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Ofori Amponsah to thrill Ghanaians in Telford, UK on New Year Day 2023

The multiple-award winning artist will storm the Shropshire to celebrate with Ghanaians in the diaspora as we enter 2023

Ghana’s High-Life superstar Ofori Amponsah has been billed to entertain Ghanaians in United Kingdom’s town of Telford on New Year Day in 2023.

The event which is being organized by Ozberga Events UK will take place at the 02 Centre in Wellington-Telford of Shropshire, on Sunday, January 1, 2023 will shower Ghanaians and other Africans in the diaspora into another new year filled with huge expectations.

Also performing on the night as a special guest will be award-winning actress cum musician Emelia Brobbey.

Tickets have been pegged at £20 and £30 for standard and VIP respectively and there will also be a table for family and friends.

Ozberga Events UK is one of the fastest-rising event organisers in the United Kingdom. In November, they held another musical concert which was headlined by legends Samini and K.K Fosu.

Interestingly, they used the event to raised funds for charity works in Northern Part of Ghana.

Watch Highlights: Asante Kotoko defeat Bechem United on penalties to progress in FA Cup

The Porcupine Warriors survived a late scare by Hunters as they cruised into the next stage of the Cup competition

Asante Kotoko defeated Bechem United 4-2 on penalties to progress to the Round of 32 of Ghana FA Cup at Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Monday.

The Porcupine Warriors took the lead early in the game after Steven Mukwala slotted in from close range before the striker added another minutes later after being played through by a teammate.

However, Bechem scored two crucial goals later on to push the game into penalty shootouts.

And despite Bechem’s motivation to go past their hosts, Kotoko managed to win 4-2 on penalties.

Highlights|| Kotoko vs Bechem United

On Tuesday, title holders Hearts of Oak will face Uncle T FC in a make or break encounter at Accra Sports Stadium.

WAFA, B.A United & others out of FA Cup while GoldStars, Nations progress

The oldest cup competition is still on course with some major upset

Ghana FA Cup round of 64 took place over the weekend across the country with some interesting results.

Last season’s finalists Bechem United will play Asante Kotoko at Baba Yara Sports Stadium on Boxing Day while champions Hearts of Oak battle Uncle T FC on Tuesday at Accra Sports Stadium.

MTN FA CUP ROUND OF 64 MATCHES

FULL-TIME RESULTS

Heart of Lions 1-0 Adidome Unity Stars

STK Stars 1-0 Walewale Catholic Stars

Wa Power 1-0 Maana FC

Benab 0-0 Soccer 4 Souls (4-2 pen)

WAFA 1-1 Skyy FC (4-5 pen)

Bofoakwa Tano 1-0 Kaasena Nan-Kana

Legon Cities 1-0 Accra Lions

Liberty Prof. 1-0 Accra Athletic

MSK Zilina 2-0 Koforidua Semper Fi

Nzema Kotoko 1-1 Fijai Soccer Academy (5-4 pen)

RTU 4-0 Kumbungu Binbiem

B.A United 0-1 Debibi United

PRO Players Football Academy 0-2 King Faisal

Nations FC 1-0 PAC Academy

Krystal Palace 1-1 Okwawu United (4-3 pen)

Sefwi All Stars 0-1 Goldstars

Swedru All Blacks 1-2 Vipers

Volta Rangers 1-1 Aflao Agboba (5-4 pen)

Mighty Royals vs Berekum Arsenal

Kotoku Royals vs Na God FC

AS Rences vs Best XI
_

MONDAY (26/12/2022)

Tamale City vs Steadfast

Wa Suntaa vs Berekum Chelsea

Dormaa Unity vs Aduana Stars

Baffour Soccer Academy vs Nsoatreman

Asante Kotoko vs Bechem United

Golden Kick vs Great Olympics

Ebusua Dwarfs vs Kenpong Soccer Academy

Karela United vs Medeama

Adjoafuaman vs Samartex
_

TUESDAY (27/12/2022)

Asekem vs Dreams

Uncle T vs Hearts of Oak


ROUND OF 32 – QUALIFIED TEAMS

Heart of Lions
STK Stars
Wa Power
Benab FC
Skyy FC
Bofoakwa Tano
Krystal Palace
Legon Cities
Liberty Prof.
MSK Zilina
Nzema Kotoko
RTU
Debibi United
King Faisal
Nations FC
Goldstars
Volta Rangers
Vipers

+14 more to go…

FINA becomes World Aquatics as new brand launched

Written by: FINA Communication Department

Melbourne, 12 December 2022; FINA, the Fédération Internationale de Natation, has today become World Aquatics following a vote at an Extraordinary Congress on the eve of the World Swimming Championships (25m) 2022. Over its 114-year history, FINA and its 209 member federations have maintained responsibility for swimmers, artistic swimmers, divers, high divers, open water swimmers and water polo players.

The launch of the World Aquatics brand arrives after a series of major reforms that sees a modern organisation ready to lead and serve athletes united by water, with a broader scope and increased engagement with participants and audiences.

“Everyone in our community is proud of what FINA achieved in developing our sports. As we look to the future, World Aquatics will see all aquatics athletes united for the first time under one brand. The identity of our organisation now focuses on our shared vision: a world united by water, for health, life and sport,” said World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam.

“FINA is a French acronym. The word ‘Natation’ represents swimmers. These days, swimmers are only one, important, part of our FINA family. We need a name that reflects the whole FINA family. A name that can be used with pride by our divers, high divers, artistic swimmers, open water swimmers and our water polo athletes.

” I will always tell you that our athletes must come first, so I would never make a big decision like this without consulting our athletes. Their response has been very clear. More than seventy per cent of the athletes that we have spoken with have said that they would like us to change FINA’s name. Many of them could not even tell us what the letters in FINA stand for.”

By World Aquatics President Husain Al-Musallam announcing the new brand for global aquatics

The adoption of the World Aquatics name was confirmed by a vote of member federations at an Extraordinary Congress in Melbourne earlier today. It marks the culmination of 18 months of intensive organisational transformation, much of it guided by the FINA Reform Committee. During this process, World Aquatics has made very significant improvements to its governance, including the strengthening of the athletes’ voice in decision-making and the creation of an independent Aquatics Integrity Unit.

“World Aquatics will continue to deliver and develop the rewarding competition calendar that has become the foundation of successful elite careers while being the subject of dreams and ambitions for millions of young aquatics athletes all around the globe,” continued Al-Musallam.

“Our new vision and mission also reflect how World Aquatics and our members have already begun expanding our work beyond competition and swimming as a life skill, to include sustainability, environmental advocacy and wellbeing. Our new brand and visual identity will also enable us to connect with new audiences and encourage new generations of athletes across our disciplines to be united by water, safely, fairly and sustainably.”

Video: Cristiano Ronaldo cries bitterly as he retires from International football after World Cup shock

The former Manchester United star was spotted crying uncontrollably as he left the stadium following Portugal’s exit from the World Cup

Cristiano Ronaldo could not resist the shock and pains as he wept uncontrollably following Portugal’s 1-0 defeat to Morocco in the quarterfinals of 2022 Fifa World Cup ongoing in Qatar on Saturday.

The 37-year-old was a second half substitute but his presence wasn’t enough as Morocco held on to a goal from Youssef En-Nesyri.

Before the World Cup, Ronaldo publicly admitted that he would retire from international football regardless of the outcome of the tournament and this means that he would be exiting the international stage in a horrible manner despite having an incredible campaign with Portugal.

Morocco have always made history at the FIFA World Cup for Africa. They became the first African nation to pick a point at the tournament and the first African nation to make it out of the group.

And, now, most importantly, the first ever African nation to make it to the Semifinals.

They will face the winner between England and France for a place in the final.

How cold weather affects your health

It’s not just illnesses you need to protect yourself from in winter. Winter weather can bring many risks to you and your family.

There’s the usual winter coughs, colds and flu, and this year we will also need to be aware of coronavirus, but then there are also risks to your health associated with flooding and storms.

Why is winter weather a risk to our health?

Cold temperatures have an impact on our health, but there are other risks in winter including physical injuries from slips, trips and falls.

As we get older it becomes harder for our bodies to detect how cold we are, and it takes longer to warm up which can be bad for our health. For older people in particular, the longer the exposure to the cold, the more risk of heart attacks, strokes, pneumonia, depression, worsening arthritis and increased accidents at home (associated with loss of strength and dexterity in the hands).

Here’s a video about how weather can affect our health and what you can do to manage the possible impacts:

Dealing with winter illnesses

If you are normally healthy, many of the coughs, colds and minor illnesses that seem to happen more frequently during winter can be safely managed yourself. There’s plenty of advice about dealing with common winter illnesses from the NHS and you can also talk to your local pharmacist. 

Flu

Flu can affect people in different ways and can be more serious than you think. The flu vaccination is offered free of charge to people who are at most risk from the effects of the virus to protect them from catching flu and developing serious complications. Find out who is eligible for a free flu jab.

Contact your GP or pharmacist if you think you, or someone you care for, should be eligible for a free flu jab. There’s further information about flu and the flu vaccine on the NHS website.

Coronavirus

If you have any of the main symptoms of coronovirus it’s important that you get tested as soon as possible:

  • A high temperature
  • A new continuous cough
  • A loss or change to your sense of smell or taste

If you have any of these symptoms follow the latest guidance.

Handwashing

This is important now more than ever. Washing your hands with soap and water is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself and others from illnesses such as food poisoning, diarrhoea, flu and coronavirus.

Keep warm and active

It is important to keep warm in winter both inside and outdoors. Keeping warm can help to prevent colds, flu and more serious health problems.

Eating regularly helps keep you warm so try to have at least one hot meal a day along with regular hot drinks.

Keep your house warm and your bedroom window closed especially on cold winter nights, as breathing cold air can be bad for your health as it increases the risk of chest infections.

With many of us having to spend more time at home it can make it harder to keep active. It’s important to continue to do what you can to stay active as this can help with both your physical and mental health. Try to keep moving when you are indoors, try not to sit still for more than an hour or so. Break up your time spent being inactive by walking around your home or standing up from your chair when you are on the phone.

If you are heading outside for a walk or maybe some gardening, wear several layers of light clothes. Remember that several thin layers of clothing will keep you warmer than one thick layer as the layers trap warm air.

It doesn’t matter what you do to keep active, as long as it’s something you enjoy and keeps you moving. There is strong evidence that people who are active have a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, depression and can also reduce the risk of falling.

Cold  weather alerts for healthcare professionals

The Met Office issues Cold Weather Alerts that are sent directly to social and healthcare services in England. These alerts ensure that staff are fully prepared for any cold weather periods, and those who are more vulnerable to cold weather conditions are aware and prepared.

The UK Health Security Agency produces a Cold Weather Plan for England which helps to raise awareness of the harm to health from cold weather, and provides guidance on how to prepare for and respond to cold weather.

Ghana 2022 ITF Wheelchair Tennis Development Fund Program begins at Cape Coast

Ghana wheelchair tennis under the Ghana Tennis Federation has begun a 2-day wheelchair tennis professional and beginners training camp at the Cape Coast Sports Stadium Tennis Club.

The wheelchair tennis players were taken through the practical aspects of how to develop a game and what participants must do on the court at the 2-day event.

The team made of the Ghana Tennis Federation, President Isaac Aboagye Duah and ITF wheelchair tennis coach and instructor Holgar Losch, Ghana wheelchair tennis coordinator, Henry Larbi and coaches from all the various regions were received by the Central Regional Tennis Association President George Frank Koufie and executive member Madam Efumwaa Adu Poku.

Speaking at the opening, Chairman of the Central Regional Tennis Association, Frank Koufie said, on behalf of Central Regional Tennis Association, “I wish to welcome you all to Cape Coast Sports Stadium. I want to use this opportunity to appreciate the Ghana Tennis Federation and Ghana wheelchair tennis for choosing Cape Coast, Central Region for the two international events.

“We are very pleased to host and provide all that is possible within our capabilities to ensure your smooth stay in Cape Coast so that it becomes one of the memorable occasions in the region.

President of Ghana Tennis Federation Isaac Aboagye Duah Thanked coordinator Henry and his team, ITF for supporting GTF to organize this program for participants at all levels, professionals, intermediate, and beginners.


He added that, All these are efforts put in by the federation to make Ghana ready for the Africa Para games in 2023.
“I encourage all players to take the program serious because there is also always something new to learn especially modern techniques in becoming competitive.
GTF President was also very grateful to the instructor Mr Holger for his excellent delivery so far’.

Coordinator for Ghana wheelchair tennis Henry Larbi thanked Central Regional Tennis Association President Frank Koufie and his executives for the warm reception and requested the Central Regional Tennis Association to support the wheelchair tennis team in Cape Coast to produce professional wheelchair tennis players to represent Ghana in international tournaments.

Chairman Koufie later supported the program with an amount of Ghc3000.

Maclean Dzidzienyo, on behalf of players, thanked him and asked God to replenish a 1000-fold all that he had spent on behalf of Wheelchair Tennis.

Players were very excited and the mood in the camp was very positive. Players were from all over the country and the president encouraged them to be of best behaviour as well as take all the lessons serious so that they can impart the knowledge on theory in return.

Video: Samuel Eto’o ‘beats’ up Algerian YouTuber in Qatar after Brazil’s win over Korea

The former Barcelona superstar was filmed kicking the YouTuber after an alleged verbal harassment

Cameroon Football Federation president Samuel Eto’o has physically assaulted an unnamed Algerian in Qatar who is believed to be a YouTuber.

Eto’o, among other high profile individuals watched Brazil’s 4-1 victory over South Korea in the round of 16 of 2022 Fifa World and later had time to take pictures with some fans.

However, things turned from good to bad and later worse as the former Barcelona and Chelsea star began to attack one gentleman who was holding a camera and uttering certain unknown words.

Eto’o kicked him in the face after he was initially restrained by some people around and he was later whisked away.

It has been revealed that the Algerian is among a host of people who have allegedly assaulted Eto’o and other Cameroon FA members since Cameroon defeated Algeria to qualify for the World Cup.

They believe that Algeria were cheated by the referee and have since targeted Eto’o and others at events

Ghana chocolate on high demand after Black Stars help Korea to advance over Uruguay in Fifa World Cup

Despite the Black Stars crashing out of 2022 Fifa World Cup, there were other benefits to the West African country

Ghana failed to make it out of the group stage at 2022 Fifa World Cup after losing 2-0 to Uruguay but the scoreline was hugely appreciated by South Korea.

Although, the Koreans were on the blink of joining Ghana to exit the competition, an additional time winner against Portugal on Friday gave them a major advantage to join the Europeans only of Ghana don’t concede another goal late in their game against Uruguay while they were down 2-0.

Eventually, Ghana held on as Korea made it out on goal difference leaving Uruguay players in shocking moods.

After the game, Lotte Confectionery saw a surprise sales increase of its steady-selling Ghana chocolate as the Korean national football team advanced to the knockout stage with the help of Ghana losing to Uruguay by only two goals per a report filed by KoreanTimes.

According to GS Retail, an operator of the local convenience store GS25, the sales of Ghana chocolate skyrocketed 46.5 percent on Dec. 3 compared to that on Nov. 18, when the World Cup kicked off in Qatar. Ghana chocolate sales also surged 32.7 percent at another convenience store CU over the weekend. CU is operated by BGF Retail.

Lotte’s Ghana chocolate gained instant popularity after the African soccer team helped Korea to make it through to the round of 16.

Lotte Confectionery’s Ghana chocolate / Courtesy of Lotte Confectionery
Lotte Confectionery’s Ghana chocolate / Courtesy of Lotte Confectionery

CU saw its revenue from alcoholic beverages and snack food products increase even more thanks to the Korean soccer team’s successful performance in the World Cup.

Sales of beer, wine, whisky and soju rose 155 percent, 124 percent, 121 percent and 120 percent, respectively, between 6 p.m. and 12 p.m. on Dec. 2 compared to that on Nov. 18. Sales of fried chicken, dried snacks and instant food also increased by 193 percent, 161 percent and 171 percent, respectively, in the same period.

Looking at the overall sales of CU by time that evening, its revenue started to rise 28 percent from 9 p.m., three hours before the Korean team played against Portugal, and surged to 76 percent at 11 p.m.

The Black Stars picked three points after three games with the only victory coming against Korea in the second game of the group.

Interestingly, Ghana became the only African country to concede most goals (7) and least points (3) after the group stage.

LIVE: Ghana vs Uruguay: Baba Rahman and. Alidu returns [2022 Fifa World Cup ]

The Black Stars gaffer has made two changes in the squad that defeat South Korea as they prepare for the all-important game against Uruguay

Ghana coach Otto Addo has made two changes in Ghana’s squad the defeated South 3-2 as they lock horns with long time rivals Uruguay in the last round of matches of Group H at 2022 Fifa World Cup Group H this afternoon in Qatar.

The Black Stars pipped Korea in a cagey encounter and would need one or three points at all cost to book a place in the knockout stage as runner’s up at least behind Portugal.

Captain Andre Ayew who scored against Portugal has maintained his place while his brother Jordan who provided two assists against South Korea maintains his place but Tariq Lamptey and Gideon Mensah have been dropped for Alidu Seidu and Baba Rahman respectively in defence and they will work hand in hand with Salisu Mohammed and Leicester City Stars Daniel Amartey.

Ghana XI vs Uruguay:

Lawrence Ati-Zigi, Alidu Seidu, Baba Rahman, Daniel Amartey, Salisu Mohammed, Thomas Partey, Salis Abdul Samed, Mohammed Kudus, Andre Ayew, Jordan Ayew, Inaki Williams

The Black Stars will qualify if they avoid a defeat and Korea share the spoils with Portugal.