The 22-year-old, who joined Ipswich from Leicester this summer in a deal reported to be worth around £20m, played a key role in Ipswich's dramatic 2-1 victory over Sunderland at Portman Road on Saturday.

Issahaku started the match and played 66 minutes, impressing on the right flank. He completed all three of his attempted dribbles, made five defensive contributions, and won 10 of 16 ground duels.

The match was decided by a 90th-minute winner from substitute Jack Clarke against his former club. Ipswich manager Gary O'Neil later noted that Issahaku, along with a few other new signings, is still building up his fitness after joining the squad late in pre-season.

Issahaku is now in line to feature in Ipswich Town's Carabao Cup second-round clash against Leicester City on Tuesday, August 25. The fixture, which will be played at Portman Road, will see Issahaku face his former teammates, including recent Leicester signings Wes Burns and Conor Chaplin, who will also be returning to face their old club.

The match kicks off at 19:45 BST on Tuesday.

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Fatawu started the match and played 66 minutes before being replaced by Kasey McAteer. The Ghanaian international was a constant threat on the right flank, creating chances throughout the game. He delivered a dangerous cross that almost resulted in a goal when Julio Enciso's clever flick went just wide of the post. He also got the better of his markers on several occasions.

The match itself was a dramatic affair at Portman Road. Ipswich took the lead through Brazilian striker Emersonn in the 24th minute, but Sunderland equalised with a stunning free kick from Nilson Angulo before halftime. The game looked set for a draw until substitute Jack Clarke scored a 90th-minute winner against his former club to secure all three points.

Ipswich manager Gary O'Neil later praised the work done to get Fatawu fit for the match, noting that the winger had joined the group late in pre-season.

The victory marked a dream start to Ipswich's Premier League return, and Fatawu's dancing celebration reflected the joy in the dressing room after securing a memorable win on the opening day.

The Ghanaian winger is expected to feature in Ipswich's Carabao Cup clash against his former team, Leicester City, on August 25.

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Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey has expressed his delight after making his Saudi Pro League debut for Al Shabab, coming off the bench in a 1-1 draw with Al Khaleej.

The 33-year-old, who completed his move to the Riyadh-based club just hours earlier, entered the match in the 58th minute and made an immediate impact during his 32-minute cameo.

"Yeah, I think it's amazing. I like it. It's my first game here, and I thought we did great," Partey said after the match.

The Black Stars deputy captain came close to scoring in the 80th minute, with his effort narrowly missing the target. He completed 94% of his passes, found his target with all of his attempted long balls, and made one recovery.

"We could have scored. We had the chance to score, but it's part of football. We have to just keep working hard and try to make more points and get three points in our next game," he added.

Partey signed a one-year deal with Al Shabab after leaving Spanish side Villarreal, where he made 32 appearances last season. He arrives in Saudi Arabia after a distinguished European career that included spells at Atletico Madrid and Arsenal.

"I think it's normal. I will do my best to give everything to this club, and I'm really happy to be here," Partey said.

Al Shabab have collected just one point from their opening two league games and currently sit 13th in the Saudi Pro League. Their next assignment comes against Al Riyadh on August 25.

Partey's return to regular action will be closely watched in Ghana, with the midfielder expected to play an important role when the Black Stars resume international duty in September for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign.

The former Arsenal man, who started three of Ghana's four matches at the 2026 World Cup, will be hoping his Saudi adventure provides the platform to rediscover his best form.

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The Gambian international, speaking in an interview with BBC News Africa, selected a star-studded lineup that includes some of the continent's greatest exports to English football. But it was his omission of Liverpool legend Mohamed Salah that has sparked the most discussion.

Minteh placed former Chelsea midfield powerhouse Michael Essien at number two on his list, describing the Ghanaian as a "monster on the pitch" who dominated the entire field with his tireless work rate and physical presence.

At number five, the Brighton winger named Tottenham's Mohammed Kudus, praising the 24-year-old's technical ability and selfless approach to the game.

"I love the way he plays. He is really good with the ball. He's also a team player," Minteh said of the Ghanaian playmaker.

He named Sadio Mane as his no. 1 and Didier Drogba and Samuel Eto'o as third and fourth, respectively, to wrap up his top five.

When pressed on the absence of Mohamed Salah, who has scored 193 Premier League goals and is widely regarded as one of Africa's greatest footballers, Minteh was characteristically blunt.

"No, I don't look up to him," he said.

Minteh explained that his admiration for Sadio Mane, whom he placed at number one, stems from the Senegalese forward's relentless work ethic and commitment to his faith.

"The way he worked hard, no matter what you do, if you put hard work there and put God first for everything, it always pays off, and that's what Mané did," Minteh explained.

Minteh's comments have generated significant buzz, particularly given the timing. The Gambian winger has been heavily linked with a move to Liverpool, with the Reds reportedly viewing him as a potential successor to Salah, who left for Trabzonspor this summer.

For Ghanaian fans, however, the recognition of Essien and Kudus by a rising star of African football is a source of pride. Essien, who won two Premier League titles and the Champions League with Chelsea, remains one of Ghana's most decorated footballers, while Kudus continues to establish himself as one of the Premier League's most exciting young talents.

Minteh's list has reignited the age-old debate about Africa's greatest Premier League exports. But for Ghana, the presence of two of their own in the conversation is a welcome affirmation of the country's enduring influence on English football.

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Thomas Partey made his Saudi Pro League debut for Al Shabab on Saturday, coming off the bench just hours after completing his move to the Riyadh-based club.

The 33-year-old Ghana midfielder entered the match in the 58th minute of Al Shabab's 1-1 draw with Al Khaleej, replacing Ali Hassan Al Asmari. He nearly marked the occasion with a goal in the 80th minute, but his effort narrowly missed the target.

Despite his limited time on the pitch, Partey looked composed and made an immediate impact. He completed 94% of his passes, found his target with all of his attempted long balls, and made one recovery.

"I think it's amazing. I like it. It's my first game here, and I thought we did great," Partey said after the match.

Al Shabab have collected just one point from their opening two league games and currently sit 13th in the Saudi Pro League standings. Their next assignment comes against Al Riyadh on August 25.

Partey signed a one-year deal with Al Shabab after leaving Spanish side Villarreal, where he made 32 appearances last season. He arrives in Saudi Arabia after a distinguished European career that included spells at Atlético Madrid and Arsenal.

The Black Stars deputy captain is expected to play an important role when Ghana resume international duty in September for their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign. Ghana will open their campaign against Côte d'Ivoire on September 23 before hosting The Gambia in Accra four days later.

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Swiss-Ghanaian forward Kwadwo Duah was on target for Ludogorets as they played out a 1-1 draw with Slavia Sofia in the Bulgarian First Professional League on Saturday.

Duah came off the bench in the first half and made an immediate impact, scoring the equaliser to help his side secure a point in the Week 6 encounter at the Huvepharma Arena.

The 29-year-old attacker was introduced in the 25th minute, replacing Filip Kaloc, after Slavia Sofia had taken an early lead.

The visitors opened the scoring after just seven minutes when Nikola Savic found the back of the net to put Slavia in front.

Ludogorets responded strongly, and Duah restored parity four minutes before the interval to send both teams into the break level at 1-1.

Neither side could find a winning goal after the restart despite their efforts, as the contest eventually ended in a share of the spoils.

Duah’s latest goal takes his tally to one in five appearances for Ludogorets so far this season, and the forward will be eager to build on the performance as the campaign progresses.

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Ghana forward Jerry Afriyie delivers assist on Genk debut

Fast-rising Ghanaian attacker Jerry Afriyie made an impressive start to life at KRC Genk, providing an assist on his debut as his side played out an entertaining 4-4 draw with Royal Antwerp in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League on Saturday.

Afriyie, who recently completed a move to the Belgian top-flight club, came off the bench in the second half as Genk surrendered a three-goal advantage to settle for a point at the Bosuilstadion.

The 19-year-old was introduced in the 69th minute and wasted little time making his presence felt, setting up Aaron Bibout for Genk’s fourth goal.

Royal Antwerp took the lead in the 16^th-minute through Anthony Valencia before Josué Kongolo restored parity for the visitors, leaving the teams level at 1-1 heading into the break.

Genk came out strongly after the interval, with Rafiu Durosinmi and Ayumu Yokoyama scoring in quick succession to put the visitors 3-1 ahead.

Afriyie then played a key role in Genk’s fourth goal, providing the final pass for Bibout to further extend their advantage.

However, Antwerp produced a remarkable late comeback. Eran Tuypens pulled one back for the hosts ten minutes from full time before Michael Frey scored twice within two minutes to complete the comeback and secure a share of the spoils.

The result denied Genk what would have been an impressive away victory, but Afriyie’s individual display will provide plenty of encouragement following his first competitive appearance for the club.

The Ghanaian, who turns 20 on August 24, impressed on loan for RAAL La Louvière during the 2025/26 campaign, where he scored five goals and provided two assists in 34 appearances for the club.

Following an impressive debut, the talented Ghanaian attacker will be hoping to make a meaningful impact at the club. Afriyie has earned four caps for the Black Stars, scoring on his international debut.

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The 27-year-old, who was born in Accra, has moved to the Botola Pro Inwi club after leaving Huesca. Agbekpornu’s switch was completed on 22 August 2026, with Raja securing his services without a transfer fee.

Agbekpornu plays in central midfield and is right-footed. Standing at 1.88m, he has spent much of his career playing in European leagues, including spells in Spain, Croatia and Albania before arriving in Morocco.

His time at SD Huesca began in February 2026, when he joined the club from Croatian side Slaven Belupo in a €150,000 transfer. He made 10 appearances in Spain’s LaLiga2 during his career, before moving on to Raja.

The Ghanaian previously represented Slaven Belupo for two seasons after joining from Albanian club KF Egnatia in July 2023. He made 63 appearances in Croatia’s SuperSport HNL, scoring once and providing seven assists.

Agbekpornu had earlier spent two seasons with Egnatia, where he helped the club win the Albanian Cup in the 2022-23 campaign. He made 49 appearances in Albania’s top division, scoring once and registering one assist.

Before moving to Europe, Agbekpornu played for Ghanaian club Dreams FC. His career also includes 25 appearances in the Premier League, alongside outings in the Albanian Cup and Croatian domestic cup.

Raja have agreed a contract with Agbekpornu that runs until 30 June 2029. The midfielder joins with a recorded market value of €300,000 and becomes part of a squad competing in Morocco’s top-flight Botola Pro Inwi.

The move marks the next stage of Agbekpornu’s career after a short spell in Spain and continues his progression through clubs in several European competitions. His experience in Croatia’s top division and Albania’s domestic game adds to the competitive background he brings to Raja.

Agbekpornu’s free transfer to Raja Casablanca was completed on 22 August 2026, with his contract secured until June 2029.

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Ghana defender Nathaniel Adjei produced a superlative performance for FC Lorient as they began their 2026/27 Ligue 1 campaign with a hard-fought goalless draw against OGC Nice at the Allianz Riviera on Saturday.

Adjei was handed a starting berth at the heart of Lorient’s defence and justified the confidence placed in him with a composed and assured display throughout the encounter.

The 23-year-old was one of Lorient’s standout performers as Alexandre Dujeux’s side secured a valuable point away from home in their opening league fixture.

Adjei was listed in Lorient’s starting XI alongside Montassar Talbi, with the Ghanaian defender occupying the centre-back position.

His performance earned him a 7.3 rating, making him the second-highest-rated Lorient player in the match, with only Arthur Avom rated higher at 7.5.

Adjei’s showing was particularly encouraging given the importance of starting the new campaign on a positive note. He looked composed in possession, strong in his defensive duties and disciplined as Lorient successfully kept Nice from finding the breakthrough.

The goalless result means Lorient leave the Allianz Riviera with a point, while Adjei can take plenty of confidence from another impressive individual performance.

Adjei had already expressed his desire to build on his performances from last season after fighting his way back into the Lorient team following a lengthy injury layoff.

His latest display suggests he is once again ready to play a key role for the French side this season.

With the Ligue 1 campaign now underway, Adjei will be hoping to maintain his impressive form and establish himself as one of Lorient’s most dependable defenders as the season progresses.

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Port City FC right-back Samuel Baabu Aryee has earned his maiden call-up to the Ghana U23 national team, the Black Meteors, following an impressive run of form in the Access Bank Division One League.

The defender’s invitation marks a major milestone in his career and rewards his consistency and strong performances in Ghana’s domestic football scene.

Popularly known as ‘Chorkor’ among local supporters for his energetic displays, quality crossing, and relentless work rate on the right flank, Aryee has emerged as one of Port City FC’s dependable performers.

His ability to contribute at both ends of the pitch has made him an important figure for his club, combining defensive discipline with adventurous overlapping runs and an ability to deliver dangerous crosses.

From Accra Grassroots Football to the Black Meteors

Aryee began his football journey with Barca Kids FC in Mamprobi, Accra, where he first showcased his technical ability and defensive qualities.

He subsequently featured for Charity FC, Sporting FC, Best IV FC and Truelife FC, using each spell to develop his tactical understanding, versatility, and work ethic.

Since joining Port City FC, Aryee has continued to develop into a modern full-back capable of making crucial defensive interventions while also providing an attacking outlet from the flank.

His two-footed ability and crossing quality have added another dimension to his game and helped him establish himself as a standout performer in the Division One League.

The maiden call-up provides Aryee with an opportunity to showcase his qualities at the international level as the Black Meteors prepare for upcoming international fixtures and Olympic qualification matches.

His inclusion is also expected to increase competition for places within the U23 squad while adding pace, energy, and tactical flexibility to the team.

Source: Solomon Asante (Football Scout)

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Ghanaian defender Rockson Yeboah says he is ready to embrace the challenge at Osasuna and believes his qualities can help him make an impact after completing his move from IFK Goteborg.

Yeboah has arrived in Pamplona, trained with his new teammates and is expected to make his debut against Levante as he begins his new chapter in Spanish football.

Osasuna have signed the 22-year-old centre-back for 3 million euros, with Goteborg retaining 30 percent of any surplus from a future sale. Yeboah has signed a five-year contract with a 30 million euro buyout clause.

Speaking after completing the move, Yeboah explained how his journey to Spain began after he was spotted playing in his hometown.

“I think it all started with my agency because I was playing in one league in my city and then they saw me and I think they saw the potential in me,” Yeboah said.

“Then they took me to the academy, and they built me, and then they sent me to Greece before I went to Sweden for like two years, and then now I'm here.”

Yeboah made 44 first-team appearances for Goteborg and scored twice. He said he has worked consistently to improve his game and reach his full potential.

“I depend more on my quality and to improve every day. I've been working on myself day in, day out to reach my full potential,” he said.

The Ghanaian believes his physical strength, speed and ability to play out from the back can suit Osasuna.

“I think with my qualities and my strengths, I'm hoping I can fit in here. I've heard a lot about the club, the way they play. So I think I can fit in here,” he added.

“My physical... I think I have strength. So much strength and speed also. And I'm very good at ball-playing also.”

Yeboah is now looking forward to making his first appearance for the club and experiencing the atmosphere at El Sadar.

“I'm looking forward to seeing them because I can't wait to play in front of the fans. I think this season is going to be special because we have a lot to give. I think they should expect more from the team this season.”

The defender is expected to be involved when Osasuna face Levante, giving him an early opportunity to introduce himself to the club's supporters.

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Kudus was not fit enough to feature for Tottenham and has yet to return to competitive action following a serious quad tendon injury.

The 26-year-old has not played a competitive match since January 4, 2026, when he featured for Tottenham against Sunderland before being forced off after 19 minutes with the injury.

Kudus has also not been involved in Tottenham’s pre-season preparations as he continues his recovery.

His absence was felt as new manager Roberto De Zerbi watched his side struggle against a dominant Brentford team at the Gtech Community Stadium.

Tottenham entered the new campaign having spent around £237 million in the summer, including the club-record signing of Sandro Tonali for £100 million, but they were comprehensively beaten by their London rivals.

Keane Lewis-Potter opened the scoring in the 12th minute before Vitaly Janelt doubled Brentford’s advantage in the 33rd minute.

Michael Kayode added a third shortly after half-time, while Brentford also missed a penalty through Igor Thiago, whose effort struck the post.

Kudus will now continue his recovery as he works towards a return to action, with Tottenham hoping to have the Ghanaian available once he regains full fitness.

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Midfielder Augustine Sosu has signed a three-year contract extension with FC AshantiGold 04 after playing a key role in the club’s promotion to the 2026/27 Ghana Premier League.

Sosu was an important member of the AshantiGold squad that secured promotion to the top flight, helping the club earn their return to Ghana’s elite division.

The new agreement will keep the midfielder at the club as AshantiGold prepare for their first season back in the Ghana Premier League.

Sosu’s extension forms part of the club’s efforts to retain the core of the squad that achieved promotion while strengthening the team ahead of the new campaign.

AshantiGold will now be hoping to build on their successful promotion season and establish themselves in the Premier League.

For Sosu, the new contract provides an opportunity to continue his development while competing at the highest level of domestic football in Ghana.

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Black Princesses head coach Charles Sampson has revealed the extent of the injury crisis that has ruled seven players out of Ghana’s FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign in Poland.

Goalkeepers Asana Osman, Grace Andoh and Jenna Kayla Sarpong are among those who will miss the tournament, while Linda Owusu, Mercy “Messi” Atiobrah, Mary Amponsah and Jessica Appiah have also been ruled out.

Sampson revealed that Asana, Grace, Mercy and Mary suffered ACL injuries, while Jenna dislocated her shoulder during the qualifiers against South Africa.

“Asana unfortunately got an ACL injury at the time that she was also really on her peak. Those were unfortunate events that we didn't know how to deal with. We accept it as it is. So she's also out for this World Cup,” Sampson said.

He also revealed that Linda’s absence has been particularly difficult because of her leadership role in the team.

“Linda was the latest one, and it was a little difficult to take in because she has a different role in the team. She's a leader. She has been our captain throughout these qualifiers,” he said.

Mary suffered an ACL injury during the qualifiers against South Africa, while Mercy sustained hers during Ghana’s earlier qualifying campaign against Tunisia in Egypt.

Jessica Appiah was the latest injury setback after suffering a problem shortly before the team left Ghana. An MRI showed that she was not fit to play and could require about six weeks of recovery.

Sampson also disclosed that Jessica’s club has refused to release her for the tournament, which falls outside a FIFA international window.

Despite the setbacks, Sampson remains confident in his squad.

“Football is a collective sport. In our team, we have never been dependent on only one player. And also, when somebody is not available, others step in,” he said.

Ghana will open their World Cup campaign against Ecuador on September 6 before facing South Korea and France in Group C.

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Ghana’s Black Princesses have suffered an injury setback ahead of their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup campaign, with seven players ruled out.

The Ghana Football Association confirmed the absentees in an injury update, with goalkeepers Asana Osman, Grace Andoh and Jenna Kayla Sarpong among those unavailable.

Forward Mercy Atiobrah has also been ruled out, while Mary Amponsah, Linda Owusu and Jessica Appiah complete the list of players missing the tournament due to injury.

The injury setbacks come just weeks before Ghana begin their campaign at the FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup in Poland.

The Black Princesses will open their Group C campaign against Ecuador on Sunday, September 6, at the Arena Sosnowiec, before facing South Korea on September 9 and France on September 12.

All three matches are scheduled for 16:00 GMT.

Ghana are making their eighth consecutive appearance at the U-20 Women’s World Cup and will be hoping to finally progress beyond the group stage for the first time in their history.

The absence of the seven players will provide a major challenge for the technical team as preparations intensify for the tournament.

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