Morocco Crowned 2025 AFCON Champions After CAF Appeal Board Strips Senegal of Title
In a dramatic turn of events that has sent shockwaves across African football, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) has officially declared Morocco the winners of the 2025 TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), a title that had initially been claimed by Senegal on the pitch. The stunning reversal came on March 17, 2026, when the CAF Appeal Board ruled in favour of the Fédération Royale Marocaine de Football (FRMF), upholding Morocco’s appeal that Senegal’s players had walked off the pitch for several minutes during the final match. Under Article 84 of the AFCON Regulations, that walkoff was deemed a forfeit, and the result of the match was officially recorded as 3–0 in Morocco’s favour. It was a ruling that rewrote history. Senegal had crossed the finish line first, celebrating what appeared to be their second AFCON crown. But Morocco refused to accept the outcome, lodging a formal appeal that challenged the legitimacy of Senegal’s victory. The CAF Appeal Board agreed. In its ruling, the board found that Senegal’s conduct during the final fell squarely within the scope of Articles 82 and 84 of the AFCON Regulations, provisions that govern player conduct and the consequences of abandoning a match. The Fédération Sénégalaise de Football (FSF) was found to have infringed Article 82, and with that, Senegal’s triumph was wiped from the record books. “The CAF Appeal Board decided today that, in application of Article 84 of the Regulations of the CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Senegal National Team is declared to have forfeited the Final Match,” CAF’s official statement read. But the ruling did not stop there. While Morocco’s appeal was largely upheld, the board also turned its attention to a series of incidents involving the Moroccan side, and handed down its own set of verdicts. Moroccan player Ismaël Saibari (Player No. 11) was found guilty of misconduct in violation of Articles 82 and 83(1) of the CAF Disciplinary Code. His suspension was set at two official CAF matches, with one match suspended. However, in a partial win for Morocco, the USD 100,000 fine that had originally been imposed on Saibari was set aside entirely. The board also took up the matter of the ball boys incident during the match. The FRMF was confirmed to bear responsibility for the behaviour of the ball boys, but the fine was reduced from its original amount to USD 50,000. Similarly, a fine related to a laser incident was slashed to USD 10,000 following a partial upholding of Morocco’s appeal on that matter. Not everything went Morocco’s way, however. The appeal concerning interference around the OFR/VAR review area was dismissed outright, and the USD 100,000 fine imposed on the FRMF for that incident was confirmed in full. The CAF Disciplinary Board’s original decision was set aside in its entirety, replaced by the Appeal Board’s comprehensive ruling, one that has fundamentally changed the story of the 2025 AFCON. For Morocco, it is a championship won not on the final whistle, but in the boardroom. For Senegal, it is a heartbreaking end to what had been a triumphant campaign. And for African football, it is a moment that will be debated for years to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
U.S. Embassy in Ghana Releases 2,000+ New Visa Appointment Slots for B1/B2 Travelers
In a welcome development for Ghanaian travelers, the U.S. Embassy in Accra has announced the release of more than 2,000 additional visa appointment slots for B1/B2 applicants over the next two weeks. The newly available slots are designed for individuals traveling to the United States for business, family visits, tourism, or to attend the highly anticipated FIFA World Cup. The embassy announced on its official X account on Wednesday, March 4, 2026, building on a recent rollout of over 1,000 non-immigrant visa slots that enabled many travelers to book earlier interview dates. With demand for U.S. visas soaring ahead of major events, the embassy is encouraging applicants who already have appointments scheduled for later in the year to reschedule and take advantage of the increased availability. Interested travelers are advised to check the embassy’s official visa page for detailed instructions and to secure their slots promptly, as competition is expected to be stiff. The move reflects rising interest in travel that combines business, leisure, and global sporting opportunities, with the embassy working to accommodate the surge in applications from Ghana and the wider region. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Manchester City Smash Transfer Record to Land Ghana’s Antoine Semenyo
It was a brisk January evening, but inside Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium, excitement was reaching fever pitch. The Premier League champions had just pulled off a historic signing, securing Ghana international Antoine Semenyo from AFC Bournemouth for a staggering £65 million – the largest fee ever paid for a Ghanaian footballer. The move was set in motion earlier in the week when City activated Semenyo’s release clause. By Thursday, January 8, 2026, the 26-year-old had completed his medical, capping off a whirlwind few days that began with a dramatic winning goal for Bournemouth against Tottenham Hotspur – his final act for the Cherries. Semenyo didn’t have to look far for suitors. Liverpool, Manchester United, Chelsea, and Tottenham had all been linked with the forward, but it was Manchester City who moved decisively, becoming the only club to officially trigger the release clause. The deal was sealed with a five-and-a-half-year contract, tying Semenyo to City until 2031. Speaking after putting pen to paper, a beaming Semenyo shared his excitement: “I am so proud to have joined Manchester City. This is a club with world-class players, world-class facilities, and one of the greatest managers ever. I believe City can take my game to the next level, and my best football is still to come.” Semenyo’s rise has been meteoric. Since joining Bournemouth from Bristol City in January 2023, he has made 110 appearances and has become renowned as one of the Premier League’s most dynamic forwards. This season alone, he netted 10 league goals, including a memorable brace against Liverpool and that last-minute winner versus Spurs. Bristol City, his former club, is celebrating too – they smartly negotiated a 20 per cent sell-on clause when selling Semenyo to Bournemouth for around £10 million. Now, with the record-breaking transfer, the Robins are set for a welcome windfall. For City, the arrival of Semenyo promises to inject fresh pace, strength, and versatility into their attacking ranks. And while he settles into life in Manchester, Semenyo is expected to maintain his crucial role with the Ghana Black Stars, having already amassed over 30 international caps and representing his nation at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. With the ink barely dry on his contract, all eyes will be on Semenyo as he embarks on a new chapter in sky blue, ready to chase trophies and carve his name into Manchester City’s storied history. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Tanzui Community Reigns Supreme: A Tale Of Triumph And Togetherness
Under the bright Bolgatanga sky, the Mobil Park hummed with an electric energy. It was more than a football match; it was a gathering of hearts, a celebration of community spirit. The stage was set for an epic showdown in the 4th Inter Community Unity Soccer Tournament finale, where Tanzui Community would face Daportindongo Community. From the first whistle, Tanzui moved with a singular purpose. In the 12th minute, a surge of precision culminated in Bernard finding the back of the net, sending a roar through their supporters. Just six minutes later, Denis Alangdi doubled the lead with a strike of pure determination, sealing a dominant first half. Despite a valiant fight from Daportindongo, the score remained 2-0 as the final whistle blew. Triumphant cheers erupted as the Tanzui Community was crowned champions, their unity forged into victory on the pitch. The celebrations were just beginning. Sponsored by the generous Friends of Prosper, the award ceremony was a testament to the tournament’s success in promoting sportsmanship among all 19 participating communities. Tanzui lifted the giant trophy; their heroes were rewarded with medals and a cash prize of GH¢ 3000. Individual brilliance was also honored. Tanzui’s Azuma Perry, with his dazzling control, was named Best Player of the Tournament. Between the posts, Mensah Carlos earned the title of Best Goalkeeper, while the tactical mind behind the triumph, Azudaa Emmanuel, was rightly celebrated as Best Coach. The gracious runners-up, Daportindongo Community, were awarded GH¢ 2000 for their spirited campaign. The tournament’s Top Scorer honor went to Desmond Akane of Zaare Community, and Daportindongo’s own Adongo Elijah was hailed as the Most Promising Player, a shining light for the future. As communities gathered, each having received jerseys and footballs from Friends of Prosper, the true victory became clear. It was not just in the goals scored or the prizes won, but in the handshakes, the shared cheers, and the newfound bonds. The tournament proved, once again, that the beautiful game has a profound power to weave threads of unity and togetherness into the very fabric of the community. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Man United fire Ruben Amorim after fourteen months in charge
Ruben Amorim has been sacked by Manchester United The Portuguese’s final game of his 14-month spell in charge was the 1-1 draw against Leeds United on Sunday, which leaves them sixth in the Premier League after 20 matches. Former midfielder and current Under-18s coach Darren Fletcher is expected to take charge on an interim basis. His first game would be away at Burnley on Wednesday night, with a permanent appointment likely to wait until the summer. The decision has been arrived at by the club’s leadership team, including chief executive Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, after a breakdown in relations behind the scenes. As per the terms in the deal Amorim signed to leave Sporting CP for United in November 2024, there is no clause present to enable a discounted exit, meaning United will have to pay up his contract in full. It was set to run until 2027 with the option of a further year. Speaking after the draw at Elland Road, Amorim hinted at tensions with those working alongside him, making clear in his post-match press conference that he considered himself the “manager” of United, not the “coach”. “It’s going to be like this for 18 months or when the board decides to change,” Amorim added. “That was my point, I want to finish with that. I’m not going to quit. I will do my job until another guy comes here to replace me.” Amorim has been criticised for his perceived tactical inflexibility during his time at United, due to his preference for a 3-4-3 setup. However, The Athletic reported in December that United had been trialling other formations in training. Against Newcastle United on December 26, Amorim’s side recorded a 1-0 win playing in a 4-2-3-1, before reverting to the 3-4-3 and drawing 1-1 against Wolverhampton Wanderers four days later. Speaking before the Leeds game, Amorim hinted at differences of opinion relating to the 3-4-3 formation and an inability to sign the players his preferred system requires. He again set his team up in the 3-4-3 against Leeds. United paid €11million (£9.25m; $11.95m) to hire Amorim from Sporting, where he won the Primeira Liga title in 2021 and again in 2024 while also winning the Taca da Liga — the Portuguese League Cup — on two occasions. Amorim succeeded Erik ten Hag, with the Dutchman leaving after two and a half years in charge at Old Trafford. United went on to suffer their worst-ever Premier League season, finishing 15th with just 42 points — their fewest in a top-flight season since they were relegated in 1973–74. They went out of the FA Cup in the fifth round at the hands of Fulham, suffered a Carabao Cup exit at the quarter-final stage after losing to Tottenham Hotspur, and reached the final of the Europa League, only to lose to the north London side again. Defeat by Spurs in Bilbao sealed a first trophyless campaign since 2021-22 and ensured they failed to secure European football for the first time since 2014. United spent more than £200million ($269m) on new signings during the 2025 summer transfer window, with Benjamin Sesko, Bryan Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha all arriving for fees above £60m. Goalkeeper Senne Lammens also arrived from Royal Antwerp in an £18.2m deal on deadline day. This season, United endured their worst opening to a campaign since 1992-93, managing only seven points from their opening six Premier League games. The Athletic reported in September that co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe had flown in to the team’s Carrington training ground for a series of meetings, including with Amorim, with the team’s form on the agenda. Following the embarrassing Carabao Cup exit at the hands of League Two Grimsby Town in August, Amorim himself called his future into question, saying “something has to change” and that the club’s players “clearly showed what they want”. He went on to say later that week that “sometimes I hate my players, sometimes I love my players”. Amorim was previously in contention to replace Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool before Arne Slot ultimately got the job and also held talks over replacing David Moyes at West Ham, before later apologising and calling the meeting “a mistake”. United have had six permanent managers since Sir Alex Ferguson retired in 2013 and have finished no higher than second in that time, achieved by both Jose Mourinho (2017-18) and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer (2020-21). The club have spent more than £50million ($67m, €57m) on removing managers since Ferguson left the role. Source: The Atlantic
Ghana Set to Earn at Least $10.5 Million for Black Stars’ 2026 World Cup Appearance
Ghana could secure a minimum payout of $10.5 million if the Black Stars qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following FIFA’s approval of a record $727 million prize and support package for the expanded tournament. The new prize structure, endorsed by the FIFA Council, represents a 50 percent increase over the prize money awarded at the Qatar 2022 World Cup and reflects the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams. The 2026 finals will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Under the revised framework, $655 million will be distributed as performance-based prize money to Participating Member Associations (PMAs). Teams finishing between 33rd and 48th place will each receive $9 million, while those ranked 17th to 32nd will earn $11 million. With Ghana’s potential placement, the Black Stars are assured of at least $10.5 million simply for participating in the tournament. The approved package underscores FIFA’s commitment to rewarding nations for their participation and achievement in the global showcase, further raising the stakes for teams seeking to make their mark at the 2026 World Cup. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Team Nigeria Makes History with First-Ever Africa Basketball Festival Title
Team Nigeria etched their name into the record books at the 2025 Africa Basketball Festival (ABF) on Sunday, December 14, clinching their maiden championship after a series of hard-fought victories against Ghana, Liberia, and China. The historic win was especially momentous as it marked Nigeria’s first victory over Ghana at the ABF, ending Ghana’s formidable three-year reign in front of an enthusiastic home crowd. The tournament’s opening clash, held on December 12, saw Nigeria edge out host nation Ghana 52–48 in a tense and closely contested encounter, a result that set the stage for Nigeria’s remarkable campaign and shifted the balance of power in the tournament. Despite facing setbacks, including a narrow three-point loss to Team Lebanon in their second game, Nigeria stayed resilient. They rebounded with a gritty 47–44 win over Team Liberia to stay in contention for the title. Nigeria’s crowning moment came in their final match, where they delivered a commanding 114–37 victory over Team China to seal their championship run. The fifth edition of the Africa Basketball Festival celebrated its milestone anniversary with five days of thrilling action, featuring five participating countries, Ghana, Nigeria, Liberia, China, and Lebanon—and five fashion brands. The event drew over 5,000 spectators, who enjoyed a dynamic blend of high-octane basketball, live music performances, and vibrant fashion shows. The 2025 ABF was made possible through sponsorship from Glico General Insurance, GTS Drilling, Indomie Noodles, GTV Sports Plus, Points Africa, Warrior King Watches, Lamborghini Energy Drink, The Luckiest Africa, Minimie Atsomo, Lush Hair, Verna Water, the Ghana Basketball Association, Nkonkonsa.com, Awuah Sports, Sporty FM, Nescafé, and the Ghana Tourism Authority. The festival was produced by RITE Sports Services and hosted by the University of Ghana Sports & Wellness Directorate. For more highlights and updates, follow @RealABF on TikTok, Instagram, X, and Facebook. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
2026 FIFA World Cup Chief Safety Officer Advises Fans: “Bring Your Passion, Leave the Pyro”
As anticipation builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, GB Jones, the tournament’s Chief Safety and Security Officer, has issued a timely reminder to football fans across the globe: safety comes first. Speaking at a forum organised by the Africa Center of the Atlantic Council, Jones urged supporters to familiarize themselves with stadium safety regulations well ahead of next year’s event, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Jones highlighted that while the World Cup is renowned for its colourful celebrations and energetic crowds, certain popular fan items will not be allowed inside stadiums. “With respect to what to bring to the World Cup, we want you to bring your passion, but leave your pyro,” he emphasized, referencing the ban on fireworks, smoke devices, and other pyrotechnic items. “We don’t want the fireworks with the smoke or the pyrotechnicians in the stadium. But we want to embrace the passion.” He explained that these restrictions are not meant to diminish fan culture but to ensure the safety and enjoyment of everyone in attendance. “Please understand our prohibited items include those which will be listed on our website or on the ticket information. Know what you can and cannot bring to the stadium,” Jones advised, encouraging fans to check FIFA’s official website and ticketing platforms for a comprehensive list of banned items to avoid any last-minute disappointment. Despite the new safety measures, Jones was quick to reassure fans that FIFA remains committed to supporting vibrant, fan-driven energy. “We want to ensure that you can get all your items into all the stadiums. Fans should bring what will help them celebrate, but within the limits set for safety,” he concluded. As the world counts down to the kickoff of football’s biggest event, the message from the top is clear: let the passion flow, but always put safety first. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Mohammed Kudus Confident as Black Stars Brace for Tough 2026 World Cup Group
Black Stars playmaker Mohammed Kudus has expressed optimism and confidence following Ghana’s draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting that the team is ready for the tough road ahead. During Friday’s draw ceremony in Washington DC, Ghana landed in Group L, one of the tournament’s most competitive groups, alongside England, 2018 World Cup finalists Croatia, and Panama. The mix of European giants and a rising CONCACAF side has set the stage for a challenging campaign. Despite the daunting opposition, Kudus believes the Black Stars have already demonstrated their pedigree by securing qualification. “To qualify for the World Cup alone is a big statement from us, and it shows what we can do,” he said, emphasizing the team’s confidence in its abilities. The Tottenham Hotspur forward welcomed the challenge, stressing that Ghana’s mindset remains focused and ambitious. “It’ll be interesting. I’m looking forward to it. We are very much aware of the sides we will be facing. We will definitely be up for it, and we will be ready.” The Black Stars are aiming to restore their reputation on the global stage after missing out on the knockout rounds in their last two appearances. With the expanded 48-team format presenting new opportunities, Ghana hopes to recapture the magic of 2010, when they famously reached the quarter-finals. Preparations will intensify in the coming months, with warm-up friendlies and training camps scheduled ahead of the competition’s kickoff in June 2026. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Sports Minister Kofi Adams Warns of Croatia Threat Ahead of Ghana’s 2026 World Cup Group L Clash
The Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has voiced concerns about Ghana’s prospects in their Group L encounter with Croatia at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing the European nation as a particularly dangerous opponent. Ghana has been drawn alongside Panama, England, and Croatia in Group L and will face the Croatians after their matches with Panama and England. Speaking in an interview with Sporty FM, Mr. Adams singled out Croatia for their tactical versatility, noting the unique challenge this poses for the Black Stars. “Everybody knows how dangerous Croatia have been in previous World Cups. They have had different strategies. It doesn’t necessarily mean we should go and read their previous strategies as part of our preparation. They are a team that can change their style about three times within 90 minutes of play,” he said. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first-ever 48-team tournament. The expanded format will feature 104 matches and a record nine automatic qualification slots for Africa. The upcoming tournament will be Ghana’s fifth appearance at the FIFA World Cup. The Black Stars have previously competed in the 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2022 editions, with their best run coming in 2010, when they reached the quarterfinals in South Africa. Source: Apexnewsgh.com