The government faces potential political consequences if it fails to address growing public dissatisfaction over discontinued corruption prosecutions, prominent legal analyst Martin Kpebu has warned. Speaking on TV3’s KeyPoints programme, he cautioned that citizens across party lines feel disappointed by controversial decisions to withdraw high profile cases, arguing that perceptions of selective justice could influence future electoral outcomes.

Kpebu emphasized that public anger remains palpable despite official explanations for the case discontinuations. “This thing can become a big election issue,” he stated. “The populace is not happy about withdrawals. Don’t underestimate Ghanaians, there is still anger around it.”

The legal practitioner specifically called for renewed investigation into the Saglemi Housing Project, where approximately $200 million was reportedly spent with limited results. He insisted the matter cannot simply fade away without proper accountability and transparency measures involving civil society organizations.

Attorney General Dr. Dominic Ayine has discontinued several high profile cases initiated under the previous administration, including charges against former Works and Housing Minister Collins Dauda and four others linked to the Saglemi project. The accused had initially faced 70 charges, including causing financial loss to the state, before all charges were dropped.

The Attorney General also discontinued the ambulance procurement case against Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson and businessman Richard Jakpa. These decisions have drawn criticism from various quarters, with some observers citing concerns about political bias and selective prosecution.

Kpebu previously urged the Attorney General to provide detailed explanations for each discontinued case, arguing that blanket announcements without assigned reasons raise public concerns. He suggested that if reasons were provided for each case, citizens could evaluate whether discontinuation had merit.

The legal analyst noted that wealth accumulation by some political officeholders fuels public frustration and perceptions of impunity. Without urgent corrective action, he warned the situation could “boomerang into our faces,” suggesting the government’s reputation for fighting corruption could suffer lasting damage.

Kpebu proposed establishing a collaborative review panel involving civil society groups like CDD Ghana and technical experts to conduct forensic audits of controversial projects. “This isn’t about partisan politics,” he stressed in earlier commentary. “It’s about ensuring every cedi is accounted for.”

The Saglemi Housing Project, launched in 2012 to deliver 5,000 affordable units, has long been mired in allegations of inflated contracts and substandard construction. A 2021 probe revealed only 1,502 units were partially completed, with auditors flagging irregularities in fund allocation.

Critics argue the Attorney General’s withdrawal pattern, including cases against former officials from the Akufo Addo administration, has eroded public trust in anti corruption efforts. Governance analysts contend that selective justice undermines broader accountability mechanisms and perpetuates impunity.

The government established Operation Recover All Loot (ORAL) in December 2024 to identify and retrieve allegedly looted state assets. However, the Attorney General’s office has maintained that it must independently verify ORAL findings before proceeding with prosecutions, emphasizing that rushing cases without proper evidence could result in embarrassment for the state.

Member of Parliament for Yendi, Abdul Fatawu Alhassan, recently explained that the Attorney General is following due processes to ensure credible prosecutions. He emphasized that cases from the ORAL Committee require independent verification before court action, noting that proceeding solely on committee reports could result in weak cases.

Kpebu’s warnings come as Ghana prepares for the 2028 elections, with the National Democratic Congress government’s handling of corruption cases likely to face scrutiny from both supporters and opposition. The legal analyst has consistently advocated for transparency in prosecutorial decisions, regardless of which party holds power.

The controversy reflects broader tensions in Ghana’s governance around executive authority, judicial independence, and accountability mechanisms. Public trust in institutions remains fragile following years of allegations about politically motivated prosecutions and discontinued cases across different administrations.

As debate intensifies, civil society organizations and legal experts continue pressing authorities to prioritize transparency and accountability over political considerations. The outcome could significantly shape public perception of the government’s commitment to fighting corruption ahead of future electoral contests.

The Agricultural Development Bank has more than doubled its profit after tax to GH¢282.3 million in the nine months ended September 30, 2025, positioning itself strongly ahead of the government’s planned recapitalization next year. The state owned lender’s dramatic turnaround signals renewed investor confidence and operational resilience following years of sector wide restructuring.

According to unaudited financial statements released by ADB, the 152 percent profit surge from GH¢112.1 million recorded in the same period last year was driven primarily by a 67 percent jump in net interest income to GH¢918.1 million. This improvement came from higher yielding investment securities and more efficient liability management as Ghana’s economic environment stabilizes.

Total assets expanded 17 percent to GH¢16.2 billion, with cash and cash equivalents rising 24 percent to GH¢6.47 billion and investment securities climbing 37 percent to GH¢6.45 billion. The substantial allocation to government securities reflects strategic positioning for yield and liquidity management in Ghana’s recovering economy.

Customer deposits increased from GH¢11.14 billion to GH¢12.85 billion over the period, demonstrating growing trust in the bank’s stability. This rise in deposits enhances ADB’s capacity to extend more credit to businesses, farmers and households across the agricultural value chain.

Shareholders’ equity now stands at GH¢1.56 billion, up 7.1 percent, supported by retained earnings and growth in statutory reserves. The bank recorded a reduction in accumulated losses as current profitability absorbed past deficits, continuing the capital restoration that saw shareholders’ funds recover from negative GH¢27.1 million in June 2024 to GH¢1.51 billion by mid 2025.

The bank’s liquidity ratio improved to 130 percent from 125 percent a year earlier, reinforcing its ability to meet short term obligations and maintain smooth operations. However, total liabilities rose from GH¢12.41 billion to GH¢14.66 billion, reflecting expanded business activities.

Interest income rose 27 percent despite a smaller loan book, as ADB benefited from better returns on its expanded investment securities portfolio. Interest expense declined 9 percent, contributing to substantial net interest margin improvement. Non interest revenue streams also strengthened, with net fees and commission income growing 24 percent.

Operating expenses remained well controlled, with personnel expenses rising just 12.5 percent while other operating costs decreased slightly. This disciplined cost management contributed significantly to the bottom line performance.

Finance Minister Dr. Cassiel Ato Forson announced plans to recapitalize ADB in 2026 during the inauguration of the bank’s new nine member board in July. The move aims to enhance support for farmers, agribusinesses and value chain development, aligning with ADB’s founding mandate as Ghana’s primary agricultural financier.

Kenneth Kwamina Thompson, former CEO of Dalex Finance, now chairs the reconstituted board tasked with steering the bank toward operational efficiency and refocusing on food security and rural growth. The recapitalization forms part of broader structural reforms led by the Finance Ministry to drive agro industrialization and reduce import dependency.

The strong performance positions ADB among Ghana’s banking sector recovery success stories. The institution provides approximately 85 percent of institutional credit to Ghana’s agricultural market while offering services across retail, corporate, commercial and parastatal sectors through its universal banking model.

Despite the impressive profit growth, challenges remain. At the bank’s 38th Annual General Meeting in September, shareholders approved management’s strategic direction while acknowledging ongoing issues with non performing loans, which stood at 26.9 percent of gross loans in 2024, significantly above the industry average of 21.8 percent.

ADB has launched a new strategic plan positioning itself among Ghana’s top three banks, focusing on innovation, competitiveness, operational excellence and distinctive financial solutions for the agricultural sector. With profits and assets on the rise, the bank appears well positioned to meet upcoming recapitalization requirements without major difficulty.

Beyond balance sheet improvements, this performance carries broader economic implications. A stronger ADB means greater lending support for the agricultural sector, which forms the backbone of Ghana’s economy. It also positions the bank to increase financing for small and medium scale enterprises, potentially translating into higher productivity, more jobs and improved food security across the country.

The International Monetary Fund has set a year end 2025 deadline for state owned banks to complete their recapitalization as part of its Extended Credit Facility program supporting Ghana’s financial sector stability. ADB’s strong third quarter results suggest it’s moving in the right direction to meet these requirements when government support arrives next year.

Former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has described Nigerian internet fraudsters, commonly known as Yahoo boys, as geniuses who require proper guidance rather than condemnation. Speaking at the Golden Health Conference in Onitsha on Saturday, the former Anambra State governor argued that these youths possess creativity that could drive national development if properly channeled.

The conference, held at the Archbishop Patterson Auditorium of All Saints Cathedral, brought together students, professionals, and youth leaders under the theme “Money Beyond Wealth.” Obi revealed he cut short a two-day meeting in the United Kingdom to attend the event, describing it as addressing a critical vice eroding Nigerian values: the greed for material possessions.

“Some of our so-called Yahoo boys are geniuses who need redirection, not condemnation,” Obi stated during his address. He emphasized that with proper guidance, their creativity and courage could fuel innovation instead of deception. The challenge, he noted, lies in channeling their energy from fraudulent activities to productive enterprise.

The politician stressed that money becomes real wealth only when earned through ethical means and used to uplift both individuals and society. He cautioned that Nigeria cannot achieve greatness while celebrating corruption and rewarding dishonesty, drawing parallels to vices affecting the political class.

Obi reminded attendees that while money remains necessary for progress, it represents merely a fragment of true wealth. Real wealth, he argued, rests on integrity, character, and purpose. It should promote education, reduce poverty, and create opportunities for others to live dignified lives.

Citing Indonesia as an example, Obi explained how that government empowers young entrepreneurs through functional ministries, financial support, and innovation hubs, contrasting sharply with Nigeria’s neglect of its creative youth population. He urged Nigerian youths to learn from global innovators who started as young dreamers with minimal support.

The former governor also addressed religious and ethnic divisions, emphasizing that fairness and merit matter more than religious or tribal affiliations. “No religion or tribe buys bread cheaper than another,” he remarked. Nigeria’s abundant resources aren’t the problem; what’s lacking is the will to do what’s right. Once the nation embraces justice, fairness, and merit, its greatness will naturally unfold.

Obi thanked Owen Nwokolo, Bishop of the Diocese on the Niger, for his mentorship and commended the conference organizers for promoting discipline and value-based leadership among Nigerian youths.

Albert Amoah is a former Asante Kotoko player

Asante Kotoko supporters on social media have questioned the timing of striker Albert Amoah’s permanent transfer move to Libyan Premier League giants Al Ahli Benghazi.

The Porcupine Warriors confirmed Amoah’s departure barely two hours after their 5-1 defeat to Wydah Athletic Club at the Mohammed V Stadium in the CAF Confederation Cup.

“We can confirm the permanent transfer of forward Albert Amoah to Libyan side AL AHLY BENGHAZI.”

“Asante Kotoko is grateful to Albert for his services to the club and his achievements with us. We wish him the very best for the future,” the club tweeted as sighted by GhanaWeb Sports.

Ronaldo takes another giant step toward 1,000 goal target

Reacting to the news, supporters of Asante Kotoko took to social media to express their frustrations about the departure of their leading striker.

Some also questioned the timing of the announcement, saying announcing the departure of Albert Amoah shortly after their embarrassing defeat in Morocco was wrong.

Check out some of the reactions below:

What sort of disrespect to fans is that? A few hours of getting humiliated by WAC and the next update the fans got to receive from the team is that the star boy in the team at the moment has been sold to a Libyan team. The same mistakes that the previous administration was doing…

— YNWA LFC 🇬🇭 (@Tony_ksiboy_) October 25, 2025

And you expect us to compete in Africa like the other top African clubs??? 😂😂Hell No!!!…. Ghanaian clubs are far back and It’s really really sad.. It’s not going to get any better soon because our league itself is very very poor and wrongly managed by so called Club…

— Oh_Wow KinG!👑 (@o_h_e_n_e_e_e) October 25, 2025

Charley we are not serious o
So Donzo and who will strike ? Ah Charley

— ACCRA MAYOR 🥲🥷 (@0panaa_1) October 24, 2025

You’re not a serious club

— OB (@CFC_OBED) October 24, 2025

The club is Tete na Tcn. Your mouth Dey sweet you pass anything

— Kingspride (@BARCAKingspride) October 25, 2025

No respect for the supporters whatsoever after an humiliation smh, imagine Real Madrid or United doing this, you can do better

— Commodore. (@TheWavyRed) October 24, 2025

Mony3 papa baako sei

SARFO Duku no )y3 lawyer?

— JEFF TYMER 🇬🇭🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 (@Jeff_Tymer_) October 24, 2025

The most unserious club in the world
Aaah
De league just started
Already you are struggling upfront
The goals are not coming and you sell the only potent player upfront
You will finish and come and tell fans to come to the stadium
Mony3 serious baako baako sei
Tweaaa Kai

— traumatized opuro (@opuro_wofa) October 24, 2025

Some of the decisions people in higher places take always make the masses question their competence.
Fans shouldn’t expect any better continental performances from this club.
They unearth good players and sell them to North Africans. Rinse and repeat for the past 2 decades.

— Leon_Jnr (@iamLeon_Jnr) October 25, 2025

Most of u here are funny. If we ask you to show a proof of your monthly contribution to Kotoko, u may not be able to provide, yet you hv the loudest mouth here condemning the IMC. How do u expect them to fund the club. @AsanteKotoko_SC

— Oteng Baafi Clement(AK-0007030) (@BaafiOteng) October 25, 2025

This is one of the most questionable decision from the club. Selling your best player at this stage of the season? How then can you compete at the continent level. His Royal majesty must sack all those involved in this deal. Rubbish

— Ahafia Gershon🦅🇬🇭 (@ahafia_ga) October 24, 2025

I’m sorry to say Pooley wasted his life on a club like this. Such a waste! I really can’t believe this. Who sits and sanctions a decision like this? Who? Musa Hamzata, now Amoah when the transfer window is closed? Are we normal?

— ZionStrong (@mentisprecinct) October 25, 2025

Sometimes I wonder why our football club selling dema best players to lower league in Africa whiles we said we wanted to strengthen our own.

All we know is going Africa n collecting huge goals with our best team in the country. It’s a shame n we must wake up

— Abdul-Mannan Yahaya (@manasco_12) October 25, 2025

Meanwhile, watch the latest Sports Check interview with Alex Kotey, the GFA Referees Manager below:

A tragic road accident near the Kasoa tollbooth in the Central Region on Sunday, October 26, has claimed multiple lives and left several others in critical condition.

Eyewitnesses say the crash occurred when a Sprinter minibus, with registration number GW 7455-18, travelling toward Kasoa, crashed into the rear of a Jeep 4×4 (GR 7673), which was reportedly reversing on the highway.

The violent impact caused the minibus, which was fully loaded with passengers, to somersault several times before landing in a mangled state. Some passengers died instantly, while others were left trapped inside the wreckage.

Emergency responders and residents nearby quickly rushed to the scene to rescue survivors. Paramedics reportedly faced difficulties securing a referral for one of the critically injured victims after initial treatment at the Ngleshie Amanfro Polyclinic, as no major health facility was immediately available to receive the patient. The frantic transfer attempt lasted nearly an hour.

Authorities have yet to release an official statement on the exact number of casualties or the cause of the accident.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

play videoProfessor Godfred Bokpin is an economist

In a striking metaphor, renowned economist and Professor of Finance, Godfred Bokpin, has described Africa as “the only continent where water flows upwards”, a reference to the billions of dollars lost annually through illicit financial flows.

Speaking on GhanaWeb’s BizTech, Professor Bokpin explained that Africa continues to lose vast sums of money through capital flight, tax evasion, and financial leakages, even as it borrows heavily and receives aid from wealthier nations.

“Africa probably is the only continent where water flows upwards, and it’s for a good reason…If you look at illicit financial flows, we are losing billions of dollars. And if you compare that to what we get by borrowing, aid and the rest of them, we will be better off if we strengthen our internal governance framework,” he told the host, Ernestina Serwaa Asante.

According to data from the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), the Economic Commission for Africa (ECA), and the African Development Bank (AfDB), Africa loses an estimated $90 billion every year to illicit financial flows. This is roughly 4% of the continent’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Professor Bokpin argued that despite the continent’s reliance on foreign loans, aid, and investment, Africa is paradoxically a net creditor to the rest of the world, sending out more wealth than it receives.

“Africa exists essentially for the rest of the world. Unfortunately, Africa does not exist for Africa,” he told GhanaWeb’s Ernestina Serwaa Asante.

He also criticised the structural design of Africa’s economies and infrastructure, which he said were shaped by colonial interests to serve external powers rather than foster intra-African connectivity.

“If you look at the way Africa was designed… there is very little fiscal connectivity within Africa itself, because Africa was designed to save the rest of the world,” he noted.

He lamented that even basic trade between African countries remains costly and inefficient.

In some cases, goods must be routed through Europe before reaching another African destination. A legacy of fragmented infrastructure and limited regional integration.

Professor Bokpin called for a stronger governance, regional cooperation, and economic re-engineering to ensure Africa’s wealth serves its own development.

All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:

It was a display of brilliance and consistency as Ghana National College outclassed Tema Secondary School and Effiduase Senior High Commercial School to book a spot in the quarterfinals of the 2025 National Science and Maths Quiz (NSMQ).

The “Nananom” ended the contest with a commanding 65 points, leaving Tema Secondary School and Effiduase SHCS trailing with 33 and 28 points respectively.

From the onset, Ghana National College stamped their authority — finishing Round One with 20 points, ahead of Tema Sec (14pts) and Effiduase (10pts). Their dominance deepened as they widened the margin to 34 points by the end of Round Two.

In the Problem of the Day, Ghana National College proved their mettle with an impressive 9 out of 10, while Effiduase SHCS earned 8 out of 10, and Tema Sec managed 4 out of 10.

By the end of Round Four, the Cape Coast-based school had sealed their victory with 59 points, before wrapping up the contest with a strong 65 points at the final buzzer.

This outstanding performance not only sends Ghana National College into the quarterfinal stage but also ensures they retain their seeded status for next year’s championship.

The “Nananom” will now look to build on this momentum as they chase a place in the semifinals and a shot at the coveted NSMQ trophy.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Ghanaian forward Yaw Yeboah has been placed on administrative leave by Major League Soccer (MLS) following alleged breaches of league regulations.

The Los Angeles FC winger, along with Columbus Crew midfielder Derrick Jones, has been suspended from all team activities and matchday involvement pending the outcome of an ongoing league investigation.

In an official statement, MLS confirmed the decision, noting that the suspension is a precautionary measure as the league reviews potential violations.

“Major League Soccer has placed Los Angeles Football Club (LAFC) midfielder Yaw Yeboah and Columbus Crew midfielder Derrick Jones on administrative leave pending league review of potential violations of MLS league rules,” the statement read.

“Both players will be prohibited from participating in team activities and competition during the respective reviews.”

Yeboah joined Los Angeles FC in January 2025 on a two-year deal after leaving Columbus Crew.

The 27-year-old has since become an influential figure for the California-based side, delivering consistent performances and crucial goals.

Although MLS has not disclosed details of the alleged breaches, the league stated that both players will remain sidelined until the investigations are concluded.

The suspects are around thirty years old

Police have arrested suspects as part of the investigation into the theft of jewels worth tens of millions of dollars from the Louvre museum, the Paris prosecutor’s office said.

Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau said “one of the men arrested was preparing to leave the territory from Roissy airport,” also known as Charles de Gaulle airport, a facility near Paris.

French media has been reporting that two suspects were arrested and placed in custody on Saturday evening, around 10pm local time.

One of the men was preparing to board a flight for Algeria, according to CNN-affiliate BFMTV, citing sources familiar with the matter.

The suspects are around thirty years old, and were already known to police, per BFMTV.

Thieves targeted the Louvre’s Apollo Gallery on the upper floor last weekend, which houses the French Crown Jewels.

In the course of a seven-minute heist, they broke into two high-security display cases and stole nine items, according to France’s culture ministry.

All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:

Cristiano Ronaldo’s incredible pursuit of 1000 career goals continues, with the Portuguese superstar now just 50 goals away from the historic milestone.

The 40-year-old found the net in Al Nassr’s 2–0 win over Al Hazem, helping his side maintain their perfect start to the Saudi Pro League season. Ronaldo has now scored six goals in as many matches this campaign, taking his tally to 106 goals in 119 appearances for Al Nassr since joining in January 2023.

Celebrating his latest milestone, Ronaldo wrote on social media: “Happy to help the team win and hit 950 goals! Always hungry for more!”

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner, who turns 41 in February, hopes to reach the 1000-goal mark within the next 12 months if he keeps up his prolific scoring rate for club and country. Al Nassr, meanwhile, have now won all six of their league games to start the season.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

The Ghana Premier League action continues today, Sunday, October 26, 2025, with several intriguing fixtures lined up across the country to conclude Matchweek 7.

In Accra, Hearts of Oak will look to build momentum when they face Goldstars SC at the Accra Sports Stadium.

The Phobians are eager to secure all three points in front of their home fans, while Goldstars will be aiming to pull off an upset and climb higher up the table.

At Tarkwa, Medeama SC will host newly promoted Swedru All Blacks at the TNA Stadium in what promises to be a thrilling contest, as both sides seek to rediscover their winning touch.

Meanwhile, Karela United will square off with Bechem United at the Aliu Mahama Sports Stadium in Tamale, hoping to make home advantage count.

FC Samartex will also be in action at the Nsenkyire Sports Arena where they welcome Hohoe United, a side looking to recover from recent setbacks.

Elsewhere, Nations FC face Eleven Wonders at the Kwame Kyei Sports Complex in another clash expected to draw attention, while Young Apostles host Berekum Chelsea at the Wenchi Sports Stadium in a Bono derby.

However, the much-anticipated fixture between Vision FC and Asante Kotoko has been postponed to a later date

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Alex Apau Dadey, the distinguished Executive Chairman of KGL Group, has been celebrated with the prestigious Forbes Best of Africa Corporate Leadership and Innovation Award at a high-profile Leadership and Philanthropy Forum held at the House of Lords in London.

The award was formally presented by Mark A. Furlong, President of Custom Solutions Media for Forbes Media, who commended Mr. Dadey’s exceptional achievements in steering KGL Group to remarkable technological heights.

Presenting the honor, Mr. Furlong stated:
“On behalf of the Forbes Best of Africa Award Committee, it is my honor to present to you the Forbes Best of Africa Corporate Leadership & Innovation Award.”

The official citation praised Mr. Dadey’s transformative leadership:

“As Executive Chairman of KGL Group, you have successfully led the company’s expansion into digital solutions, fintech, and technology-driven platforms that have revolutionized Ghana’s lottery and gaming industry while fostering financial inclusion. Under your stewardship, KGL Group has risen to become a leading African corporate brand, exemplifying innovation, social impact, and sustainable business practices.”

Receiving the award alongside his wife and children, Mr. Dadey expressed heartfelt appreciation:

“I am truly humbled by this recognition. My sincere gratitude goes to the Forbes team for this honor, and to the extraordinary team at KGL Group, including our Board, Management, and Staff, whose dedication has made this possible. I want to encourage all Africans in the diaspora to return home and contribute their knowledge to building the continent. After living in London for over 20 years, I made the decision to return to Ghana to serve and create impact. Ten years on, I am proud to have built one of Ghana’s most successful technology-driven businesses, and I am honored that Forbes recognizes this journey.”

The Forbes Best of Africa Awards celebrate visionary business leaders who are building globally competitive enterprises while making significant contributions to Africa’s economic and social development.

Other distinguished honorees included:

• Dr. Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director and CEO of Nigeria’s Bank of Industry (BOI), the country’s oldest and largest development finance institution
• Prince Nnamdi Ekeh, Group CEO of Konga, renowned for advancing e-commerce, digital infrastructure, and payments across emerging markets.

CSR Dominance of KGL Group in Ghana:

Apart from leading KGL Group to become the leading corporate brand in Africa, Mr. Alex Dadey has also achieved significantly in the areas of Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) and Corporate Social Investment(CSI) projects in Ghana including sponsoring the Ghana Black Stars to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, construction of multimillion-dollar ultra-modern Mental Health Facility in the Ashanti Region in partnership with the King of Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, free supply of incubators to various hospitals in Ghana, GHS 3 million annually to support Stabilization Fund of NLA, GHS 2 million annually to support NLA Good Causes Foundation, Scholarships to several orphans & destitute children, sponsorship packages for various charity organizations across Ghana and Africa, and currently steps are being taken by KGL Group to partner Ghana Medical Trust Fund(also known as MahamaCares), a landmark initiative of President John Mahama aimed at providing financial assistance to individuals living with chronic diseases across Ghana. The Mahamacares seeks to cover the cost of care and medication for Non-communicable diseases not currently included under the National Health Insurance Scheme(NHIS), as well as invest in health infrastructure, medical equipment, specialist training, and research to enhance access to quality healthcare delivery in Ghana.

Indeed, Mr. Alex Dadey deserves to be celebrated as a Statesman and successful entrepreneur who uphold service to God, Country, and Humanity, and Forbes Media is proud to be associated with the brand of KGL Group and Mr. Alex Apau Dadey.

A photo of the late Annie Ruth Jiagge

Annie Ruth Jiagge was a pioneering Ghanaian lawyer, judge, and activist whose work reshaped the legal and social landscape for women both in Ghana and globally.

She played a central role in drafting the 1967 Declaration on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (DEDAW), which paved the way for the 1979 Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).

A report by the Gate House Chambers in the UK stated; “In addition to Anne Jiagge’s achievements as a lawyer and judge, she championed the rights of women worldwide. Appointed to represent Ghana on the United Nations Commission on the Status of Women between 1962 and 1972, she was the principal architect of the Declaration on the Elimination of Discrimination Against Women.

Meet Joyce Bamford-Addo: Ghana’s first female Speaker of Parliament

“She later founded the Ghana National Council on Women and Development. Upon learning that access to credit was a priority for the financial independence of women, at the International Women’s Conference in 1975, she and others pledged seed money for a women’s bank (now Women’s World Banking)”.

Here is her brief profile

Born on October 7, 1918, in Lomé, then part of French Togoland, Jiagge moved to Keta in the Gold Coast to pursue her education under her grandmother’s care.

She attended Achimota College, studying teaching from 1933 to 1937, and began her career at the Presbyterian Girls School in Keta, eventually rising to headmistress.

While teaching, Jiagge became fascinated with law, inspired by a visit to the courts in Accra.

Unable to study law locally, Jiagge travelled to London, enrolling at the London School of Economics and Lincoln’s Inn.

Meet Prof Marian Ewurama Addy: Ghana’s first female professor of natural science

Despite scepticism from male peers who doubted women’s suitability for the profession, she excelled, earning her LLB in 1949 and becoming one of Ghana’s first female lawyers.

Upon returning home, Jiagge initially practised as a barrister. After marrying Fred Jiagge in 1953, she accepted a magistrate position, becoming Ghana’s first female magistrate.

By 1959, she had advanced to the circuit court, and in 1961, she became the first female High Court judge in Ghana and one of the first in the Commonwealth.

She later served as the first female judge of the Court of Appeal, and from 1980 to 1983, she was its president.

Jiagge’s impact extended far beyond the courtroom. She tirelessly advocated for women’s rights, pressing for legal reforms in marriage, divorce, custody, inheritance, and women’s political participation.

She believed that education and financial empowerment were critical for women to claim their rights, and she emphasised that legislation alone could not overcome deep-rooted cultural and societal barriers.

Internationally, Jiagge represented Ghana at the UN Commission on the Status of Women from 1962 to 1972. Her 1967 draft of DEDAW laid the foundation for CEDAW, securing her place as a key figure in global women’s rights advocacy.

She led Ghanaian delegations to World Conferences on Women, championed financial inclusion for women, and promoted an intersectional approach to feminism that recognised how gender inequality is compounded by tradition, imperialism, and underdevelopment.

A devout Christian, Jiagge balanced faith with social justice. She was active in the Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) and became the first African woman president of the World Council of Churches in 1975, using her platform to fight apartheid and promote human rights.

Annie Ruth Jiagge passed away on June 12, 1996, in Accra. Her legacy endures through her contributions to national legislation, international treaties, and the empowerment of women.

She remains a symbol of courage, determination, and justice, inspiring generations to challenge discrimination and fight for equality.

JKB/EB

Ntim Fordjour pushes for parliament brief on National Security

Alex Apau Dadey, the distinguished Executive Chairman of KGL Group, has been celebrated with the prestigious Forbes Best of Africa Corporate Leadership and Innovation Award at a high-profile Leadership and Philanthropy Forum held at the House of Lords in London.

The award was formally presented by Mark A. Furlong, President of Custom Solutions Media for Forbes Media, who commended Mr. Dadey’s exceptional achievements in steering KGL Group to remarkable technological heights.

Presenting the honor, Mr. Furlong stated:
“On behalf of the Forbes Best of Africa Award Committee, it is my honor to present to you the Forbes Best of Africa Corporate Leadership & Innovation Award.”

The official citation praised Mr. Dadey’s transformative leadership:

“As Executive Chairman of KGL Group, you have successfully led the company’s expansion into digital solutions, fintech, and technology-driven platforms that have revolutionized Ghana’s lottery and gaming industry while fostering financial inclusion. Under your stewardship, KGL Group has risen to become a leading African corporate brand, exemplifying innovation, social impact, and sustainable business practices.”

Receiving the award alongside his wife and children, Mr. Dadey expressed heartfelt appreciation:

“I am truly humbled by this recognition. My sincere gratitude goes to the Forbes team for this honor, and to the extraordinary team at KGL Group, including our Board, Management, and Staff, whose dedication has made this possible. I want to encourage all Africans in the diaspora to return home and contribute their knowledge to building the continent. After living in London for over 20 years, I made the decision to return to Ghana to serve and create impact. Ten years on, I am proud to have built one of Ghana’s most successful technology-driven businesses, and I am honored that Forbes recognizes this journey.”

The Forbes Best of Africa Awards celebrate visionary business leaders who are building globally competitive enterprises while making significant contributions to Africa’s economic and social development.

Other distinguished honorees included:

• Dr. Olasupo Olusi, Managing Director and CEO of Nigeria’s Bank of Industry (BOI), the country’s oldest and largest development finance institution
• Prince Nnamdi Ekeh, Group CEO of Konga, renowned for advancing e-commerce, digital infrastructure, and payments across emerging markets.

CSR Dominance of KGL Group in Ghana:

Apart from leading KGL Group to become the leading corporate brand in Africa, Mr. Alex Dadey has also achieved significantly in the areas of Corporate Social Responsibility(CSR) and Corporate Social Investment(CSI) projects in Ghana including sponsoring the Ghana Black Stars to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, construction of multimillion-dollar ultra-modern Mental Health Facility in the Ashanti Region in partnership with the King of Ashanti Kingdom, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II, free supply of incubators to various hospitals in Ghana, GHS 3 million annually to support Stabilization Fund of NLA, GHS 2 million annually to support NLA Good Causes Foundation, Scholarships to several orphans & destitute children, sponsorship packages for various charity organizations across Ghana and Africa, and currently steps are being taken by KGL Group to partner Ghana Medical Trust Fund(also known as MahamaCares), a landmark initiative of President John Mahama aimed at providing financial assistance to individuals living with chronic diseases across Ghana. The Mahamacares seeks to cover the cost of care and medication for Non-communicable diseases not currently included under the National Health Insurance Scheme(NHIS), as well as invest in health infrastructure, medical equipment, specialist training, and research to enhance access to quality healthcare delivery in Ghana.

Indeed, Mr. Alex Dadey deserves to be celebrated as a Statesman and successful entrepreneur who uphold service to God, Country, and Humanity, and Forbes Media is proud to be associated with the brand of KGL Group and Mr. Alex Apau Dadey.

Donald Trump is the President of United States of America

President Donald Trump said Saturday he is increasing the tariff on Canada by 10% over current levels, further escalating trade tensions over what he called a “fake” ad that featured parts of an anti-tariff speech by former President Ronald Reagan in 1987.

“Canada was caught, red handed, putting up a fraudulent advertisement on Ronald Reagan’s Speech on Tariffs,” Trump posted on Truth Social, adding, “Because of their serious misrepresentation of the facts, and hostile act, I am increasing the Tariff on Canada by 10% over and above what they are paying now.”

The president’s post came after he said Thursday he was terminating trade talks with Canada, threatening once again to upend the crucial economic relationship between the United States and its second-biggest trading partner.

The new tariff is Trump’s latest salvo in his global trade agenda after he imposed a levy of 100% “over and above” any tariffs on China in retaliation for new export controls Beijing imposed on rare-earth minerals earlier this month.

Trump posted about the tariff while aboard Air Force One as he heads to Asia for a five-day trip beginning in Malaysia, where he will meet with Southeast Asian leaders. He is expected to meet with Chinese leader Xi Jinping at the end of his trip in South Korea.

The Canadian ad, purchased by the government of Ontario and broadcast on major US television networks, featured clips from a speech in which Reagan railed against tariffs. The ad quoted Reagan, who said tariffs hurt “every American worker and consumer” and were “triggering fierce trade wars.”

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation & Institute said the ad misrepresented the former president’s words.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford said Friday that he spoke with Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, and that the US ad campaign would pause on Monday “so that trade talks can resume.”

But the ad would continue to run over the weekend during the World Series, which is between the Los Angeles Dodgers and the Toronto Blue Jays, Canada’s only Major League Baseball team.

“Their Advertisement was to be taken down, IMMEDIATELY, but they let it run last night during the World Series, knowing that it was a FRAUD,” Trump said Saturday.

Ford’s spokesperson referred CNN to the premier’s Friday statement in which he said the ad would be paused Monday. CNN has reached out to Carney’s office for comment.

Dominic LeBlanc, Canada’s minister responsible for trade with the US, said late Saturday that the country hoped for “constructive discussions” with the US.

“We will remain focused on achieving results that benefit workers and families in both the United States and Canada, and that progress is best achieved through direct engagement with the US administration — which is the responsibility of the federal government,” he said in statement.

Carney and Trump are both in Malaysia for the ASEAN summit, which began late Saturday (Sunday morning local time).

“Tariffs at any level remain a tax on America first, then North American competitiveness as a whole. We hope this threat of escalation can be resolved through diplomatic channels and further negotiation. CUSMA means a North America where businesses do better. A successful free trade zone is fundamental for both our economies,” Candace Laing, the president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, told CNN in an email.

Canada has long been one of America’s top trading partners, behind China and Mexico, making trade tensions a heated topic. Last year, the United States imported $411.9 billion worth of goods from Canada.

Trump’s steep sectoral tariffs on autos, steel, aluminum, lumber and energy — some of the country’s key exports to the United States — have hit Canada especially hard. Canada’s unemployment rate is now at its highest point in nine years.

It’s also hurting the US economy because of Canadian boycotts. According to data from Statistics Canada, Canadian travel to the US by land is down 31% this year through the end of September.

Exports of American spirits to Canada plunged by 85% in the second quarter, according to the Distilled Spirits Council of the United States.

But goods that are compliant with the US-Mexico-Canada Agreement, or USMCA, which Trump negotiated in his first term, have largely been able to enter the US duty-free.

Trump’s repeated tariff threats have many expecting major changes to the USMCA when it is reviewed next year.

All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:

Accra, Oct. 26, GNA –Mr Julius Debrah, the Chief of Staff, has stated that Africa’s digital identity and sovereignty are no longer unattainable ideals but achievable goals, provided the continent embraces a unified vision and strategic investment in technology and infrastructure.

In a speech read on his behalf by Shamima Muslim, Deputy Presidential Spokesperson, at MOBEX Africa Innovation Awards, Mr Debrah said although Africa continued to grapple with political and economic sovereignty, the current era presented new opportunities for transformation.

The conference, themed “Building a digitally driven, sustainable, and integrated Africa,” brought together stakeholders from across the continent, including innovators, entrepreneurs, and policymakers.

Mr Debrah emphasized that Africa was not starting from zero, and that the continent’s digital sovereignty lay within the capabilities of those present.

Drawing parallels with the economic transformation of the Asian Tigers—China, Malaysia, and Singapore, Mr Debrah highlighted the role of technology in driving development and prosperity.

He referenced President John Dramani Mahama
recent state visit to China, where the President toured industries, including one that is currently the largest investor in Ghana.

The visit, he said, inspired renewed commitment to Ghana’s development agenda, particularly in infrastructure, industrialization, agriculture, and human capital development.

He stressed that infrastructure remained the foundation for any meaningful take-off, citing roads, railways, ports, and social infrastructure such as education and health as critical areas.

“Without the right infrastructure, how do we even begin to speak about sovereignty, digital or otherwise?” he asked.

He also underscored the importance of industrialization through the establishment of special economic zones and manufacturing hubs, and the need to leverage technology in agriculture to ensure food security and economic resilience.

He described human capital development as the most valuable asset of any nation, noting that education powered by technology could unlock new opportunities for Africa’s youth.

Commending the resilience of Africa’s tech ecosystem, he acknowledged the achievements of startups and organizations operating under challenging conditions.

“You are here, winning awards because you refused to give up,” he said.

Mr. George Spencer Quaye, Chief Executive Officer of MOBEX Africa, has called on African nations to take ownership of their digital future by investing in innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive policy frameworks that empower local solutions.

He said the 2025 edition of the awards was particularly significant as it marked 10 years since the inception of MOBEX Africa.

“A decade of championing Africa’s digital transformation. A decade of providing platforms for African innovators to shine,” he stated.
GNA
Christian Akorlie

play videoProfessor Godfred Bokpin is an economist

Renowned economist and Professor of Finance, Godfred Bokpin, has averred that Ghanaians dominate only in corruption-related activities while remaining largely absent from critical sectors like real estate, banking and finance.

Speaking on GhanaWeb’s BizTech with Ernestina Serwaa Asante, Professor Bokpin contrasted Ghana’s economic footprint with that of Nigeria, pointing out that Nigerian banks such as Zenith, Access, and UBA have expanded across Africa, while no Ghanaian bank has ventured beyond the country’s borders.

He urged both government and citizens to be intentional about building globally competitive Ghanaian businesses.

‘Debt is the new form of colonisation’ – Professor Bokpin

The economist in the interview said; “Look, any country that has not empowered the citizens to save, that country is not accumulating capital. That country cannot finance its own development. And that is why every day, a president will go to China, Japan, and go and bring capital because we are not building capital here. So the limited economic opportunities we have, we can’t take advantage of that.

“You tell me, which aspect of this Ghanaian economy are Ghanaians in charge? Maybe the corruption industry. But real sector, we are absent. Banking, there’s nothing Ghanaian about the Ghanaian banking industry,” he stated.

Professor Bokpin stressed the need to nurture indigenous businesses beyond local success, positioning them to thrive regionally and globally.

Nigeria set to join world’s top five economies by 2075 – Prof Bokpin

“We should be intentional about growing some of our indigenous businesses. Not only to be local champions at the regional level, and then at the global level. That is the only way we can make it,” he stated.

The Professor of Finance called for a complete overhaul of Ghana’s economic architecture to create space for citizens to save, invest, and participate meaningfully in national development.

All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:

A migrant who was mistakenly released from prison has been arrested in north London following a manhunt, the Metropolitan Police has said.

Hadush Kebatu was found in the Finsbury Park area at 08:30 GMT on Sunday, two days after being let go in error from HMP Chelmsford.

He was arrested on suspicion of being unlawfully at large.

The Met Police said Kebatu “will be returned to the custody of the Prison Service”, though Health Secretary Wes Streeting said he would immediately be deported.

Kebatu, who was sentenced last month for sexually assaulting a 14-year-old girl and a woman in Epping while living in an asylum hotel, was due to be deported when he was mistakenly set free by prison staff.

Cmd James Conway, who oversaw the operation to find Kebatu, said: “This has been a diligent and fast paced investigation led by specialist officers from the Metropolitan Police, supported by Essex Police and the British Transport Police (BTP).

“Information from the public led officers to Finsbury Park and following a search, they located Mr Kebatu.

“I am extremely grateful to the public for their support following our appeal, which assisted in locating Mr Kebatu.”

Essex Police were first made aware that Kebatu had been released in error at 12:57 on Friday but Kebatu had already boarded a train to east London 16 minutes earlier.

Kebatu was also was filmed in Chelmsford city centre speaking to members of the public shortly after he was released, and police confirmed he approached several people seeking assistance.

He was picked up on CCTV at a library in the Dalston area on Friday evening wearing a prison-issue grey tracksuit and carrying a white bag with pictures of avocados on it.

Kebatu’s arrest in July sparked protests outside The Bell Hotel in Epping, where he had been living since arriving in the UK on a small boat.

In September, Chelmsford Magistrates’ Court heard Kebatu tried to kiss a teenage girl on a bench and made numerous sexually explicit comments.

The following day, he encountered the same girl and tried to kiss her before sexually assaulting her. He also sexually assaulted a woman who had offered to help him draft a CV to find work.

Kebatu gave his age as 38 during a court appearance, but a judge said he had been seen information indicating he was 41.

He denied the charges against him but was found guilty of five offences last month and sentenced to 12 months in custody, including the time he had already time in jail awaiting his trial. In total, he spent 108 days in prison.

Kebatu was also given a five-year sexual harm prevention order, which banned him from approaching or contacting any female, and ordered to sign the Sex Offenders Register for 10 years.

During his trial, the court heard it was Kebatu’s “firm wish” to be deported. Under the UK Borders Act 2007, a deportation order must be made where a foreign national has been convicted of an offence and has received a custodial sentence of at least 12 months.

Justice Secretary David Lammy has ordered an independent investigation into Kebatu’s release, while HM Prison Service has instructed governors in England and Wales to implement additional checks before inmates are released by Monday.

A prison officer has been suspended pending investigation but a senior prison staffer told BBC News the release was “down to a series of mistakes probably because staff are overworked and in short supply”.

They continued: “It’s not just one prison office who’s to blame. That would be unfair.”

Health Secretary Wes Streeting told the BBC the arrest was a “huge relief” and said Kebatu will “now be deported”.

He continued: “The justice secretary has ordered an investigation into how on earth it was that a dangerous man who was due for deportation was instead released onto our streets.

“That work is under way, we will be open and transparent with the public about what went wrong and what we’re going to do about it.”

He had earlier said the Prison Service was under enormous pressure “but even against that backdrop it doesn’t explain or excuse the release of people on our streets who have no business being there”.

Former Conservative Justice Secretary Alex Chalk said an inquiry was necessary in order “to learn lessons”, and suggested the incident was symptomatic of wider problems with the prison system.

He told BBC Breakfast: “The entire annual budget of the Ministry of Justice is spent by the Department for Work and Pensions in two weeks.

“My constant plea is to try to ensure the prison service gets the resources it requires to ensure we are recruiting and retaining people with skills and experience to make sure these problems don’t happen.”

The Liberal Democrat MP for Chelmsford, Marie Goldman, said Kebatu “must now be deported” and also pushed for a national inquiry.

Earlier, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said the incident showed that the UK’s “once-trusted institutions”, including the police and prisons, were “disintegrating before our eyes”.

A report from His Majesty’s Prison and Probation Service said 262 prisoners in England and Wales were released in error between April 2024 and March 2025, up from 115 in the previous 12 months.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

DISCLAIMER: The Views, Comments, Opinions, Contributions and Statements made by Readers and Contributors on this platform do not necessarily represent the views or policy of Multimedia Group Limited.

Afua Kyei is Bank of England’s chief financial officer

Afua Kyei, the Bank of England’s chief financial officer, has been named the UK’s most influential black person.

The 43-year-old is one of the UK’s most senior finance leaders, in charge of the financial governance of the Bank’s £1 trillion balance sheet and funding reforms.

The BoE executive director topped the 2026 Powerlist, which recognises the most powerful people of African, African Caribbean, and African American heritage in the UK.

Other influential names include former footballer Ian Wright, who’s new to the list, make-up artist Dame Pat McGrath, and actor Idris Elba.

Kyei, who was recruited by the Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney in his former role as the governor of the Bank of England, said topping the list was “incredibly humbling”.

The mum-of-four said growing up, she saw obvious differences in the workplace.

She said: “I didn’t see so many women in big leadership roles who had families, and I know that there are lots of women who think that they need to choose between work and having a family.

“What I love about the Bank of England is that we really support working families and working parents.”

Kyei studied chemistry at Oxford University and was also awarded a junior research fellowship by Princeton University in organic chemistry.

‘You don’t need to be a mathematician’.

During the global financial crisis, she was an investment banker before joining Barclays Bank where she was the Chief Financial Officer for Mortgages.

She joined the Bank of England in 2019 and is at the core of the Bank’s leadership and decision making.

She said her parents, who moved to the UK from Ghana to go to university at 18, have been her biggest role models.

“My mother came to Liverpool, trained to become a midwife and enjoyed a 40-year plus career working for the NHS.

“My father has enjoyed a long career in the oil industry. I saw them juggling work and home. They instilled really strong values in us,” she added.

Kyei hopes to inspire more young people to consider banking as a career.

“You don’t need to be a mathematician, you don’t need to be an accountant and you don’t need to be an economist. What we’re looking for is fresh perspectives and we want the best people”.

Kyei takes the place of tech CEO Dean Forbes at the head of the list.

The rest of the 2026 Powerlist

The annual Powerlist was first published in 2007, with its aim to provide role models for young black people, according to Powerful Media.

Powerlist founder Michael Eboda said he thought they would run out of people after three years, but the opposite has happened.

“Over the last 20 years we’ve seen more influencers from the private sector as opposed to the public sector and that’s a great story of success in Britain”.

All you need to know about Ghana’s new vehicle number plates |BizTech:

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The most obvious theme of the Matildas’ clash with Wales on Saturday, one that saw Australia take out a 2-1 win thanks to Caitlin Foord’s 85th-minute strike, was that of reconnection.

725 days after she last pulled on the green-and-gold, Sam Kerr was back in action for Australia’s women, starting up top alongside familiar collaborators Caitlin Foord and Hayley Raso. And while the striker’s inability to get even the most glancing of touches on Courtney Nevin’s 28th-minute opener denied the headline writers their chance to celebrate her international return with a goal on debut — the fullback instead getting her first international goal with the free kick — the 65 minutes of football Kerr logged represented an important milestone in the journey to, what Australia hopes, will be a fit and firing talisman leading the line at next year’s home Women’s Asian Cup.

But just as one pivotal figure in the growth of women’s football Down Under was reintroducing herself on the international stage, another was making her farewell. Jess Fishlock played for the 166th and final time in a Welsh shirt, following last week’s announcement that the clash with the Matildas would be the final one in a 19-year Cymru career. It added an extra level of reverence to Saturday’s contest, something that even the most oblivious of observers would have been able to pick up when Fishlock led the stadium in one of the most stirring renditions of “Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau” you’re ever likely to hear.

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A couple of hours later, as the fourth official’s board went up and signalled Fishlock’s 92nd-minute withdrawal for youngster Tianna Teisar, it was time for the crowd to rise again, not to be led in song by their living legend but to serenade her with cheers on the pitch for one final time. As the 38-year-old made her way off the pitch, waving to stands that had risen to their feet to bid her farewell, she was first embraced by Matildas coach Joe Montemurro, who had coached her at both Melbourne Victory and Melbourne City in the A-League Women, and then by Welsh boss Rhian Wilkinson, with both dugouts behind them also rising to their feet. A deserved mark of respect for a player who left a lasting mark on Australian football and an irreplaceable one on the Welsh game.

“I love being Welsh,” Fishlock would tell the crowd post-game and go on to add, “I don’t want to be sad about it because I’ve had the best time ever.”

It should probably be noted that Fishlock’s departure from the international stage doesn’t represent a total farewell, of course; the veteran will return to the Seattle Reign for the NWSL playoffs following the international window and told the BBC earlier this week that she hopes to play for another season in 2026. But a year on from the international retirements of Clare Polkinghorne and Lydia Williams, and with Australia preparing to mark another landmark in the growth of the women’s game through its hosting of next year’s Asian Cup, Fishlock’s departure from the international game, and the inextricable march towards the point where she will hang up the boots completely, feels like yet another marker of the looming end of a golden era.

Across stints with both Victory and City, Fishlock became a four-time champion of the W-League (now the A-League Women) during her time in Australia, as well as a two-time premier. Taking the reins of City as a player-coach following Montemurro’s shift across to City’s men’s teams — a role he would only briefly hold before departing to take over at Arsenal — Fishlock joined a select group of women to coach a side to a championship when City lifted the 2016-17 title, the second of three straight she would win in Bundoora.

Jess Fishlock played for the 166th and final time in a Cymru shirt on Saturday, having left indelible mark on Welsh football, Australian football, and pretty much everywhere in between. Harry Murphy/Getty Images

Few players who have ever graced the Dub have demonstrated the ability to take over games quite like Fishlock did at City, with there existing some fixtures in which it simply looked like she’d simply decided that she wasn’t going to lose this game and then manifested a more favourable result through sheer skill and willpower. Her best-on-ground performance in the 2018 W-League Grand Final exemplified this, helping to drive her side to a three-peat in hot and steamy conditions in Sydney, lobbing Aubrey Bledsoe from range to open the scoring before sending in the free kick that bounced off the crossbar and into the path of Jodie Taylor to seal it with 15 minutes to go.

Indeed, given the role that those early City teams played in forcing the rest of the competition to raise their standards, and the role that Fishlock played in helping to drive success in the City dressing room, it’s not unreasonable to suggest that the Welsh legend’s time in Australia is still, no matter how faintly, being felt today. And that’s to say nothing of the benefits gleaned by the bevy of Matildas that shared a dressing room with Fishlock, be it at Victory or City.

“Jess is an idol, an amazing footballer, an intelligent person, and I could go on,” Montemurro said ahead of Saturday’s game.

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“I’ve had the pleasure of knowing Jess as a person, and she really helped me through a journey with Melbourne City when we were building a team from scratch. Her intelligence and ability to understand people and the game are amazing.

“I don’t need to sit here and give you all these explanations about her, because every accolade she gets tomorrow, she deserves, and many more. I hope she still contributes to the game, because I think there are very few big role models in world football who have done so much. I hope Jess stays in the game for a long time.”

Of course, that Fishlock can be so closely tied to so many of the current Matildas’ setup — be it as a teammate or adversary — and is now stepping away from the international game also carries with it a perhaps not all too pleasant connotation for green-and-gold devotees. It’s another reminder that, unless your name is Melissa Barbieri, age comes for us all, and that, while few would argue that Fishlock has done anything but go out on her own terms, like Williams and Polkinghorne before her, goodbyes are always hard.

And whereas Fishlock was finally able to experience a major tournament at this year’s Euros before she stepped away from the international game, the lowered expectations associated with Wales’ first entrance helping to soothe the sting of their three losses; there’s something of a contrast with the Matildas, here.

Because for many of the veterans in the group, some of whom will push to be a part of the 2027 FIFA Women’s World Cup and 2028 Los Angeles Olympics and some of whom will not, next year’s Asian Cup as not only the last chance to play a major tournament on home soil but — for those not part of the 2010 triumph — to finally break through that barrier and seal their Golden Generation tag with silverware.

The hope will be the reconnection with Kerr, who was there back in China in 2010 at just 16 years old, can play a part in that. And while Fishlock’s international journey is now at an end, another one is just beginning for the Matildas.

Source: espn.co.uk

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The 2025 MLS Cup playoffs kicked off on Wednesday with the Wild Card round, which saw the ninth seeds from both the East and West get knocked out, leaving the Chicago Fire and Portland Timbers to move on. Their reward? Dates with two of three best teams of the regular season, the Philadelphia Union and San Diego FC, respectively, in Round 1.

This phase of the postseason moves quickly, with the dust on Wednesday’s Wild Card games having barely settled before Inter Miami and Nashville SC get Round 1 underway on Friday night.

So how will the best-of-three series among the 16 remaining MLS clubs play out? Lizzy Becherano and Jon Arnold dive into the matchups and break down Round 1.

Eastern Conference3. Inter Miami vs. 6. Nashville SC

Game 1: Friday, 8 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 8 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, Nov. 8; time TBD

Star attraction: All eyes will be on Lionel Messi on Friday night against Nashville, especially after the Inter Miami captain finally announced his three-year contract extension with the club. Although it may not be his final time playing the MLS playoffs, like it will be for longtime teammates and friends Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, Messi will still play with the same urgency. He enters the series after scoring a hat trick against NSC in the final game of the regular season, propelling Miami to a 5-2 victory and clinching the 2025 Golden Boot.

Messi may have missed Tuesday’s training session leading up to the game on Friday, but head coach Javier Mascherano confirmed the captain is ready to play 90 minutes if needed, or more.

X-factor: Beyond Messi, it will be interesting to see how Mascherano incorporates new signing Mateo Silvetti into the fold. He returns to the squad after reaching the final of the U20 World Cup with Argentina, where he scored three goals throughout the competition.

Inter Miami have continuously struggled throughout the year with a lack of depth, struggling to find that bench player who can enter the game and make a difference. Silvetti should now be considered that back-pocket tool for Mascherano. He won’t necessarily start given the lack of recent training with the team and international absences, but he can absolutely come in and score a goal to drive a victory.

Tactical wrinkle: Inter Miami may have won the final regular season game against Nashville 5-2, but the Herons struggled mightily in the first half. Nashville found a way to exploit Miami’s backline, often attacking through the left wing to reach the final third, and on two occasions score. It wasn’t until Mascherano made crucial substitutions to the defense and midfield, with Yannick Bright and Ian Fray coming into the game, that Inter began to function properly.

It’s no secret that Miami suffers when defending: conceding 55 goals in the regular season stands as the second-most allowed among playoff teams. Should Nashville find a way to expose Miami’s defensive weaknesses again, the Tennessee team can win the series. — Becherano

Predictions

Inter Miami advance in this series, despite often being inconsistent, having demonstrated on Decision Day that they can outperform their Round 1 opponent. As opposed to last year, Miami now boasts a healthy roster with most players wanting to give their all in the swan songs of Alba and Busquets. — Becherano

It may not be as emphatic as the Decision Day win, but I’m expecting Messi & Co. to make quick work of Nashville as they inch closer to the storybook ending for Busquets and Alba. — Arnold

Editor’s Picks

Dest’s starting spot with the USMNT doesn’t look as secure as it once didJeff CarlisleMLS Cup playoff Power Rankings: Bet against Messi, Miami at your own perilJon ArnoldAfter USMNT firing, Berhalter leads Chicago to record season — but not vindication, he saysLizzy Becherano

2 Related

Last year, Miami wasn’t so much struck by lightning in the postseason as it was a case of intentionally touching a live wire. It seems too much to expect that to happen again, even with the team’s defensive frailties. Nashville has the impressive, two-pronged attack of Hany Mukhtar and Sam Surridge, but the Herons are adept at simply outscoring teams. I expect that to happen here. — Jeff Carlisle

When you have Messi playing at an MVP level, the prediction chooses itself. Along with his star-studded cast, the Argentine World Cup winner also just so happened to earn a hat trick in Miami’s latest 5-2 away win over … Nashville. The underdogs will have their chances against Miami’s improved-yet-still-worrying defense, but they won’t be able to compete against the firepower of Messi and friends. — Cesar Hernandez

Nashville hasn’t conceded too many goals this season (45 in total), but 16% of them were scored by Inter Miami. B.J. Callaghan’s squad secured the team’s first-ever trophy in the U.S. Open Cup last month, but they lost eight of their final 13 games, which includes two defeats to the Herons. I don’t think Messi & Co. allow their team to get knocked out in the first round for a second straight year against a team that’s not playing at full potential. — Megan Swanick

I have a simple policy when it comes to predicting MLS games: don’t pick against Messi’s team. Sure, Miami fell at the first possible hurdle in last year’s postseason, but it won’t happen two years in a row. — Joseph Lowery

1. Philadelphia Union vs. 8. Chicago Fire

Game 1: Sunday, 5:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 5:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, Nov. 8; time TBD

Star attraction: The magic of the Union isn’t about reliance on one player, but the entire backline. Philadelphia boasts two of three finalists for Defender of the Year, with Jakob Glesnes and Kai Wagner both nominated for their strong efforts throughout 2025. The team led the Eastern Conference in goals conceded in the regular season at just 35. The Union also managed to clinch the Supporters’ Shield without a shiny striker to pave the path into the back of the net.

A collective effort at the back inspired the success for Philadelphia this season, and likely will be the definitive factor against Chicago.

X-factor: The issue with this series is that, like Philadelphia at the back, the Fire also boast a strong collective. Since taking over the club, Gregg Berhalter has managed to unlock the potential of his starting 11 to make sure all players have an opportunity to shine. The Fire triumphed 3-1 over Orlando City, with Brian Gutiérrez scoring the team’s first playoff goal since 2012. Hugo Cuypers then paved the path for the victory, scoring twice to clinch the Round 1 ticket.

Tactical wrinkle: This series will see the East’s best defense facing off against the conference’s second-best attack. The Fire scored 68 goals throughout the regular season to trail only Miami, doing so without a Messi or a Luis Suárez leading the line. The battle between Chicago’s Cuypers and Philadelphia’s Wagner will be an interesting one to watch, and at certain points, hotly contested.

Both the Union and Fire saw recent coaching changes inspire them to almost immediate success. Bradley Carnell was dismissed by St. Louis City last year only to then land with the Union and drive the club to the Supporters’ Shield, all while maneuvering the injuries of Quinn Sullivan and Ivan Glavinovich. Berhalter, on the other hand, took the 2024 Wooden Spoon contenders to the playoffs for the first time since 2017 by making organizational changes and demanding more from each player. Who will out-coach who? — Becherano

Predictions

Berhalter’s team can certainly surprise the Union, especially after a dominant Wild Card performance. Carnell has done a great job at restructuring Philly’s roster, but the team continues to suffer in Sullivan’s absence. It will be a really close series, but if Chicago can break through Philadelphia’s defense, it can ensure a victory. — Becherano

The combination of stout defense plus Andre Blake behind them has been working for most of the season, and it won’t stop now. The Union will limit the Fire’s opportunities, and get plenty of their own against a leaky defense. — Arnold

The Fire certainly impressed in their Wild Card triumph over Orlando, but doing the same to the Supporters’ Shield winners is another challenge entirely. The Union’s press is ruthlessly effective, and Chicago’s defense is the worst among all of the playoff teams. As good as the Fire’s attack looked, it will be tough sledding against Philadelphia’s stingy backline. — Carlisle

We should praise the in-form Fire for making it to the playoffs for the first time since 2017, but barring some performances of the year from Cuypers or Philip Zinckernagel, Round 1 will be the end of the postseason run for a defensively worrisome Chicago. Philadelphia is elite at recovering the ball through its pressing, and coupled with its strong backline, this series should be over by the second game. — Hernandez

Chicago has the unenviable task of trying to slow down the Supporters’ Shield-winning Philadelphia Union. Kyle Ross-Imagn Images

The Supporters’ Shield winners won’t have an easy time in the playoffs, but they should make it out of the first round. They beat Chicago in both meetings this season — 1-0 on the road and 4-0 at home — and while Chicago can certainly score, Philadelphia has the stingiest defense in the league and can punish opponents at the other end. — Swanick

The Union have reason to worry about their central playmaking in the aftermath of Sullivan’s injury, but between Wagner’s creativity on the left and Philadelphia’s hard-nosed style, the Fire’s defense won’t be able to hold. — Lowery

2. FC Cincinnati vs. 7. Columbus Crew

Game 1: Monday, 6:45 p.m. ET
Game 2: Sunday, Nov. 2; 6:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, Nov. 8; time TBD

Star attraction: With 18 goals and 15 assists in 32 games, Evander will be the player to watch for this playoff edition of the Hell is Real derby. Cincinnati signed Evander as a Designated Player ahead of the 2025 MLS season, and has since made him an integral part of the attack. He hasn’t disappointed, leading the club to second place in the Eastern Conference table with 65 points.

Evander can quickly connect with teammates across the pitch to find the back of the net, as he did with Nick Hagglund against CF Montreal to conclude the regular season with a 3-0 victory. During that match, Evander assisted Hagglund to score the team’s first goal before the center back returned the favor and propelled Evander to double the score. If Cincinnati finds success against Columbus, it likely will be driven by Evander.

X-factor: Although Evander often drives the narrative of FCC’s success, Brenner should not be far behind in the conversation. He returned to the club at the end of August on a loan from Serie A club Udinese and has scored four goals in six games. Before leaving for his Italian adventure, he recorded 27 goals between 2021 and 2023, and set several team records in the process.

Now the forward links up with Evander to make for a formidable force that will be difficult for even the revered Crew coach Wilfried Nancy to game plan. Had he not left for Serie A, Brenner could have been a contender for multiple Golden Boots.

Tactical wrinkle: Columbus enters the series with a weakened attack, as Diego Rossi suffers from an injury and new DP Wessam Abou Ali is out for the season. What the Crew lack in attacking star power, however, they make up for in defensive efforts. Nancy usually lines up his side to dominate possession through the back and midfield before the attack can find the back of the net, making players like Dániel Gazdag and Darlington Nagbe crucial in the playoff series. — Becherano

Predictions

The Crew used to be title contenders, challenging in most tournaments, but the team now struggles without the punch of Cucho Hernández, who moved to Real Betis before the start of the season. Cincinnati is the clear favorite and should take advantage of a downward-trending Columbus. Not even the brilliance of Nancy can save the Ohio capital club from the wonders of Evander. — Becherano

It feels like Columbus is a trendy upset pick because of its past track record, but between the Crew’s injuries and the form that Evander and Brenner are in, it feels like too big a gap to overcome. I expect Evander to continue to paper over some of the cracks FCC have and put them into the next round. — Arnold

The Hell Is Real derby, playoff edition, is about to get more hellish for one of these teams. Columbus has seemed less than the sum of its parts, especially in defense — a very un-Nancy scenario. Cincinnati, meanwhile, looks to be peaking at the right time, unbeaten in its past five, and with Evander in full flow, appears to have the pieces necessary to go deep into the postseason. — Carlisle

Cincy has yet to lose since August and has seen Evander provide two goals and six assists in its past five games. Sure, Nancy will feel hopeful in this rivalry series if Rossi is able to return, but there are no guarantees about him feeling fully fit or available for a side that has stumbled through inconsistent performances this fall while dealing with injury concerns. — Hernandez

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Who doesn’t love the sound of a best-of-three Hell is Real derby? In two regular season meetings, the Crew held Cincinnati to a draw in May and won 4-2 in July, but odds are in Cincinnati’s favor for the postseason. While finishing second in the Supporters’ Shield race, the Blue and Orange are hitting the postseason on a five-game undefeated run with a dynamic attack that’s clicking. — Swanick

With the Crew’s heightened defensive shortcomings thanks to their set of injuries, it’s easy to picture Evander taking over this series. Knowing Cincinnati’s tendency to keep games close (16 of its 20 wins in the regular season came by a single goal), though, this series might go all three games. — Lowery

4. Charlotte FC vs. 5. New York City FC

Game 1: Tuesday, 6:45 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 3:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Friday, Nov. 7; time TBD

Star attraction: Wilfried Zaha would be the obvious choice here, but he’ll be unavailable for the first game of the best-of-three series against NYCFC after receiving a red card in the final regular-season game. Now, Charlotte must rely on Idan Toklomati and Kerwin Vargas to keep the series alive before its star signing returns for the second match.

Once available, however, Zaha will stand as the player to make the difference as he has throughout the season, registering 10 goals and 10 assists in 31 appearances. The explosive winger can create space when needed to cut in through the middle and find the back of the net at the most crucial moments.

X-factor: Goalkeeper Matthew Freese may become the most important factor for his team in this series. The U.S. international has recorded eight clean sheets in 31 games, and allowed 42 goals this season, both among the better figures in the East — only Philadelphia and Cincinnati have allowed fewer than 44 this year.

His efforts with NYCFC earned him the starting job for Mauricio Pochettino’s USMNT. Charlotte may boast attacking greats, but Freese may nullify their strongest efforts to give NYCFC a chance.

Tactical wrinkle: NYCFC may not boast that one star center forward to lead the team in the buildup to a goal or record-breaking statistics, but the team has found a way to succeed instead with a creative midfield. New head coach Pascal Jansen has built his engine room around a rejuvenated Maxi Morález, inspiring the 38-year-old Argentine to connect with Nicolás Fernández and Agustin Ojeda to create opportunities for Alonso Martínez. By emphasizing a strong midfield, NYCFC managed to score 50 goals throughout the 2025 MLS season.

Despite the team’s strong assets in the middle, however, they continue to struggle with consistency. In the span of five days, NYCFC beat Charlotte 2-0 and then lost 4-0 to Miami. — Becherano

Predictions

Charlotte will be without Zaha in the first game of the series, allowing NYCFC to take advantage. Although the series will be close, if the Crown can hang on in that first game, Dean Smith’s side has the tools necessary to advance. — Becherano

Zaha’s absence will prove costly, with one of the league’s best home-field advantages dampened by his absence because of a suspension after a silly red card on Decision Day. Martínez will be the difference, although Freese also will have plenty to say. — Arnold

This matchup is tricky, befitting a four-vs.-five-seed pairing. Charlotte’s central defense and goalkeeping should carry the day against an NYCFC side that doesn’t have a ton of attacking firepower. Having Zaha miss the opener for a red card in the regular season finale tilts the scales more in City’s favor, but not enough to prevent Charlotte from prevailing. — Carlisle

Charlotte won’t have Zaha after a one-game suspension, but it will have its star in net, Kristijan Kahlina, who ranks second when it comes to goals prevented (8.45) for goalkeepers who qualified for the playoffs. Nonetheless, NYCFC will make this a close one and could turn the tides in their favor against the Zaha-less opponents in Game 1. All eyes on Kahlina to once again step up as a hero. — Hernandez

This is the battle of soccer teams playing in American football stadiums vs. American baseball stadiums. They’ll start this series in the football ground (Charlotte’s Bank of America Stadium), but I think the New York squad (who beat Charlotte 2-0 in September thanks to two penalties) comes out on top, especially as Charlotte will be without Zaha in its first match. — Swanick

Wilfried Zaha will be unavailable for Game 1 of Charlotte’s Round 1 tie with NYCFC, but he’ll go some way to determining who advances to the conference semifinals. Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

Neither of these teams will blow the other away, but New York City’s ability to control games will set them apart in this series. Plus, Martínez is the best outfielder on either side, giving Jansen’s team a real lift in the attack. — Lowery

Western Conference2. Vancouver Whitecaps vs. 7. FC Dallas

Game 1: Sunday, 7:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Friday, Nov. 7; time TBD

Star attraction: Thomas Müller’s playoff debut will mark his eighth MLS appearance for the Whitecaps, so you can be forgiven for still finding it a bit jarring to see the German legend on the field of BC Place. After all, this is a team that went up for sale before the season. Even after their run to the Concacaf Champions Cup final, MLS commissioner Don Garber noted the need for the team to find a new venue.

Yet, there’s Müller, scoring seven goals and adding three assists in 541 regular-season minutes. Müller is the type of player who seemed likely to slot in well with his teammates, happy to play the perfect pass or finish off a move they’ve made. That’s how it has looked for manager Jesper Sørensen, that it has been easy to integrate the star into the squad. Another sign of his integration? Müller has let his beard grow out. Perhaps he’ll echo hockey’s playoff beard tradition and let it grow during the entire Caps run.

X-factor: Petar Musa missed his team’s Decision Day win over the Whitecaps because of a suspension for yellow-card accumulation. Fellow forward Logan Farrington also was suspended after he was shown red in the penultimate match. They won without them, finding a goal on a scrappy set piece in the first half and an early second-half goal that allowed them to concede possession the rest of the match.

But there is no doubt that getting Musa back is a massive boost for FCD. After a 16-goal debut campaign with FCD in 2024, he topped that with 18 goals in 2025, the most for any FCD player in a single season. During the year, Musa showed a penchant for turning nothing into something and capitalizing on the smallest defensive error to find the back of the net. FCD will need that instinct to come through in this series.

Tactical wrinkle: After former MLS MVP Luciano Acosta’s FC Dallas career was cut short in the summer and with the team struggling, FCD manager Eric Quill went to a back three in August. It was an interesting choice, considering at times it looked like the team didn’t have one MLS-level central defender to pair with Osaze Urhoghide, much less two.

But the posture served FCD well, with Bernard Kamungo excelling as a wingback and Shaq Moore performing well when deployed either in the back three or as the right wingback. The team put together a furious push for the playoffs and a Decision Day win over the Whitecaps valued them out of the Wild Card and into this matchup against the very same team they beat on the final day. The Caps have the talent to work it out and find goals, but the wrinkle saved FCD’s season. — Arnold

Predictions

Vancouver moves on, forgetting the chaos caused by Mathías Laborda’s early red card and the pressure on Decision Day and doing what they’ve done all season: creating opportunities, finishing them off and limiting good chances going the other way. FCD did well to get here, but they’ll need huge performances from the players who were suspended on the final day to spring the upset. — Arnold

Sørensen has completely transformed the Canadian team into one that can compete against any opponent. He has found a way to realize the potential of players like Sebastian Berhalter, who will be a crucial component in a Whitecaps series win. — Becherano

Dallas will feel confident after defeating Vancouver 2-1 on Decision Day, but that was also a Whitecaps side that went down to 10 men by the 11th minute. At the risk of over-analyzing one game when we should be highlighting Vancouver’s 2025 revival with Müller helping them to second in the West, 10-man Vancouver still finished with a higher xG over Dallas in the latest loss. Can Dallas’ defense hold strong once again? Probably not. — Hernandez

Credit Quill for shepherding his side through a season that includes a stadium renovation that neutralized any home-field advantage, but this is where it ends. Sure, the Caps are dinged up, especially in the back, but playing with 10 men, they dominated Dallas on Decision Day. Hard to see that changing with 11 Caps on the field. — Carlisle

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Dallas managed to beat Vancouver on Decision Day, so Quill’s team has reason for confidence. Still, even a banged-up version of the Caps has more than enough talent to advance to the conference semifinals. — Lowery

The Whitecaps fumbled a first-place finish in the west by losing to Dallas on the final evening of the season, while playing down a man from the 11th minute. Vengeance will be Vancouver’s here, as it comes into the playoffs looking for a deep run after a record-breaking season. — Swanick

1. San Diego FC vs. 8. Portland Timbers

Game 1: Sunday, 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Saturday, Nov. 1; 9:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Sunday, Nov. 9; time TBD

Star attraction: Hirving “Chucky” Lozano. Or is he? The Mexico international missed out on San Diego’s season finale, a 4-0 victory over the same Timbers team SDFC are about to face. After the match, head coach Mikey Varas called Lozano’s absence “a situation” the team is handling internally, but we still don’t know if the winger will be on the field for this playoff series.

There have been other star attractions for San Diego this season. Anders Dreyer has a strong case for a Best XI nod, capped his regular season with a double in that big win over the Timbers, which took him to 19 goals and 19 assists in his debut MLS campaign — numbers that also merit superstar status. But if we don’t hear more soon, plenty of fans will be eagerly refreshing social media before Game 1 to see if the situation has resolved and Lozano is back to provide part of the club’s attacking punch.

X-factor: Felipe Mora had a quiet season for the Timbers, scoring five goals in 33 matches — 20 of which he started. While he had a Leagues Cup goal in late July, his last MLS goal was all the way back in May, with more than 20 regular season games without a goal. Those are his worst numbers since coming to Timbers from Pumas in 2020.

Yet, just like that, Mora popped up as the difference-maker Wednesday night, with a first-half double that helped propel the Timbers past Real Salt Lake with a 3-1 victory and put them into this Round 1 series with San Diego. His first goal showed his focus — heading a set piece that was saved but following his own shot to finish the rebound — and his second goal followed a similar script, with Mora heading a cross, then finishing the follow-up. He may not be able to replicate that against SDFC goalkeeper C.J. Dos Santos, but the Timbers will be hoping Mora is getting hot at the right time.

Tactical wrinkle: Acquired in the summer to add depth at the winger position, Amahl Pellegrino has been something of a role player, filling in either out wide or up top. That is, he was a role player until October. The underlying numbers indicated Pellegrino was doing more than met the eye, but then he started to put up counting stats as well, scoring in SDFC’s 4-2 win over the Houston Dynamo and adding a double — plus an assist — in the 4-0 win over the Timbers.

How much of a role Pellegrino has and where he plays depends heavily on what role Lozano has in the team, but having an option who has produced either instead of Lozano or with both is a boost San Diego hasn’t had since it let Milan Iloski walk in July. Pellegrino and fellow summer signing Corey Baird are perhaps not the players long-time MLS watchers would expect to see turn the tide in a playoff series, yet how Varas deploys the veterans will dictate plenty in the series. — Arnold

Predictions

The postseason has always presented new pitfalls for expansion teams, but SDFC are playing too well to stall out in Round 1. The Timbers had a great bounce-back win during the week but had been in free fall before the Wild Card game. A happy and healthy Lozano absolutely would boost San Diego’s chances even more, but even if the impasse continues, America’s Finest City should host in the next round after a tidy series win. — Arnold

New in the league, the California side has stunned on the pitch. San Diego will continue to make history in the first knockout round of the MLS playoffs. — Becherano

Even without Lozano, San Diego thrashed Portland 4-0 on Decision Day. Guided by Coach of the Year candidate Varas and by Newcomer of the Year frontrunner Dreyer, the thriving expansion side is the clear favorite against a Portland roster with a minus-7 goal differential. — Hernandez

We’ve seen expansion teams top a conference before — St. Louis did it two years ago — and it didn’t end well. The Lozano drama doesn’t exactly scream momentum, either, but as gleeful as the Timbers were to win their play-in game, they made hard work of it and their defense didn’t look nearly stout enough. San Diego should prevail, at least in this round. — Carlisle

There’s no more lopsided first-round series than this one. Fresh off a 4-0 win over Portland on Decision Day and with the Timbers on short rest after Wednesday’s Wild Card win, the expansion side has a major edge. — Lowery

Chucky Lozano’s status for San Diego’s inaugural playoff game is unknown, but even if he’s absent, the expansion side still boasts plenty of firepower to combat Portland. Troy Taormina-Imagn Images

The possession-heavy SoCal squad could be without Lozano, but it should still beat the Timbers. The expansion side drew Portland 0-0 in August while looking lackluster in front of goal, but defeated the Timbers handily on Decision Day with a brace each from Pellegrino and Dreyer. — Swanick

4. Minnesota United vs. 5. Seattle Sounders

Game 1: Monday, 9 p.m. ET
Game 2: Monday, Nov. 3; 10:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, Nov. 8; time TBD

Star attraction: Cristian Roldan lacks the European name-recognition the biggest stars in the other series in the Western Conference have, but MLS fans will recognize Roldan and understand what he’s done this year to keep raising his ceiling. Working with Obed Vargas to form one of the best midfield pairings on the continent, Roldan’s play in MLS matches — and also in Seattle’s successful Leagues Cup run and the Club World Cup — drew the attention of Pochettino. Roldan now is in the picture for a place at the 2026 World Cup, but the 30-year-old has been around long enough to know he needs to keep delivering in key moments like the playoffs.

X-factor: Dayne St. Clair was one of the best shot-stoppers in the league and could absolutely fluster a Seattle attack that will be missing Pedro de la Vega because of a kneecap injury suffered against NYCFC on Decision Day. St. Clair has the best Goals – Expected Goals number in the league this year, essentially meaning that it takes a very dangerous shot to beat Canada’s likely No. 1 at the 2026 World Cup.

Beyond his good numbers, St. Clair has become accustomed to coming up big in big moments. He is not only able to stop shots in the run of play but also good against efforts from the penalty spot. His consistency allows Minnesota to depend on him to come up with saves other goalkeepers may not make — and to believe it may get out of playoff matchups it may not otherwise advance from.

Tactical wrinkle: For a large portion of the season, the Loons were one of the teams with the clearest style of play and most consistent execution in the league. They’re still trying to put that identity on the field. Yet as other teams have worked out their idea to concede possession, work as a team in defense and hit on set pieces, Minnesota has struggled to find the same results.

Without Tani Oluwaseyi, who the team transferred to Villarreal in Augustin, and the injured Kelvin Yeboah, just how Minnesota scores on those cherished chances is a huge question. Yeboah made a cameo on Decision Day, so he may be able to contribute in this series, but other injury luck isn’t so good. Defensive midfielder/defender Carlos Harvey is likely to miss the whole series, meaning the same cast that finished the season by losing to the lowly LA Galaxy now will work to stop Seattle’s deep attack. — Arnold

Predictions

Seattle will spring a minor surprise in this series thanks to its experience and also its versatility. Losing De la Vega to injury hurts, but the experience the players who replace him have earned against tough opposition will pay dividends in this series. — Arnold

Minnesota may be that quiet team that performs well, but the Sounders’ fifth seed is deceiving given the power and intelligence of the team. Head coach Brian Schmetzer can out-coach any opponent with his calm, constant style, knowing a well-planned roster has inspired triumphs like it did during Leagues Cup. — Becherano

With their intriguing focus on long throw-ins and set pieces, and St. Clair producing highlight-worthy moments along the way, 2025 was a success for Minnesota. That is, until last month. The Loons have one victory in their past five games in all competitions and will now face a Sounders side that has just the playoffs to focus on after impressing at the summer’s Club World Cup and winning Leagues Cup. — Hernandez

Can a team win a three-game series by defending deep and capitalizing on set pieces? Minnesota will try, but as effective as it has been, it seems a long shot. The Sounders live for tournament settings, having already prevailed this year in Leagues Cup. So even though they lost De la Vega for the playoffs due to a knee injury, look for Seattle to prevail. — Carlisle

Even with De la Vega’s Decision Day injury ruling him out for the postseason and beyond, the Sounders still don’t have a major weakness. If they need one-v-one dribbling, they can turn to Georgi Minoungou, who provided a boost in the Leagues Cup final. Seattle could just go all the way. — Lowery

The Loons took all three points in both regular season meetings this year, although both were decided by one goal in closely fought contests. This one’s tough to call, but I think the Leagues Cup champions will defeat Minnesota in a best of three. — Swanick

3. LAFC vs. 6. Austin FC

Game 1: Wednesday, 10:30 p.m. ET
Game 2: Sunday, Nov. 2; 8:30 p.m. ET
Game 3 (if necessary): Saturday, Nov. 8; time TBD

LAFC forwards Denis Bouanga and Son Heung-Min have formed one of the most prolific partnerships MLS has ever seen. Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Star attraction: Since arriving from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer, Son Heung-Min has scored nine goals and assisted three in three matches played. After his opening goal for LAFC against the Colorado Rapids on the final day of the season, Son has nine goals in nine matches — a stat helped by a hat trick against Real Salt Lake on Sept. 17, but impressive nonetheless.

And it isn’t only his goals that have boosted LAFC. The questions about Son when he arrived were focused on how he’d slot in with Denis Bouanga, LAFC’s resident star attacker who has a similar profile to the South Korea superstar. After a few games, they are feeding off each other often. Bouanga has set Son up twice this year, and two of Son’s trio of assists in MLS led to a goal from Bouanga. Already menaces in transition, Son has only made LAFC more dangerous when they win back the ball and start to blitz forward.

X-factor: A far less heralded midseason arrival than Son, Ryan Porteous signed a long-term deal with LAFC in August as the club looked for central defense options after Aaron Long’s achilles tear. His signing has allowed LAFC manager Steve Cherundolo to continue fielding three center backs, with Porteous slotting in next to Nkosi Tafari and Eddie Segura. While LAFC conceded to the rallying Rapids on Decision Day and to Austin during the international break, the three matches before that saw clean sheets, with just one goal allowed in the two games prior to that streak.

There are few worries about LAFC going forward after Son’s arrival, but Porteous can help them shut down an Austin attack that has been inconsistent, but that LAFC can’t allow to find chances in this best-of-three series.

Tactical wrinkle: LAFC are excellent when they win back the ball and look to run, with Son and Bouanga bearing down on defenders and, in this series, on Austin goalkeeper Brad Stuver. But Austin may rely on some of the same tactics to try to survive a series that manager Nico Estévez has admitted will demand a collective effort against one of the best attacking duos the league has to offer.

That may see a somewhat ugly series as Austin looks to rely on its backline and its excellent goalkeeper and find its own moments to counterattack and catch LAFC off guard. Both teams are going to try to do a version of what the other wants to do. Austin is in the playoffs because of its defending, seeing the goals dry up for much of the season. Myrto Uzuni rested on Decision Day, as did the injured Osman Bukari, but both could be fit for this series — which has a strange cadence of starting Wednesday, then continuing four days later and potentially concluding Nov. 7. — Arnold

Predictions

The question in my mind is not whether Austin can stop the Bouanga-Son duo, it’s whether anyone in MLS can. Austin’s defense has been relatively stingy this year, but LAFC are going to get their goals. Once they do, can Austin? It’s unlikely. — Arnold

The combination of Bouanga and Son seem unstoppable at this moment, and even more so for an Austin side without Brandon Vázquez up top. LAFC enter Round 1 as MLS Cup contenders and subsequently will be quick to get Austin out of the way. — Becherano

Had Son arrived earlier in the year, it wouldn’t have been a shock if we were talking about him as league MVP and LAFC as the winners of the Supporters’ Shield. Their momentum slowed with a draw and loss in their last two games of the regular season, which included a defeat to Austin, who will make this series more competitive than most think, but there’s no way of betting against LA’s attacking duo. — Hernandez

On paper, this series looks like a mismatch. Bouanga and Son alone should give the Black and Gold enough to prevail. Plus, outside of Owen Wolff, Austin doesn’t look to have enough weapons to make a go of it. Cherundolo’s tenure as LAFC manager should last at least one more round. — Carlisle

While Austin’s tendency to defend in a low block will frustrate an LAFC team that much prefers to play in quick transition, no one should be brave enough to pick against Son and Bouanga. The talent edge rests with LAFC, and so will the series. — Lowery

Austin is one of two teams to beat LA since Son’s signing, but I think we’ll see their quality shine through in this series. LAFC have been a solid team all season, but they’ve found a higher gear in the final months as Bouanga and Son combine seamlessly to unlock another level in the team. — Swanick

Source: espn.co.uk