MTN Elite U19: Eastern Region Secures Championship Victory through Thrilling Penalty Shootout Against Brong Ahafo

Historic Victory in Penalty Shootout

The Eastern Region made history by defeating Brong Ahafo 4-2 in a penalty shootout, claiming their first MTN Elite U19 Championship title at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Sunday.

Dramatic Final Match

In a tense and captivating final, Eastern Region managed to secure their victory despite missing two penalties during regular play. The match concluded in a goalless draw, leading to a penalty shootout to determine the champion. Midfielder Desmond Tutu had a challenging evening, failing to convert a penalty in each half, but his teammates maintained their composure during the shootout, resulting in a memorable victory.

Composed Performance Under Pressure

Coach Kelvin Agyemang Tuffuor’s team displayed remarkable composure, successfully converting four out of their five penalty attempts. Their goalkeeper played a crucial role, thwarting two attempts from Brong Ahafo, which ultimately led to a celebratory conclusion with a 4-2 triumph.

Strong Campaign Highlights

The championship victory capped a successful tournament for Eastern Region, who finished at the top of their group earlier in the competition. Their performance throughout the series showcased their tactical maturity and resilience, even when facing challenges in goal-scoring during the final match.

Showcasing Young Talent

The 11-day tournament concluded on Sunday, providing exhilarating football and highlighting exceptional talent from various regions, reinforcing the strength of Ghana’s grassroots football programs.

Individual Accolades

Yussif Saani from Greater Accra stood out as a key performer, earning both the Most Valuable Player and Goal King titles after scoring five goals in six matches. Ishmael Azagonor from Eastern Region was recognized as the Best Goalkeeper, while his teammate Prince Boakye received the Most Promising Player award.

Future of Youth Football

Held from October 23 to November 2, 2025, the MTN Elite U19 Championship featured ten regional teams, serving as an essential platform for young athletes to exhibit their skills, gain essential experience, and attract the attention of national selectors as well as professional scouts.

Commitment to Youth Development

The tournament, proudly supported by MTN Ghana, highlights the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) dedication to developing youth and grassroots football. Initiatives like this continue to establish a clear and progressive path from youth football to the professional level, nurturing the next generation of stars in Ghanaian football.