all with your unwavering spirit on the field," the statement read.

"Millions of fans back home in Ghana and across the continent stand firmly behind you, cheering every move you make. The government and the Ministry of Sports and Recreation are immensely proud to support you as you prepare to shine on the 2026 Women's Africa Cup of Nations stage."

The tournament, which runs from July 26 to August 16 in Morocco, has Ghana drawn in Group D alongside Cameroon, Cape Verde, and Mali. The Black Queens will be aiming to qualify for the knockout stage and go a step further than their bronze medal finish in 2025.

The Queens head into the tournament in good form, having ended their preparations with a 4-0 win over Malawi in Morocco, where Doris Boaduwaa scored a hat-trick.

After finishing third in the previous edition, Ghana will be aiming to go a step further and win a first Women's Africa Cup of Nations title. The Black Queens have come close on several occasions, finishing as runners-up in 1998, 2002, and 2006, and winning bronze in 2025.

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She made the call on Thursday while delivering the keynote address at the 70th anniversary celebration of Sister Cities International in Washington, DC.

Speaking on the theme, “Forging Stronger Partnerships in Africa for Sustainable Economic Development,” Prof. Opoku-Agyemang said partnerships between cities have become an important tool for addressing common challenges, attracting investment, and promoting mutual learning.

She said city diplomacy could help strengthen institutions, improve local governance, and create opportunities for businesses and young people.

The Vice President said the Government of Ghana remained committed to decentralisation as part of its national development agenda.

She explained that under President John Dramani Mahama’s Reset Agenda, Metropolitan, Municipal and District Assemblies are being given greater resources and responsibility to improve education, healthcare, infrastructure, and other essential public services.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang also highlighted Ghana’s role as host of the African Continental Free Trade Area Secretariat, saying the country was well positioned to support stronger collaboration among African cities.

According to her, closer ties between municipalities could boost trade, entrepreneurship, innovation, digital transformation, and investment across the continent.

She stressed that cultural and educational exchanges were equally important in strengthening relationships between communities and building trust.

The Vice President said Ghana’s continued engagement with the African diaspora had shown how people to people connections could grow into lasting partnerships that support development.

She noted that cities around the world were facing similar challenges, including rapid urbanisation, climate change, waste management, public health, and disaster preparedness.

She therefore urged municipalities to work more closely by sharing knowledge, building institutional capacity, and developing practical solutions to improve the lives of their people.

Prof. Opoku-Agyemang congratulated Sister Cities International on its 70 years of promoting global friendship and cooperation.

She reaffirmed Ghana’s commitment to partnerships that encourage sustainable development, institutional learning, economic opportunity, and shared prosperity.

BY AGNES OPOKU SARPONG

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The operation, which the ministry described as the “next phase” of an ongoing evacuation programme, is expected to bring home about 1,000 Ghanaians in stages, prioritising women, children, the elderly, people with medical conditions and students, according to the statement.

The exercise responds to renewed xenophobic violence against migrants in South Africa. It will begin with Ghanaians already registered with the Ghana High Commission in Pretoria for government-assisted voluntary return, the ministry said.

Scale of the crisis

The new phase adds to evacuation flights already under way. Ghana’s High Commissioner to South Africa, Benjamin Quashie, said this week that nearly 926 Ghanaians had already been repatriated under earlier stages of the programme, with a further batch of roughly 900 registered nationals cleared for evacuation as of 25 July — an operation Quashie characterised as the “final phase” of the crisis response, according to reports carried by GBC and The Ghana Report.

It is not clear from the ministry’s Saturday statement how this newly announced 1,000-person operation relates to the batch Quashie described days earlier, or whether the two figures overlap. The ministry has not publicly reconciled the numbers, and this newspaper has sought clarification.

Support and appeals

The ministry singled out the Ghanaian leadership of the Church of Pentecost in Pretoria and Johannesburg, and Global Kingdom Investment Pty Ltd, for providing free shelter to displaced Ghanaians “for many weeks” while awaiting processing.

It said the High Commission in Pretoria had reactivated its emergency consular response, and urged Ghanaians still in South Africa to remain calm, avoid areas of unrest, ignore provocations and cooperate with High Commission officials. Distressed nationals were directed to a High Commission hotline, 0723681010.

The government said it would “leave no Ghanaian behind in harm’s way.”

The evacuations follow months of anti-migrant violence in parts of South Africa that has displaced foreign nationals from several countries. Ghana has previously operated evacuation flights in May and June, according to Pulse Ghana.

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