Ashanti Region secured their first appearance in the final of the 2026 MTN Elite U-19 Championship with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Central Region in the opening semi-final at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Wednesday.Oscar Frimpong put Ashanti ahead in the 22nd minute, completing a promising attacking move to give his team an early advantage. Central Region were unable to find a response before half-time as Ashanti defended their lead with discipline and determination.Th
Ashanti Region secured their first appearance in the final of the 2026 MTN Elite U-19 Championship with a dramatic 2-1 victory over Central Region in the opening semi-final at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Wednesday.
Oscar Frimpong put Ashanti ahead in the 22nd minute, completing a promising attacking move to give his team an early advantage. Central Region were unable to find a response before half-time as Ashanti defended their lead with discipline and determination.
The momentum shifted after the interval, with Central Region returning to the field with greater attacking intent. Their pressure was rewarded seven minutes into the second half when Prince Ofori Boateng converted from the penalty spot to make it 1-1.
The equaliser set up a tense closing period, with both sides competing fiercely for the opportunity to reach Fridays final. Ashanti Region continued to press forward, and their persistence paid off just four minutes after Central Region had levelled.
Kyei Baffour restored Ashantis advantage with the goal that ultimately decided the semi-final. Central Region could not find another equaliser, allowing Ashanti to celebrate a landmark victory in the competition.
Kelvin Osei Owusu of Ashanti Region was named the Most Valuable Player of the match.
Ashanti Region will meet either defending champions Eastern Region or last years losing finalists Brong Ahafo Region in the final on Friday. Those two teams will contest the second semi-final to determine Ashantis opponents.
The result marks an important moment for Ashanti Region, who had not previously reached the final of the MTN Elite U-19 Championship. Their progress follows a closely contested match in which they twice held their nerve after Central Region threatened to take control.
The MTN Elite U-19 Championship is designed to identify, develop and showcase emerging football talent in Ghana. It brings together some of the countrys most promising young players and gives them the chance to demonstrate their ability in a highly competitive setting.
For the players involved, the tournament provides an important platform to gain experience and attract attention as they continue their development. Ashanti Regions victory means they now have the opportunity to complete their campaign with the championship title, while Eastern Region and Brong Ahafo Region prepare to battle for the remaining place in Fridays final.
GFA Communications
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