Ashanti Region have been crowned champions of the 2026 MTN Elite U-19 Championship after defeating defending champions Eastern Region 4-3 in a thrilling final at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
The final produced a seven-goal spectacle, with both sides refusing to give up their advantage. Eastern Region twice fought back from behind, but Ashanti Region ultimately found the decisive goal to secure the championship.
Mohammed Dayvon put Ashanti Region ahead as early as the seventh minute, but their lead lasted only five minutes before Umar Archraf restored parity. Ashanti regained the advantage through Issah Seidu, although Tetteh Narh once again brought Eastern Region level before the break.
The intensity continued after half-time, with Elvis Kwarteng putting Ashanti back in front in the 78th minute. Eastern Region responded just three minutes later to make it 3-3, setting up a dramatic finish.
Substitute Emmanuel Boateng then became the hero for Ashanti Region, scoring in the 82nd minute to restore their lead at 4-3. Ashanti held on through the closing stages to deny the defending champions and lift the trophy.
Kwarteng was named Player of the Match, while Ashanti coach Raphael Amankwah received the Best Coach of the Tournament award. Kelvin Osei Owusu won the Goalkeeper of the Championship prize, with Greater Accra’s Dennis Adjei finishing as top scorer with six goals. Central Region received the Fair Play Team award, while their player Desmond Korlettey was named Most Valuable Player after claiming four MVP awards during the competition.