Football is an emotional rollercoaster that keeps fans on the edge of their seats. It is a game that evokes both excitement and agony. The skillful performances of players captivate fans and create unforgettable moments.
Research indicates that football was introduced to the Gold Coast region of Ghana in the 19th century. The Ghana Football Association established the Ghana Premier League in 1956 and launched the country’s first professional football league in 1993.
A total of 12 teams participated in the inaugural competition, including Hearts of Oak, Accra Great Olympics, Prampram Mighty Royals, Neoplan Stars, Ghapoha, Afienya United, Okwawu United, Dawu Youngsters, Goldfields (now Ashanti Gold), Ebusua Dwarfs, Asante Kotoko, and Real Tamale United. Goldfields (Ashanti Gold) emerged as the winner of that first league.
Currently, there are 18 clubs in the Ghana Premier League. Ghanaian football has achieved significant global success, including winning the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2009 and multiple Africa Cup of Nations titles.
Locally, football contributes to national development in various ways. It has created jobs directly and indirectly, with talented individuals securing positions on teams while coaches find work mentoring and guiding them.
The sport also serves as a source of income for many. Players, coaches, and other personnel in the field earn money for their work, improving their livelihoods. Additionally, merchandise vendors, including jersey sellers, hat merchants, scarf vendors, and food sellers, benefit indirectly from football.
In Ghana, football unites us, regardless of our different backgrounds, fostering a sense of national pride. The excitement and entertainment value of football are undeniable; the electrifying atmosphere, the thrill of goals being scored, and the energy of the crowd contribute to an unforgettable experience.
However, Ghana’s football industry faces several challenges. Corruption and embezzlement of funds have plagued the Ghana Football Association, leading to a lack of transparency in leadership and the misappropriation of funds. A practical example is the “Number 12” expose, a documentary by investigative journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas in 2018, which revealed allegations of bribery and corruption in African football, particularly in Ghana. The president of the Ghana Football Association, Kwesi Nyantakyi, was implicated in this scandal, leading to his resignation.
Another major challenge is the inadequate infrastructure. The lack of sufficient stadiums and training pitches hinders athletes’ performance. For example, the Baba Yara Sports Stadium in Kumasi and the Accra Stadium are in disrepair, posing safety risks to both spectators and athletes.
Football, once a source of joy, has become a deadly activity. The loss of life due to football-related violence has tragically become a norm. Fans have been violently killed over petty rivalries and misunderstandings. Additionally, stampedes at stadiums have led to further casualties. On March 9, 2001, 127 Ghanaian football fans lost their lives in a stampede caused by police firing tear gas during a misunderstanding between Accra Hearts of Oak and Kumasi Asante Kotoko. More recently, on February 2, 2025, Francis Yaw Frimpong, known as Pooley, a fan of Asante Kotoko, was stabbed to death following an argument with a supporter of Nsoatreman football club.
Must spectators continue to lose their lives over misunderstandings?
To address these issues, strict security measures should be implemented at stadiums to enhance safety. Additionally, penalties for violent behavior at football matches must be enforced. The sports minister can take the lead in building new stadiums and training facilities for athletes.
The time has come for us to come together and create a safer environment for everyone involved in football. By addressing these challenges, the beauty of Ghana’s football can once again flourish.
Writer: Francisca Nanaba Amoako
Email: Franciscananaaba634@gmail.com
