Ejisu Emerges Victorious in MTN Ashantifest Soccer Festival Final
In an exhilarating finale to the 2023 edition of the MTN Ashantifest Soccer Festival, Ejisu emerged as the champions after defeating Santasi 4-3 on penalties. The highly anticipated match, which took place at the Otumfuo Park at Dechemso last Sunday, drew in a massive crowd of football fans who were treated to an outstanding display of skill and determination.
Ejisu, backed by their passionate supporters, lived up to expectations and claimed victory after a hard-fought contest. The match began with Santasi taking the lead in the 55th minute when Enock Morrison scored from a freekick, capitalizing on a misjudgment by Ejisu’s defenders.
However, Ejisu demonstrated their resilience and fought their way back into the game. In the 70th minute, Raruf Abubakar unleashed a magnificent strike to level the score, setting the stage for an intense finish. Both teams played cautiously, with the defenders staying vigilant while the forwards relentlessly pursued goals.
After 90 minutes of exhilarating gameplay, the winner had to be determined through a penalty shootout. The electrifying atmosphere fueled Ejisu’s determination, and they emerged triumphant, securing the championship title. Along with the giant trophy, Ejisu also received a cash prize of GHC20,000 and other souvenirs courtesy of MTN.
The third-place match saw Dichemso face off against Kwadaso, with the latter emerging victorious with a 3-1 scoreline. Samuel Sarpong netted twice for Kwadaso, while George Agyemang added another goal. Ransford Bonsu scored a consolation goal for Dichemso.
The grand final was graced by esteemed dignitaries, including chiefs, MTN officials, present and former footballers, and renowned coaches such as Samuel Boadu, Paa Kwesi Fabin, Akwesi Appiah, Kweku Frimpong, Abdul Razak ‘Golden Boy,’ and Ibrahim Danlad of Asante Kotoko and Black Meteors fame.
Mr. Germain Naatey, the Senior Manager Brands and Communications at MTN, congratulated Ejisu for their commendable efforts and praised all the teams for contributing to the tournament’s competitiveness and excitement. He emphasized MTN Ghana’s commitment to sports development, particularly in football, and pledged to continue providing platforms for young talents to thrive. He assured fans that next year’s event would be even grander, considering the tournament’s continuous growth and improvement.
The MTN Ashantifest Soccer Festival has not only showcased exceptional football skills but has also fostered a sense of unity among communities. This year’s edition was a captivating journey, displaying remarkable talent and bringing people together in an atmosphere that was both competitive and friendly.
In conclusion, Ejisu’s victory in the MTN Ashantifest Soccer Festival final was a testament to their skill, tenacity, and the unwavering support of their fans. The festival itself has become a significant platform for young footballers to showcase their abilities. As MTN Ghana remains dedicated to the development and promotion of sports, we can anticipate even greater events in the future. The 2023 edition has set a high bar, and it will be exciting to see how it will be surpassed next year.
