Adabraka edge out former champions Ashaiman to win 10th Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup

The Adabraka Zongo community emerged champions of the 10th annual Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup in Accra over the weekend, after defeating defending champions Ashaiman in the grand finale.

Adabraka, making only their third appearance in the prestigious Zongo community football tournament, displayed remarkable form by eliminating three former champions—Mamobi, Kasoa, and Ashaiman—who have, between them, won six of the previous nine editions.

Adabraka began their triumphant journey by defeating Shukura 3-1 on penalties, following a goalless draw in the first round to progress to the quarter-finals.

In the quarter-finals, they stunned hosts and former champions Mamobi with a narrow 1-0 win. Adabraka further proved their credentials by eliminating Kasoa—another former champion—3-1 on penalties after a goalless draw, setting up a dream final with Ashaiman.

Ashaiman, as defending champions, had a bye in the preliminary stage. In their opening match in the second round, they overcame Tunga 3-1 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in regulation time.

In the semi-finals, Ashaiman defeated a very impressive Nsawam Zongo side 3-1 on penalties, again after a goalless draw, to book another final appearance.

Ashaiman were aiming to win a record-extending fourth title. After a pulsating final, watched by dignitaries including the Minister for Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, the game ended 0-0, sending the contest into a penalty shootout.

Ashaiman were on the verge of retaining their crown after Adabraka missed in the initial phase of the shootout. All Ashaiman needed was to convert their final penalty, but they missed, handing a lifeline to Adabraka.

Adabraka seized the golden second opportunity and kept their composure to emerge as winners, joining the elite ranks of former champions in the competition named after the eminent National Chief Imam, Sheikh Osman Nuhu Sharubutu.

The Minister for Sports and Recreation, assisted by the Chief Protocol Officer at the Office of the National Chief Imam, presented the glittering trophy and medals to the champions.

The trophy and medals were donated by Black Stars players Mohammed Kudus and Kamaldeen Sulemana, while Ernest Nuamah, another Black Stars player, also donated two sets of jerseys used by the two teams for the grand finale.

The founder of the tournament, Tamimu Issah, on behalf of the organisers, expressed gratitude to all stakeholders, including the media, for their support in making the Sheikh Sharubutu Ramadan Cup one of the best community football tournaments in the country.