After an exhilarating series of matches, the 2024 MTN Ashantifest Community Soccer tournament is set to conclude on Sunday, July 28th at Otumfuo Park in Dichemso, Kumasi, where Bantama will face off against Amakom in the grand finale.
In a dramatic semifinal showdown, Bantama staged a remarkable comeback against defending champions Ejisu. Initially trailing due to an own goal by Emmanuel Agyemang Badu and a goal by Kwabena Boateng of Legon Cities, Bantama’s Emmanuel Sarpong, who plays for Berekum Chelsea in the Ghana Premier League, turned the tide with two quick-fire goals, leveling the score and forcing the match into a penalty shootout. Bantama held their nerve to win 4-2 on penalties, securing their spot in the final.
Meanwhile, Amakom secured their place in the championship match by defeating Adoato 2-1 in the other semifinal clash. Marvin Owusu starred for Amakom with a brace, overshadowing Kwadwo Taylor’s lone goal for Adoato.
The MTN Ashantifest, initiated by MTN Ghana to engage and celebrate the communities of the Ashanti Region, has garnered immense support and enthusiasm from local football fans. This year’s tournament has showcased outstanding talent and fierce competition across all segments within the participating communities.
The final day of the tournament will also feature a third-place playoff between Ejisu and Adoato, preceding the highly anticipated Bantama versus Amakom final.
Details for the Final Day
– Date: Sunday, 28th July 2024
– Kick-off: 2:00 pm
– Venue: Otumfuo Park, Dichemso
Top Scorers of the Tournament
1. Emmanuel Sarpong ‘Agogo’ – 4 goals (Bantama)
2. Ernest Appiah ‘BabyJet’ – 3 goals (Adoato)
3. Kwame Peprah – 3 goals (Atonsu)
4. George Antwi ‘Henry’ – 3 goals (Amakom)
5. Marvin Owusu – 3 goals (Amakom)
6. Nana Prempeh – 3 goals (Ashtown)
7. Stephen Appiah Asare ‘Shankiki’ – 2 goals (Suame)
8. Samuel Kumah ‘Lewandoski’ – 2 goals (Atonsu)
9. Emmanuel Owusu Boakye – 2 goals (Kwadaso)
10. Joseph Gordon – 2 goals (Tech)
11. Elvis Kyei Baffour ‘Awukye’ – 2 goals (Amakom)
12. Nana Kwame ‘Laliga’ – 2 goals (Amakom)
13. Emmanuel Asiedu – 2 goals (Abrepo)
14. Yusif Alhassan Chibsah – 2 goals (Santasi)
15. Israel Yakubu – 2 goals (Santasi)
16. Henry Opoku ‘Pogba’ – 2 goals (Bantama)
The tournament has not only showcased sporting prowess but also fostered community spirit, with the final expected to draw a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters and dignitaries alike.
