Sports

Real Madrid’s Title Hopes Dented by Isco’s Heroics for Real Betis

Published

1 year ago

March 1, 2025

Samuel Kobina Amu

Francisco Román Alarcón Suárez commonly known as Isco

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In a pivotal La Liga encounter, Real Madrid faced a significant setback in their quest for the title after a 2-1 defeat to Real Betis. The match was highlighted by Isco, who, despite not being confirmed as captain, played a crucial role by scoring the winning goal and assisting another, earning him the Man of the Match honors.

His performance against Real Madrid, his former team, has stirred discussions across social media, with fans split between celebrating his skill and questioning the etiquette of his celebration. This loss has implications for Real Madrid’s league position, potentially benefiting rivals like Barcelona and Atletico Madrid in the race for the championship.

The match began with Real Madrid taking an early advantage in the 10th minute. Kylian Mbappé’s precise pass found Ferland Mendy, who squared the ball for Brahim Díaz to tap into an empty net, putting the visitors ahead 1-0.

However, Betis, under the guidance of former Madrid manager Manuel Pellegrini, responded strongly. Cardoso’s goal leveled the score, and after the break, Isco capitalized on a penalty opportunity—earned when Antonio Rüdiger fouled Jesús Rodríguez in the box—firing past Thibaut Courtois to give Betis a 2-1 lead. Despite late pressure from Madrid, including a saved shot from Vinícius Jr. by Betis goalkeeper Adrián, the hosts held firm, ending with 18 shots to Madrid’s nine in a deserved victory.

This loss leaves Real Madrid, the reigning La Liga champions, vulnerable in the tight title race. They remain second, level on points with leaders Barcelona—who face Real Sociedad on March 2—and could drop to third if Atlético Madrid defeat Athletic Bilbao later on March 1.

Madrid’s away form has faltered, with no wins in their last three league road games (one draw, two losses), a stark contrast to their formidable home record. For Betis, the win—Pellegrini’s first against Madrid in 10 meetings—lifts them to sixth place, bolstering their European ambitions. Isco’s heroics, underscored by his 97 touches and 90% pass accuracy, highlighted a resurgent season, with six goals in 15 games, four in the last month alone, haunting his former team at a pivotal moment.

Sports

Ghana’s Black Queens Thrash Russia 4-0 in Pink Ladies Cup

Published

20 minutes ago

March 3, 2026

Samuel Kobina Amu

back-to-back 4–0 victories for the Black Queens against Russia and Hong Kong at the Pink Ladies Cup (@GFA)

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The Ghana Black Queens delivered a dominant performance by thrashing Russia 4-0 in their Matchday 2 fixture at the 2026 Pink Ladies Cup in the United Arab Emirates (held at venues like Al Hamriya Sports Club Stadium).

This follows their opening 4-0 win over Hong Kong, making it back-to-back clean-sheet victories with 8 goals scored and none conceded so far. The result positions Ghana at the top of the four-nation tournament table involving Ghana, Russia, Hong Kong, and Tanzania, as they prepare for the WAFCON 2026 qualifiers.

Match Highlights

- Stella Nyamekye opened the scoring early in the 8th minute with a well-taken finish.

- Doris Boaduwaa added a brace (goals in the 17th and 33rd minutes, including one described as a super finish).
- Patience Ajegipina Zakaria (Ampem Darkoa Ladies striker, on debut form from the first game too) sealed it with the fourth in the 88th minute.

The Black Queens showed strong composure, high pressing, and clinical attacking under head coach Kim Lars Bjorkegren, who reportedly called this one of the best performances he’s seen from the team since taking charge.

This comes amid some reported tensions in the region (mentioned in Dubai context), but the team stayed focused and impressed. The Queens will take on Tanzania on Friday, March 6, 2026, in their final group game.

Sports

Asare’s Stunning Save Secures Hearts Point in Tense Draw

Published

1 week ago

February 23, 2026

Samuel Kobina Amu

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The Ghanaian prolific goalie proved his inclusion into Ghana’s goalkeeping history over the weekend as Accra Hearts of Oak and Berekum Chelsea battled to a 0-0 draw in Ghana Premier League Matchday 23, with Asare’s world-class save proving decisive amid Hearts’ dominance in possession and shots.

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Sports

Twenty-three (23) Ghanaian referees officially presented with FIFA badges

Published

1 month ago

January 22, 2026

Samuel Kobina Amu

Twenty-three (23) Ghanaian referees have been officially presented with their FIFA badges. Image Source (Ghana Football Association)

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This milestone was celebrated at a ceremony held at the Ghana Football Association (GFA) headquarters in Accra on Tuesday, January 21, 2026.

Ghana Referees honored with their FIFA badges

A cross section of the twenty-three Ghanaian referees honored with their FIFA badges.

The badges, awarded annually by FIFA based on performance, fitness tests, and assessments from the previous year, authorize these officials to officiate international matches throughout 2026 across various formats.

The group includes:

10 Centre Referees
10 Assistant Referees
1 Futsal Referee
1 Beach Soccer Referee (notably, Portia Oppong, highlighted as a historic first female in this category for Ghana)
1 Video Assistant Referee (VAR)

Veteran referee Daniel Nii Laryea lead the list, retaining his status with dual recognition as both a Centre Referee and VAR official, showcasing his consistent excellence on the African and global stages.

Veteran Ghana referee Daniel Nii Laryea

In his address the GFA Vice-President Mark Addo congratulated them and urged them to aim for world-class standards: “Aspire for greatness. You are the soul and heart of the game.” He emphasized impartiality, fairness, and the responsibility that comes with representing Ghana internationally, with continued FIFA recognition depending on ongoing performance.

This achievement reflects Ghana’s strengthening presence in global refereeing, especially after past challenges in the sport. These referees are now set to take the pitch in international competitions, bringing pride to the nation.

Well done to all involved—keep upholding the highest standards!