Ashanti Region have been crowned champions of the 2026 MTN Elite U-19 Championship after edging defending champions Eastern Region 4-3 in a thrilling final at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
The dramatic encounter brought an exciting 11-day competition to an end, with both teams producing an entertaining display that featured seven goals, several comebacks and a tense finish.
Ashanti Region made the perfect start when Mohammed Dayvon opened the scoring in the seventh minute. Eastern Region, however, responded quickly, with Umar Archraf restoring parity five minutes later.
Ashanti regained the advantage in the 18th minute through Issah Seidu, but Eastern once again showed their fighting spirit as Tetteh Narh scored to make it 2-2 before halftime.
The second half continued at a high tempo as both sides searched for the decisive goal.
Ashanti Region moved ahead for the third time in the 78th minute when Elvis Kwarteng found the back of the net.
Eastern Region refused to surrender and levelled the score just three minutes later, setting up a dramatic final few minutes.
Ashanti, however, produced the decisive moment in the 82nd minute. Substitute Emmanuel Boateng scored shortly after Eastern’s equaliser to restore his side’s lead and ultimately seal the championship.
Eastern Region pushed forward in search of another equaliser, but Ashanti’s defence remained disciplined and held firm until the final whistle.
The victory ended Eastern Region’s reign as champions and handed Ashanti Region the prestigious trophy after an impressive campaign.
Ashanti coach Raphael Amankwah was named Best Coach of the Tournament for guiding his team to the title.
