Ashanti Region have reached the final of the 2026 MTN Elite U-19 Championship for the first time after securing a hard-fought 2-1 victory over the Central Region in the first semi-final.
The match, played at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Wednesday, produced an exciting contest as both teams battled for a place in Friday’s championship decider.
Ashanti Region started brightly and took the lead in the 22nd minute through Oscar Frimpong. The forward finished a well-worked attacking move to give his team an important advantage.
Central Region struggled to find an equaliser before the break as Ashanti maintained their lead with a disciplined defensive display.
However, Central Region returned from the interval with greater determination and were rewarded in the 52nd minute. Prince Ofori Boateng converted from the penalty spot to bring the score level at 1-1.
The equaliser gave Central Region renewed confidence, but Ashanti Region responded almost immediately. Just four minutes after Central had drawn level, Kyei Baffour restored Ashanti’s lead with what proved to be the decisive goal of the match.
Central Region pushed forward in search of another equaliser but could not find a way through as Ashanti held on to secure their place in the final.
Ashanti Region’s Kelvin Osei Owusu was named the Most Valuable Player of the semi-final for his impressive performance.
The victory represents a major achievement for Ashanti Region, which will now compete for the championship title for the first time.
They will face defending champions Eastern Region in the final after the latter defeated Brong Ahafo Region 4-2 in the second semi-final.
The grand final is scheduled for Friday, September 4, 2026, at the GFA Technical Centre.
