Thomas Partey Denied Entry to Canada, Misses World Cup Opener
The flight from Boston to Toronto was supposed to carry Ghana’s hopes. Instead, Thomas Partey stayed grounded, not by injury, not by form, but by a single stamp that never came. Just days before the Black Stars’ opening match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a quiet but crushing blow landed on Ghana’s camp. The former Arsenal midfielder, now plying his trade with Villarreal in Spain, was denied entry into Canada. His visa application had been refused by Canadian authorities, and the news arrived like a cold wind on the eve of battle. According to BBC Sport, FIFA confirmed the development on Friday. Partey had been training with his teammates in Boston, the team’s designated base before crossing the border. But Canadian immigration officials had other plans. No visa. No entry. No Panama clash in Toronto. In a brief statement, FIFA distanced itself from the decision. “FIFA is not involved in the immigration processes of host countries, including the adjudication of visas,” the governing body said. “The host government ultimately determines who receives a visa and is admitted into the country.” For four-time African champions Ghana, the timing could not be worse. Partey, 32, remains one of the most influential players in Otto Addo’s squad. His experience, his composure in midfield, his ability to break lines, all of it will be missing when the Black Stars face Panama. The visa refusal, however, does not exist in a vacuum. Partey is scheduled to stand trial next year, having pleaded not guilty to seven charges of rape and one count of sexual assault involving four women between 2020 and 2022. Canadian authorities have not publicly explained their decision, but the shadow of those legal proceedings now falls across the World Cup stage. Partey joins an unhappy club of football figures caught in immigration tangles at this expanded 48-team tournament, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Somali referee Omar Artan, selected by FIFA to officiate, was previously denied entry into the United States,vanother reminder that even FIFA’s stamp carries no weight at a sovereign border. For coach Otto Addo, the tactical board must be redrawn. For Ghanaian fans, the hope that Partey would orchestrate their midfield has turned to hollow resignation. And as the Black Stars prepare to step onto the pitch in Toronto, one of their brightest lights will be watching from somewhere else, locked out, literally, from the game he was born to play. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Ghana’s Embassy in Washington Awaits World Cup Ticket Allocation for Diaspora Supporters
Ghana’s Embassy in Washington, D.C., has announced that it is yet to receive tickets allocated for Ghanaian supporters in the United States ahead of the upcoming FIFA World Cup matches. The update comes amid growing anticipation among Ghanaians living in the US who are eager to cheer on the Black Stars at the tournament. Interest in ticket availability has surged following recent remarks by President John Dramani Mahama during his official visit to the US. The President stated that, rather than flying supporters from Ghana to North America, the government would secure World Cup tickets from FIFA for distribution to Ghanaians already residing in the US, Mexico, and Canada. In a public notice issued to the Ghanaian diaspora community on Thursday, June 11, 2026, the embassy clarified that it was still awaiting both the tickets and information on the allocation process. “The Embassy of Ghana in Washington D.C. wishes to inform the Ghanaian diaspora in the United States that Mission is yet to receive tickets for the World Cup games,” the statement said. The embassy assured the diaspora community that details regarding ticket allocation and distribution procedures would be promptly communicated as soon as the tickets arrive. “As soon as mission receives the allocated tickets and modalities on how to distribute them, it will be communicated to the diaspora community accordingly,” the notice added. The embassy’s announcement aims to keep supporters informed and manage expectations as the country prepares to rally behind the Black Stars on the world stage. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Somali Referee Omar Artan Receives Hero’s Welcome After US Entry Denial
Somali referee Omar Artan was greeted with a rousing welcome as he returned to Mogadishu on Wednesday, June 10, 2026, following a high-profile incident in which he was denied entry into the United States. Crowds of supporters, government officials, and football authorities gathered at Aden Adde International Airport to celebrate the return of the 34-year-old, who had recently been named Africa’s Referee of the Year for 2025. Artan’s homecoming came just two days after he was stopped at Miami International Airport, despite possessing both a diplomatic passport and a single-entry US visa. US immigration authorities have yet to publicly explain the reasons for his repatriation, a decision that dashed hopes of seeing Artan become the first Somali referee to officiate at a FIFA World Cup finals. Somalia remains among the countries affected by travel restrictions first introduced during former US President Donald Trump’s administration. This backdrop added to the sense of injustice and national pride that marked Artan’s return. The reception at the airport was led by senior government officials, representatives of the Somali Football Federation, fellow referees, and members of the public, all eager to show their support. Visibly moved by the show of solidarity, Artan addressed the crowd, expressing heartfelt gratitude to those who had stood by him. “I’d like to thank the officials, ministers, MPs, and everyone. I want to thank my country and people for their support,” he said, as translated by the BBC. “The encouragement I received here, I know I’ll get more support outside [the airport].” Artan also revealed that FIFA had been in regular contact with him throughout the ordeal, offering support until he returned safely to Mogadishu. “Everything is pre-destined. FIFA supported me well and was in touch with me until I reached Mogadishu,” he shared. Despite the disappointment, Artan’s resolve remains unshaken. He is set to attend a public event at Mogadishu Stadium, where he will watch a domestic league match between Heegan and Dekadaha, and has vowed to continue pursuing his international refereeing ambitions. Looking ahead, he boldly declared his intention to officiate at the 2030 FIFA World Cup, insisting that his journey at the highest level of football is far from over. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Queiroz Names 28-Man Black Stars Squad for World Cup Preparations, With Key Returns and Cardiff Camp
As anticipation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup mounts, Black Stars head coach Carlos Queiroz has unveiled a 28-man provisional squad set to anchor Ghana’s preparations in Cardiff. The group, which includes five goalkeepers, nine defenders, seven midfielders, and seven forwards, kicked off their intensive training camp at Wales’ National Football Development Centre, Dragon Park, on Monday, May 25, 2026. The camp marks the start of a crucial phase for Ghana’s World Cup ambitions, highlighted by a marquee friendly against the Welsh national team on June 2. This high-profile fixture is expected to test the Black Stars’ readiness ahead of their departure for the global tournament in North America. Queiroz’s selection has generated excitement, thanks to the return of key players and the inclusion of fresh talent. Among the squad is experienced left-back Baba Abdul Rahman, who reclaims his spot after a stellar season with PAOK FC in Greece, where he impressed with three goals and three assists in 35 matches. Another headline inclusion is winger Ernest Nuamah of Olympique Lyonnais, who rejoins the team after overcoming a serious ACL injury that sidelined him for nearly a year. Youngster Paul Reverson, currently with Ajax in the Netherlands, is also making waves with his first-ever national call-up, a move seen as part of the technical team’s long-term vision. Other notable names on Queiroz’s roster include Abdul Mumin of Spain’s Rayo Vallecano, Alidu Seidu from French side Stade Rennais, and Augustine Boakye with AS Saint-Étienne. The Black Stars will remain in Cardiff for the duration of their training camp before heading to North America, where they have been drawn into Group L for the World Cup’s opening phase. Their group stage journey will see them play across three major cities: Panama in Toronto, Canada; England in Boston, United States; and Croatia in Philadelphia, United States. With the squad assembled and preparations underway, Ghanaian football fans are eagerly watching as the Black Stars gear up for another shot at global glory. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Avoid Watching Black Stars’ World Cup Live Matches–Ex-Mighty Rocks Manager Warns Heart Patients
Former Bolgatanga Mighty Rocks manager and development advocate Mr. Gabriel Agambila has issued a stark warning to Ghanaian football fans: temper your hopes for the upcoming World Cup in the United States, or face crushing disappointment that could endanger your health. With kickoff just days away, Agambila points to a chaotic and disjointed buildup, one he says is painfully familiar. Ghana still has no official roster. According to Mr. Agambila, across Europe, players are reporting to camp without any formal release or communication from a head coach who has never even seen them in person. “This is no time for blind hope,” Agambila told reporters. “Ghanaians should celebrate qualifying, but nothing more.” For die-hard supporters, his advice is grim: lower expectations now to avoid being overwhelmed by what’s coming. Those with weak hearts or high blood pressure, he suggested, should skip live matches entirely and wait for replays. “Almost four years, and we keep making the same mistakes while expecting different results,” Agambila lamented. Football, he explained, is an investment of time, a bond forged through proper preparation. “That preparation simply hasn’t happened.” His verdict was blunt: “We are coming to the USA as tourists. Nothing else.” On a more reassuring note, Agambila confirmed that members of the Alagumgube Association in the diaspora will, as always, welcome the supporters, the team, and the officials upon arrival. But he warned that the warmth of that reception cannot mask the chill awaiting Ghana on the pitch. Below are some critical concerns by Mr. Agambila 1. The Black Stars have arrived in Wales without the head coach yet. 2. With only a few days to the World Cup, the official squad list has still not been released. 3. Players based in Europe are already reporting to camp without an official release from the coach, who has yet to even see the players physically. 4. My advice to football-loving Ghanaians is to only rejoice in the fact that we qualified for the World Cup and to cease having any high hopes. This is especially important for die-hard soccer fans; we must psych ourselves up so we are not overwhelmed by the results that await us. 5. I would even advise those with blood pressure issues, if they are not strong-hearted, to only watch replays of the games. 6. For close to four years now, we have kept making the same old mistakes while expecting different results. 7. Football is an investment of time that requires bonding together and doing the right preparation, none of which we have done. 8. I will say we are coming to the USA merely as tourists and nothing else. 9. Alagumgube in the diaspora will, as usual, welcome the supporters, the team, and the officials to the USA when they arrive. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
Premier League clubs hit financial jackpot as Arsenal lead 2025/26 earnings table
The money in the Premier League just keeps getting crazier, and the latest earnings table proves that England’s top flight is still football’s ultimate cash machine. Fresh figures released at the end of the 2025/26 season show that Arsenal topped the Premier League earnings chart with a massive £198.7 million, narrowly ahead of Manchester City on £192.5 million and Manchester United on £191.5 million. The numbers combine television rights, commercial distributions, merit payments, and facility fees — and once again show why even mid-table English clubs can spend like European giants. Full Premier League earnings list (2025/26) 1. Arsenal – £198.7m 2. Manchester City – £192.5m 3. Manchester United – £191.5m 4. Aston Villa – £182.6m 5. Liverpool – £181.8m 6. Bournemouth – £170.5m 7. Sunderland – £168.2m 8. Chelsea – £162.6m 9. Brighton & Hove Albion – £161.6m 10. Brentford – £161.5m 11. Fulham – £155.2m 12. Newcastle United – £154.5m 13. Everton – £147.7m 14. Leeds United – £144.5m 15. Crystal Palace – £137.5m 16. Nottingham Forest – £137.1m 17. Tottenham Hotspur – £135.8m 18. West Ham United – £128.6m 19. Burnley – £118.1m 20. Wolverhampton Wanderers – £117.7m What makes the figures even more unbelievable is this: the bottom clubs in England are still earning more than champions in some of Europe’s biggest leagues. Germany, Spain, and France can’t keep up In Germany, Bayern Munich, one of the biggest football brands on the planet, is projected to earn around €107 million from Bundesliga distributions. In Spain, FC Barcelona and Real Madrid remain the only clubs capable of competing financially with England’s elite, earning around €170m–€180m annually from league-related revenue. Meanwhile, in France, even champions Paris Saint-Germain reportedly earn far less from domestic league distribution, with Ligue 1 clubs struggling after major TV-rights complications. The Premier League’s massive international TV audience is the main reason for the gap. Every club receives huge guaranteed broadcast money before league position bonuses are even added. Why young fans should care These numbers explain almost everything happening in modern football: * Why Premier League clubs dominate transfer windows * Why English teams can outbid European rivals for players * Why even smaller EPL clubs can sign international stars * Why the Premier League feels more competitive every season For younger fans watching on TikTok, YouTube, and streaming platforms, the Premier League isn’t just a football league anymore; it’s global entertainment powered by billions. And with clubs now earning close to £200 million a season before Champions League money is added, Europe’s financial power shift looks far from over.
Sports Minister Refutes Claims of Substandard Vaulting Poles at African Athletics Championships
Ghana’s Sports Minister, Kofi Adams, has firmly denied media reports suggesting that foreign athletes were forced to use substandard vaulting poles provided by Ghana during the African Senior Athletics Championships at the University of Ghana Stadium in Accra. Addressing the press, Mr. Adams clarified that while Ghana’s Local Organising Committee supplied vaulting poles for the competition, none of the athletes actually used them. “It’s a standard thing. Yours is to provide the landing surface, the cross bar, and then the stand poles,” he explained. He emphasized that the vaulting poles themselves are personal equipment, with athletes preferring to compete with their own poles for comfort and familiarity. “The only thing is that the ITOs will certify it for them,” he added, referring to the International Technical Officials who inspect and approve the athletes’ equipment. The minister recounted an incident involving a Beninese athlete whose vaulting pole broke during the event, stressing that the damaged pole belonged to the athlete and had not been supplied by Ghana. Similarly, South African competitors used their own vaulting poles, Mr. Adams noted. He further disclosed that the South African team had paid a deposit at Aviance at Accra International Airport for the equipment they brought into the country. This deposit, he assured, would be refunded once the athletes left Ghana with their equipment. Reflecting on the championship as a whole, Mr. Adams concluded that the event “generally went well,” with the exception of some early power issues that were promptly addressed. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
The Ministry of Sports and Recreation Officially Welcomes Carlos Queiroz as Ghana’s New Head Coach
In a move aimed at bolstering Ghana’s football ambitions, the Ministry of Sports and Recreation has officially welcomed renowned football tactician Carlos Queiroz. The country is looking to strengthen its technical direction as it prepares for upcoming international competitions. Coach Queiroz, known for his experience at the highest levels of world football, is expected to meet the media soon after his arrival. During the press conference, he will share his vision for Ghana’s national team and his approach to guiding the Black Stars to new heights. Ghana, celebrated for its passionate football culture, continues to hold high expectations for the Black Stars. Fans recall the team’s historic run at the 2010 FIFA World Cup in South Africa, where Ghana reached the quarter-final, a feat that set the bar for future aspirations. With a squad rich in talent, featuring both emerging stars and seasoned players, all eyes are now on Queiroz to see if he can build the right balance and instil the discipline needed for success at the international level. The appointment of Queiroz marks a renewed push for Ghana to make a strong impact at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. As anticipation grows, fans and stakeholders alike are looking forward to a revitalised Black Stars squad capable of delivering global success. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
CAF President Mourns Dominic Frimpong as Football World Grieves Berekum Chelsea Tragedy
The President of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), Patrice Motsepe, has added his voice to the outpouring of grief following the death of Berekum Chelsea winger Dominic Frimpong, extending his deepest condolences to the player’s family, teammates, and the wider Ghanaian football community. Frimpong, just 20 years old, lost his life following a reported armed robbery attack on the Berekum Chelsea team bus as it made its way back from a Ghana Premier League fixture, a senseless act of violence that has sent shockwaves through football circles across the continent. In a letter addressed to Ghana Football Association President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku, Motsepe did not mince words about the weight of the moment. “It is with profound sadness that I learned of the armed robbery attack on the bus of Berekum Chelsea, returning from a Ghana Premier League fixture, which claimed the life of a 20-year-old winger, Dominic Frimpong,” he wrote. Speaking on behalf of himself and the entire CAF body, Motsepe reached out to all those touched by the tragedy. “Please pass my personal and CAF’s deepest condolences to the family, friends, and teammates of Dominic Frimpong and to the Ghana Football Association,” he said, before offering a message of spiritual comfort to those in mourning. “May God comfort and console his loved ones and the entire Ghanaian football community. CAF is with you during this sad and painful period.” On the ground in Ghana, the Ghana Football Association confirmed it is in active contact with the club and the Ghana Police Service as investigations into the attack continue. Authorities have been urged to spare no effort in bringing those responsible to justice. For a young man who had his entire career ahead of him, Dominic Frimpong’s death is a reminder of the fragility of life, and a loss that Ghana football will feel for a long time to come. Source: Apexnewsgh.com
GFA Completes Vehicle Rollout Across All Football Structures Under FIFA Forward Programme
Ghana’s football administration has taken another step toward building a stronger, more connected game at every level, as the Ghana Football Association (GFA) presented five vehicles to key operational units under the FIFA Forward Programme, completing a nationwide logistical rollout that now covers all regional structures and major technical and administrative bodies. The five vehicles have been allocated to two Regional Football Associations, the Technical Directorate, the GFA Headquarters, and the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, units that play a central role in the day-to-day running and long-term development of football across the country. The latest distribution builds on an earlier phase of the programme in which eight of Ghana’s ten administrative football regions received double-cabin pickup vehicles. At the time, the Association signalled that further vehicles would be made available to the remaining regions and key units, contingent on how responsibly the initial fleet was managed. With this latest presentation, the GFA has made good on that commitment, extending logistical support to every corner of its operational structure. Speaking at the presentation ceremony, GFA leadership made clear that the vehicles are not merely administrative assets; they are tools for driving football development on the ground. The fleet is expected to support match monitoring, programme organisation, and the growth of grassroots, juvenile, and women’s football across the country. At the Technical Directorate and the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence, the vehicles are also expected to improve the efficiency of logistics and administrative operations. With the keys in hand, however, came a firm message from the Association. The GFA urged all beneficiary units to ensure the vehicles are used strictly for official purposes, properly maintained, and managed with a sense of responsibility, a reminder that the privilege of support comes with an obligation to account for it. The initiative forms part of the GFA’s broader drive to improve infrastructure and operational efficiency within Ghana football, and signals a renewed focus on ensuring that the structures supporting the beautiful game are as strong as the game itself. Source: Apexnewsgh.com