Omanghana
Ghana Football Association President Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku has lauded the remarkable growth and transformation of the MTN FA Cup, describing it as one of the most attractive and competitive competitions on Ghana’s domestic football calendar.
Speaking after the conclusion of the 2025/26 MTN FA Cup season, Okraku praised the tournament’s continued ability to generate excitement, create opportunities for clubs and players, and contribute significantly to the development of football across the country.
His comments came as Nations FC celebrated a historic achievement by winning the MTN FA Cup for the first time in the club’s history.
The newly crowned champions secured the prestigious trophy on May 31, 2026, after defeating Dreams FC in a thrilling final at the University of Ghana Stadium. The match attracted a large crowd of enthusiastic supporters, underscoring the growing popularity of the competition.
Beyond lifting the trophy, Nations FC also earned the right to represent Ghana in next season’s CAF Confederation Cup, securing a coveted place on the continental stage.
Reflecting on the tournament’s success, Okraku highlighted the significant strides the MTN FA Cup has made over the years. Before becoming GFA President, he served as chairman of the FA Cup Committee and played a key role in restructuring the competition into one of the country’s premier football brands.
According to Okraku, one of the tournament’s greatest strengths is its unpredictability. The knockout format regularly produces dramatic upsets, with lower-division clubs defeating established Ghana Premier League sides and capturing the imagination of football fans nationwide. These “giant-killing” performances have become a defining feature of the competition, creating memorable moments and elevating emerging clubs and players into the national spotlight.
The GFA President also commended MTN Ghana for its continued support of the competition. He praised the telecommunications giant’s commitment to funding and promoting the tournament, noting that strong corporate partnerships have been instrumental in enhancing the quality and visibility of the FA Cup.
Okraku further emphasized the tournament’s role in grassroots football development. The open nature of the competition allows talented players from Division One and Division Two clubs to compete against top-flight opposition, providing a valuable platform for young footballers to showcase their abilities before scouts, coaches, and football stakeholders.
He stressed that the growth of Ghanaian football requires a collective effort from clubs, administrators, players, sponsors, and supporters. By maintaining high organizational standards, improving the matchday experience, and sustaining fan engagement, the GFA believes the success of the MTN FA Cup can serve as a model for strengthening the broader domestic football ecosystem.
As Nations FC celebrate their maiden FA Cup triumph and prepare for continental football, Okraku remains optimistic about the future of the competition, insisting that the MTN FA Cup will continue to play a central role in driving the growth, competitiveness, and popularity of Ghanaian football.
Source: Omanghana
