MTN Elite U-19: Ashanti Region storm into Final with dramatic semi-final win over Central Region 

Ashanti Region have booked their place in the final of the 2026 MTN Elite U-19 Championship for the first time after a hard-fought and thrilling 2-1 victory over Central Region in the first semi-final at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram on Wednesday.

Oscar Frimpong handed Ashanti Region the advantage in the 22nd minute, finishing off a promising attacking move to give his side an important first-half lead. Ashanti maintained their advantage going into the break after a disciplined and determined opening-half performance.

Central Region, however, returned for the second half with renewed purpose and found their way back into the contest in the 52nd minute. Prince Ofori Boateng converted confidently from the penalty spot to draw his side level and set up a tense and fiercely contested final phase of the match.

With the semi-final delicately poised at 1-1, Ashanti Region continued to push forward in search of the decisive goal. Their persistence was rewarded when Kyei Baffour restored the region’s lead just four minutes later, producing what proved to be the crucial goal of the encounter.

Ashanti Region's Kelvin Osei Owusu was adjudged the Most Valuable Player.

Ashanti will face the winner of the second semi-final between defending champions Eastern Region and last year’s losing finalists Brong Ahafo Region in Friday’s final.

The MTN Elite U-19 Championship continues to serve as an important platform for identifying, developing and showcasing the next generation of Ghanaian football talent.

The competition brings together some of the country’s most promising young footballers, providing them with the opportunity to demonstrate their abilities and potential in a highly competitive environment.

GFA Communications