Abdulai Bashit produced a sensational hat-trick to inspire Upper West Region to a thrilling 3-2 victory over defending champions Eastern Region as the second edition of the MTN Elite U-19 Championship got off to an entertaining start at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Tuesday.
The five-goal thriller provided an early statement of intent from Upper West, who held their nerve to secure maximum points against the reigning champions and immediately put themselves in contention for honours.
Basit opened the scoring for Upper West, giving his side an early advantage before Eastern Region responded through Adam Mohammed, who converted from the penalty spot to restore parity before the break.
The contest intensified after the interval, with Basit once again proving decisive. The Upper West forward struck twice in the second half to complete his hat-trick and put his side firmly in control.
Eastern Region refused to surrender, with Mohammed converting another penalty to reduce the deficit and give the defending champions renewed hope. However, Upper West held firm in the closing stages to claim a memorable 3-2 victory and hand Eastern Region a defeat in their opening match of the title defence.
Basit’s outstanding individual display earned him the Most Valuable Player award, capping a memorable afternoon for the young forward.
Ashanti edge Volta on penalties
Earlier in the day, Ashanti Region also made a winning start after overcoming Volta Region 5-4 on penalties following an entertaining 2-2 draw in regulation time.
Ashanti took an early lead when Abdul Rahaman Bauh found the net in the sixth minute, but Volta quickly responded through Zakaria Mohammed, who restored parity.
Volta completed the turnaround in the 55th minute when Apetor Paris put his side ahead, setting up an intriguing battle for supremacy.
Ashanti refused to be beaten, however, and Elvis Kwarteng levelled the score to make it 2-2 and force the match into a penalty shootout.
Ashanti Region held their nerve from the spot, winning 5-4 to secure the victory and start their campaign on a positive note.
The opening day produced plenty of goals, drama and individual brilliance, setting the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested MTN Elite U-19 Championship as Ghana’s emerging talents battle for regional pride and the coveted title.
GFA Communications