The Ghana Football Association (GFA) has officially launched the MTN Elite U-19 Championship, a groundbreaking youth football competition aimed at grooming the next generation of Ghanaian stars.
The event took place on Tuesday, October 14, 2025, at the GFA Secretariat in Accra.
The new tournament, sponsored by telecommunications giant MTN, will serve as a national platform to identify, nurture, and promote young football talents across the country.
“A Defining Moment for Ghanaian Football”
Speaking at the launch, Hon. Eric Edem Agbana, Chairman of the Organizing Committee, described the initiative as a “defining moment for the future of Ghanaian football.”
“The launch of the MTN Elite Under-19 Championship is not just another competition; it is a strategic investment in the next generation of football excellence,” he said.
He began his remarks by congratulating the Black Stars for qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, describing it as a testament to Ghana’s discipline, determination, and enduring football spirit.
Hon. Agbana also lauded GFA President Kurt Okraku for his leadership and commitment to youth development.
“Under his watch, youth football has regained priority, and structured pathways like this championship are breathing new life into our football ecosystem,” he added.
He emphasized that the championship is not only about football but also about discipline, teamwork, and empowering Ghanaian youth.
“To our young players: this is your stage. Train hard, stay humble, and remember that talent opens the door, but character keeps it open.”
Hon. Agbana commended MTN Ghana for its unwavering commitment to sports development, applauding the brand’s vision of using football as a tool for national growth.
“Power to the Youth” — GFA President Kurt Okraku
Taking his turn, GFA President Mr. Kurt Edwin Simeon-Okraku expressed joy over the launch, describing the competition as a core part of the Association’s youth development policy.
“This is one of the products dearest to my heart because this age category is key to the development of football in our country,” he said. “The U-19 is a major part of our policy of giving power to the youth and creating platforms for boys and girls to realize their dreams.”
Okraku explained that the U-19 championship complements the existing youth structures — including the U-13, U-15, and U-17 leagues — forming a complete pathway for talent identification and progression.
“We now have a well-structured system across the country, and the MTN Elite U-19 Championship will be reserved for players from our national second division leagues. This is what we call the power of the youth,” he added.
The GFA boss expressed gratitude to MTN Ghana for its consistent support of football over the years, from sponsoring the FA Cup since 2010 to backing the Black Stars, Black Queens, and now the U-19 Championship.
Tournament Details
The MTN Elite U-19 Championship will kick off from October 23 to November 2, 2025, at the Ghanaman Soccer Centre of Excellence in Prampram.
Group pairings for the 2025 edition have also been released, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting showcase of Ghana’s emerging football talents.
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