Three teams have qualified for in the semi finals of the 2024 MTN FA Cup, with defending champions Dreams FC and Soccer Intellectuals yet to secure their place till 17 April, 2024

The three premier division Bofoakwa Tano, Legon Cities, and Nsoatreman FC emerged victorious from the quarter-final stage, edging out their respective opponents in exciting meets.

Bofoakwa Tano fortified their stand in the competition with a dramatic semi-final berth after defeating Skyy FC 5-4 on penalties. The game ended in a deadlocked at 1-1 after regulation time, with Elisha Addai’s 17th-minute opener for Bofoakwa Tano being cancelled out by Andrews Cobbinah’s equaliser for Skyy FC. Bofoakwa Tano will take on the winner of the upcoming quarter-final clash between Dreams FC and Soccer Intellectuals, which kicks off on 17 April.

Legon Cities got a hard-fought 1-0 win over Bechem United at the Dawu Theatre of Dreams. The lone goal proved enough to take them into the semi-finals, where they will lock horns with Nsoatreman FC.

As the MTN FA cup semi-final pairings are confirmed, all eyes are now on the upcoming matches. Bofoakwa Tano will be aiming to cause an upset against the winner of the Dreams FC vs. Soccer Intellectuals encounter, while Legon Cities will look to continue their cup run against Nsoatreman FC.

The Semi-finals are set for May 10-13,2024, while the grand final of the MTN FA Cup competition will come off on June 23/24,2024.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

Ghana's 4x100m men's team is ranked 15th in the current ranking, and has qualified for the Paris 2024 Olympics based on top list ranking.

The important fact is that 4x100m men entry number of teams: 16 (by top list)

Qualification period: 31 DEC 2022 - 30 JUN 2024.

They should try to improve upon their time or pray that no team does a better time to by pass them.

Rose Yeboah the High Jumper will also be in Paris if she maintains her current ranking. She was first at the 13^th African Games and won the World University Games. Her personal best is 1.94m.

Swimmer Abeiku Jackson will be joined by one other good swimmer for the Paris Games as Ghana will enjoy a wild card, since Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020, Ghana has got a wild card to perform.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

MTN Stands In Worship brings Kumasi to standstill

The Garden City, Kumasi came to a standstill on Easter Sunday, when the MTN Stands In Worship, took center stage for the first time in the region.

Hundreds of gospel music lovers trooped to the Golden Bean Hotel, to experience what eventually came out as one of the biggest events within the region.

At 5pm(the scheduled time for the show), most of the audience were seated with DJ Carcious warming up the auditorium with some 'welcoming' melodies for the anxious fans who were looking forward to a memorable evening.

The night officially started with a grand entrance by MC Abena Kay who ensured that audience settled in with her amazing command and blend of the twi and English language.

The excited kids,the dapper youth, the elegant oldies and radiant royal folks adorned in rich kente fabrics were ready to be emersed into powerful ministrations.

Starting with the Kumasi Evengel Choir, patrons were treated to over half an hour renditions of local chorals including "Just by the Power of God", "God You're Good" by Francis Adyei,"Yedi Nkunim" and "Watua M'aka' by Tagoe Sisters among others.

Apostle Dr Nana Sarpong then delivered his Words of Exhortation titled 'Consider' and urged Christians to take advantage of such programmes to praise God for his mercy and sacrifices.

He said, it was important to celebrate the victory of Christ in a very decent and Godly manner while urging the youth to desist from violence during the upcoming December general elections.

His message paved way for the classic man in the Ghanaian gospel music industry, ACP Kofi Sarpong who set the roof on fire with his outstanding energy and stage craft.

Starting with "Amen" and then Esther Piesie's "Ewuradi Mo," followed "Agyenkwa" and his usual  Presbyterian hymns, the crowd went agog and practically joined him on stage to sing and dance along.

He charged the atmosphere with his jumps and great dance moves which got the youth to defy orders and danced in front of the 'royal bench."

The City's favourite Bra Sammy's performance which followed was nothing short of spectacular with his soothing and spirit-filled voice to bring the crowd into worship mood.

Beginning with his remarkable rendition of local worship, "the Nation's Worshipper" as affectionately called, switched into some powerful praises to bring back ACP's energy.

The night however was far from over as one of Ghana's greatest vocalists and live band performer, Obaapa Christy took over for another spectacle serving audience with a mocktail of old,recent and new songs including "Ebeyeyie," "Hyebre Sesafo", "Aseda" and "Wagye Me."

After which she perfectly introduced the icing on the cake,Kweku Gyasi with their song "Mesuafre Awurade" to crown the night with another memorable performance.

Patrons did not waste time as they joined the evergreen performer on stage with his high-powered display to dance the night away in what many described as the best gospel event to ever happen in Kumasi in recent times                                                  

Source MTN

Sensational Stanley Nyantekyi aka the ‘Ashanti Warrior’ climbs the ring in his native Ashanti Kingdom to face a tried and tested veteran, Emanuel Quartey aka ‘Akuffo Addo’ for the national featherweight title on the bill dubbed BOXFEST by Osibor Promotions on April 2, 2024 at the the SG Mall, Kumasi.

Mr. Gordon Frimpong, CEO of Osibor Promotions said they intentionally brought the fight to the garden city to win more support and souls for the sport and new championing coming up.

“We strategically want to stage the fight in Kumasi for Ashantis who love boxing and to encourage more boxers from the region to hit the limelight.”

He promised a good night of action with boxing entertainment, as boxing fans will have mush to cheer about.

“Grab a ticket and let’s make this Easter Boxing Show a memorable one in the Ashanti Kingdom” he said.

Stanley Nyantekyi said he wants to win to set his dream to a world title alive.

“I am very sure I will win by a knock out, because I am in good form and ready to win my second and important title” he said.

Nyantekyi (8-1-1) already holds the Lions Boxing Organisation (LBO) title belt and he said that pushed him high to fast recognition, however he needs the national title and from there move to other titles.

“I have already promised to win a world title and this is the step towards the big dream” he expressed.

Coach Carl Lokko said Nyantekyi is ready, focused and in top shape for battle.

“This is another good test and we hope to pass and move to bigger titles” he said.

Emmanuel Quartey (25-11-1) a former featherweight champion is also coming to rebuild his career.

Crack boxers like John Zile, Daniel Gorsh, Bismark Saah, Emmanuel Otoo, Jacob Dickson, Sampson Solomon and Jon Power will feature in the supporting bouts.

Tickets are pegged at 50gh for VIP and 30gh for Regular.

By Sammy Heywood Okine    

Joseph “Jo Jo” Awinongya Jr., the 20-time National Champion, is set to make history once again as he steps into the ring for the Golden Gloves Finals on April 13 at 7:00 PM at Cicero Stadium, Cicero, Il. Awinongya’s journey has been nothing short of extraordinary, and his relentless pursuit of excellence has captivated boxing enthusiasts worldwide.

From Passion to Championship

Boxing wasn’t initially Awinongya Jr.'s passion; it was his father’s. However, destiny had other plans. Jo Jo’s relentless spirit and unwavering dedication led him to numerous victories, including a unanimous win over David Lona, securing his spot in the next stage of the USA Boxing competition. His Ghanaian heritage and American upbringing have shaped him into a formidable force, both inside and outside the ring.

Golden Gloves: A Legacy of Champions

The Golden Gloves tournament, steeped in history, has been the proving ground for countless boxing legends. Established in 1928, it has consistently showcased the best amateur boxers across the United States. Here are some past champions who left an indelible mark on the sport:

Joe Louis: The “Brown Bomber” dominated the heavyweight division in the 1930s and '40s. His Golden Gloves victories paved the way for a legendary professional career.

Cassius Clay (Muhammad Ali): Before he became “The Greatest,” Ali won six Golden Gloves titles. His charisma and skill captivated audiences long before he floated like a butterfly and stung like a bee.

Sugar Ray Leonard: A dazzling boxer with lightning-fast hands, Leonard claimed the Golden Gloves title in 1973. His professional career included epic battles with Roberto Durán and Thomas Hearns.

Oscar De La Hoya: The “Golden Boy” won the Golden Gloves championship in 1989. His Olympic gold medal and subsequent pro career solidified his status as a boxing icon.

Floyd Mayweather Jr.: Before his undefeated professional record, Mayweather shone in the Golden Gloves. His defensive prowess and technical brilliance were evident even then.

Meet and Greet with Jo Jo

This Golden Gloves presents a unique opportunity for fans to finally meet and greet Joseph “Jo Jo” Awinongya Jr. People will get a chance to interact with the rising star, capture memorable photos, and secure autographs. Jo Jo’s humility and approachability make this event a must-attend for boxing enthusiasts and aspiring athletes alike.

Join Us for the Thrilling Showdown

Don’t miss this electrifying moment as Joseph “Jo Jo” Awinongya Jr. steps into the spotlight once again. The Golden Gloves Finals promise intense action, fierce competition, and a display of boxing mastery. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or a newcomer to the sport, this is an event you won’t want to miss.

His supporters will be amoung the crowd including Hawk Joliet,  Sibley Store Fixtures, Team Ayala, X's and O's Bar and Grill, Thor General Contracting, Mickey's Tire & Service,  Chicago Sports and Fitness, The Forge, Ethic Roofing, James A Rowan, Al Bawadi Grill, Captain Coolers, Sam Colonna Boxing, Roosevelt McCullum former Golden Gloves Champion from Joliet, IL, The Progressive Minds Show (TPMS), ECCSC Ex-Cons for Community and Social Change, DTM Metacafe, Deborah Summers, and Bare Knuckles Entertainment.

Event Details:

Date: April 13, 2024

Doors open: 6:00 PM

Fights Start Time: 7:00 PM

Location: Cicero Stadium 1909 S. Laramie Ave. Cicero, Il

Tickets: Available at the arena box office

Instagram  @josephawinongyajr

From Sammy Heywood Okine                                                 

18 Amputee Players Called To Camp For African Amputee Football Cup of Nations 2024 Cairo / Egypt 19 to 28 April 2024

The head coach of the Ghana National Amputee Football Team, the Black Challenge, Coach Stephen Richard Obeng has released the list of players expected to begin camping on 5 April 2024 in Accra for preparations for the African Amputee Football Cup of Nations 2024 Cairo, which kicks off from the *19th to 28th of April 2024*.

The players, who consisted of eight (8) professionals based in Turkey, arrived in Ghana between 28 March and 31 March 2024 to join their local counterparts in camp to defend the trophy they had won in 2021.

The reigning African Nations Cup Champions and African Para Games Champions will pay a courtesy call to the Minister of Youth and Sports in the coming days before camp begins. Thank You,

Communication Bureau

Ghana Paralympic Committee

Beautiful Beneath, the nations number one lingerie and sports shop  has come out with a Special Easter 2024 Offer

Madam Juliet says if you BUY one you take one  FREE

She said may this year’s Easter bring every one peace and happiness.

Ghana’s leading lingerie shop, Beautiful Beneath is giving you TWO swimwear / bikini for the price of one. BUY one and get 1 FREE.

This special promotion ends on April 16th, 2024.

East Legon: tel:+233591485656

Marina Mall : tel:+233591485670

Labone: :tel:+233265779558/ tel:+233244755120

From Sammy Heywood Okine

Chosen Children of Darkuman emerged winners, Great James from Chorkor placed second, Shalom of Zion got third position while Enough Grace from Aworshie were forth at the ‘Dawn of the Orphanages’ Functional Sports Competition held at the Zulka Astro Turf at Dansoman in Accra.

They were involved in endurance, strength, speed, power tests with running, squatting, press jumps and sit ups for under 14 years and above 15 years.

All the ten selected representatives for the various Orphanages were committed to the course and willing to win. They were trained by qualified instructors for four months before the competition.

Before the competition all the orphans and instructors took part in an exciting aerobics session.

Mr. Charles Owusu Ansah, President of Functional Sports League Ghana was happy for another successful event which attracted a lot of the media.

He commended the participants especially the winners, saying the best athletes are being monitored and they will be selected for a bigger comfort.

He also hailed the technical officers who were also undergoing a training exercise.

Present was Nana Adu Mankatta, President of Sports For All Ghana who led team Ghana at the opening and closing ceremonies of the 13^th African Games and other fitness instructors and lovers of fitness.

By Sammy Heywood Okine

‘I could have stayed at Ajax but I don’t want to be complacent and comfortable,’ says Mohammed Kudus. Photograph: Shaun Brooks/Action Plus/Shutterstock

Some defenders bounce off Mohammed Kudus and most end up bewitched by his footwork. West Ham’s Ghanaian sensation is an intriguing mix of strength, skill and imagination. His technique makes him one of the most dangerous players in the Premier League but Kudus believes his steely edge owes much to his upbringing in Nima, a place that teaches you to stand up for yourself from an early age.

“Mentally it’s a very tough area,” he says. “You have to be very tough to live there. If you are soft people walk on you. It has an impact on how I play. In 50-50 challenges I don’t want to lose it. I work on my body and make sure I am very strong on the ball.”

Kudus, who has been outstanding since joining West Ham last summer, laughs when he remembers the football back home. “There are no rules over there!” he says. “It’s all in. You have to be very strong.”

Nima, a market town in the greater Accra region of Ghana, has a difficult reputation. “When you say Nima it’s like there’s a lot of violence happening there, it’s like a ghetto and you need to be street smart and tough to stay there,” Kudus says. He is out to change perceptions. “There’s a lot of professional players from there,” the 23-year-old adds. “It’s why I always keep mentioning where I come from. There can be talent as well.”

Kudus is a role model. He loves connecting with his roots but it is no longer possible for him to live his old life when he visits home. He is too famous to do normal stuff – “like going by the roadside to get some food” – but his heart is there. A mural of Kudus went up in Nima after he scored in Ghana’s win over South Korea in the 2022 World Cup; he does not feel weighed down by being a champion to so many.

Source footballghana

Awumey Nelson is a heavyweight boxer at the Bronx Boxing Gym. He has six amateur and one professional outing to his credit which he won all.

He told Yours Truly in an exclusive interview that he would love to represent Ghana at an international tournament like the African Championship, World Championship, African Games or Olympic Games.

“I did not hear of how selection was made to the national boxing team and how many entries we made for the weights. But for my weight I am guaranteed a medal because there are not many heavyweight boxers and I know I can win gold, I don’t think its too late am am ready for the 2024 Qualifier in Thailand as I heard” he said.

Coach Carl Lokko of the Bronx Gym said if he is contacted he will release him to join the national team, because everyone wants the best for the nation.

He said Abu Kamoko is a member of the Bronx Gym who represented Ghana and won a silver medal, “so we want our best boxers to be exposed and excel everywhere everytime.”

By Sammy Heywood Okine